As you may have seen from the Fan Shot ct1361 posted yesterday, SB Nation has once again updated their 2012 NFL Mock Draft. This time, they have posted their predictions based on all of the Scouting Combine results, and the changes have been noticeable. Now we all await the start of free agency, so everything that is predicted right now can be changed.
The top picks in the draft remain the same, with the Indianapolis Colts picking Andrew Luck, then Robert Griffin III. This time, the projection puts Griffin headed to the Cleveland Browns, who trade with the St. Louis Rams for the spot. Them with the third pick, the Minnesota Vikings take Matt Kalil.
After that, things begin to shake up.
Ultimately, the Miami Dolphins take with the eighth overall pick...
Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Blackmon. About the pick, SB Nations' author writes:
"Prior to the Combine, most would have thought it impossible that Blackmon fell outside the top five. A week in Indy was a good reminder of exactly what people mean when they say the Oklahoma State product is not A.J. Green. Blackmon looks like he will be a fine receiver in the NFL. At his pro day, we may get a better idea whether or not he can be a dynamic one or just a solid possession receiver. Either way, the Dolphins could use a second set of hands to go with Brandon Marshall. That should make life easier for whoever their quarterback is this season."
Personally, I like the pick, but I'm not sure it will happen. Not because I don't think Blackmon could fall that far, but because I'm not sure the Dolphins will be looking wide receiver in the draft. Speculation continues to place Peyton Manning in Miami this offseason, and now it's looking like Manning would be a package deal with Reggie Wayne (and possibly Pierre Garcon). If the Dolphins have Wayne, Brandon Marshall, Davone Bess, and Brian Hartline as their top four wide outs, would the team still look to the position in the draft?
I think, if this wide receiver set were to happen, the Dolphins would look to solve their pass rushing need in the first round. With this mock draft, Miami could have their choice of Courtney Upshaw or Melvin Ingram at the eighth spot. Either one could assist the defense in putting pressure on the opposing quarterback, with my personal preference being Ingram.
And, of course, there's always Riley Reiff still sitting there to solve the right tackle hole the Dolphins have.