2017 NFL Mock Draft #2

It’s that in between time between the AFC and NFC Championship Games and the Super Bowl. And since I hate the wait, it’s time for another mock. At this point, the first 30 picks are in order (except the Philadelphia/Indianapolis coin flip), and the early entry list has been finalized. Soon we’ll get more prospect analysis through the Senior Bowl, the combine, and many pro days. Already I’ve studied more and have changed a few things in this mock. So here is mock #2:

The Sports Guys 2017 NFL Mock Draft #2

1. Cleveland Browns select: Myles Garrett (DE, Texas A&M)

1st Mock: Myles Garrett (DE, Texas A&M)

Let’s not overthink this… Garrett is the best player in this draft and the Browns absolutely love him. He’s certain to be the top pick at this point barring some big change between now and then. He’d be a great fit defensively for them, as he would be for any team.

2. San Francisco 49ers select: DeShone Kizer (QB, Notre Dame)

1st Mock: Jonathan Allen (DL, Alabama)

At this point, I believe this pick will be a quarterback, however, I think it could be one of three guys. Those are Kizer, Trubisky, and Watson. The top prospect in my opinion between those is Kizer, so I will place him here for now. I think Kaep is done in San Francisco, and the other two QB’s there are free agents. This pick will likely be the starter in Week 1 for the 49ers.

3. Chicago Bears select: Jonathan Allen (DL, Alabama)

1st Mock: Jabrill Peppers (S, Michigan)

Despite the need for a quarterback, the Bears will do what they’ve done in the draft for the last couple seasons… GM Ryan Pace will take the best player available. Allen would give them a great player up front, and turn their frontline into one of the best young units in the league (Goldman, Hicks, Bullard, Allen). The other defensive options here are Hooker and Adams. If Alshon Jeffery leaves in free agency, keep an eye on Mike Williams here too.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars select: Malik Hooker (S, Ohio State)

1st Mock: Quincy Wilson (CB, Florida)

Jacksonville simply needs to take a difference maker. And while that could be an offensive player, I think the roster needs more of a defensive playmaker. Enter Hooker, who led college football in interceptions last year and was commonly all over the secondary making plays for the Buckeyes. Since my last mock, I’ve come to realize that Hooker is one of the best players in this draft, particularly for the type of football that is played in the NFL currently. Seeing as Jalen Ramsey (last year’s first rounder) ended up playing a lot of cornerback, the need for a safety like Hooker is there.

5. Tennessee Titans (from Los Angeles) select: Mike Williams (WR, Clemson)

1st Mock: Mike Williams (WR, Clemson)

Similar to my pick at #1, this pick is unchanged since the last mock. Mariota needs a big time receiving weapon, and Williams is the best of the bunch in this draft. Since they have two first round picks, they should secure him here and address other positions at #18.

6. New York Jets select: Mitch Trubisky (QB, North Carolina)

1st Mock: DeShone Kizer (QB, Notre Dame)

Same position, different player (as the last mock). The Jets felt they were a quarterback away last offseason, and since the Fitzpatrick infatuation is now over, the Jets will be looking to upgrade this offseason. While I think they may be a player in the Romo trade sweepstakes, using this pick on their future QB is more likely. The consensus among most scouts is that Trubisky is the top QB prospect, or second at the worst. If available here, this pick makes sense.

7. San Diego Chargers select: Jamal Adams (S, LSU)

1st Mock: Cam Robinson (OT, Alabama)

I really like Adams as a football player. He’s solid in run and pass coverage, athletic, strong, physical, and can make big plays. The Chargers’ secondary is weak, especially after losing Eric Weddle last offseason. Adams would be a starter from Day 1 and give them a stud on the back end.

8. Carolina Panthers select: Leonard Fournette (RB, LSU)

1st Mock: Leonard Fournette (RB, LSU)

With Stewart possibly gone in free agency, Fournette would enter as the immediate starter and would pair with Newton to create a dynamic duo in the backfield. Imagine that rushing attack… I’m sure teams in the AFC South don’t want to think about it.

9. Cincinnati Bengals select: Marshon Lattimore (CB, Ohio State)

1st Mock: Marshon Lattimore (CB, Ohio State)

This makes two picks in a row unchanged from my first mock. Cornerbacks Kirkpatrick and Boykin are free agents, Pacman is rapidly nearing the end of his career (especially with his recent legal issues), and much of their offseason money must be invested in the offensive line since two starters are free agents. At this point, Lattimore seems to be the best corner in this draft class and would get to stay in the state of Ohio.

10. Buffalo Bills select: Corey Davis (WR, Western Michigan)

1st Mock: Derek Barnett (DE, Tennessee)

Every time I watch his tape, I like him more and more. He’s a big riser from the last mock. Robert Woods, a free agent wide receiver for the Bills, has been too inconsistent for my taste. Davis would be a perfect new running mate for Sammy Watkins, and could make like easier for whomever the Bills get to play quarterback. Deshaun Watson was a candidate here, but if they don’t want Tyrod Taylor anymore, they surely won’t like Watson as they are essentially the same player, except Watson has a weaker arm.

11. New Orleans Saints select: Solomon Thomas (DE, Stanford)

1st Mock: Reuben Foster (LB, Alabama)

Thomas is another big mover in this mock. His ability to get to the quarterback is attractive to a lot of teams, such as the Saints, and his size makes him versatile enough to play multiple positions and in any scheme. The Saints simply need to get better defensively. Thomas would help.

12. Cleveland Browns (from Philadelphia) select: Deshaun Watson (QB, Clemson)

1st Mock: Mitch Trubisky (QB, North Carolina)

Rumor has it that the Browns are in love with Watson and want him with the second of their first round picks. It all works out for them in this mock. I, for the record, don’t love Watson as a pro because of his weak arm strength, or at least wouldn’t risk a high first round pick on him. But it’s going to happen...

13. Arizona Cardinals select: Reuben Foster (LB, Alabama)

1st Mock: Tim Williams (LB, Alabama)

The Cardinals have a lot of free agents this year, particularly players on the edge and in the secondary. If they focus on re-signing those guys, linebacker may be overlooked. Enter Reuben Foster, a linebacker that can do it all and will make plays all over the field. With Chandler Jones pressuring quarterbacks and Peterson hounding receivers, Foster would be perfect player to wreak havoc in the middle of the field.

14. Philadelphia Eagles (from Minnesota) select: Dalvin Cook (RB, Florida State)

1st Mock: Dalvin Cook (RB, Florida St.)

Cook is close to a sure thing, but for the second straight mock he has fallen all the way to the Eagles. They won’t be complaining on draft day though if it turns out this way. Cook would immediately take over the lead running back role and put up big numbers. With the expected release of Ryan Mathews and the upcoming retirement (at some point) of Darren Sproles, expect them to target a running back early in the draft. Cornerback is another good option as well.

15. Indianapolis Colts select: Ryan Ramczyk (OT, Wisconsin)

1st Mock: Jamal Adams (S, LSU)

The Colts need help at every level on defense. However, the priority in Indy should still be to protect Luck better. Ramczyk does not have the upside of Cam Robinson, but is the much safer pick at tackle. But honestly with a new GM on the way, who knows what direction the team will go in through free agency and the draft. Your guess is as good as mine.

16. Baltimore Ravens select: Takkarist McKinley (OLB, UCLA)

1st Mock: Takkarist McKinley (OLB, UCLA)

While picking Jabrill Peppers here is a possibility (Harbaugh connection), the Ravens simply need to find a dominant OLB pass rusher again. So for the second straight mock I have McKinley going to the Ravens. He’s a perfect fit for the defense and would give them some major speed coming in off the edge.

17. Washington Redskins select: Jabrill Peppers (S, Michigan)

1st Mock: John Ross (WR, Washington)

Assuming the Redskins re-sign Kirk Cousins, the offense will remain the strength of the team despite the fact that wide receiver may be a need depending on free agency. The defense needs to improve at multiple positions though. Two of them are safety and linebacker, which makes Peppers a great option. Not only is he a great safety, but his versatility makes him an option at linebacker too. We’ve seen this trend more and more recently (Shaq Thompson, Deone Bucannon, etc.), and Peppers will be the next guy to pull this off.

18. Tennessee Titans select: Teez Tabor (CB, Florida)

1st Mock: Marlon Humphrey (CB, Alabama)

After taking an offensive playmaker at #5, the Titans take a defensive playmaker here. Tabor is my #2 corner at the moment, and has been an interception machine the last couple years. The Titans must improve the secondary and Tabor is a great option to help do that.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers select: John Ross (WR, Washington)

1st Mock: Malik Hooker (S, Ohio State)

In order for Winston to take another step forward in year three, he needs another quality receiver besides Mike Evans. Ross would be a great complement and would replace Vincent Jackson (free agent) in this offense. A defensive lineman is option B.

20. Denver Broncos select: Cam Robinson (OT, Alabama)

1st Mock: Malik McDowell (DT, Michigan State)

To be frank, the offensive line in Denver is not very good. Robinson has a ton of upside and may turn out to be the best lineman in this draft. I think this is a perfect spot for him and a smart selection for Denver. Not only would he help in protection, but maybe they could get the running game started up again.

21. Detroit Lions select: Derek Barnett (DE, Tennessee)

1st Mock: Caleb Brantley (DT, Florida)

Help up front should be a priority for Detroit, both inside and on the edge. Barnett went in the top 10 in my last mock, so I feel like this is great value for a productive player like him. He’s coming off a great season for Tennessee and knows how to get after the quarterback.

22. Miami Dolphins select: O.J. Howard (TE, Alabama)

1st Mock: Charles Harris (DE, Missouri)

This team has a lot of decisions to make in free agency, plus they may decide to create cap space by cutting ties with some older players. While I’m guessing they will have major needs on the edge of their defense, I know they will have a hole at tight end on offense. Their top tight ends weren’t very good, and both are free agents. Howard wasn’t used that often at Alabama because they ran a lot. He’s built for a nice pro career however.

23. New York Giants select: Taco Charlton (DE, Michigan)

1st Mock: Ryan Ramczyk (OT, Wisconsin)

JPP is a free agent and is looking for a big deal. The Giants may or may not pay up. If not, this pick will very likely be a defensive end. Thankfully, this is a deep class at the position. But that also makes this pick hard to predict due to all the options. I love Lawson (from Auburn) but a lot of people prefer Charlton from Michigan. So that’s the tentative pick for now.

24. Oakland Raiders select: Quincy Wilson (CB, Florida)

1st Mock: Teez Tabor (CB, Florida)

Wilson was a big faller since my last mock, but that’s not because he did something wrong. His upside is high, but there are safer picks out there. For the Raiders, the cornerback position still needs improving despite the help they brought in a year ago. This is the perfect spot to pull the trigger on Wilson.

25. Houston Texans select: Garett Bolles (OT, Utah)

1st Mock: O.J. Howard (TE, Alabama)

With the #1 ranked defense in the NFL this past season, it’s clear that the team should focus on the offensive side of the ball. Tight end and offensive line are the big needs, outside of quarterback which can’t be fixed in the second year of Brock’s contract. That means Bolles would be a solid pick to help improve the offensive line.

26. Atlanta Falcons (via trade with Seattle) select: Tre’Davious White (CB, LSU)

1st Mock: D’Onta Foreman (RB, Texas)

There are a lot of teams at the end of the first round who are in need of quality cornerbacks. Atlanta is a team in that category and in this scenario jumps a lot of them in order to grab the guy they want. White is a big playmaker, one that I really like. Seattle, the team Atlanta trades with, saw their top three OT targets go before them. So they would love to trade back, get one later, and pick an extra pick up in the process.

27. Kansas City Chiefs select: Malik McDowell (DT, Michigan State)

1st Mock: Quenton Nelson (G, Notre Dame)

The Chiefs had little depth on their defensive line and a ton of injuries stacked up on top of that. With those concerns and the fact that Poe is a free agent, McDowell would be a great pick for this squad. He is a well-rounded player that would help the Chiefs improve in the trenches.

28. Dallas Cowboys select: Marlon Humphrey (CB, Alabama)

1st Mock: Tre’Davious White (CB, LSU)

The Cowboys must improve the secondary, especially due to the free agents they are losing this summer. Humphrey is the best available corner and would likely become their #1 CB quickly.

29. Green Bay Packers select: Sidney Jones (CB, Washington)

1st Mock: Jarrad Davis (LB, Florida)

The mini cornerback run continues as the Packers also need serious improvement at the position. They gave up way too many plays down the field (just watch the Atlanta game in the playoffs), and must improve the continue playing at a high level. Jones is a guy that teams speak highly of, and one I need to personally learn more about.

30. Pittsburgh Steelers select: Zach Cunningham (OLB, Vanderbilt)

1st Mock: JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR, USC)

The Steelers are old at outside linebacker and they have multiple free agents at the position. I think it has to be considered a priority this offseason. With a lot of great players in the secondary going right before them, Cunningham was an easy choice. Tim Williams was the other candidate.

31. Seattle Seahawks (via trade with Atlanta) select: Charles Harris (DE, Missouri)

1st Mock: Carl Lawson (DE, Auburn)

Still no great tackle prospects to pick, so they instead get better at the end position. Bennett needs more help stopping the run and rushing the quarterback. Harris would fit in very well with the defensive culture in Seattle.

32. New England Patriots select: Tim Williams (OLB, Alabama)

1st Mock: Corey Davis (WR, Western Michigan)

New England will take the best player available as they always do. In this mock, that’s Tim Williams. Just so happens that they have a need at the position with Jamie Collins now in Cleveland. Another great pick by the Patriots...

The draft is taking shape more and more, but things will change a lot over the next couple months. The Senior Bowl is upon us and the combine is right around the corner. In a little over a month free agency in the NFL will start. That’s going to change team needs in a big way. Stay tuned for more mocks!

By: The Sports Guys

2017 NFL Mock Draft #1

The NFL regular season is over, the draft order is nearly ⅔ done, and we are now in the year 2017. That means it’s mock time! The rest of the draft order will be set as the NFL playoffs continue and there are a lot of decisions to be made by many college players. But we know enough at this point to piece together a decent mock. So here is our first try:

The Sports Guys 2017 NFL Mock Draft

1. Cleveland Browns select: Myles Garrett (DE, Texas A&M)

With two picks in the top 12, the Browns will not be forced to take a quarterback with the top pick. And since they are absolutely in love with Garrett, it’s clear that he’s the most likely to be selected if the draft were today. Of course, I didn’t think QB’s would go #1 and #2 in last year’s draft originally so things could change.

2. San Francisco 49ers select: Jonathan Allen (DL, Alabama)

It’s pretty likely a quarterback could go here on draft night, but Allen is a better player on paper than any of the QB’s in this draft class. The 49ers need help everywhere, and I think Allen would make an impact for them right away. This pick will likely be heavily influenced by what type of coach the team hires.

3. Chicago Bears select: Jabrill Peppers (DB, Michigan)

Didn’t know what position to list him as, but the Bears would be taking him to improve their secondary. Like I said with the 49ers, a quarterback could go here, but the Bears need help at many different places and Peppers is the type of playmaker that the Bears don’t have on their current roster.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars select: Quincy Wilson (CB, Florida)

Despite all the additions the Jags made a year ago, they were still bad in 2016 on the field. While help on both lines could be warranted, I think adding a top corner would be a wise move. Wilson makes some eye-popping plays and is worthy of a top ten pick. The wildcard here is if they want to move on from Bortles after a terrible year and with a new coach coming in, but that’s not the case at this point.

5. Tennessee Titans (from Los Angeles) select: Mike Williams (WR, Clemson)

I admit this could be a slight reach, but with two picks in the first round, I think the Titans can swing for the fences. Mariota needs more receivers at his disposal, and Williams is the top WR right now in this draft. I doubt he gets to them at #18 so why not take him here. Other options would be on the defensive side of the ball.

6. New York Jets select: DeShone Kizer (QB, Notre Dame)

Because of the physical tools and upside, I think Kizer will emerge as the best quarterback prospect in the 2017 draft. And since QB was an ugly revolving door for the Jets this year, my guess is they try to plug it with a top pick.

7. San Diego Chargers select: Cam Robinson (OT, Alabama)

Not entirely sure what direction the Chargers will go in at this point. Free agency will play a big role, as will the new head coach. But protecting Rivers better in his final years makes a lot of sense to me. If character concerns aren’t a big issue, then Robinson is the best tackle in the draft.

8. Carolina Panthers select: Leonard Fournette (RB, LSU)

Scouts have been drooling over Fournette for two years now and it’s the Panthers who get him here. This would mark the third year in a row that a running back has gone in the top ten (Gurley and Elliott). Taking him would mean delegating Stewart to a part-time role after a great season, but injury and age concerns linger there so it makes perfect sense.

9. Cincinnati Bengals select: Marshon Lattimore (CB, Ohio State)

Consider me unsurprised, but Pacman Jones got in trouble again. Maybe this time the Bengals will decide to finally stop employing criminals. Lattimore would be a great replacement and many see him as the best corner in the draft class. With the Bengals playing against Antonio Brown twice a year, adding to the position makes sense.

10. Buffalo Bills select: Derek Barnett (DE, Tennessee)

Barnett had a great year and it will pay off with a high draft pick. Playing in the SEC, he led the league with tackles for loss and sacks. The Bills need a better pass rush, which makes this a great fit regardless of who they hire as a head coach.

11. New Orleans Saints select: Reuben Foster (LB, Alabama)

This marks the third Alabama player selected in the top 11, and he could be the best. Foster is a stud, as are most linebackers coming from that school. The Saints still need a better defense (broken record?) and Foster could help them out.

12. Cleveland Browns (from Philadelphia) select: Mitch Trubisky (QB, North Carolina)

In this scenario, the Browns lucked out as one of the top signal callers is still available here at #12. They would be ecstatic if they landed Garrett and Trubisky, whom many consider the top QB prospect.

13. Arizona Cardinals select: Tim Williams (LB, Alabama)

Make that four Alabama players… Williams is an extremely disruptive linebacker that impacts the game in many ways. For Arizona, he could become a playmaker and could cause a lot of QB hurries. Adding depth in the secondary is possible too, along with boosting their offense depending on what happens in the offseason.

14. Philadelphia Eagles (from Minnesota) select: Dalvin Cook (RB, Florida St.)

Despite all the hype for Fournette, Dalvin Cook may end up being the best running back in this draft. He does it all and has a chance to be taken in the top ten. Philly needs a robust running attack to take some pressure off of Wentz, and Sproles/Smallwood doesn’t exactly put fear into opponents. And we know Ryan Mathews can’t stay on the field. Cook would be an instant upgrade.

15. Indianapolis Colts select: Jamal Adams (S, LSU)

While adding to the offensive line is still a high priority, surely the Colts wouldn’t pass on Adams here. That is, if he actually falls this low. Jamal is one of the best overall players in this draft and can wreak havoc on offenses. The Colts need somebody like that as they haven’t had a good safety since Bob Sanders.

16. Baltimore Ravens select: Takkarist McKinley (OLB, UCLA)

McKinley had a terrific season and proved to be an elite edge rusher in the Pac-12. The Ravens clearly need to improve that pass rush, especially if they hope to become a Super Bowl contender once again. McKinley just beats out the other options still available.

17. Washington Redskins select: John Ross (WR, Washington)

The Redskins went with a wide receiver last year in the first round, but he rarely saw the field. In free agency, Jackson is likely gone and Garcon’s future is also up in the air. Ross would give the team a very speedy weapon, which may be suddenly needed.

18. Tennessee Titans select: Marlon Humphrey (CB, Alabama)

Getting sick of Alabama players yet? Humphrey is a big corner, perfect for the NFL. He was the clear choice here as I have the Titans picking the best available defender after going with a receiver at #5.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers select: Malik Hooker (S, Ohio State)

Hooker’s draft stock is up and down depending on which scout you talk to. I love his playmaking ability and he comes from a team that produces decent pros. Safety isn’t always a sexy position, but it’s very important in the NFL, especially for the Bucs who have had bad safety play this season. When you play Matt Ryan, Cam Newton, and Drew Brees two times each, they obviously need to improve there.

20. Denver Broncos select: Malik McDowell (DT, Michigan State)

I know Denver has offensive issues, but I doubt they could pass on McDowell. They missed Malik Jackson this year and they struggled against the run. McDowell can play multiple positions up front, and has the potential to be a force.

21. Detroit Lions select: Caleb Brantley (DT, Florida)

This is a team that still misses the Suh/Fairley combo on the interior of their defensive line. Brantley’s stats aren’t amazing, but he impacts the game by taking care of his business in the middle of the frontline. That’s what the Lions need.

22. Miami Dolphins select: Charles Harris (DE, Missouri)

O.J. Howard is tempting here, but the team would be better off getting younger on the edge and improving their pass rush. Harris is a beast that ended the season well. He just beat out Carl Lawson with this pick, but either would be a nice selection.

23. New York Giants select: Ryan Ramczyk (OT, Wisconsin)

The Giants need to improve their offensive line to help the run game and give Eli a bit more time in the pocket. Ramczyk was terrific this season and comes from a solid program with a history of producing good linemen prospects. To me, this selection was pretty easy.

24. Oakland Raiders select: Teez Tabor (CB, Florida)

The Raiders didn’t get great corner play this year, even though they added Sean Smith in the offseason. Tabor would give them another solid prospect that could really help them against quality receivers that play on the inside or the outside. Some say he’s even better than former teammate Vernon Hargreaves, who went #11 last year to the Bucs.

25. Houston Texans select: O.J. Howard (TE, Alabama)

The Texans are a mess offensively, in large part because of their quarterback. But I doubt they draft one early after paying Osweiler so much money in the offseason. That means the best option is to add weapons and hope that improves the situation. Howard could be a stud at the next level, providing Houston with a matchup nightmare.

26. Green Bay Packers select: D’Onta Foreman (RB, Texas)

Eddie Lacy is likely done and I don’t think Ty Montgomery is a longterm option at running back. Foreman led college football in yards this season, is a very tough guy to tackle, and he can pass protect well. The Packers have to improve on the ground and Foreman would help them do it.

27. Seattle Seahawks select: Quenton Nelson (G, Notre Dame)

Plain and simply, Seattle has a bad offensive line. It’s bad all over, both in the running game and in pass protection. If you’ve wondered why Seattle just isn’t the same this year, look no further than this unit. Nelson is a day one starter that can play on the left or the right. He’s the best interior lineman in the draft and the best available player altogether at this point.

28. Pittsburgh Steelers select: Tre’Davious White (CB, LSU)

I’ve been bullish on White for a couple years now and could have him too high on my board. However, I think he could be a very nice corner at the next level, even against top wide receivers. Pittsburgh has to improve their secondary in my opinion, especially if they want to dethrone New England in the AFC. White would help them do that.

29. Atlanta Falcons select: Jarrad Davis (LB, Florida)

The Falcons have a terrific offense, but a shaky defense. Davis is the best defender available here and is a versatile linebacker that can rush or drop back in coverage. That ability makes me think Dan Quinn would like him quite a bit.

30. Kansas City Chiefs select: JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR, USC)

I know Tyreke Hill is the next big thing, but this team needs another wideout for the future, particularly one that is more size than speed. Smith-Schuster would be that perfect complement and could add further dimensions to an offense that at times is lackluster and boring. I also think getting him at #30 could be great value.

31. Dallas Cowboys select: Carl Lawson (DE, Auburn)

There are injury concerns with Lawson, but his upside is absolutely outstanding. Considering we saw the Cowboys take a risk on Jaylon Smith last year, I think Dallas is a team that can look past the concerns and see the potential reward. Lawson could make a serious and immediate impact on the edge getting after quarterbacks, something Dallas needs since Randy Gregory just got suspended for one year by the NFL.

32. New England Patriots select: Corey Davis (WR, Western Michigan)

For the record, this pick will likely be traded to a team trying to jump back into the first round (likely for a quarterback). However, I don’t have a great feel of who that will be yet. So in this mock, the Patriots keep the pick and do what they do: take the best player available. Davis is a stud with size, and could turn into a top option for a pro team. It just so happens that New England, despite a great offense with plenty of options, does not have a receiver with the #1 ability that Davis possesses. Seems like a good fit to me.

Remember, this is the first mock that we’ll put out. Lots will change between now and the actual draft. For now, we’ll look forward to the playoffs, both in college and in the pros. Then we’ll get into the Senior Bowl, combine, pro days, free agency, etc. It’s going to be a lot of fun!

By: The Sports Guys

2016 NBA Mock Draft #1

We’re halfway through the playoffs, but most teams are already looking ahead to next season. The NBA Combine is upon us and therefore draft decisions are still being made. The lottery takes place next week as well, which will tell us the specific order of the draft. Plus, coaching changes are happening, teams are prepping for free agency, and organizations are making plans for their future rosters. It’s a great time to do a mock draft.

Since many prospects are still being evaluated and teams haven’t started doing private workouts yet, this mock is not based upon what I’m predicting will happen. Instead, this mock is based upon what I believe should happen, and it gives an idea as to where I rank the prospects currently. Enjoy!

NOTE: The draft order below is based on the final NBA standings (and trades) as of 5/11/16.

2016 NBA Mock Draft #1

1. Philadelphia 76ers select: Brandon Ingram (SF, Duke)

The 76ers should not take another big man in Simmons, despite him being #1 on other scout draft boards. Ingram is a better offensive player, with better range, and plays a wing position which they need. In fact, I personally have Ingram above Simmons anyways.

2. Los Angeles Lakers select: Ben Simmons (PF, LSU)

I really don’t like the fit here (I like Ingram much better for LA), but Simmons is too tantalizing to pass up. I say you draft him and look to trade Julius Randle or Larry Nance. Randle in particular could bring you a top ten pick, in my opinion, in this year’s draft.

3. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn) select: Thon Maker (PF, Australia)

I’m sure many will be surprised by this selection, but this is what I’d do. The Celtics need a good big man, and I think Maker is the best option. He’s risky for sure, but he’s clearly the most talented option. I don’t like the foreigner Bender, and while I considered Poeltl here, he disappeared too often in college for my liking. Maker provides a perfect blend of size, athleticism, versatility, and upside. And yes, I consider him a top 5 prospect.

4. Phoenix Suns select: Dragan Bender (PF, Croatia)

While I don’t love Bender as much as others, the Suns possess three first round picks this year and can use one to stash a player overseas. Many see Bender as a future All-Star, so he’s worth a selection here. I also believe help at forward is needed badly, and with their backcourt as loaded as it is, it’s easier to pass on Murray, Hield, and Dunn.

5. Minnesota Timberwolves select: Jamal Murray (SG, Kentucky)

Minnesota needs to continue finding young talent to add to their roster, and I love Murray for them because he can shoot it. While Rubio, Wiggins, and Mohammed are all athletes who deserve playing time, none of them can make outside shots consistently. Murray gives them a guard with range that can stretch defenses. Buddy Hield would be another solid option.

6. New Orleans Pelicans select: Buddy Hield (SG, Oklahoma)

Buddy Hield was amazing last year and the only flaw in his draft stock is his age. Seeing as he played four years in college, he’s already much older than many of the prospects he’s compared to. With that said, we know at this point that he can score in bunches from behind the arc, and he also flashed underrated athleticism last season. The Pelicans will likely lose Eric Gordon this summer, but can replace him with Hield, who will put up similar numbers right away (and will hopefully remain healthier).

7. Denver Nuggets (from New York) select: Jaylen Brown (SG/SF, California)

The Nuggets still have not found a dominant wing that can stay healthy, despite numerous efforts the past few seasons. Brown is worth a selection here to see if he can be the guy. He has massive upside, but is still fairly raw. If he’s coached up right though, he could be a dynamic player at the next level.

8. Sacramento Kings select: Kris Dunn (PG, Providence)

With Rondo potentially on his way out the door this summer, Dunn would be an instant starter for them at point guard. At that position, Dunn has great size and a unique skill set as he does everything well. His toughness would be good for a Kings team that struggles displaying that on a nightly basis. Newly minted HC Dave Joerger would appreciate that greatly.

9. Toronto Raptors (from Denver) select: Skal Labissiere (PF, Kentucky)

The Raptors don’t have a set guy at power forward. The fact that Luis Scola started in that spot often is a sad fact. Labissiere still has a ways to go, but he has some great traits to build on. His outside touch would give spacing for Valanciunas to work inside, and he could provide rim protection on the defensive end.

10. Milwaukee Bucks select: Jakob Poeltl (C, Utah)

The Bucks seemed like a team on the rise a year ago, now it seems as if they need a mini-rebuild. Rumors I’ve heard are that they may look to trade or dump Greg Monroe, despite signing him to a hefty contract last offseason. I agree with the move however, particularly if they can get something good in return. Poeltl would be a nice replacement.

11. Orlando Magic select: Domantas Sabonis (PF, Gonzaga)

Sabonis has been really good for two years in college. This past season he also had great stretches of play in the NCAA Tourney, including a dominant performance against Poeltl. I think he could play alongside Vucevic very well in Orlando, and would give the team better depth inside. This takes pressure off both Vucevic and the backcourt, who currently carry the load.

12. Utah Jazz select: Dejounte Murray (G, Washington)

The Jazz took a nice step forward this year, but still have some issues at point guard. Barring a point guard signing or trade, they should look to draft one. Murray isn’t a pure point guard, but could play that spot if coached correctly. He also can play off the ball if desired. His upside is why I took him over other guard prospects available at this point.

13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington) select: Denzel Valentine (SF, Michigan State)

While I had the Suns stashing a player with their last pick, this time they take a “safe” player. Valentine fills a need at small forward, and can provide everything a team would want. He can score, pass, rebound, defend, and initiate offense. His age limits his upside, but he’s mature enough to contribute right away.

14. Chicago Bulls select: Diamond Stone (C, Maryland)

Gasol and Noah could both be gone (free agents), which suddenly means the Bulls would be thin inside. At this stage of the draft process, not much separates the remaining players. So I prefer Stone above the other options. He has a lot of potential on both ends, and that was clear to see despite being underused in college.

15. Denver Nuggets (from Houston) select: Furkan Korkmaz (SG, Turkey)

Denver, with three first round selections, should take a risk with at least one of them. So taking Korkmaz is perfect for this squad as he’s a big time foreign scorer that could star in the NBA one day. Who knows how long he’ll play overseas, but the Nuggets can afford to wait a tad longer.

16. Boston Celtics (from Dallas) select: Deyonta Davis (PF, Michigan State)

Yet another team with three picks in the first round, Boston takes another big man with upside. He is a guy that can man the paint, finish in traffic, and is slowly developing a nice jump shot. Defending the pick-and-roll is also something Davis can do well. I think Brad Stevens would love this kid.

17. Memphis Grizzlies select: Tyler Ulis (PG, Kentucky)

The Memphis Grizzlies are getting a new coach, have nine free agents this summer, and now face a uncertain future. There are a lot of question marks surrounding the roster, so this pick is simply the player I like the most at this stage in the draft. I’m also predicting Mike Conley changes teams this summer. Ulis would especially make sense then.

18. Detroit Pistons select: Henry Ellenson (PF, Marquette)

Count me among those who think Morris is nothing more than a good bench player… not a starter. Ellenson could be a very nice option inside next to Drummond however, particularly due to his offensive versatility. He’s such a unique player that some teams will love him and others will will hate him. If I’m Detroit, I love him.

19. Denver Nuggets (from Portland) select: Brice Johnson (PF, North Carolina)

Similar to current big man Kenneth Faried, Johnson makes his living on rebounding and finishing. He has a very high motor and tremendous jumping ability. This would be a safe pick for Denver that ensures they get production from this draft choice. If I’m Denver, I’d also shop Faried since I’m taking a younger version of him here.

20. Indiana Pacers select: Malik Beasley (SG, Florida State)

The Pacers have a lot of guys who are streaky shooters or are shooters with limited range. For them to truly go “small” as Bird wants, they need shooters that can be relied upon consistently. And while Beasley has some deficiencies in other areas, his best attribute is his jump shot. That’s why this pick makes sense. If a solid versatile big falls to this spot (like Myles Turner last year), I’d take another one of those. In this scenario however, I didn’t see any fits I liked that well.

21. Atlanta Hawks select: Malachi Richardson (SG, Syracuse)

With nearly their whole roster at the end of their contracts this summer or next, Atlanta simply needs to find the best available player. Richardson was quietly a great one and done player, who emerged late in the year and helped guide Syracuse into the Final Four. He’s got solid size and plays hard at both ends. If they happen to lose Kent Bazemore this offseason, Richardson would help ease the loss. And if Kent comes back, Richardson makes the bench must better.

22. Charlotte Hornets select: AJ Hammons (C, Purdue)

Seeing as they have selected Cody Zeller and Frank Kaminsky recently, let’s take a third Big Ten big man… In all seriousness, this pick is made due to the potential losses of Al Jefferson and Marvin Williams. They also struggle to protect the rim, even with those guys, and Hammons excels in that area. Plus, he’s shown development in his post game and is the best big man remaining on my board. If a shooter falls in their lap here, that would be another solid selection.

23. Boston Celtics select: Malcolm Brogdon (SG, Virginia)

While Boston went with large upside big men with their first two picks, this time they take a safer player that can log minutes on the perimeter. He’d be a perfect second team player that can contribute right away, particularly important with Evan Turner at the end of his contract. Many see him as a second round pick, but I like him better than Justin Anderson who was taken at #21 last year in a better draft class.

24. Philadelphia 76ers (from Miami) select: Caris LeVert (SG, Michigan)

As you can tell by both of my picks so far for Philadelphia (LeVert and Ingram), I’d acquire perimeter players if I’m the GM in this draft. LeVert has been injured a lot recently, but he can do nearly everything well and still has room to grow. If healthy, I wouldn’t be surprised if he started for the 76ers next season in this scenario.

25. Los Angeles Clippers select: Marquese Chriss (PF, Washington)

While I’m not a huge Chriss fan, this is tremendous value for him and he could be a valuable backup (or replacement) for Blake Griffin. He is still raw in areas, but that of course means he has massive upside.

26. Philadelphia 76ers (from Oklahoma City) select: Timothe Luwawu (SG, France)

He’s a major scoring prospect from a country that’s given the NBA solid players. The athleticism is there as well and he can play on both ends. As I’ve done with other teams in this mock, teams with three picks have options and stashing a player is a decent decision for a team rebuilding. Obviously, I’m still picking wings for the 76ers in hopes of finding some production there.

27. Toronto Raptors select: Patrick McCaw (SG, UNLV)

This is my insurance policy in case Derozan is in a different uniform in a few months. McCaw is a tad streaky, but he can score in bunches and possesses a lot of talent. I like his size for the position and I think he’d fit in well in Toronto.

28. Phoenix Suns (from Cleveland) select: Ben Bentil (PF, Providence)

Bentil exploded onto the scene this season and was a lethal scoring machine in the Big East. He did it from inside, outside, and in between. And while the Suns took Bender at #4 in this draft, it may take a few years to get him to the states. Bentil could come in right now and make a difference off the bench (or more in time).

29. San Antonio Spurs select: DeAndre Bembry (SG/SF, St. Joe’s)

Bembry is the type of player the Spurs seem to always draft or acquire; which is to say that he’s unique. He has great speed, quickness, and athleticism, which makes him a dynamic defender. His raw offensive game would be polished nicely in San Antonio too. In many ways, he reminds me of Kawhi Leonard when he was coming out of college. You know how that’s worked out for the Spurs.

30. Golden State Warriors select: Cheick Diallo (PF/C, Kansas)

Despite not playing much for the Jayhawks last year, I still love this kid’s potential and thought he was handled all wrong last year by Bill Self. I remember watching him play a year ago in the McDonald’s All-American game and at the Nike Hoop Summit, and thought he was better than the majority of players in his class (including many taken above him in this mock). That’s the guy the Warriors would be selecting here. His high motor and ability to do the little things is exactly what they need, as all their big men (except Green) will be free agents this year or next. I guess what I’m saying is that this could be Bogut’s potential replacement.

By: The Sports Guys