Arena 2011 NFL Draft

With the NFL Draft exactly three weeks from today, do you care more or less because of the lockout about who your team drafts?

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Here is the latest First Round Mock Draft from The Shutdown Corner:

1. Carolina Panthers ? Cam Newton, QB, Auburn

The recent hullabaloo about Newton's supposed character flaws apparently went quite a distance up the nose of Panthers GM Marty Hurney. Hurney drafted Jimmy Clausen(notes) in the second round last year, but it wouldn't be the first time a team admitted a quick mistake on a quarterback, and Carolina's defense is good enough to put the onus on Hurney to get a horrible passing offense going sooner than later. The Panthers traditionally like to run a smashmouth, run-first offense, which actually plays into Newton's strengths, as he was often used as another running option at Auburn.

2. Denver Broncos ? Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri

Likewise, John Elway's recent comments about Denver's lack of a true franchise quarterback certainly perked up some ears. Assuming that it's not a smokescreen (the Broncos are currently chatting up Da'Quan Bowers, who would go a long way to solving their atrocious front seven), you have to ask yourself ? what king of quarterback would John Elway like? Probably one a bit like the one he saw in the mirror for 16 seasons in the NFL. A guy with functional mobility, the kind of accurate arm to make stick throws downfield, and football intelligence that will allow him over time to take an offense by the scruff of the neck and lead the Broncos back to competitive relevance. Of the current quarterback crop, Gabbert may be more that player than anyone else, and if Elway's telling the truth about the quarterback lack, you'd think that Gabbert would be a serious person of interest.

3. Buffalo Bills ?Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama

If the Bills are taken out of the quarterback derby by the Panthers and Broncos, their next priority would most likely be to shore up their own atrocious front seven. Few (if any) players in this draft class could provide more value to a desperate defense than Dareus, who had the ability to play very well just about anywhere on the line.

4. Cincinnati Bengals ? A.J. Green, WR, Georgia

With the top two quarterbacks out of the picture, and Carson Palmer(notes) swearing that he'll never don the Bengals uni for another down, the Bengals have two choices ? either trade for Kevin Kolb(notes) (which, in recent days, the team has apparently discussed internally, according to several sources), or try and manufacture a passing offense with the best receivers possible. That's going to be tough with the futures of Terrell Owens(notes) and Chad Ochocinco(notes) in doubt, but Green could fill a lot of those holes with his impressive speed and freakish hops.

5. Arizona Cardinals ? Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M

Ken Whisenhunt brought Clark Haggans(notes) and Joey Porter(notes) from his old stomping grounds in Pittsburgh, but both players are on the wrong end of the age curve, and Miller has the edge speed to make a real difference in Arizona's defense. Having opposing offensive lines focusing on Miller's rush speed could also facilitate a return to form for tackle Darnell Dockett(notes).

6. Cleveland Browns ? Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina

Their switch to a 4-3 defense means that the Browns need one thing they currently do not have ? a pure edge-rushing end as opposed to an "endbacker" hybrid. Quinn would be a perfect fit because of his combined ability to get after the passer, and then peel off to stop the run. Despite the fact that he missed the entire 2010 season as part of UNC's agent scandal, he came back and tore up the scouting combine and further impressed at his pro day. There's a bit of finishing work to be done, but Quinn projects as this draft's best overall edge defender.

7. San Francisco 49ers ?Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU

The 49ers could look very hard at a pass-rusher here; that becomes a focus when you haven't had a player go double-digits in sacks since 2002. But the real need is probably in the secondary, where San Fr

 

I agree with the Dallas pick. Either OL or DB. MLB is also a spot that needs to be fixed.

 

I think Dallas needs Prince more then anyone, our secondary was complete crap last year. Offensively, I think we can wait a year, but we really need to concentrate on our defense after the disaster that was last year.

 

gotta admit, i have major doubts that julio jones lasts that long. someone's gonna get him.

 

I agree with the Saints beefing up the defensive line, best way to keep Brees on the field, is keep their "O" off.

 

With the first pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers select...

1. Cam Newton, QB, Auburn

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: With Drew Brees, Matt Ryan and Josh Freeman in the division, the Panthers felt they needed better than what they have in Jimmy Clausen and could not pass the playmaking ability of the Heisman Trophy winner. Newton has terrific stature, athletic ability and arm strength and his presence could really open up the running game. The greatest concern about Newton remains his lack of humility, big ego and suspect leadership ability will be tested against NFL defensive coordinators.

 

With the second pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos select...

2. Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: No player in this draft possesses a better first two steps than Miller. He is an explosive edge rusher who will be difficult to account for on third downs and could quickly develop into one of the league?s top sack artists. Evaluators expressed concerns about how often he would take himself out of games and leave production on the field, but when he wants to come off the edge, he can bend, dip and trim the corner with ease. This was a slam-dunk selection for the Broncos.

 

With the third pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills select...

3. Marcel Dareus, DT, Alabama

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: Big, strong and powerful, Dareus is a havoc-wreaking interior force who is scheme-diverse and could help replace the production of Marcus Stroud. To maximize Dareus' talents, the Bills will need to provide a structure to keep him focused off the field. He has shown he can dominate when he wants to, as he did in the national championship game a year ago, but how he responds to a major payday will determine his NFL success. Many evaluators expressed concerns about his limited production over the last 1 1/2 years and his lack of pursuit effort, but to his credit, he battled through injuries as a junior.

 

With the fourth pick of the NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals select...

4. A. J. Green, WR, Georgia

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: The Bengals needed to find a No. 1 WR since Terrell Owens is moving on and Chad Ochocinco is creating problems. This pick should please Carson Palmer. Green was the easiest evaluation in this year's draft and has everything you want in a receiver. Will help open up Jay Gruden's offense and was a sure-fire, can't-miss selection.

 

With the fifth pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals select...

5. Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie struggled last season and the Cardinals are very thin at CB. They will benefit from Peterson's size, explosion and physicality. He might turn out to be a better safety than corner, similar to previous Cardinals draft choice Antrel Rolle. Peterson's work ethic and drive are exceptional and the Cardinals can feel comfortable they will not miss on this pick. The added dimension in the return game justifies him as a top-five selection.

 

With the sixth pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons (from Cleveland Browns) select...

6. Julio Jones, WR, Alabama

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: With the Browns having so many needs to fill, it made too much sense to pass up taking the boatload of picks the Falcons were offering. The Falcons were seeking explosion and they needed to be aggressive to land one of the draft's two elite playmaking receivers. Jones' maturity, work ethic, preparation and pro-style mentality could allow him to make an immediate impact. He could give the Falcons the edge they need to get over the hump and complement Roddy White.

 

With the seventh pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers select...

7. Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: With Robert Quinn and Da'Quan Bowers sliding because of medical concerns, Smith emerged as the draft's top pass rusher. He's still raw and might take some time to develop but has upside and was a very disruptive pass rusher from the inside and outside. He will line up as a 3-4 outside linebacker for the Niners.

 

With the eighth pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans select...

8. Jake Locker, QB, Washington

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: This pick seems like a surprise, but Locker better fits Chris Palmer's offense than Blaine Gabbert. Palmer had the most success with another quarterback from Washington named Mark Brunell when they were together in Jacksonville. Mike Munchak clearly values intangibles at QB and starts the new era off with a signal-caller who possessed the best intangibles, work ethic and competitiveness of any passer in the draft. Locker will need to learn how to slide and protect his body in the NFL to survive the rigors of the game. He would be best if he had time to develop but could be thrust into action.

 

With the ninth pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys select...

9. Tyron Smith, OT, USC

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: The worst-kept secret in this year's draft, Smith fills a pressing need for the Cowboys. He has the most athletic ability and foot quickness of any offensive tackle in the draft. Teams expressed concerns about his injured knee, how he put on nearly 25 pounds in three months and how quickly he'll be able to handle complex NFL blitz schemes. However, he has the talent to plug and play.

 

With the tenth pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars (from Washington Redskins) select...

10. Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: David Garrard has been a serviceable starter but the Jaguars need better to win in a competitive division that includes Peyton Manning. Gabbert does not need to be rushed into action, which should support his growth. He has all the physical tools to become a solid NFL starter. The Redskins also had a quarterback need but were not sold on Gabbert and were seeking a West Coast passer better suited for Mike Shanahan's offense. After giving up picks for Donovan McNabb last year, Shanahan wanted to add ammunition in this year's draft.

 

With the eleventh pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans select...

11. J. J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: The most important position in an odd front is the left defensive end, and Watt will team with Mario Williams to give the Texans two staunch fence posts. Watt might have been the safest pick in this year's draft because of his rare work ethic, determination and intangibles. He will make his presence felt on an underachieving line immediately.

 

With the 12th pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings select...

12. Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: GM Rick Spielman and coach Leslie Frazier desperately needed a new franchise quarterback with Brett Favre moving on. Ponder is a great fit for Bill Musgrave's West Coast offense. A strong Senior Bowl and pro-day workouts elevated his draft stock. The biggest challenge for Ponder could be staying healthy, having been snake bitten by injuries in college.

 

With the 13th pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions select...

13. Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: The rush to fill quarterback needs pushed Fairley down the draft board, along with concerns about his character. However, head coach Jim Schwartz knew how to get the most out of Albert Haynesworth in Tennessee and now could have the most disruptive pair of interior defensive linemen in the NFL. The key for Fairley will be limiting the number of snaps he plays and making sure veterans like Kyle Vanden Bosch can keep him focused.

 

With the 14th pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the St. Louis Rams select...

14. Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: Concerns about Quinn's benign brain tumor and fear of future concussions pushed him down the board, but Steve Spagnuolo craves speed on the edges and needed to think about replacing the aging James Hall. The greatest on-field concern about Quinn is his lack of physicality against the run, but he is perfectly suited to scream off the edge and get to the quarterback in Spagnuolo's defense.

 

With the 15th pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins select...

15. Mike Pouncey, OC/G, Florida

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: Head coach Tony Sparano has made the offensive line a priority since he arrived in Miami, starting off his tenure with the selection of Jake Long and following up with third-round OG John Jerry last year. Pouncey can be penciled in at the guard position where he excelled as a junior and has the mass, power base and lower-body strength to plug and play. His pedigree ? with his twin brother, Maurkice, winning Pro Bowl honors with the Steelers a year ago ? is what allowed Mike to be drafted more highly than his more football-savvy brother.

 

With the 16th pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the Washington Redskins (from Jacksonville Jaguars) select...

16. Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: The Redskins needed to add a pass rusher opposite Brian Orakpo. With a glaring hole at the position, Kerrigan's relentless motor, energy and production should allow him to convert well to a "30" front where many previous Purdue pass rushers have thrived. Kerrigan plays with the leverage, instincts and football smarts to factor readily.

 

With the seventeenth pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots select...

17. Nate Solder, OT, Colorado

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: With left tackle Matt Light unlikely to return, the Patriots sought to fill an area of need. Solder is a converted tight end with the raw talent to be molded by wily veteran O-line coach Dante Scarnecchia. However, he plays too tall and too soft-tempered, and lacks core strength. He will require a lot of refinement.

 

With the eighteenth pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the San Diego Chargers select...

18. Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: The Chargers had a desperate need for a left defensive end with Jacques Cesaire hitting free agency. Although Liuget thrives playing in gaps, he has proven capable of playing every position along the line and has enough size, strength and movement to be effective. He had the fewest holes of any defensive lineman in the draft.

 

With the nineteenth pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the New York Giants select...

19. Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska

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Pro Football Weekly draft analyst Nolan Nawrocki: Amukamara slid in large part because of concerns teams had about his perceived quirky personality and questions about how well he would fit into an NFL locker room. Many teams shy away from cornerbacks without interceptions, but the Giants, a value-driven team, recognized his worth and added depth to a battered secondary. He lacks ideal downfield ball skills but he excels in short areas and could be a solid press corner for the Giants' aggressive defense.