NFL Draft

2008 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1

February 27, 2008 @ 15:08:57

By Cory J. Bonini
Edited by Nicholas Minnix

Welcome to KFFL's first mock of the 2008 NFL Draft season. Here is the first round with analysis. This mock draft will be updated every week to keep you in touch with which prospects are moving and shaking throughout the draft season.

Round 1

1:01) Miami Dolphins

Selection: Chris Long, Defensive End, University of Virginia

Realistically, if the Dolphins receive a fair offer to trade down, they likely will, but Long makes the most sense if they stay put. He was off the charts at the 2008 NFL Scouting Combine, and he fits not only a need for Miami but also the type of player the new regime is looking for.

1:02) St. Louis Rams

Selection: Glenn Dorsey, Defensive Tackle, Louisiana State

Look for the concerns of Dorsey's leg to quiet down over the next few weeks and for the Rams to not be afraid of taking a chance on yet another defensive tackle. The selection would allow St. Louis to move defensive tackle Adam Carriker back to defensive end. Subsequently, the Rams could then rotate defensive ends Leonard Little and James Hall to keep each player fresh. Some consideration to University of Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long is given, too.

1:03) Atlanta Falcons

Selection: Matt Ryan, Quarterback, Boston College

Despite not being an overwhelming prospect and demanding some question as to whether or not he is actually a top-flight passer, Ryan figures to become the face of the Falcons. A team reeling after the Michael Vick fiasco, Atlanta needs to rebuild from the ground up, and that starts at quarterback. The team could take a look at drafting University of Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long, as well.

1:04) Oakland Raiders

Selection: Darren McFadden, Running Back, University of Arkansas

Don't be fooled by the team re-signing tailback Justin Fargas recently. Raiders managing general partner Al Davis loves offense, and after drafting quarterback JaMarcus Russell last year, he needs an explosive running back behind him. McFadden could excel in the Raiders' zone-blocking scheme, and everyone knows how he performed at the combine. While he may not be the best running back in the draft class in terms of translating to the pros, the Raiders' strong defense allows them to continue to beef up the offense. Some consideration to University of Southern California defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis is given.

1:05) Kansas City Chiefs

Selection: Jake Long, Offensive Tackle, University of Michigan

The Chiefs need an offensive tackle like residents of Las Vegas need air conditioning, and Long is the prototypical stalwart who can anchor a line for a decade or more. Long's only noticeable weakness is that he needs to improve his footwork in pass protection, but that is something left for the positional coaches in the pros. It's really hard to envision the Chiefs considering any other player here.

1:06) New York Jets

Selection: Sedrick Ellis, Defensive Tackle, University of Southern California

The Jets have done this song and dance before with little long-term success. They do need help at running back, but the draft is jam-packed with talented complementary backs to pair with starter Thomas Jones (don't forget Leon Washington, too). Look for the Jets to move nose tackle Dewayne Robertson either before or during the draft (a trade to the Oakland Raiders would make sense, for example), so that leaves a big hole in the middle. Ellis is a two-gapper in the NFL, and being drafted to replace Robertson is very much a reality. Outside linebacker help is also a possibility. Also, don't be shocked if the Jets try to trade out of this pick to gain additional selections.

1:07) New England Patriots (from San Francisco 49ers)

Selection: Vernon Gholston, Defensive End, Ohio State

Gholston would immediately be asked to move to outside linebacker to replace the recently released Rosevelt Colvin. While Gholston may be better suited to play as a defensive end in a Cover 2 scheme, it shouldn't take long for him to make the transition to a pass-rushing outside linebacker. A very humble person, he fits in nicely with how the Pats run their operation, meaning he is more than willing to do whatever is asked of him. Some consideration is given to the cornerback position, especially if the team cannot re-sign Asante Samuel.

1:08) Baltimore Ravens

Selection: Leodis McKelvin, Cornerback, Troy

Close to a lock as the top cornerback in the draft class, McKelvin brings more to the table than another cornerback, say University of South Florida's Mike Jenkins, due to his huge upside in the return game and ability to consistently stick with his receiver. Jenkins is considered the best corner by some, but his immaturity could come back to haunt him. McKelvin can sit behind veteran cornerbacks Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle for a year as the nickel back while sharing return duties with wide receiver Yamon Figurs. Despite a glaring need at quarterback, Baltimore looks elsewhere.

1:09) Cincinnati Bengals

Selection: Keith Rivers, Outside Linebacker, University of Southern California

Anyone that watched the Bengals last season knows how desperately they need a linebacker, specifically on the weak side. Up-and-comer Caleb Miller (back) was placed on Injured Reserve last year, and the team can't count on Dhani Jones to hold down the fort. The team wants him to return as depth, but someone like Rivers could be a force for years to come. Don't worry too much about his sprained ankle; it's doubtful that the Bengals will.

1:10) New Orleans Saints

Selection: Mike Jenkins, Cornerback, University of South Florida

Most people will say this is too high to draft Jenkins given all of his questions, and we agree, it is too early. However, when you have a humongous need for a cornerback and the player that you were hoping would fall went a couple of picks earlier, you settle for the player that most scouts label as the consolation prize. Jenkins, 5-foot-11 7/8, 200 pounds, brings some much needed size to the secondary, and he should develop into a fine player if he can improve his work ethic as well as mature more as a person. If the Saints opt to address another need feeling that Jenkins is a bit of a reach, the team can turn to veteran cornerbacks on the free-agent market for help, such as Brian Kelly (Buccaneers) or Fernando Bryant (Lions).

1:11) Buffalo Bills

Selection: Malcolm Kelly, Wide Receiver, University of Oklahoma

The Bills could use help in a number of areas, but the release of wide receiver Peerless Price leaves a sizable gap at the position. Kelly is a big, strong receiver and could excel in the Bills offense alongside wideout Lee Evans. It may take some time, of course, and another possibility is University of Texas wide receiver Limas Sweed (wrist). The Bills could address their cornerback needs here if they feel one of the remaining players is worthy of such a high selection, but it seems unlikely. Linebacker is somewhat of a need, but the healthy return from Paul Posluszny (forearm) and the strong play of Angelo Crowell means the team could hold off.

1:12) Denver Broncos

Selection: Kenny Phillips, Safety, University of Miami (Fla.)

Denver could use help along their offensive line and in their secondary. The linebacker position could be upgraded, too, but a talent of Phillips' caliber is tough to pass up. The Broncos have done a good job of making unknown offensive linemen turn into very productive players in their zone-blocking scheme. Veteran free safety John Lynch is long in the tooth and could retire this offseason. Given the track record of safeties from the "U" in recent years, Phillips' size (6-foot-2, 212 pounds) and athleticism makes for a package that could have the Broncos smiling for years to come.

1:13) Carolina Panthers

Selection: Kentwan Balmer, Defensive Tackle, University of North Carolina

It's no secret that Carolina needs a lot of help at the interior of their defensive line, and Balmer fits their scheme well. He would give the Panthers a solid young tackle to play alongside defensive end Julius Peppers. Balmer is athletic and has great strength. While he may be a bit of a reach for the 13th overall pick, with a little fine-tuning and more consistency out of his somewhat questionable motor, Balmer seems to be a great fit for the Panthers. Another possibility could be drafting a running back, but it's tough to see them going for the same position twice in three years in the first round, especially given the depth at the position in this year's draft.

1:14) Chicago Bears

Selection: Ryan Clady, Offensive Tackle, Boise State

The Bears' offensive line woes were a big reason for such a disappointing season in 2007. Running the ball is key to the success of this offense, and while Clady is a more talented pass blocker than a pile-pusher, he is still too talented of a prospect to pass up when you have such a glaring need for a tackle. Very athletic, with excellent footwork, Clady should immediately make a contribution for the Bears.

1:15) Detroit Lions

Selection: Aqib Talib, Cornerback, University of Kansas

Athletic, a playmaker, a ball-hawk, faster than expected.... The list goes on and on for Talib. Clearly, Detroit doesn't have anyone to speak of at the position and reportedly loves Talib. He brings a swagger to a secondary that has been nothing short of dismal in recent years, and he could step in to fill the No. 1 role immediately after the release of veteran cornerback Fernando Bryant. The Lions could consider a running back here, such as University of Oregon tailback Jonathan Stewart or the University of Illinois' Rashard Mendenhall, but their secondary has been the Achilles' heel of the defense for some time now and needs to be addressed.

1:16) Arizona Cardinals

Selection: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Cornerback, Tennessee State

Some will say that we're buying too much into the hype of Rodgers-Cromartie, but coupling three cornerbacks are projected to be off the board with Arizona's immense need at the position, reaching a hair for him isn't a stretch. He is extremely athletic, has great ball skills and has impeccable character, by all accounts. Furthermore, Rodgers-Cromartie could help out in the return game. The move of cornerback Antrel Rolle to safety leaves the Cardinals with cornerback Roderick Hood as their only semi-experienced starter with Eric Green being expected to test the free-agent waters.

1:17) Minnesota Vikings

Selection: DeSean Jackson, Wide Receiver, University of California-Berkeley

Wow. The Vikings are in the market for a franchise receiver yet again, and Jackson figures to be their guy. It's hard to call him a franchise-caliber receiver, and he doesn't have the physical makeup of one. What he does have, however, is the ability to make plays with the ball in his hands. Some teams may be scared off by his pedestrian 40 times, but Jackson can help in the return game and is an ideal fit for a West Coast offense given his ability o rack up yards after the catch. Defensive end is a strong possibility, as well, for the Vikings. If they choose to look that direction, Clemson University's Phillip Merling would be an ideal fit, but University of Florida defensive end Derrick Harvey could inject some much needed life into their pass rush.

1:18) Houston Texans

Selection: Chris Williams, Offensive Tackle, Vanderbilt

Williams is considered to be a little bit of a project and is kind of raw. He could come in behind tackles Ephraim Salaam and Jordan Black, neither of which being the future as the team's offensive line anchor. It seems every single draft the Texans need an offensive lineman, and it seems that with every acquisition they miss. This year, look for Williams to be their pick and provide them with steady play along the line for years to come. They have to protect their investment in quarterback Matt Schaub, so selecting Williams is a sensible move. Drafting a defensive end to play opposite Mario Williams would make some sense, as well, but offensive line help is a big need. The team could use a cornerback, but with no surefire first-rounders remaining, Houston is forced to look elsewhere. Despite having running back Ahman Green signed to a lucrative deal, it is a possibility that Houston considers University of Illinois running back Rashard Mendenhall.

1:19) Philadelphia Eagles

Selection: Derrick Harvey, Defensive End, University of Florida

Sure, the Eagles have bigger first-round needs than a defensive end, but the expected release of Jevon Kearse and Darren Howard leaves the team quite thin. Keep in mind, defensive coordinator Jim Johnson loves to rotate defensive lineman like 7-11 does hot dogs, so adding a pass-rushing end like Harvey has some merit. The team is reportedly shopping cornerback Lito Sheppard, so cornerback is a possibility.

1:20) Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Selection: Limas Sweed, Wide Receiver, University of Texas

The Buccaneers need help at wide receiver, and Sweed (wrist) is arguably the best remaining option at the position. He isn't the best fit for a West Coast offense, but Sweed offers height around the goal line and quite a bit of athleticism. The team struck out with wide receiver Michael Clayton, who posted a great rookie campaign but hasn't lived up to expectations since. Wideout Joey Galloway turns, oh, 82 years old this year, and he has to slow down at some point. Wide receiver Ike Hilliard had a nice year as a harmonizing option in the passing game, but he, too, is getting up there in years. Sweed should be able to overcome a slipping draft stock to remain as a top-20 draft pick.

1:21) Washington Redskins

Selection: Jeff Otah, Offensive Tackle, University of Pittsburgh

Some feel the Redskins need a large wide receiver the most, and while we agree that they do need one, someone like Indiana University wideout James Hardy could be a possibility with their next pick. The team lost their playoff game due to the poor play at right tackle. Veteran left tackle Chris Samuels isn't getting any younger, and the team's depth isn't very good. The carousel at right tackle due to injuries cost them the game, since none of the players could block Seattle Seahawks defensive end Patrick Kerney. New head coach Jim Zorn comes over from Seattle, where having depth along the offensive line, especially at the tackle position, was strongly emphasized. Otah is a quality player that can help the Redskins. It may not be in 2008, but he should be a staple along the line for many years.

1:22) Dallas Cowboys (from Cleveland Browns)

Selection: Rashard Mendenhall, Running Back, University of Illinois

Many draftniks will snicker at this selection, primarily because the difference between Mendenhall and current Dallas tailback Marion Barber III isn't that significant. While we agree, Mendenhall is the best back available that isn't the University of Oregon's Jonathan Stewart. The Illinois product is a better option than University of Arkansas tailback Felix Jones, who does fit the system a little better than Mendenhall, but it will be tough for Dallas to pass up this kind of talent. If Mendenhall slides past the Carolina Panthers, which we expect to happen, and Dallas opts for Jones, look for him to possibly do the inconceivable (barring trades) by falling into the top of the second round. With running back Julius Jones unlikely to return, Dallas' need for a secondary running back is relatively critical given the uncertainty of Barber as a full-time back.

1:23) Pittsburgh Steelers

Selection: Branden Albert, Offensive Guard, University of Virginia

There is no question that the Steelers need offensive line help - just ask quarterback Ben Roethlisberger! All-Pro offensive guard Alan Faneca is expected to defect through free agency, so why not draft the best available offensive guard in the draft at an appropriate place to select him? Albert is undoubtedly the best at his position, and Pittsburgh needs help, so this could be a match made in draft day heaven for both parties.

1:24) Tennessee Titans

Selection: Calais Campbell, Defensive End, University of Miami (Fla.)

Wide receiver and defensive end are the two biggest areas of need for the Titans at this time, but the selection largely hinges upon what happens with defensive end Antwan Odom in free agency. Assuming they are unable to lock him up with a long-term deal, Campbell would make for an intriguing selection. It is probably a little too early to draft him without reaching to a degree, but Campbell's athleticism and pass-rushing abilities are hard to ignore. His wingspan along makes him very dangerous coming off the end, and some scouts have likened him to a poor man's version of Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers. Campbell isn't quite as fast or dynamic as Peppers, but he could serve in a similar capacity for Tennessee's already imposing defensive line.

1:25) Seattle Seahawks

Selection: Jonathan Stewart, Running Back, University of Oregon

The best running back in the draft class doesn't always get drafted first. Stewart, who fits what Seattle likes to do with their running backs, is as impressive a prospect as we have in this year's class. His size, 5-foot-10 1/2, 235 pounds, and 4.48 official speed, make for a load to bring down. He's a better receiver out of the backfield than current starting running back Shaun Alexander, and it appears that Alexander's days of being an elite player are now behind him.

1:26) Jacksonville Jaguars

Selection: Quentin Groves, Defensive End, Auburn University

Groves is a strong pass rusher and has enough speed to get past even some of the quickest offensive tackles in the NFL. Jacksonville's need for a pass rush couldn't be more apparent, and every season it seems they are searching for a body to produce at the position. Most teams are, but Jacksonville only seems to find bodies and not playmakers. Groves isn't too much of a reach at this pick, and he could pay immediate dividends for an already strong Jaguars team.

1:27) San Diego Chargers

Selection: Brandon Flowers, Cornerback, Virginia Tech

While we feel this pick is probably the most likely of any of our draft projections to change, the team is likely to look for the best available cornerback if they cannot land a coveted safety. Strong safety Clinton Hart is being pursued by the team for a long-term deal, and free safety Marlon McCree isn't expected to return. That leaves strong safety Eric Weddle. Either Weddle or Hart has to move to the free safety spot to make this work. Our guess is that Hart would make the move due to being better in coverage. The drafting of Flowers allows the team to groom him as a nickel back and eventually take over for cornerback Quentin Jammer.

1:28) Dallas Cowboys

Selection: Mario Manningham, Wide Receiver, University of Michigan

Manningham was really slow in his 40 times (4.59-4.68) at the combine, but he can play and showed it at one of the most prominent universities in the college football landscape. He has a fluid glide about his stride and makes athletic catches with regularity, but he also drops his fair share of easy passes. Wide receivers Terry Glenn (knee) and Terrell Owens are on the wrong side of 30, so the team needs to get younger in a hurry. Considering that it usually takes several seasons for a receiver to become acclimated to the NFL, this is the prime chance to draft someone like Manningham and wait for him to flourish in a few seasons. Offensive tackle and cornerback help is also considered heavily here.

1:29) San Francisco 49ers (from Indianapolis Colts)

Selection: Lawrence Jackson, Defensive End, University of Southern California

The 49ers need a lot of help in a lot of areas, but Jackson may be their guy simply due to a lack of standout players left at this part of the first round. Jackson, graded into the second round on some boards, would probably be betters suited to be an outside linebacker in San Francisco's 3-4 defensive alignment. Outside linebacker Manny Lawson (knee) is coming off a major injury, so the team needs to be prepared. Jackson is very talented and could play in a hybrid role, much like how the Dallas Cowboys use defensive end/linebacker Anthony Spencer.

1:30) Green Bay Packers

Selection: Reggie Smith, Cornerback, University of Oklahoma

It shouldn't come as any shock that the Packers are in the market for a physical young cornerback, and Smith fits that bill. A converted safety, Smith has the size at 6-foot-1, 198 pounds, to excel in the press coverage scheme that Green Bay employs. With all of the big names off the board at the position, general manager Ted Thompson digs a little deeper than most evaluators would care to and reaches for Smith. Offensive tackle could be a possibility with both Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher getting up there in years, but cornerback is the first area of need for the Pack.

1:31) New England Patriots - Pick forfeited as punishment by the league

1:32) New York Giants

Selection: Dan Connor, Linebacker, Penn State

Connor is best used in the middle, where veteran linebacker Antonio Pierce currently resides. Both starting outside linebackers (Reggie Torbor and Kawika Mitchell) are scheduled to become unrestricted free agents, so there is a chance that Connor could be drafted to play at outside linebacker for the time being. We aren't married to this projected pick by any means, and we could see the team going in a number of directions. Offensive line depth could be considered, as could a safety, especially if free safety Gibril Wilson doesn't return, but there really isn't a player worthy of drafting at this point of the first round at the position. By default and some fashion of need, Connor should bring his tackling ways to the Big Apple.

Author Bio

Cory J. Bonini

Cory J. Bonini is a senior editor at KFFL. In late 2002, Bonini joined the KFFL staff as a research analyst. He vaulted himself into one of the industry's leading fantasy analysts.

Bonini has been involved in fantasy sports since 1996. A member of the Fantasy Sports Trade Association as well as Fantasy Sports Writers Association, he has been featured in print, on the radio and is also a published writer on scores of sites. Bonini co-hosted Big Lead Sports on SiriusXM Fantasy Sports Radio from 2011 to 2012.

Bonini was recognized with the 2010 Best Article in Print Award from the FSWA and was a finalist for the same award in 2011. In '11, he finished first overall in the FSWA NFL experts challenge that featured 60 of the industry's best competitors.

Follow him on Twitter @CoryKFFL