1 Ace the Interns Mock Draft 1.0 (Pre- Free Agency) 1.

Houston

Texans: Jadeveon Clowney, DL, South Carolina

Why they will do it: If the Houston Texans want to take the best player available, the answer is not a quarterback. The answer lies in taking Clowney, a once in a generation player that will create nightmares alongside JJ Watt. Why they wont do it: The Texans are in desperate need of a franchise quarterback, to say nothing of the questions surrounding Clowneys unpolished game, in addition to his off the field issues. In analyzing his game film, (Alternative pick: Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville) 2. Cleveland Browns: (from St. Louis (get 4th pick along with 26th pick ): Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M Why they will do it: After firing Mike Lombardi as Gm, Roy Farmer aims to make a big splash on draft day; much like what Kevin Costner will do in the Draft Day film coming later this spring. Farmer might be worried Manziel will go to Jacksonville at 3. Manziel is by far is the most exciting player in the first round, thus giving a good PR boost. Why they wont do it: Roy Farmer will come to his senses and keep the two picks. Then again, trusting the Browns to make a sensible choice is like trusting Chuck to save a box of Girl Scout cookies. Manziels game is far from polished; to spite his dexterity, he is more accustomed to running out of the pocket which might work at the college level, not so on Sundays. If he doesnt get comfortable sliding and taking care of the football, he could end up only lasting a few years as a starter, a la Michael Vick. (Alternative pick: Blake Bortles, QB, UCF)

3. Jacksonville Jaguars: Blake Bortles, QB, UCF Why they will do it: In the absence of suitable Quarterback (Blaine Gabbert is busted, Chad Henne is poor mans backup), the Jagwads need a fresh start. While his name doesnt carry the weight of Manziel, Bortles is a local guy with tons of upside. Given a year or two of solid development could make him a Franchise-savior Why they wont do it: Bortles smells of former draft bust Rick Mirer. In Mike Mayocks report, Bortles tends to make one read than take off. His footwork is as precise as a duckling, not to mention that the main attribution to completion percentage was a dink-and-dunk passing system (Alternative pick: Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M)

2 4. St.

Louis Rams: (from Cleveland): Teddy Bridgewater QB, Louisville

Why they will do it: I know people are going to think Im nuts but consider this; Sam Bradford is in his final year of his contract and on his way out. Bridgewater presents an opportunity for the Rams to challenge for a playoff spot this season. Of the Quarterbacks on the board, he is the most NFL-ready. He has a desire to succeed and intricate knowledge of the game that enables him to provide leadership in the huddle. Why they wont do it: Coach Jeff gives Sam Bradford one more shot to prove his worth. The Rams might be more inclined to on the defensive side and either linebackers Anthony Barr or Khalil Black. (Alternative Pick: Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA) 5. Oakland Raiders: Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson Why they will do it: Their the Raiders. The draft history over the last decade is riddled with over reaches, cast-offs and just plain busts (Robert Gallery, Fabian Washington, Rolando Mclain, Jamarcus Russell etc., etc.).They need help every which way but Sunday. This isnt to say Watkins wont become another lost prospect in the black hole. While he possesses great speed and ability to track down the ball, he lacks field awareness and suffers from being a product of a gimmick offense. Why they wont do it: Their the Raiders. Head coach Dennis Allen is rooted in the defensive side of the ball. He and GM Reggie Mackenzie might be more comfortable going with a defensive player. Most likely, it will be Khalil Black. He would be a badly needed and instant upgrade to the Raiders' fledgling pass rush (Alternative pick: Khalil Black , OLB, Buffalo) 6. Atlanta Falcons: Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn Why they will do it: The Falcons desperately need help to their depleted offensive line. His power and first step will create nightmares for the defensive line. Athletism will be plus against fast edge rushers. This is safe and necessary pick Why they wont do it: The three-headed monster of Dimtroff, Piloli, and Devaney will cede Chucks warning and try to make a trade for Clowney. With him off the board though, the Falcons might go for the safer option of the more experienced Jordan Matthews on the offensive line. Matthews can be plugged into any position on the line. (Alternative pick: Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M)

7. Tampa

Bay Buccaneers: Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M

Why they will do it: With Watkins off the board, and in need of offensive, the Bucs would do well to draft Evans. His body is more NFL ready than Watkins, and should provide a solid target for QB Mike Glennon. His improvisation could be key if a play breaks down. Why they wont do it: Evans lacks outright speed and acceleration. His route running leaves much to be desired in addition a short fuse. Having good hands and height advantage alone will not win battles on Sunday. New Head Coach Lovie Smith might want to go defensive for the 1st round with C.J. Mosley. (Alternative pick: C.J. Mosley, ILB, Alabama)

8. Minnesota Vikings: Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA Why they will do it: The Vikings recently locked up QB Matt Cassel for 2 years, plus they still have Christian Ponder hanging around and Josh Freeman, believe it or not. Their defense ranked second to last in 2013 and bringing in another QB will only hurt matters. Barr presents for the defense to be rebuilt from the ground-up; his athleticism and quickness to make plays will be welcome addition to the mix Why they wont do it: Barr is very undisciplined in play recognition and block-shedding. Shares the same motor issue with Clowney, sometimes its on, and sometimes its off. His vertical leap of 34.5 inches ranked lowest among 3-4 linebackers. New coach Mike Zimmer may look to wipe the slate clean and draft a QB in the 1st round. Derek Carr is an option but a project to say the least (Alternative pick: Derek Carr, QB, Fresno St.)

9. Buffalo Bills: Jake Matthews, OL, Texas A&M Why they will do it: The Bills need help on the offensive line. As Los noted, the loss of guard Andy Levitre looms large as QB EJ Manuel continues to develop. If Matthews is still on the board, he could be plugged as a starter right away. Hes a great run blocker with good awareness, and ability to shift on the fly with a moving pocket. Why they wont do it: If C.J. Mosley is still on the board, Ill bet Head Coach Doug Morrone would like to solidify the linebacking corp. Mosleys ability to play on instinct and anticipate the run with good speed could help make Buffalo one the most fearsome defenses in the AFC. (Alternative Pick: C.J.Mosley, ILB, Alabama) 10. Detroit Lions: Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina

Why they will do it: With the loss of oft-injured Brandon Pettigrew, the Lions are in the market for a Tight End. Even with the rise of 2nd year man Joseph Fauria, Ebron will add flexibility in certain formations. A good route runner with outstanding athleticism, and was a mismatch against defensive backs. Why they wont do it: The Lions might need to draft out of necessity. On many occasions last year, their secondary moved with the efficiency of Chucks Ford Mustang. In-state hero Darqueze Dennard from Michigan State will provide much needed relief. His size and play recognition are a plus to boot. (Alternative pick: Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State)

11. Tennessee Titans: Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State Why they will do it: Titans are retooling their secondary, and if Dennard is still on board, expect the Titans to take the physical corner. His size and speed and ability to play press coverage make him a welcome asset to the defense. Why they wont do it: Dennard is often injured, and could stay with him at the next level. Struggles to play zone defense in spots. He also didnt participate in the speed and jumping drills at the combine. The Titans are also considering Safety Ha-Ha Clinton Dix out of Alabama, who brings physical toughness and ability to run to the ball. (Alternative Pick: Ha-ha Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama)

12. New York Giants: Taylor Lewan, OL, Michigan

Why they will do it: The Giants are need of O-line help. Lewan is very athletic and the best combined numbers of any lineman at the combine. Hes a veteran starter in college with good footwork and gets to the second level. Why they wont do it: Lean underbody that could lead inverted under strength. Hes not accustomed at blocking the outside blitz. Offensive line isnt the only Giants concern. There is an hole at Tight End and if TE Eric Ebron is on the board, the Giants will take him there. (Alternative pick: Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina) 13. St.

Louis Rams: Justin Gilbert, CB, Michigan State

Why they will do it: The St. Louis Rams have some young talent at corner, but that group needs a star. Gilbert is a very good cover corner with a good ability to jump routes. He will intercept many passes at the next level. Why they wont do it: Hes not very assertive at playing the, which is a problem when you play the Seahawks and 49ers twice a year. Gilberts attitude might also need some adjusting once he gets into camp. A safer option would be to go with Ha-Ha Clinton Dix from Alabama or, and this could be a shock, Dee Ford from Auburn. (Alternative pick: Dee Ford, DE, Auburn) 14. Chicago Bears: Aaron Donald, DT, Pittsburgh Why they will do it: Put simply, the Bears need help in every facet of the defensive game. In 2013, the Bears ranked 30th in total defense with inexperienced linebackers and safeties routinely had to be bailed out by the offense (when has that ever happened in Chicago). Donald has good leverage on the interior and hits the gap with speed. He can also be flexible falling into zone. Why they wont do it: The Bears have a ton of holes to fill and adding another young player to the mix adds time to molding the defense into a solid unit. Donald could stand to gain a few pounds and learn to adjust to the run game. The Bears are looking at a number of defensive free agents this week that hopefully shore up many of the holes. (Alternative pick: Ha-ha Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama) 15. Pittsburgh Steelers: Ha-Ha Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama Why they will do it: Its the end of an era in the steel city. Safety Troy Polamalu is nearing the twilight of his career, and Ryan Clark is on the Free Agency market. Clinton-Dix fits the mold of a hard-hitting safety. He plays the run well; cover the slot Receiver in spots, and good tackling ability in space. Why they wont do it: Hes not a great block-shedder, could use work at getting off the line. Depending on what happens in Free Agency, the Steelers could take WR Odell Beckham Jr. to replace the outgoing Emmanuel Sanders. (Alternative pick: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU)

16.

Dallas Cowboys: Ryan Shazier, OLB, Ohio St.

6 Why they will do it: Its Jerry Jones, and he has a history of reaching in the 1st round as of late; (Travis Frederick, Morris Claiborne, and Tyron Smith). In some mock drafts, Shazier isnt even in the 1st Round. Even so, he is highly disruptive versus the run and pass, plus gets after the passer on the first step. Why they wont do it: Shazier tends to overplay the ball sometimes, running pass the play and misses on the cutback. GM Jerry Jones might think better and draft someone with 1st round ability like CB Jason Verrett out of TCU. Then again its Jerry Jones, and who knows where his heads at from time to time. (Alternative pick: Jason Verrett, CB, TCU)

17. Baltimore

Ravens:: Zach Martin, OL, Notre Dame

Why they will do it: With the loss of Michael Oher, the Ravens are shore up the o-line. Some mock drafts have Baltimore taking Alabama tackle Cyrus Kouandijo. While he may have talent, Martin is less-flawed as a prospect. His quick on his feet and engages on the first step. Hes very good against stunts and aware of blitzes. Why they wont do it: Offensive line isnt the Ravens only need. The loss of Aquan Boldin last year was rough on QB Joe Flacco. He is need of another target and Kelvin Benjamin could fit the bill with his big hands and good speed. (Alternative pick : Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State)

18. New York Jets: Marquise Lee, WR, USC Why they will do it: Put it simply, the J-E-T-S need O-F-F-E-N-S-E. With the release of Santonio Holmes , the Jets are wiping the slate clean and starting fresh. Marquise Lee is a motivated, athletic, playmaking Receiver locking to prove himself at the next level. Finds the ball very well in flight, which will serve him with Geno Smith at Quarterback Why they wont do it: Lee was hampered by a plethora of injuries that could derail his career early on. Mike Mayock commented his body might not withstand the punishment over the course of the season. GM John Idzik very well could take WR Odell Beckham out of LSU instead. He has a similar build and vertical, but lacks the injuries of Lee. (Alternative pick: Odell Beckham,WR, LSU)

19. Miami

Dolphins: Xavier Su'a-Filo, OG, UCLA

Why they will do it: After a tumultuous 2013 that saw one player walking away and one being suspended indefinitely, the Dolphins desperately need help on the o-line to protect Ryan Tannehill. Hes very effect in pass protection and quick on the first step. He good in combo blocking and gains a step on the defender Why they wont do it: His body is not up to NFL specs. Awareness is an issue and fails to adjust to defensive movements. Not suited to play tackle. It depends on where the priority is on the line; guard or tackle.

. (Alternative pick: Jason Verrett, CB, TCU)

20.

Arizona Cardinals: Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri

Why they will do it: Ealy is the best available Defensive end on the board. His height, weight and speed make him a candidate to convert to linebacker. His agility allows him to close on the quarterback in a hurry, which is valuable in the NFC West. Why they wont do it: The Cardinals are in need of pure linebacker, and might not be inclined to take a project in the 1st round. In addition, Arizona is also looking to retool on the offensive line with a tackle, if any are on the board. (Alternative pick: Calvin Pryor, S, Louisville)

21. Green Bay Packers: Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech Why they will do it: Green Bay was poor against the pass last year. They are in dire need of upgrades to both the secondary and linebacking core. Fuller provides a good balance of instinct and height. Fuller is good against the run, and awareness allows him to pick up routes. Why they wont do it: Fuller is not ideal in man-coverage and lacks to-end speed; cant keep up in separation. His tackling also needs work. Fuller might time to develop into a starting cornerback. The Packers will also look into addressing their interior linemen issue with Timmy Jernigan out of Florida State. (Alternative pick: Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State)

22. Philadelphia

Eagles: Calvin Pryor, S, Louisville

Why they will do it: The Eagles defense was torrid, bad, horrendous, an unbearable mess, like Chucks hair. The Safety position was particularly suspect, getting burned on a regular basis. Pryor is a hard-hitting aggressive safety with instinct. He will set the tone with confidence on the defensive side from start to finish Why they wont do it: Pryor sometimes plays with too much confidence and can tend to overplay the ball. The Eagles could also look at taking a corner such as Bradley Roby from Ohio State. (Alternative pick: Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State)

23. Kansas City Chiefs: Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State Why they will do it: The expected loss of WR/KR Dexter McCluster will force the Chiefs to strongly consider taking a Receiver in the 1st round. Cooks is a quick-footed Receiver that smoothly breaks into his routes. His ability to turn small catches into big runs will fit in with Coach Andy Reids offense. Why they wont do it: Cooks is a slight taller version of Dexter McCluster. His lack of bulk and vertical will become a problem against some of the more physical corners in the league. Depending on free agency, the Chiefs can opt to draft a safety here, and wait to draft a Receiver later in the draft. (Alternative pick: Calvin Pryor (if on board), S, Louisville)

24.

Dee Ford, DE, Auburn

9 Why they will do it: Ford is a solid Defensive end with good first step and anticipation. Ford possesses an outstanding motor that never gives up on a play. In spots, Ford can drop into coverage and play zone. With his addition, the Bengals get another quality pass rusher. . Why they wont do it: The Bengals already have a young Defensive End in Margus Hunt. While Ford adds depth, a 1st round pick should be a necessity not a luxury, although to trust Mike Brown is like taking a leap, over a cliff. (Alternative pick: Chris Borland, Wisconsin) 25. Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State

Why they will do it: There are many concerns with the Super-Chargers both sides on the ball. Most noticeable among these holes is the pass rush. Jernigan was a force at Florida State as runstuffer (something needed in the NFC West). Je has ability to shed blocks and get after the quarterback on passing downs. Why they wont do it: His height and slightly heftier gut raise questions about his fitness and stamina. Jernigan also doesnt fair well against bigger and stronger linemen. The Chargers will consider drafting an incumbent for the aging Antonio Gates. (Alternative pick: Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE Washington) 26. St.

Louis Rams: (from Cleveland): Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE Washington

Why they will do it: When you have an offense that ranked 30th last year, YOU NEED HELP! Jenkins creates separation with his physicality. His size and soft hands make for a great target down the seam. He also has a similar background to Antonio Gates, playing the UW basketball team for a time. Why they wont do it: Jenkins needs work as a blocker, speed off the line leaves something to be desired. His character might also need some tweaking at the next level. The Rams might be leaning toward shoring up their offensive line to protect Sam Bradford or incumbent, Teddy Bridgewater. (Alternative pick: Joel Bitonio, OL, Nevada)

27. New Orleans Saints: Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State Why they will do it: With Jabari Greer moving on in free agency, the Saints will decide to get younger at cornerback with Roby; a feisty tackler that plays above his size most of the time. He can turn and run with Receivers in the vertical. Additionally, he plays the zone well, and can come off the edge as a blitzer.

10 Why they wont do it: Roby can be out-handled by bigger, taller Receivers. His inability to jam at the line will cause Receivers to get behind him. With the Jimmy Graham contract still in limbo, the Saints could be considering a Tight End as their first pick, surprising as that sounds. (Alternative pick: Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech)

28. Carolina Panthers: Jarvis Landry, WR, LSU Why they will do it: With the expected departure of WR Steve Smith, the Panthers will be looking to fill the hole. Landry is a savvy route runner with big hands and works back to the ball. He can make a spectacular catch every now and again; heck of a competitor. Why they wont do it: Landry needs to bulk up to contend with physical corners. He lacks to gear speed and agility, like a Ford Mustang. Landry needs to work on his separation to make uncontested catches. If there is another Receiver on the board (Allen Robinson, Brandin Cooks), I could see the Panthers going with one of them instead (Alternative pick (if on board): Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State)

29. New

England Patriots: Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech

Why they will do it: The Patriots lost their top three targets of 2012 due to; injury (Rob Gronkowski), arrest (Aaron Hernandez), and plain-old stubbornness (Wes Welker). Quarterback Tom Brady spent much of the year frustrated with his offense. The Patriots are in need of any type of weapon. Amaro could fit the bill as tweener given bulk and size with adequate speed to stretch the field. Why they wont do it: Amaro was a product of a pass-happy offense. Hes not productive blocking on the line; doesnt get good separation on the defender, and has trouble running his routes. The Patriots could lean toward drafter a Receiver or Tight End in the later rounds.

(Alternative pick: Scott Crichton, DE, Oregon State)

30. San Francisco 49ers: Carlos Hyde, RB, Ohio State

11 Why they will do it: Why not do it; Frank Gore is coming to the end of his fine career, its time for another feature Running Back. Hyde certainly looks the part at 6 foot, 230 lbs. He has good strength, finds his own holes. Hes very hard to bring down and excellent in the short-yardage game. As the game wears on, he gets better Why they wont do it: He doesnt have top-end speed; not very elusive and needs to work on his off-field work ethic. At this point in the 1st round, Hyde looks to be the most talented player on the board, and I cant a solid reason not to take him (Alternative pick: Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame)

31. Denver

Broncos: Scott Crichton, DE, Oregon State

Why they will do it: Losing Defensive End Shaun Phillips to Free Agency is tough, but he is 33 and Broncos should be looking toward the future. Crichton has all the physical attributes you could ask for, good strength with big hands. Hes very good off the snap, has good closing speed, and has an eye for stripping the ball. Why they wont do it: Crichton will need work to adapt to a 3-4 defense. He plays too tall for his position; plays to loose on the rush with very little flexibility. The Broncos might try to replace Receiver Eric Decker at 31. (Alternative Pick: Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State)

32. Seattle

Seahawks: Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame

Why they will do it: With the expected losses on the defensive front, the Seahawks will look to add to their devastating defense. Nix has great size and girth to command double teams on the line. Nix can get enough leverage to push blockers into the backfield. Furthermore, he can adjust to most schemes. Why they wont do it: Nix will need some work in engaging one-on-one blockers. Hes not very good in pass rush, and his stamina needs work. Moreover, Nix needs to improve his block shedding and could stand to develop lower body strength. The Seahawks might also replacing losses on their O-line.

(Alternative pick: Morgan Moses, OT, Virginia)