I'm only really watching OSU right now, so I don't know a lot about the rest of the eligible playes, but Downs would have an instant impact.

1.) A pure weapon on defense, plus he'll get to see if he really can cover Chase on a daily basis.

2.) Longterm replacement for Cappa at RG.

3.) Big time upside in the DT rotation.  Steal at that spot.

4.) Easy way to fix the LG spot.

5.) Stand-in for All until (if ever) he returns at TE.

6.) Smart LB with the advantage of coming in knowing Al's defensive scheme.

Leaned more on the offense than originally planned and pass-rush would still be a big issue.

49  Xavier worthy 

80  jaheim bell

115  sataoa lamea 

147  nehemiah pritchett

174   grayson murphy

195  emani bailey

234 Evan Anderson 

251 demonte capehart

if the Bengals pick these players in the 2024 draft the season will be good a go to the playoffs and the super bowl

Key moves impact values for Joe Mixon, D.J. Moore and many others

https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/fantasy-football-post-free-agency-0-5-ppr-mock-draft-reflects-key-changes-for-panthers-jets-and-bengals/
 

Roster changes and personnel moves are happening all the time in the NFL as the offseason rolls on, and we like doing mock drafts to reflect that. Recently, the Panthers got a new quarterback in Sam Darnold, the Bengals lost a running back in Giovani Bernard, the Ravens got a new receiver in Sammy Watkins and more information continues to come out regarding Deshaun Watson.
 

In this 0.5 PPR, 12-team mock draft featuring members of our CBS Sports staff, it seems like I selected several players dealing with changes, including Joe Mixon, D.J. Moore, Corey Davis, Mecole Hardman and Watson. I didn't plan on this happening, but it worked out that way.

For example, I drafted Mixon in Round 2 at No. 21 overall, and I was excited to select him as my No. 2 running back along with Saquon Barkley. Mixon could be headed for a big year.
 

• Post free agency PPR mock draft
   

Without Bernard, the hope is Mixon will take on more work in the passing game and deliver on being an elite Fantasy option. The offensive line in Cincinnati added takle Riley Reiff this offseason and could get even better in the NFL Draft -- the Bengals pick at No. 5 overall and could select Oregon tackle Penei Sewell or Northwestern tackle Rashawn Slater -- and Joe Burrow (knee) should return at 100 percent.

This should be an offense ready for a big season, and Mixon could be a star. He might end up being a steal if you can continue to draft him toward the back end of Round 2.

As for Bernard, he went in Round 11, and hopefully he gets the chance for a bigger role on a new team. Samaje Perine, the likely handcuff for Mixon now in Cincinnati, was drafted in Round 14 here.
 

Moore was my No. 2 receiver behind Tee Higgins, and I drafted him in Round 5. While Darnold has a lot to prove after struggling with the Jets, I expect him to perform at least on par to what Teddy Bridgewater did last season in Carolina, barring a disaster.

That should allow Moore to post similar stats (66 catches, 1,193 yards and four touchdowns on 118 targets), but hopefully he can do even better if Darnold is an upgrade over Bridgewater. Touchdowns continue to hold Moore back (he has 10 total in three seasons), but the Panthers also lost a key weapon in Curtis Samuel, who had 97 targets last year, and they only replaced him with David Moore.
 

It would be great if D.J. Moore and Robby Anderson, who was drafted in Round 7 here, got even more targets from Darnold in 2021. And again, I'm hopeful Darnold will be good after escaping his disastrous three seasons with the Jets.
 

Back in New York, the Jets are now expected to replace Darnold with a rookie quarterback, who will likely be BYU's Zach Wilson as the No. 2 overall selection in the NFL Draft. And his No. 1 receiver will likely be Corey Davis, who signed with the Jets as a free agent from the Titans.
 

I don't want Davis as a starting Fantasy receiver in 2021 even after a solid campaign in 2020 when he had 65 catches for 984 yards and five touchdowns on 92 targets in Tennessee. But I drafted him here in Round 8 as my No. 4 receiver behind Higgins, Moore and Courtland Sutton, and that's fine for how I built this roster. Let's hope Wilson to Davis is a connection we're raving about all year.
 

In Round 9, I took a flier on Hardman, who will hopefully benefit with Watkins gone. The Chiefs could opt to give Demarcus Robinson more playing time as the starter opposite Tyreek Hill, but Hardman has more upside. If he hits in his third year in the NFL then Hardman could be a borderline Fantasy starter in all leagues.

As for Watkins, he was drafted in Round 12 here. I don't have high expectations for him in Baltimore, but this was a good spot to select him as a Fantasy reserve.

I liked the way I built my Fantasy team with Barkley, Mixon, Antonio Gibson, Benny Snell, Darrel Willams and Todd Gurley at running back, and Higgins, Moore, Sutton, Davis and Hardman at receiver. Dallas Goedert, who I drafted in Round 7, is my tight end, and I love his outlook as long as the Eagles move on from Zach Ertz as expected.
 

I waited on a quarterback, and Watson was still available in Round 11. It's tricky to determine Watson's Fantasy value right now, and talking about Watson and the serious accusations against him from a Fantasy Football perspective is difficult to do at this time.
 

Watson has been accused of sexual misconduct by several women, 22 of whom have filed civil lawsuits against him. The NFL is investigating those allegations, and obviously he could face discipline pending that investigation in addition to what might come through the legal system if the claims against him are found to have merit.

There's no point in speculating further than that, but we know you have questions regarding his status for 2021. All we know is that these accusations exist, and that the NFL has been willing to discipline players for off-field misconduct accusations even if the legal system clears them of any wrongdoing.
 

As such, Watson is going to be a wild card in any Fantasy drafts prior to a ruling or decision made on his playing status for this year. With that in mind, I made sure to draft a second quarterback in Burrow in Round 12.
 

I would have no problem drafting Burrow as my No. 1 quarterback this year. His 268.8 passing yards per game was No. 7 in the NFL last year, and I expect him to improve in his second season as long as he's healthy after injuring his knee in Week 11 in 2020.

I never expected to get excited about a Fantasy roster featuring three Bengals, but Mixon, Higgins and potentially Burrow could be key contributors on what should be a highly-competitive Fantasy team.
 

In this league, all touchdowns are worth six points, and we award one point for every 10 yards rushing and receiving and one point for every 25 yards passing. We also award 0.5 points for every reception. We feature a starting lineup of QB, 2 RB, 3 WR, TE, FLEX (RB/WR/TE)  and DST. There also are six reserve spots for a 15-round draft.


 

The first one is scheduled for 5 pm (EDT) on Thursday (4/9/20). The participants are:

Jason

Spicoli

Clapton

Bengaled

bfine

I need all participants to acknowledge in this thread by 12:00 PM (4/9/20). Unfortunately we will add no other participants for the first one, but if you want to get in on later ones let me know

Yes, please.

The real sleeper here is probably Markus Bailey.

Only 2 weeks away from the Underwear Olympics.

I'm one of those folks that really enjoy the event and record it to watch in the evenings.

2.LB-Mack Wilson, Alabama

3.OG-Connor McGovern, PSU

4.DE-Sharif Miller, PSU

5.LB-David Long, Jr., WVU

6.OT-Mitch Hyatt, Clemson 

6.QB-Easton Stick, NDSU

6.TE-Alize Mack, ND

6.DT-Ed Alexander, LSU

6.RB-James Washington, WSU

7.WR-Antonio Wesley, TTU

Devin White.

Would like to read your opinions on who will be the better fantasy option. 

I rolled the dice with Eifert and got them short term benefits. Super slim pickings on the wire so going with Croft or Uzomah

If anyone is interested, we have a survivor league free to join:

https://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com/survival/register/joinprivategroup?gid=31569&password=FootballPros

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I’m going to be moving to Cincinnati, and I am looking to create a fantasy football league with an in person draft. I would prefer a money league, but as long as it’s active I’d be happy. ESPN would be the preferred site used to operate the league. Let me know if you are in the area and would be interested! Go Bengals #WhoDey

Sent from my iPad using Go-Bengals.com mobile app

Noah Fant, TE, Iowa*

Fant led the Big Ten in TDs (11) and averaged 16.5 yards per reception in 2017.

R2 P14 OT TYRELL CROSBY OREGON

R3 P13 DL DA'SHAWN HAND ALABAMA

R3 P36 DE/OLB JEFF HOLLAND AUBURN

R4 P12 LB SHAQUEM GRIFFIN UCF

R5 P14 CB TAVARUS MCFADDEN FLORIDA STATE

R5 P21 S QUIN BLANDING VIRGINIA

R5 P33 LB MICAH KISER VIRGINIA

R7 P31 WR JUSTIN WATSON PENN

R7 P34 G TONY ADAMS NORTH CAROLINA STATE

R7 P35 QB J.T. BARRETT OHIO STATE

R2 P14 OT TYRELL CROSBY OREGON

R3 P13 DL DA'SHAWN HAND ALABAMA

R3 P36 DE/OLB JEFF HOLLAND AUBURN

R4 P12 LB SHAQUEM GRIFFIN UCF

R5 P14 CB TAVARUS MCFADDEN FLORIDA STATE

R5 P21 S QUIN BLANDING VIRGINIA

R5 P33 LB MICAH KISER VIRGINIA

R7 P31 WR JUSTIN WATSON PENN

R7 P34 G TONY ADAMS NORTH CAROLINA STATE

R7 P35 QB J.T. BARRETT OHIO STATE

Fire away!   

Round 1 - Center - James Daniels - Iowa

https://www.nfl.com/prospects/james-daniels?id=32462018-0002-5600-48e1-4044bbc76ad1

Reason for pick:  Pretty obvious we need a Center.  I would have considered Billy Price here

but the site had him listed as a "Guard" and I didn't notice it until afterwards.  He went in the

2nd round to the Redskins.

Round 2 - OT - Orlando Brown - Oklamoma

https://www.nfl.com/prospects/orlando-brown?id=32462018-0002-5598-966e-c097dcfe7190

Reason for pick:  We need all the OL help we can get!  He didn't have the best combine obviously

but he's got things that can NOT be taught.  Size, (6' 5" 345 lbs & 35 inch arms).  Could more than

likely plug him in at RT from day 1.  

Round 3 - TE - Hayden Hurst - South Carolina

https://www.nfl.com/prospects/hayden-hurst?id=32462018-0002-5600-72f9-7623b6673aa8

Reason for pick:  If I recall correctly, all 3 TE's will be FA's following the 2018 season.  He'll be 

25 at the start of the 2018 NFL season so he won't grow any more physically probably BUT he's

not reached his "potential" as a TE yet.  He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates out of high school

in 2012 and walked on at South Carolina in 2015 so he obviously is athletic.  Had 100 receptions at

South Carolina and only 1 dropped pass.  (How many times have we, as Bengals fans, lost our shit

over dropped passes!?)  lol

Round 3 - CB - Duke Dawson - Florida

https://www.nfl.com/prospects/duke-dawson?id=32462018-0002-5600-21da-5c2f1a37df8f

Reason for pick:  Dawson will probably be a "nickel/slot" CB.  Dennard will be a FA following the

2018 season.  Possible replacement for Dennard unless he, (Dennard), just blows up this season 

and even then, he'll come a lot cheaper.  

1.  Rashaan Evans LB Alabama

2.  Billy Price C Ohio St

3.  Terell Edmunds S Va Tech

3.  Orlando Brown OT Oklahoma

4.  Allen Lazard WR Iowa St

5.  Andrew Brown DT Virginia

5.  Luke Falk QB Washington State

5.  Azeem Victor LB Washington

7.  Robert Foster WR Alabama

7.  Zach Sieler DE Ferris State

7.  Will Dissly TE Washington

https://www.seniorbowl.com/rosters-2018.php?squad=South

http://www.shrinegame.com/east-coach-staff1

http://www.shrinegame.com/west-coach-staff1

http://www.shrinegame.com/Uploads/Public/Documents/NewShrineGame/Files/2018 Rosters/Roster_1_14.pdf

http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2018.php

1. Browns - DE Myles Garrett, Texas A&M

2. 49ers - DE Solomon Thomas, Stanford

3. Bears - S Jamal Adams, LSU

4. Jaguars - RB Leonard Fournette, LSU

5. Browns (from Titans) - QB Mitch Trubisky, North Carolina

6. Jets - CB Marshon Lattimore, Ohio State

7. Chargers - S Malik Hooker, Ohio State

8. Panthers - RB Christian McCaffrey, Stanford

9. Bengals - TE O.J. Howard, Oklahoma

10. Bills - QB DeShaun Watson, Clemson

11. Saints - DE Jonathan Allen, Alabama

12. Titans (from Browns) - WR Mike Williams, Clemson

13. Cardinals - QB Patrick Mahommes, Texas Tech

14. Eagles - DE Derek Barnett, Tennessee

15. Colts - ILB Haason Reddick, Temple

16. Ravens - WR Corey Davis, Western Michigan

17. Redskins - ILB Jarrad Davis, Florida

18. Titans (from Vikings) - CB Marlon Humphrey, Alabama

19. Bucs - DE Takk McKinley, UCLA

20. Broncos - OT Ryan Ramcyzk, Wisconsin

21. Lions - DE Charles Harris, Missouri

22. Dolphins - OG Forrest Lamp, Western Kentucky

23. Giants - TE David Njoku, Miami FL

24. Raiders - WR John Ross, Washington

25. Texans - QB Davis Webb, California

26. Seahawks - OT Cam Robinson, Alabama

27. Chiefs - CB Kevin King, Washington

28. Packers - CB Tre'Davious White, LSU

29. Cowboys - DE Tyus Bowser, Houston

30. Stealers - TE Evan Engram, Mississippi

31. Falcons - S Buddah Baker, Washington

32. Saints (from Patriots) - CB Adoree Jackson, USC

do a board based on character/passion as a hobby...have coached for over 20 years..son was an all American in soccer  just know the best athlete isn't the one who usually succeeds in sports

In my world character and or passion for football  equal 50% or more who succeeds or fails...spend that much time reading bios, looking at college majors, watching interviews and looking at prospect facebook/instagram posts to put together  my list.....expect to find some players out of orders vs other boards that just use game tape

also post my list of the 60 who will succeed..1/3 of 1st will fail ., 1/2 of 2nd and it only gets worse..basically 20 from rd one, 20 from 2 & 3 and 20 from 4th through udfa

41 Jarrad Davis ILB Florida- another beast of a LB to put next to #55

73  Sean Harlow G Oregon State- flat out nasty disposition 

 116 ArDarius Stewart WR Alabama- really nice talent here if we can get him....has a lot of Marvin Jones in him but is more advanced coming out

138 Brian Hill RB Wyoming- small school, big ability 

I might not have gotten the speed I wanted but I sure did make them a whole lot more physical.....not a bad trade off IMO.

2 SThomas DL

3 MLattimore CB

4 LFournette RB

5 MHooker S

6 JAllen DL

7 JAdams S

8 OJHoward TE

9 MHumphrey CB

10 RFoster LB

11 CMcCaffrey RB

12 DCook RB

13 JRoss WR

14 HREddick LB

15 PMahomes QB

16 CDavis WR

17 CHarris Edge

18 TMcKinley Edge

19 MWilliams WR

20 FLamp OL

21 MTrubisky QB

a playmaker is a playmaker, IMO ....give that kid 15-20 touches a game between returns/carries/catches and he's gonna win you some games.

some of the quickest feet and best hands I've ever seen from a RB. 

if you like Cook...why not McCaffrey? tell me how Cook is better..

1. Corey Davis WR

2. Tim Williams LB/DE

3. Demarcus Walker DE/DT

4. Eddie Jackson S

4. Jessaman Dunker OG

5. James Conner RB

5. Sam Tevi OT

6. Zane Gonzales K

6. Chad Kelly QB

7. Jerry Ugokwe OT

OR

1. Derek Barnett DE

2. Cam Robinson OT/OG

3. Sidney Jones CB

4. Joe Mixon RB

4. Dede Westbrook WR

5. Sam Tevi OT

5. Jon Toth C

6. Zane Gonzales K

6. Chad Kelly QB

7. Dylan Cole OLB

1. Derek Barnett - DE/Tennessee

The guy is a beast and probably the best pure pass rushers in the NFL, he broke Reggie White's sack record, and had 3 consecutive seasons with double digit sacks in the most competitive conference in CFB. Barnett can come in a be a pass rush specialist that play on passing downs early in his career as he gives a guy like MJ a breather and helps keep him fresh. I don't know if will be available at #9, but if so I would hope the Bengals wouldn't take long to call his name for the this pick. 

Other picks: Leonard Fournette - RB/LSU, Haason Reddick - SLB/Temple, Mike Williams - WR/Clemson, Taco Charlton - DE/Michigan

2. Pat Elflein - C/OG/tOSU

Elflein is a former wrestler that understands leverage, plays with good technique, and is a noted locker room leader. With the struggles of the young offensive line players on this team in recent history I think Elflein could be a steadying force and help these younger guys take their game to the next level. He could easily go in the late first round as their are several teams that need a quality OG or Center and he is one of the best prospects in the draft at that position.

Other picks: Dorian Johnson - OG/ Pittsburgh, Dion Dawkins - OT/OG/Temple, Joe Mixon RB/Oklahoma, Taylor Moton OT/OG - Western Michigan

3. Dalvin Tomlinson - DT/Alabama

Tomlinson is also a former wrestler(I love linemen with a wrestling background that have good technique) and is probably the most underrated player in the draft by some. I doubt he makes it this far in the draft but if so I would hope the Bengals would select him at this point. Tomlinson is used to doing the dirty work in the trenches and would be an excellent compliment to the guys already on the roster. 

Other picks: Zay Jones -WR/ECU, Antonio Garcia - OT/Troy, Tyler Orlovsky - C/WVU, Adam Bisnowaty - OG/Pitt, Jake Butt - TE/Michigan, Samaje Perine - RB/Oklahoma

4. Tanoh Kpassagnon - DE/Villanova

Tanoh is a physical freak that exploded onto the national scene this season with some impressive numbers, however the level of competition an inferior coaching he received has hurt his draft stock. He performed well at the Senior Bowl and is a very smart guy(Accounting and Finance double major, PwC intern) so with some good coaching and hard work he could improve dramatically from his current state. He's compared to Margus Hunt and I think everyone agrees Hunt was drafted too early, going in the fourth round seem like a good spot for this guy but he could go much higher based on this athletic ability and "potential".

Other picks: Kevin King - CB/UW, Montravius Adams - DT/Auburn, Tyus Bowser - OLB/Houston, Stevie Tu'ikolovatu DT/USC, Derek Rivers - SLB/Youngstown St. 

4. Josh Harvey-Clemons - S/Louisville

A guy that would be a 1st or 2nd round pick if not for the off the field issues, this guy loves the ganja. If he can keep his urine clean and refine his game he could be an All-Pro player. At 6'4" 220lbs he can run and hit like Cam Chancellor, he can also cover TE's and RB's in the flat. Could be the steal of the draft if he can get it together off the field and focus on his career in the NFL instead of being a pothead. Originally Josh was a 5 star recruit for the Georgia Bulldog but was dismissed after 3 failed drug test and wound up in Louisville in 2015. He had a good career at Louisville. Clemons had good career at Louisville and has not had an incident since he left UGA, he could definitely go higher in the draft if he can convinced teams he's a changed man and his weed smoking days are behind him, which they seem to be. 

5.Malachi Dupre - WR/LSU

Dupre would be a higher pick if he had better QB play and Leonard Fournette was on the roster as he's a talent WR that can use his height and speed to make big plays down the field. He was a 5 star recruit coming out of college and was a track and field state champ. Dupre needs work refining his routes but he could come in and be a 4th round pick that can stretch the field and be a red zone threat with his superior jumping abilities. 

Other picks: Josh Malone, WR/Tennesse

5. James Conner RB/Pittsburgh

Conner is a big, physical back that is bff's with last years 2nd round pick Tyler Boyd. These two could be a dynamic duo for the Bengals thru the next 5 years as Conner has the ability to be an every down back at his size. In 2014 Conner had an awesome year putting up over 1,700 yards and 26 TD's, but was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2015 and was out the whole year. He returned to the field in 2016 to put up over 1,000 yds and 16 tds, while getting a clean bill of health before the combine. He's physically and mentally strong, someone you want to have on your side a pressure situation and his bruising style will wear down defenses and allow him to break long runs as the game wears on.

Other picks:Bryan Cox Jr. - DE/UF, Jordan Morgan - OG/Kutztown

6. Donnel Pumphrey -  RB /San Diego State

The all-time rushing leader in NCAA history will have a hard time carving out a niche` role in the NFL, but he offers some value as a return specialist and COP back. Pumphrey's biggest issues is his weight, at 180 lbs soaking wet he's not going stand up in pass protection and can't carry the ball 20-30 times a game for an entire season. However he has a big spirit and is willing to run between the tackles to get the tough yards. He also knows how to use his small frame to his advantage as he is very adapt at getting small and exploiting small cracks in the line to burst through for big gains while avoiding big hits. If he could add 15-20 lbs of muscle in the next year or two and keep his speed and elusiveness he could be a dynamic RB in the NFL, but that is a big if. 

6. Zane Gonzalez - PK/Arizona State

I'm sure Marvin Lewis knows all about this guy with his ASU connections and it's no secret that the Bengals need a steady kicker to help this team win close games after the Nugent meltdown of 2016. Gonzalez is the most accurate kicker in FBS history and hit an impressive 7 of 9 from 50 yds or more. He also has a 75% touchback rate on his kickoffs, the boy is a kicking machine.  Justin Tucker is a weapon for the Ravens and Gonzalez could be our answer. 

7. Jalen Reeves-Maybin - LB/Tennessee

Reeves-Maybin is a cover LB that come in play ST while he learns the defense and adds strength. He could have redshirted last year and return for another season after a shoulder injury cut his season short, but he was very productive in his sophomore and junior seasons posting over 100 tackles in consecutive years. If he was healthy he would be drafted higher but he could end up being a productive pro because of his athletic ability and coverage skills. 

7. Sean Harlow - OG/C - Oregon State

Harlow is the son of a former first round pick that played OT in the NFL, so he has the bloodlines but he's not as good an athlete as his old man. Harlow played OT in college but will have to play inside because he lacks the foot speed, arm length, and overall athletic ability to be an OT in the NFL. He could be a backup swing player that can play OG or C in a pinch. 

Bengals fans...you're welcome.

Duke Tobin, pm me about the assistant director of player personnel position, I'll give you the hometown discount. 

2. 49ers - DE Solomon Thomas, Stanford

3. Bears - S Jamal Adams, LSU

4. Jaguars - DT Jonathan Allen, Alabama

5. Titans - CB Marshon Lattimore, OSU

6. Jets - QB Mitch Trubisky, North Carolina

7. Chargers - S Malik Hooker, OSU

8. Panthers - RB Leonard Fournette, LSU

9. Bengals - TE O.J. Howard, Alabama

10. Bills - WR Mike Williams, Clemson

11. Saints - OLB Tak McKinley, UCLA

12. Browns - QB Deshaun Watson, Clemson

13. Cardinals - QB Deshone Kizer, Notre Dame

14. Eagles - CB Marlon Humphrey, Alabama

15. Colts - OT Ryan Ramcyzk, Wisconsin

16. Ravens - RB Dalvin Cook, FSU

17. Redskins - LB Reuben Foster, Alabama

18. Titans - LB Haason Reddick, Temple

19. Bucs - WR John Ross, Washington

20. Broncos - DE Derek Barnett, Tennessee

21. Lions - S Jabrill Peppers, Michigan

22. Dolphins - CB Gareon Conley, OSU

23. Giants - OLB Zach Cunningham, Vanderbilt

24. Raiders - DT Malik McDowell, Michigan State

25. Texans - QB Patrick Mahomes, Texas Tech

26. Seahawks - OT Garrett Bolles, Utah

27. Chiefs - WR Corey Davis, Western Michigan

28. Cowboys - DE Taco Charlton, Michigan

29. Packers - OL Forrest Lamp, Western Kentucky

30. Stealers - OLB Tim Williams, Alabama 

31. Falcons - TE David Njoku, Miami

32. Saints - S Obi Melifonwu, Connecticut

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000788038/article/what-we-learned-from-mayocks-nfl-combine-teleconference

Quote

The Cleveland Browns' ideal scenario for the Nos. 1 and 12 picks of the 2017 NFL Draft doesn't involve one of the top quarterback prospects available, and requires a trading partner in the New England Patriots. But if they can make it happen, says NFL Network draft expert Mike Mayock, the Browns should be thrilled.

"If I'm the Cleveland Browns, and I've got No. 1 and No. 12, if I came away with either (Myles) Garrett or Jonathan Allen at No. 1, and gave up the No. 12 pick to get (Jimmy) Garoppolo, I would be stoked," Mayock said on Monday during a media teleconference. "I would feel like I got a difference maker on defense, and we've got a quarterback on offense. Now let's get to work. We've got five of the first 65 picks -- let's get to work. ... If they gave up No. 12 and could get Garoppolo, I'd be all over that."

The Browns certainly have a big need at the quarterback position, but whether any of the top passers available in the draft are worth the No. 1 or even the No. 12 pick is questionable. As for Garoppolo, he's short on NFL-game experience, but there is heavy speculation that the Patriots could move the former second-round pick. NFL Network analyst and former Washington Redskins general manager Charley Casserly believes Garoppolo's a better quarterback than any of the draft options.

As for the No. 1 pick, Mayock believes either Texas A&M's Garrett or Alabama's Allen would be good choices for the Browns at the top of the draft -- Garrett for a big impact on the edge of the defense, and Allen for a more versatile presence who can be disruptive in the interior. Mayock described Garrett as the prospect with the higher ceiling of the two, while Allen is the safer selection.

Here are seven other things we learned Monday from Mayock's teleconference with reporters:

2. NFL clubs will begin to get a better idea of what Michigan's versatile defensive star, Jabrill Peppers, can do in the pros at the NFL Scouting Combine (March 3-6 on NFL Network) this week. It's not an easy read, because he played everywhere from cornerback to safety to linebacker in his Wolverines career, along with a few other positions. Two specific things club officials will want to see at the combine from the potential first-round pick: sub-4.5 speed in the 40-yard dash, and hip flexibility in position drills. "Show a defensive back's skill set," Mayock said. "... The more he can do to show people he can be a starting safety from day one and also be a dime linebacker, the better."

3. Texas Tech QB Patrick Mahomes' draft stock is making a climb even before he gets to the NFL Scouting Combine this week, and he's looking like a viable first-round candidate. Although Mayock ranks Notre Dame's DeShone Kizer as the draft's top quarterback, he spoke of Mahomes Monday on relatively equal terms with Kizer, Clemson's Deshaun Watson and UNC's Mitch Trubisky.

4. Let there be no doubt: It's a big year for running backs in the 2017 draft. Five of them are worthy of a first-round grade (LSU's Leonard Fournette, FSU's Dalvin Cook, Stanford's Christian McCaffrey, Oklahoma's Joe Mixon, Tennessee's Alvin Kamara), per Mayock. As for which will actually get a first-round draft call come April 27, Mayock sees Fournette, Cook and McCaffrey as first-round selections.

5. USC CB Adoree' Jackson is one of the draft's most exciting athletes, but has a technique deficit that will require some development. Still, that doesn't mean he can't bring some immediate excitement as a rookie. "Whether he's a nickel or outside, I'm all in on the kid," Mayock said. "Day one, he's your punt returner and kick returner, and doing that, he can put the ball in the end zone for you while he learns his craft as a corner."

6. While Mahomes is joining the conversation among the top quarterbacks in the draft, Chad Kelly is nowhere near it. The former Ole Miss quarterback was not invited to the combine due to the NFL's conduct policy for combine candidates, is recovering from a torn ACL, and could be waiting a while for a draft call despite a rocket-like arm. But where would he be selected absent character and injury concerns? Mayock said he's a second-round talent, at minimum.

7. Tennessee hasn't produced a first-round draft pick since Ja'Wuan James went to the Miami Dolphins in 2014, but look for DE Derek Barnett to snap that drought this year. Mayock's expected range on the selection of Barnett is No. 10 overall (Buffalo Bills) to No. 22 overall (Miami Dolphins).

8. The offensive tackle class is light on talent. How light? Mayock noted that the top two prospects at the position -- Wisconsin's Ryan Ramczyk and Utah's Garett Bolles -- have each started only one season at the major college level. As well, there are typically up to 10 offensive tackles worthy of a first-day or second-day selection. "I can't find 10 guys that deserve round 1-3 grades at tackle," Mayock said.

2a (Pick for McCarron). DE Tanoh Kpassgnon, Villanova - Freak athlete but still developing as a player.

2b. OG Dorian Johnson, Pittsburgh - Versatile athletic lineman. Can play G or T.

3. C Pat Elfein, OSU - Experienced technician at C and G.

4a (McCarron). RB Kareem Hunt, Toledo - Senior Bowl MVP. 

4b. CB Fabien Moreau, UCLA - Tremendous athlete but raw.

4 comp. WR Taywan Taylor, WKU - Speedy receiver

Too tired to continue but we take a QB, S another LB and DE, and a DT. Maybe a kicker idk.

Our defensive discussion will start with the big guys up front. For this year’s projection I am going to work with the time honored position groups of DE, DT, ILB, OLB, CB & S. But bear in mind this kind of breakdown is starting to feel more and more outdated with the absolute lust for edge-rushers about to force us to create a whole new position category for them. For now I will place those guys at either DE or OLB depending upon size and style of play, but keep in mind that calling that approach imperfect is putting it mildly, to say the least.

DT Group This will be comprised of guys playing on the Nose in a 3-4 scheme, or at DT in a 4-3 scheme. This is a solid year for the big guys who anchor the defensive front, even though a few of them actually excel in pressuring the pocket. I am only projecting 2 DT for Round 1 at this time: CALEB BRANTLEY/Florida & CARLOS WATKINS/Clemson.

The irony of these two being the only first rounders is that they are contrary in their style of play. BRANTLEY is cat quick, with strong hands that allow him to push past OL and record TFL and/or inside pressure on the pocket. WATKINS is a bit more traditional. He is above average in quickness, but is more of a power rusher. But he is NOT a Nose Tackle.

I see another half dozen DT being worthy of Top 100 selection. In an average year 18 DT are drafted overall, with 20 selected last year. I’m thinking I’d take the under for 2017 if I were a betting man.

Grade C+, some nice talent, but too many of them will play only on early downs, not full-time, thus limiting their value.

DE Group Remember now that this category must include 4-3 DE, as well as 5-technique guys for base 3-4 schemes. For players who I feel will play the majority of their time standing up, with their hand off the ground (which includes 3-4 OLB types) you will find them coming up later as OLB. Have I got you confused yet?

I see a solid 4-5 DE in this year’s prospect group. THe best of all is JONATHAN ALLEN/Alabama as the almost perfect 5-technique, but also capable of sliding inside for pass-rushing situations, and also being able of staying on the field in 2-man DL fronts. That versatility and his athleticism should make him a Top 10 draftee.

Also likely to be taken in Round 1 are SOLOMON THOMAS/Stanford, CHARLES HARRIS/Missouri, DEREK BARNETT/Tennessee & TACO CHARLTON.Michigan State pretty much in that order. That’s a total of 5 for Round 1, and I would project another 6-7 in the Top 100. The average DE taken per Draft is 21, with 19 last year. Let’s round it off and say 20 this year.

A guy who really intrigues me is DEATRICH WISE/Arkansas. He played in the Shrine Game and had an excellent week’s work there. Physically he is a monster at 6’5/275, with 10 3/8″ hands and 35″ arms, with an 85″ wingspan. He’s a lot of legs, and had trouble staying on the field during his college career. But when he is healthy, as he was all week in St Pete, he can dominate a game for a series or two. At his best he looks a lot like JADEVEON CLOWNEY. How early will someone take a flyer on him? If he tests well at the Combine (which he should) and does well during the interview process, he could be an early Day 3 draftee.
Grade: B, a good just not great group.

OLB Group I’ll jump to this group next since I am pulling out multiple collegiate DE to stand up and play the position, especially in 3-4 base schemes.
Included in that category is the potential top pick on the Draft, MYLES GARRETT/Texas A&M, who I think is a just a bit bigger version of VON MILLER/Broncos, himself a former Aggie. GARRETT battled injuries this season but still impressed overall. He’s long and has a knack for spinning his way into the pocket. Like MILLER, he’s likeLy to learn on the fly and be headed to Pro Bowls in a couple of years.

I would also project the following guys to be first round OLB types: TAK McKINLEY/UCLA, ZACH CUNINGHAM/Vanderbilt, TIM WILLIAMS/Alabama, T.J. WATT/Wisconsin. That would mean 5 guys for Round One. I would also project another 5 OLB in the Top 100. The average Draft class sees 22 per year, with 24 drafted in 2016 as OLB. Unless the scouting community transitions quite a few more DE to stand up, then I might bet the under and place the 2017 Draft as having 20 taken overall.

One of the biggest ground gainers through the all-star process was HAASON REDDICK, who was outstanding in everything he did. The biggest surprise for many was his ability to match-up in coverage with RB & TE all week in Mobile. Two seasons ago he played almost exclusively as a pass rushing DE with his hand in the dirt. The expectation is he will rock the Combine with his athleticism, which tells me he could jump up into Round 2 of the Draft.

Grade C+, a few too many conversions projects here and that makes me a bit nervous.

http://gbnreport.com/ranking-defensive-position-groups-2017-draft/

My thoughts on what the Bengals could do this offseason

Cincinnati trades Aj Mccarron to Chicago for pick 36 and a conditional 3rd round pick in the 2019 NFL draft.

The Bengals are in a great spot with trading him with 2 seasons left on his deal in this weak QB draft class. Chicago makes a lot of sense and a 2^nd round pick for 2 seasons of auditioning is very valuable. Also with the news from the Patriots that their backup is off the market that help leverage Cincinnati to get max value.

#1 Cle selects Myles Garrett, Edge, Texas A&M

Cleveland selects the #1 ranked prospect in the class and gets a defensive lineman with tremendous upside to build their defense around.

#2 SF selects Mitch Trubisky, QB, North Carolina

SF starts with a new regime and they will take advantage of this draft spot by adding a QB that has the arguably the highest upside in the class.

#3 CHI selects Jonathan Allen, Defensive Interior, Alabama

Due to the Bengals trade the Bears have the freedom to use this pick for defensive lineman that can really help their defense. He is projected to be the #2 talent in the draft by many outlets.

#4 Jax selects Solomon Thomas, Edge, Stanford

Jacksonville could go many ways with this pick. They could add Jamal Adams here but I feel like they go with Thomas here. He is a stout run defender and can play rush the passer. If their grades are close a stud DLineman is more valuable than a safety.

#5 Ten selects Mike Williams, WR, Clemson

Tennessee has two first round picks here and they need help at WR and CB. This draft is loaded in the secondary and not so much at WR in terms of true difference makers. Williams has been all over the top 14 picks but if the measurables test out, he will be the pick. They will have a slew of choices for a CB upgrade at the 18^th pick while Davis and Williams will be long gone.

#6 NYJ selects Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State

The Jets could reach for a QB here but I think with the few FAs that have hit the board at QB and the perceived weakness of the QB position as a whole that they go CB here with Lattimore.  With Revis and his release the need for a new sheriff to be in town on the outside.

#7 LAC selects Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin

The first curve ball in the draft has arrived. There are a couple of things going on here. The OL market is weak and while this might be early in terms, the chargers need to address their OL. I could see them trying to trade back a bit here but it is an awkward spot for them to trade back with neither the Panthers or the Bengals needing a QB. The other thing going on is the Chargers have not shown an organizational philosophy that would put a value on safety to a point that they would take one of them here in this spot. One could look at the Weddle situation to make that perfectly clear.

#8 Car selects Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU

Cam Newton does not need to be the top rushing threat on this football team and the organization knows it. Here is a tailback that is thought to be a top 5 talent falling into their arms.

#9 Cle selects Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson

With the threat of Buffalo being in a position to take a QB depending on the situation with Tyrod Taylor the Browns trade up with Cincinnati to grab their new signal caller. Kizer is also a possibility but I feel like Watson would be the guy.

The Buffalo secondary needs help and in a division with NE and the Gronk they grab the top S on the board and one of the top football players on the board.

#11 NO selects Reuben Foster,LB, Alabama

If it were not for medical concerns he would be a top 10 or maybe top 5 pick but he falls to here. NO needs help on the defensive side of the ball and they take the top LB in class to build around. He can stay on the field, if healthy, all three downs and does everything well.

The choices in this range here seem to be a CB or reach for a DE like Barnett or Charlton. The other option here would be Dalvin Cook but I think character concerns and positional value will cause the Bengals to pass on him. Davis gives the Bengals a precise route runner that can be the perfect complement to Green and Boyd in the slot. I know some would consider this a luxury pick but locking up a guy like this would prevent a carousel at the #2 spot for years to come. It also frees up some money from paying 5-6 million for a quality #2 receiver that can go toward extensions of Burfict and Eifert if the Bengals are so inclined.

#36 Cin selects Charles Harris, DE, Missouri

Harris is one of the best pass rushers in the class and I am not 100% he would make it this far but if he does then you take him in this spot. He is not the best run defender and is not great at setting an edge but the Bengals currently have that player in Michael Johnson. Harris would be very useful in a rotational setting where early on in his career he could just pin his ears back and go for it.

#41 Cin selects Jourdan Lewis, CB, Michigan

The Bengals add a CB that I feel will drop into the second round due to his height. He projects to be a slot CB that can play outside some also. Very competitive player with an edge and is solid in run support. Pick makes a lot of sense with KirkPatrick and Jackson on the outside.

#51 Cin selects Dion Dawkins, G, Temple

The Bengals add an interior lineman that can start on day 1. He is a mauler and more of an AFC north kind of lineman. Every Bengal fan would love to keep Zeitler but 11m for a guard isn’t in the cards for the Bengals.

#116 Cin selects Tanoh Kpassagnon, DE, Villanova

At 6’7’’ and 280 pounds this kid screams what the Bengals are used to drafting for the edge. He is raw but very athletic and at that size could even move inside to rush the passer in certain downs and distances.

#138 Cin selects Kendall Beckwith, ILB, LSU

#154 Cin selects Zane Gonzalez, K, Arizona St

Consensus top K in the draft and Groza winner. Some one argue that this is a bit early but not if you watched the games last season.

#176 Cin selects Matthew Dayes, RB, NC State

Dayes is a speedy back that can catch the ball out of the backfield. Complementary piece to Jeremy Hill.

Developmental QB that is coming off of injury that can be stashed on IR without affecting numbers.

#217 Cin selects Xavier Woods, SS, La Tech

Tough nosed football player that would push for a roster spot for special teams and a backup role at SS.

#227 Cin selects Treyvon Hester, DT, Toledo

Developmental DT that had good size and some athleticism. 

#251 Cin selects Jonathan McLaughlin, OT/G, V Tech

OT worth the flyer at this point in the draft.

QB Andy Dalton

QB Jeff Driskell

RB Hill

RB Bernard

RB Dayes

RB Peerman 1.1m

FB Hewitt

OT Whitworth 10m

OT Fisher

OT Ogbuehi

OT Winston 1.8m

OC Johnson

OC Bodine

OG Boling

OG Westerman

OG Dawkins

TE Eifert

TE Kroft

TE Uzomah

WR Green

WR Boyd

WR Core

WR Wright

WR Erickson

WR Davis

DT Adkins

DT Peko 3.5m

DT Sims

DT Billings

DT Hester

DE Dunlap

DE Johnson

DE Clarke

DE Harris

DE Kpassagnon

LB Burfict

LB Vigil

LB Rey

LB Dansby 2m

LB Beckwith

LB

CB Kirkpatrick 9m

CB Dennard

CB Jackson

CB Lewis

CB Shaw

CB Russell

CB Benwikere

S Williams

S Iloka

S Fejedelem
S Smith

S Woods

K Gonzalez

P Huber

LS Harris

my top 8 in no particular order and leaving out the QB's looks like this with still 2 mos to go...

Adams

Garrett

Lattimore

Allen

Hooker

Thomas

Foster

Fournette

for us IMO, it really comes down to how many QB's can find their way into the top 8....if we can just get 2 up there I think we'll be in good shape because that'll pretty much guarantee that one of those top 7 defenders gets pushed down to us at 9.

just something to think about.

I'm bored.

Foster is a plug and play MLB'er right out of the box. 

Walker goes into the DL rotation, if not take MJ's spot.

Elflein can battle (and probably take) Bodine's spot at Center.  (Can also play Guard).

Brown is a Red Zone target.  Big, strong, physical WR.  

Wilson adds depth at CB.  (In case something happens with Jones or Kirkpatrick bails). 

Skipper is a beast.  Road grader on the OL.  At 6'10" you could trot him out there on teams to block kicks

or pass eligible tackle in the red zone.  lol  

Thought I'd give the tier ranking a shot for the first round.

Tier 1

DE Myles Garrett, Texas A&M

DT Jonathan Allen, Alabama

DE/DT Solomon Thomas, Stanford

Tier 2

S Malik Hooker, OSU

S Jamal Adams, Clemson

RB Dalvin Cook, FSU

RB Leonard Fournette, LSU

Tier 3

LB Reuben Foster, Alabama

CB Marshon Lattimore, OSU

WR Mike Williams, Clemson

TE O.J. Howard, Alabama

Tier 4

QB Mitch Trubisky, North Carolina

QB Deshaun Watson, Clemson

DE Derek Barnett, Tennessee

CB Teez Tabor, Florida

WR Corey Davis, Western Michigan

OT Cam Robinson, Alabama

Tier 5

S Jabrill Peppers, Michigan

OLB Zach Cunningham, Vanderbilt

OLB Takkarist McKinley, UCLA

OLB Hasaan Redick, Temple

OT Ryan Ramczyk, Wisconsin

WR John Ross, Washington

DE Taco Charlton, Michigan

Tier 6

QB Deshone Kizer, Notre Dame

CB Marlon Humphrey, Alabama

CB Sidney Jones, Washington

RB Christian McCaffrey, Stanford

DT Malik McDowell, Michigan State

OLB Tim Williams, Alabama

Tier 7

OG Dan Feeney, Indiana

OG Forrest Lamp, Western Michigan

CB Tredavious White, LSU

TE David Njoku, Miami FL

DE Tanoh Kpassgnon, Villanova

DE Charles Harris, Missouri

LB Jarrad Davis, Florida

I'm going to post articles from the practices so we can get a glimpse of how experts think certain players are performing.

This way when they get drafted earlier than the "experts" predict or make the Pro Bowl as a rookie you can say "I told you so"...

I have watched a ton of college football this year but haven't paid attention to any of the prospects. I'm assuming we end up picking the mid first round. I'd like a pass rusher in the first. End or LB.

Tim Williams seems a perfect fit. He is an explosive pass rushing LB in the mold of Khalil Mack. He needs work in run defense and pass coverage. He also has a recent arrest for illegal possession of a firearm.

I also like the other Alabama LB Reuben Foster to replace Maualuga or Dansby.

Re-signed: Whit, Dre, Brandon LaFell, Ced Peerman, Margus Hunt, Brandon Thompson

Leave: Zeitler, Gilberry, Burkhead, Karlos Dansby

Retire: Peko, Winston

Cut: Rey Maualuga

Trade: AJMac to SF for a 3rd round pick (66 overall)

Rankings from CBSSports.com

And as much as I'd like to upgrade Bodine, I don't think they will.

Draft:

9 - Derek Barnett DE UT 6'3" 265 - They need a pass rusher.  As much as I like Foster here, I'm not sold the Bengals will take a LB that high.  And Barnett was VERY productive, and against good competition.

41 - TJ Watt OLB Wisky 6'4" 243 - Our new SLB.

66 - Curtis Samuel, OW OSU, 5'11" 200 - (OW = Offensive Weapon)  Can play slot or outside WR, or RB.  Will be a nice new toy for Zampese to play with and insurance in case Gio isn't ready.  Brings speed.

73 - Taylor Moton OT WMU 6'5" 328 - Depth at OT with Winston retiring and Ced still a big ?

114 - Isaac Asiata OG, Utah 6'3" 323 - Big body who is athletic for a guard his size, takes over for Zeitler at RG

137 - Brendan Langley CB Lamar 6'0" 193

144 - Josh Jones FS NC St 6'2" 215 - Depth at FS

154 - Tanzel Smart DT Tulane 6'0" 304

194 - Zane Gonzalez K ASU 6'0" 190  High % and has made some long ones

218 - Chad Kelly QB Ole Miss 6'2" 224 - Has the pedigree and played well early in the season.  Raw lump of developmental clay with some upside.

221 - Riley Bullough ILB MSU 6'1" 227 - The Bullough boys are football players and well coached under Dantonio

230 - Josh Tupou DT Colorado 6'3" 326 - Big body NT type

There are some guys on here that I would love to learn more about and see what they do in the draft process. Taylor Moton, Tanoh Kpassagnon, Daeshon Hall are some intriguing prospects.

I know this a fantasy but it would be awesome draft. Upgrading the depth on both lines while adding some hard nose football players in the process. 

cut from http://gbnreport.com/ , one of my draft faves.

Re-sign Whit, Lafell, Kirkpatrick

Draft:

1. LB Reuben Foster, Alabama

2a. C Ethan Pocic, LSU

2b. DE Harold Landry, Boston College

3. WR Malachi Dupre, LSU

3 (comp). K Daniel Carson, Auburn

4. G/T Erik Magnuson, Michigan

5. RB Jamaal Wiliams, BYU

I don't know enough about the later rounds but they probably wont make the team