The Star’s NFL Draft tracker: Chiefs pick CB Marcus Peters; Bucs take Winston No. 1
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston the first pick in the NFL Draft Thursday night in Chicago.
Another quarterback went next: Hawaiian-born Oregon grad Marcus Mariota was selected second by the Tennessee Titans.
The Chiefs picked 18th and selected talented cornerback Marcus Peters, who was dismissed from the Washington Huskies in November after repeated run-ins with the coaching staff.
Dante Fowler Jr., a defensive end from Florida, went third to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Here’s constantly updating analysis of all the picks as they come in:
1. Tampa Bay: QB Jameis Winston, 6-4, 231, Florida State
Analysis: Not much of a surprise. Winston, theoretically, gives the Bucs the franchise quarterback they desperately need.
Bio: Two-year starter who completed 305 of 467 passes (65.3 percent) for 3,907 yards, 25 touchdowns and 18 interceptions in 13 games in 2014. Also rushed 57 times for 65 yards and three touchdowns. Turned 21 this year. 9 3/8-inch hands. 4.97 40-yard dash. 28.5-inch vertical. 103-inch broad jump. 7.16 3-cone drill. 4.36 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Won the Heisman Trophy in 2013. Has small hands and an unimpressive frame — is not a great athlete. Was much more productive in 2013, when he completed 257 of 384 passes for 4,057 yards, 40 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions. Was much more inconsistent this season; threw several questionable interceptions (i.e. over the middle or into coverage). But when you turn on the film, he looks the part — is tall and stout with a very strong arm; can really zip the ball into some tight spaces. Made several NFL-caliber throws the last two seasons. Short, intermediate and deep accuracy is solid when his footwork is on point, but he has a tendency to throw off his back foot in the face of pressure. Flashes good pocket presence; isn’t a runner but can escape the pocket. Has led his team to several come-from-behind wins; isn’t afraid to make the big throw. Had a high number of tipped interceptions but also had a high number of picks where he didn’t see the underneath defender. Teams will need to do extensive background on his well-publicized off-field issues. Is reportedly very good on the chalkboard, has a high football IQ and loves the game. Comes off as extremely confident.
2. Tennessee: QB Marcus Mariota, 6-4, 222, Oregon
Analysis: Interesting pick for the Titans. Wonder how he’ll fit in Ken Whisenhunt’s system. We’ll see if he’ll remain a Titan.
Bio: Three-year starter who completed 304 of 445 passes (68.3 percent) for 4,454 yards, 42 touchdowns and four interceptions in 15 games in 2014. Also rushed 135 times for 770 yards (5.7 average) and 15 touchdowns. Turns 22 this year. 9 7/8-inch hands. 4.52 40-yard dash. 36-inch vertical. 121-inch broad jump. 6.87 3-cone drill. 4.11 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Won the Heisman Trophy in 2014. Excellent tester at the combine. A very good athlete with good straight-line speed and vision as a runner, though he isn’t super elusive in the open field. Possesses a 36-5 record as a starter. Played in an offense that created a lot of wide open passing windows and allowed him to throw lots of half-field reads and quick, easy throws. However, he occasionally showed the ability to hit his third or fourth read on the other side of the field. His delivery quickness is fine but not great; there is some wind up to it. He spins the ball pretty well; arm strength and accuracy is above average on short-to-intermediate throws but isn’t pinpoint. Accuracy on deeper throws leaves a little to be desired. Generally makes good decisions and is careful with the ball but not always, as his 27 career fumbles will attest. Still possesses good pocket presence, creativity and escapability when eluding the rush. Ran a ton of zone read concepts; would be a nice fit with all the packaged stuff Chiefs coach Andy Reid likes to use now. Hasn’t called a play since high school. Compares favorably to Chiefs QB Alex Smith as a player; is the same type of high-character person but a better athlete. Former teammate Kyle Long calls him a “ruthless” competitor but his soft-spoken nature will concern some.
3. Jacksonville: OLB Dante Fowler Jr., 6-3, 261, Florida
Analysis: A tailor-made fit for the LEO position in the Jags’ defense. Gives them the pass-rusher they need.
Bio: Two-year starter and team captain who had 60 tackles (15 for loss), 8.5 sacks, 17 hurries, one deflection in 12 games in 2014. Turns 21 years old this year. 33.75-inch arms. 9.5-inch hands. 4.60 40-yard dash. 19 bench reps. 32.5-inch vertical. 112-inch broad jump. 7.4 3-cone drill. 4.32 20-yard shuttle. 11.89 60-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Has a good frame — has long arms with a strong lower body and plus athleticism. Good acceleration off the edge. Can rush from a two-point and three-point stance. Plays hard, gets upfield quickly and has a solid closing burst to the quarterback. Good strength; can set the edge and hold his own against the run but can occasionally be overpowered. Can shed blockers and get to the football. Has a knack for stringing together pass-rush moves. Has a swim move in his arsenal. Has a transferable skill-set to the NFL. Can fit in any scheme. Safest pass rusher in the draft and potentially the most complete.
4. Oakland: WR Amari Cooper, 6-1, 211, Alabama
Analysis: The first truly intriguing pick. The Raiders go for a true No. 1 receiver over defensive tackle Leonard Williams. Cooper is a nice fit for the Raiders. He’s going to tear it up.
Bio: Three-year starter and team captain who caught 124 passes for 1,727 yards (13.9 average) and 16 touchdowns in 14 games in 2014. Heisman Trophy finalist. Declared after his true junior season. Turns 21 this year. 31 1/2-inch arms. 10-inch hands. 4.42 40-yard dash. 33-inch vertical. 120-inch broad jump. 6.71 3-cone drill. 3.98 20-yard shuttle. Did not bench press due to a shoulder injury.
Consensus: All-Juice Team member. Sandwiched a middling sophomore season in between terrific freshman and junior campaigns. Really exploded this year under new offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin. Possesses plus athleticism, and has elite quickness and out of his cuts, which makes him a dangerous weapon on deep routes. Uses his speed and polish as a route runner to win vertically, where his ability to track the deep ball is elite. Is only OK after the catch but has fairly reliable hands. Has the occasional focus drop. Beats press coverage with slickness at the line of scrimmage. Is not overly physical. Needs to get stronger — can be overpowered as a blocker, where his effort is inconsistent. Occasionally flashes nastiness but whiffs on blocks, too. Body language is interesting; seems to compete and play with a detached demeanor.
5. Washington: T/G Brandon Scherff, 6-5, 319, Iowa
Analysis: The first true surprise of the draft. Washington must believe Scherff can play tackle, because you probably can’t take a guard this high. Good football player, though.
Bio: Three-year starter and team captain who played in 43 career games. Turns 24 this year. 333/8-inch arms. 11-inch hands. 5.05-second 40-yard dash. 23 bench reps. 32.5-inch vertical. 107-inch broad jump. 7.18-second three-cone drill. 4.57-second 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: All-Juice Team member. Is old for a prospect. Big man — prototype size. Is athletic enough to get to the second level. Knee bender who generates movement at the point of attack in the running game and shows some nastiness; he can finish. Is very physical and good in space — against Notre Dame, who found a defender 10-plus yards downfield on a screen and sent him flying. Looked awesome in movement drills. Moved much better as a junior; as a senior, he played through a torn meniscus and put out some bad tape, specifically against Maryland. Might not have the feet or length to be a Pro Bowl tackle, but absolutely has the look of a potential Pro Bowl guard. Good football player who is worth a mid first-round pick if teams can get over his injury issues — has been hurt multiple times in his collegiate career.
6. New York Jets: DE Leonard Williams, 6-5, 302, Southern California
Analysis: Williams is going to form a nice interior duo with Sheldon Richardson for years to come. Smart pick. Kevin White of West Virginia would have been nice, too.
Bio: Three-year starter who had 80 tackles (9 1/2 for loss), seven sacks, two hurries and three pass breakups in 13 games in 2014. Turns 21 this year. 34 5/8-inch arms. 10 5/8-inch hands. 4.97 40-yard dash. 29.5-inch vertical. 106-inch broad jump. 7.59-second three-cone drill. 4.53-second 20-yard shuttle. Did not bench press at the combine; dealt with shoulder problems this season.
Evaluation: Is young for this draft. Does not fire off the ball consistently and is sometimes late off the snap when asked to two-gap but can really get after it when allowed to get upfield and shoots gaps. Checks every other box. Is well-proportioned, aware and possesses good agility, quickness and speed for his size. Even shows some degree of comfort in space in coverage. Has a pet swim move that is very effective in pass rush. Does a good job of using his strong hands to separate from linemen as a pass rusher. Does a nice job of locating and getting to the ball vs. the run — has the big hands and long arms necessary to control offensive linemen — and flashes the ability to stack and shed. Tries very hard to get his hands up and knock down passes. Is advanced, in general, when it comes to using his hands to defeat linemen. Spent a lot of time as a two-gap five-technique player but might be more effective shooting gaps as a three-tech. Consistently plays hard and runs to the ball.
7. Chicago: WR Kevin White, 6-3, 215, West Virginia
Analysis: Nice pick. White is going to give the Bears a nice tandem at receiver with Alshon Jeffery, and is the best player on the board. But can Jay Cutler get him the ball?
Bio: Juco transfer. Two-year starter who caught 109 passes for 1,447 yards (13.2 average) and 10 touchdowns in 13 games in 2014. Turns 22 this year. 32 5/8-inch arms. 9 1/4-inch hands. 4.35 40-yard dash. 23 bench reps. 36.5-inch vertical. 123-inch broad jump. 6.92 3-cone drill. 4.14 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: All-Juice Team member. Can track the ball vertically and win jump balls. Vertical threat who flashes the ability to consistently make difficult, contested catches. Big, strong guy who plays to his size. Good speed, can get deep, but isn’t a burner. Slightly above-average burst out his cuts. Gives good effort as a blocker. Demonstrative, emotional player who is competitive and into the game. Has a little juice after the catch – is a strong runner. Has experience running screens. Can come back to the ball and make the catch.
8. Atlanta: OLB Vic Beasley Jr., 6-3, 246, Clemson
Analysis: Falcons need a pass rusher, and Beasley is the best on the board. This is probably a bit high for him, but this is a passing league now, and teams have to rush the quarterback.
Bio: Two-year starter who had 34 tackles (21.5 for loss), 12 sacks, six hurries, three deflections in 13 games in 2014. Is 22 years old. 32.5-inch arms. 9 3/8-inch hands. 4.53 40-yard dash. 35 bench reps. 41-inch vertical. 130-inch broad jump. 6.91 3-cone drill. 4.15 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Won 2014 ACC defensive player of the year. Senior tape revealed a small player who lacks bulk, even for a 3-4 outside linebacker, but has a natural feel in pass rush. Showed up much heavier at the combine, which helped his draft stock and crushed the testing portion, ranking in the top five at his position in all six drills. Has excellent burst off the edge — gets upfield quickly and can win with the speed rush. Has also flashed an awesome spin move, in addition to club-rip and bull rush moves, and displays good hand-eye coordination when hand-fighting. Understands how to fight his way to the quarterback and closes on them quickly. Lack of bulk hurts him; good tackles can ride him upfield and take him to the ground. Run-stopping ability on the NFL level is a concern; is on the ground too much and lacks the size to consistently set the edge and take on NFL offensive tackles. Might end up being a situational rusher only, but there’s a value for that in today’s NFL. Has enough athleticism to play in space and gives good effort.
9. New York Giants: T Ereck Flowers, 6-6, 329, Miami
Analysis: I’m a fan of Flowers, and this is a classic Giants pick — a physical, mean offensive lineman. He needs some work with his technique, but his upside is high.
Bio: Two-year starter who played in 37 career games. Declared after his true junior season. Turns 21 this year. 33 7/8-inch arms. 9 1/2-inch hands. 5.31 40-yard dash. 37 bench reps. 27-inch vertical. Did not perform jumps during pre-draft process; missed one game in 2014 with a torn meniscus.
Evaluation: Young for a prospect. Great frame — is massive with long arms. Left tackle who can win at the point of attack with his sheer mass and power. Likes to finish — is a chippy and competitive player who plays with an attitude and flashes a nasty side. Has strong hands and can engulf and lock on defenders. Has enough athleticism to get to the second level. Feet in pass pro are inconsistent; flashes quickness at times and is difficult to get around, but when he’s a tad sluggish, he doesn’t play to his power. Needs to refine his technique, in general, and be more consistent getting off the snap. Probably projects best on the right side.
10. St. Louis: RB Todd Gurley II, 6-1, 222, Georgia
Analysis: A bit of a surprise bit, but it works. He fits Jeff Fisher’s smash mouth style, and is easily a top-10 talent in this draft. With Flowers and Scherff off the board, it makes sense to go with the best player.
Bio: Three-year starter who rushed 123 times for 911 yards and nine touchdowns in only six games in 2014. Also caught 12 passes for 57 yards and zero touchdowns. Turns 21 this year. Declared after his true junior season. Missed four games this season because of an NCAA rules violation. Suffered a torn ACL in his left knee on Nov. 15 that ended his season. Missed three games as a sophomore because of an ankle injury. 10-inch hands. Did not workout as he recovers from knee injury.
Evaluation: Flashes the traits of a very good one-cut, north-south runner. Possesses very good burst out of his cuts and reaches top speed quickly. Also has very good vision; can cut back and find daylight in a zone running scheme, but also has the size and physicality to win in a gap blocking scheme. Does not have elite breakaway speed as a running back but can still take it the distance, especially when he has a head of steam (i.e. kickoff returns). Has a little shake and can make guys miss in space but does not run through as many tackles in traffic as you’d think a man his size would. It’s not for a lack of effort, however; churns his legs and tries to finish his runs. Can be overpowered in pass protection but is a willing blocker who tries hard. Flashes promises as a receiver out of the backfield; catches the ball naturally. Will be a threat in the screen game. Has lost one fumble the last two seasons.
11. Minnesota: CB Trae Waynes, 6-0, 186, Michigan State
Analysis: The Vikings need a corner, and they go with Waynes over Teddy Bridgewater’s old battery mate, receiver DeVante Parker. Count this as a bit of a surprise on my end.
Bio: Two-year starter who had 46 tackles (two for loss), three interceptions, eight pass breakups and 11 pass deflections in 13 games in 2014. Declared for the draft after his redshirt junior season. Turns 23 this year. 31-inch arms. 8.25-inch hands. 4.31 40-yard dash. 19 bench reps. 38-inch vertical. 122-inch broad jump. 7.06 3-cone drill. 4.39 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Competitive press corner who played on the boundary in 2014, as the Spartans used him to take away the short side of the field. Arm length (surprisingly) may not pass muster. Also has small hands and lacks bulk. Displays the ability to play to his elite timed speed, but can still be beaten deep. Largely has good feet, hips and the transitional quickness to mirror-and-match. Like his former teammate, Darqueze Dennard, he is far too grabby in coverage and will need to adjust. Has some natural ball skills. Is confident, feisty and chippy; is not afraid to get in a receiver’s face. Is a (mostly) willing tackler who plays downhill and will come up and hit you.
12. Cleveland: DT/NT Danny Shelton, 6-2, 339, Washington
Analysis: Here’s another pick that makes sense. The Browns need some juice on the interior of their defensive line, and Shelton is undeniably going to help their run defense. His hustle and effort stands out on tape.
Bio: Three-year starter who had 93 tackles (16 1/2 for loss), nine sacks and three hurries in 14 games in 2014. Turns 22 this year. 31 3/4-inch arms. 10-inch hands. 5.64 40-yard dash. 34 bench reps. 30.5-inch vertical. 95-inch broad jump. 7.99 3-cone drill. 4.65 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Massive frame with a strong, enormous lower body. Is not a great athlete — will always have to work hard to maintain his body. Surprisingly decent burst off the snap. Closes a little faster on a quarterback than you’d think a man his size would. Can be moved a little by the double team, surprisingly, but is stout. Has good awareness — locks out his arms at the point of attack, finds the football vs. the run and hustles downfield to make tackles. Can sniff out screens. Will lose his balance and fall a little too often. Does not have an array of pass-rush moves but does utilize an interesting little hump move, a swim move and can occasionally collapse the pocket with his raw strength. Gets off the ball pretty good. Strong hands, strong punch. Probably better shooting gaps than being asked to two-gap. Plays very hard, consistently, and always hustles to the ball, which explains his extraordinary statistical production for a nose tackle.
13. New Orleans: T Andrus Peat, 6-7, 313, Stanford
Analysis: Peat is an intriguing prospect with Pro Bowl potential, if he can bring it every play. This is a surprise — their tackles last year, Zach Strief and Terron Armstead, were solid enough.
Bio: Two-year starter who played in 40 career games. Declared after his true junior season. Turns 22 this year. 34 3/8-inch arms. 10 5/8-inch hands. 5.18 40-yard dash. 31-inch vertical. 105-inch broad jump. 8.01 3-cone drill. 4.62 20-yard shuttle. Did not bench press due to an elbow injury.
Evaluation: Massive lower body. Big man – prototype size and looks the part of an NFL left tackle. Also has good feet and athleticism in pass protection. Covers a lot of ground with his kick-slide. Is athletic enough to get to the second level. Knee bender who generates movement at the point of attack in the running game and flashes some nastiness; he can finish but should do it more given his impressive gifts. Physical and good in space – against Notre Dame, who found the middle linebacker 10-plus yards downfield on a screen and sent him flying. Has heavy hands; puts a lot of guys on the ground. Has scheme versatility; can work in a man- or gap-blocking system.
14. Miami: WR DeVante Parker, 6-3, 209, Louisville
Analysis: After parting ways with Mike Wallace and Brian Hartline, the Dolphins can use a big play threat. With Gurley off the board, this makes sense. Kendricks would have made some sense, too.
Bio: Two-year starter who caught 43 passes for 855 yards (19.9 average) and five touchdowns in only six games in 2014. Declared for the draft after his true junior season. Turned 22 this year. 33 1/4-inch arms. 9 1/4-inch hands. 4.45 40-yard dash. 17 bench reps. 36.5-inch vertical. 125-inch broad jump. Did not due to three-cone drill or 20-yard shuttle due to a foot injury.
Consensus: Big-play threat who broke a bone in his foot before his senior year, caused him to miss the Cardinals’ first seven games. Is not a blazer but showed more explosiveness as a junior, before the injury. Mainly runs slants or go routes, but is OK on digs and drags. Can definitely win the slant. Not sure how good he is at the entire route tree. Willing to take a hit over the middle but is only OK on short-to-intermediate contested balls. Shows some decent footwork but never seems to create a ton of separation. Has some shake and juice after the catch. Good leaping ability and is more natural catching vertical passes. Can make contested catches downfield, win jump balls with his large catch radius and track the ball in the air. Good speed once he’s got a head of steam. Gives decent effort as a blocker.
15. San Diego: RB Melvin Gordon III, 6-1, 215, Wisconsin
Analysis: The Chargers swapped picks and gave up a fourth and fifth round pick to get their guy at running back. Gordon is a great fit — I mocked him to San Diego in seven of my eight mock drafts — and is going to give San Diego’s running game some oomph.
Bio: One-year starter who rushed 343 times for 2,587 yards and 29 touchdowns in 14 games in 2014. Also caught 19 passes for 153 yards and three touchdowns. Declared after his redshirt junior season. Turns 22 this year. 9 3/4-inch hands. 4.52-second 40-yard dash. 19 bench reps. 35-inch vertical. 126-inch broad jump. 7.04-second three-cone drill. 4.07-second 20-yard shuttle. 11.00-second 60-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Super-productive back with good bulk. Has good feet, burst through the hole and good timed speed but is more of a long glider when breaking away from the back. Needs to continue developing his vision but has experience in a zone-run scheme and is a great fit for a team that uses that. Doesn’t run over people but can make a guy miss in space. Will need to develop his blocking and receiving but has the tools to do both adequately. Has lost seven fumbles the last two seasons.
16. Houston: CB Kevin Johnson, 6-0, 188, Wake Forest
Analysis: This one hurts a bit for the Chiefs. The best corner in the draft goes to the Texans.
Bio: Three-year starter who had 44 tackles (3.5 for loss), one interception, six pass breakups in 12 games in 2014. Turns 23 this year. 31-inch arms. 8 3/8-inch hands. 4.52 40-yard dash. 41.5-inch vertical. 130-inch broad jump. 6.79 3-cone drill. 3.89 20-yard shuttle. 12.19 60-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Lacks bulk and has short arms. Chose not to bench press at the combine or his pro day so his functional strength can stand to improve. Plays off-man and press-man coverage. Is a quick-twitch athlete — has the quickest hips in the draft class, very quick feet and a good backpedal. Also has a strong vertical jump but needs to improve his hands and ball skills. Has a real closing burst and sticky cover skills. Is a little handsy in man coverage. Is a willing tackler who tries to deliver a big hit when possible but will occasionally miss tackles due to his lack of strength. Seems competitive and into the game. Plug-and-play type whose cover skills and athleticism will help him immediately challenge for a starting job.
17. San Francisco: DE Arik Armstead, 6-7, 292, Oregon
Analysis: He fills a need for the 49ers and is gifted, but will he play hard consistently?
Bio: Two-year starter who had 46 tackles (5 1/2 for loss), 2 1/2 sacks, six hurries in 13 games in 2014. Turns 21 this year. 33-inch arms. 10 1/2-inch hands. 5.10-second 40-yard dash. 24 bench reps. 34-inch vertical. 117-inch broad jump. 7.57-second three-cone drill. 4.53-second 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Is young for a prospect. Former basketball player who boasts elite size for a five-technique tackle. Often does not fire off the snap quickly when asked to two-gap — stands up, then rushes — but has plus athleticism, which he shows off when allowed to get upfield and attack gaps. Displays a strong jolt when he can extend his long arms; will overpower smaller offensive linemen and put them on skates. Flashes the ability to find the ball and disengage with his length and plus athleticism vs. the run. Can be moved on the double team but flashes the ability to anchor. Has the potential to be a solid pass rusher with his natural gifts but needs to refine his technique, although he has a promising spin move. Motor runs hot and cold. Does not always hustle to the ball (see 2015 National Championship Game). Should have been more productive, overall, given his immense physical talent, but a good D-line coach could unlock his potential as a three-down interior lineman — if he wants it.
18. Kansas City: CB Marcus Peters, 6-0, 197, Washington
Analysis: Peters’ talent is undeniable — I would have given him a late-first round grade if it were not for his off-field issues. The Chiefs need a corner, and he is gifted, but it will be interesting to see what they say about his personality.
Bio: Three-year starter who had 30 tackles (four for loss), three interceptions, seven pass breakups and 10 pass deflections in eight games in 2014. Turned 22 this year. 31.5-inch arms. 8 3/8-inch hands. 4.53 40-yard dash. 17 bench reps. 37.5-inch vertical. 121-inch broad jump. 7.08 3-cone drill. 4.08 20-yard shuttle. 11.26 60-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Was dismissed for violating team rules during the middle of the season. At the combine, Peters admitted he did not get along with the new coaching staff that took over in 2014. Experienced, emotional, aggressive and competitive press-man corner with good hips. Attacks the ball in coverage but long speed isn’t great. Transitional quickness is only OK. Is overly grabby in press-man, and his cover technique can get a little sloppy. Is a willing tackler vs. the run who must wrap up better after the catch. Has the skills and competitiveness to be an NFL starter, but teams will dig into his off-field issues and decide whether or not he’s coachable. Would have a late first-round grade here if it were not for those questions.
19. Cleveland: T Cameron Erving, 6-5, 313, Florida State
Bio: Three-year starter who played in 55 career games. Turns 23 this year. 34 1/8-inch arms. 10 3/8-inch hands. 5.15 40-yard dash. 30 bench reps. 30.5-inch vertical. 112-inch broad jump. 7.48 3-cone drill. 4.63 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Very long for a center. Has good bend. Can mirror pass rushers with good feet. Converted tackle. Can get to the second level. Can make reach blocks and is big and athletic enough to turn and wall a guy off. Has a big base, can anchor decently in pass pro. Only OK athleticism on screens. Is not a nasty guy but generally gets the job done and can generate movement at the point of attack in the running game. Not sure how aware he is on stunts at center. Good get off at the snap. Flexible enough to get low in his stance in pass pro. Aware as a run blocker; on zone runs he’ll peel off to pick up blitzing backer to create gaps. Wish he showed more pop/effort at the second level and in space. Wish he showed more of a mean streak but will protect his guy - ran over to clean the pile off a gang tackle vs Oregon and was first OL there. Has a powerful punch — shoves guys to the ground a lot. Needs to keep his feet moving in pass pro. Long arms could be an issue in the trenches — squatty guys could get into his body quicker — but has more than enough ability to play guard if center doesn’t work out.
20. Philadelphia: WR Nelson Agholor, 6-0, 198, Southern Cal
Bio: Two-year starter and team captain who caught 104 passes for 1,313 yards (12.6 average) and 12 touchdowns in 13 games in 2014. Also had four punt return touchdowns in his career. Declared for the draft after his true junior season. Turns 22 this year. 32 1/4-inch arms. 9 1/4-inch hands. 4.42 40-yard dash. 12 bench reps. 36.5-inch vertical. 125-inch broad jump. 6.83 3-cone drill. 4.34 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: All-Juice Team member. Has identical measurables to Chiefs receiver Jeremy Maclin. Lines up in the slot and outside. Runs good rules. Can make catches over the middle. Has experience as a punt returner. Good runner after the catch. Used in bunch of ways-slot, outside, out of he backed, screens. Good speed. Good acceleration. Strong run after the catch skills. Has special teams value — has been a productive returner at USC. Inconsistent effort as a blocker. Ideal fit for the West Coast offense.
21. Cincinnati: T Cedric Ogbuehi, 6-5, 306, Texas A&M
Bio: Four-year starter who played in 47 career games. Turned 23 this year. 35 7/8-inch arms. 10-inch hands.
Evaluation: Is coming off an ACL injury he suffered in the bowl game in January and hasn’t been able to work out for teams. Has also battled minor injuries as a senior. Looks the part — very athletic with super-long arms and very quick feet. Has a good kick slide, shows okay awareness in pass protection and should be able to hold up against NFL-caliber pass rushers with more technique work and added strength. Is not a powerful run blocker and could stand to be more nasty but can win with size and athleticism, and his overall range and ability to get to the second-level quickly would make him a good fit for a zone-run scheme. Played both the left and the right sides. Motor runs a bit hot and cold.
22. Pittsburgh: OLB Alvin “Bud” Dupree, 6-4, 269, Kentucky
Bio: Three-year starter and team captain who had 74 tackles (12.5 for loss), 7.5 sacks, five hurries, one deflection in 12 games in 2014. Turned 22 this year. 32 5/8-inch arms. 9.75-inch hands. 4.56 40-yard dash. Did not bench at the combine due to pec strain. 42-inch vertical. 138-inch broad jump. 7.49 3-cone drill. 4.47 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Has experience in a two-point and three-point stance. Generally hustles to the ball; gets some tackles in pursuit. Could do a better job of using his hands and being violent but he does have a nice little club-rip and swim move. Has the size and frame to set the edge just fine vs. the run. Is actually OK in space. Slightly above-average get off. Has decent power in his hands and a decent closing burst. Can be disruptive and has shown a knack for knocking the ball out. Plays with good effort and has some closing burst to the quarterback. Must continue to develop his instincts — is sometimes a beat late to diagnose.
23. Denver: OLB Shane Ray, 6-3, 245, Missouri
Bio: First-year starter who had 65 tackles (22.5 for loss), 13 sacks, five hurries, one deflection in 14 games in 2014. Turns 22 this year. 33 1/8-inch arms. 9-inch hands. 4.64 40-yard dash. 21 bench reps. 33.5-inch vertical. 120-inch broad jump. 7.71 3-cone drill. 4.53 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Won SEC defensive player of the year in 2014, when he set a Mizzou single-season sack record with 14.5. Has been a bit hampered in workouts due a toe injury suffered in the bowl game. Will not be able to carry much more bulk. Possesses an elite first step — easily the best in the draft. Gets off the ball quickly and attacks. Consistently wins with his speed rush; few tackles have the foot quickness to match it. Emotional, competitive player who generally plays hard, though he will occasionally gear down some in pursuit. Has experience pass-rushing as a three-technique, and is good at it. Has an effective rip move in his arsenal. Can be fooled by play-action and occasionally overwhelmed at the point of attack against the run. Mainly played with his hand in the ground, but his pass-rushing ability should transfer to the NFL in a 3-4 scheme.
24. Arizona: T D.J. Humphries, 6-5, 307, Florida
Bio: Two-year starter who played in 29 career games. Turns 22 this year. 33 5/8-inch arms. 10-inch hands. 5.12 40-yard dash. 26 bench reps. 31-inch vertical. 104-inch broad jump. 7.87 3-cone drill. 4.64 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Weight will always been a concern — played in the 280s in 2014 and looks like it on film. Gained 20 pounds for the combine but it remains to be seen if he can maintain the same good foot quickness at that weight. Has the feet and arm length to play left tackle in the NFL — can keep up with the quick pass rushers off the edge. Does an okay job passing off stunts. Raw and still needs to work on his strength and overall technique. Is not overpowering in the running game but can execute reach blocks, pull and get to the second level with a burst. May not have enough bulk to be a right tackle for some teams. Ideal fit for a zone-run blocking scheme. Has Pro Bowl potential if he can add strength and move the same way at a heavier weight.
25. Carolina: S Shaq Thompson, 6-0, 228, Washington
Bio: Three-year starter who had 81 tackles (2 1/2 for loss), one sack, one interception and four pass deflections in 14 games in 2014. Declared for the draft after his true junior season. Is 21 years old. 33-inch arms. 9 1/2-inch hands. 4.64-second 40-yard dash. 20 bench reps. 33.5-inch vertical. 117-inch broad jump. 6.99-second three-cone drill. 4.08-second 20-yard shuttle. 11.78-second 60-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Does not possess great bulk but is very athletic, which shows when he gets to attack the ball and diagnose near the line of scrimmage. Gets stuck on blocks too long but possesses some thump when he gets to ballcarriers, though. Shows most comfort in coverage, where his athleticism and nose for the ball shines through. Has has a very large catch radius with 33-inch arms. Best position might be running back — rushed 61 times for 456 yards and two touchdowns in 2014 — but considers himself a linebacker. Probably not a coincidence he returned three fumbles for touchdowns this season. Best fit for a 3-4 team is as a nickel linebacker on passing downs until he processes plays quicker from the inside, but he unquestionably has the ceiling of a three-down player. Reportedly is a leader with good football character.
26. Baltimore: WR Breshad Perriman, 6-2, 212, Central Florida
Bio: Three-year starter who caught 50 passes for 1,044 yards (20.8 average) and nine touchdowns in 13 games in 2014. Turns 22 this year. 32-inch arms. 9 1/4-inch hands. 4.24 40-yard dash. 18 bench reps. 36.5-inch vertical. 127-inch broad jump. Did not run the shuttles due to a hamstring injury.
Evaluation: Son of former NFL receiver Brett Perriman, but is bigger than his dad and faster, too; exploded onto the draft radar with a blistering 4.24 40-yard dash at his pro day. Big-play receiver whose 20.8 yards-per-catch average is outstanding. Defenses will have to respect his speed and size — can win vertically with that NFL-caliber combo. Shows some burst out of his cuts and surprisingly good play speed. Hands are marginal. Has focus drops and double catches passes. Needs to improve his field awareness. Mostly-willing blocker but should be better at it for his size.
27. Dallas: CB Byron Jones, 6-1, 199, Connecticut
Bio: Four-year starter and team captain who had 24 tackles (none for loss), two interceptions and four pass deflections in seven games in 2014. Turns 23 this year. 32-inch arms. 10-inch hands. 4.4 40-yard dash. 18 bench reps. 44.5-inch vertical. 147-inch broad jump. 6.78 3-cone drill. 3.94 20-yard shuttle. 10.98 60-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Missed five games in 2014 after undergoing shoulder surgery. Workout warrior who blew everyone away at the NFL Combine; posted top-five marks at his position in five different drills. Set a world record with his combine broad jump. Looks the part, physically, with long arms and big hands that can help him re-route receivers in press coverage. One-speed corner whose transitional quickness out of breaks in man coverage is a concern, as is his senior-year press technique (which might have to do with his shoulder injury). Backpedal needs work. Has good hips. Fairly instinctive. Willing drag-down tackler who tries to pry the ball out. Is a little grabby downfield but has some ball skills. Has some experience there. Four-year starter who reportedly has leadership traits.
28. Detroit: G Laken Tomlinson, 6-3, 323, Duke
Bio: Four-year starter and team captain who played in 52 career games. Turned 23 this year. 335/8-inch arms. 101/8-inch hands. 5.33 40-yard dash. 25 bench reps. 31.5-inch vertical. 103-inch broad jump. 8.17-second three-cone drill. 4.87-second 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: All-Juice Team member. Big guy who moves well, is flexible and strong. Has a massive base who and anchor and re-anchor in pass pro and move sufficiently. Keeps head on a swivel. Was impressive at the Senior Bowl. Moves well in wave drills. Plug-and-play type.
29. Indianapolis: WR Phillip Dorsett, 5-10, 185, Miami
Bio: Three-year starter who caught 36 passes for 871 yards (24.2 average) and 10 touchdowns in 13 games in 2014. 30 1/4-inch arms. 9 3/8-inch hands. 4.33 40-yard dash. 13 bench reps. 37-inch vertical. 122-inch broad jump. 6.70 3-cone drill. 4.11 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: All-Juice Team member. Willing blocker, just small. Big-time speed — can take the top off the defensive with it. Creates separation out of his cuts. Big-time juice once he gets the ball in his hands — can outrun people. Shows ability to make the tough catch near the sideline and get his foot down. Creates separation downfield with his speed. Has improved his hands during his college career but they are still only good, not great. Occasionally flashes the ability to make the short, contested catch.
30. Green Bay: FS Damarious Randall, 5-11, 196, Arizona State
Bio: Juco transfer. Two-year starter who had 106 tackles (9.5 for loss), three interceptions, nine pass breakups and 12 pass deflections in 13 games in 2014. Turns 23 this year. 30.25-inch arms. 8 5/8-inch hands. 4.46 40-yard dash. 14 bench reps. 38-inch vertical. 120-inch broad jump. 6.83 3-cone drill. 4.07 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Is small — has short arms and lacks bulk. Used as a gunner. Above average feet and athleticism with tons of production in 2014. Good timed speed. Has a closing burst, especially when coming off the edge as a blitzer. Makes a lot of plays and is around the ball a lot but does so by taking chances that sometimes backfire. Has some ball skills. Not much punch as a tackler; drag-down run defender with a small tackle radius. Will miss tackles in space. Might be a nickel cornerback.
31. New Orleans: ILB Stephone Anthony, 6-3, 243, Clemson
Bio: Three-year starter and team captain who had 75 tackles (10.5 for loss), 2.5 sacks, one interception and three pass deflections in 13 games in 2014. Is 22 years old. 32.25-inch arms. 10 1/8-inch hands. 4.56 40-yard dash. 23 bench reps. 37-inch vertical. 122-inch broad jump. 7.07 3-cone drill. 4.03 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Fast, aggressive downhill thumper who can run and hit and sift through the trash. Emotional player with good play strength. Has a good frame — prototype size with a good closing burst. Must continue to develop his instincts — can be a tick late to diagnose vs. playaction — but is twitchy, can run and hit and has sideline-to-sideline speed. Was more productive as a junior, when he had 131 tackles, but was surrounded by lots of talent in 2014. Uses his physical gifts to become a good “A”-gap blitzer. Needs to continue developing his coverage instincts but has the speed to carry tight ends up the seam and be a factor in coverage. Is always around the ball. Good effort. Needs to be more consistent tackling.
32. New England: DT Malcom Brown, 6-2, 319, Texas
Bio: Two-year starter who had 70 tackles (13 for loss), 6 1/2 sacks, seven hurries and one pass breakup in 13 games in 2014. Turns 21 this year. 32 1/2-inch arms. 10-inch hands. 5.05-second 40-yard dash. 26 bench reps. 29.5-inch vertical. 98-inch broad jump. 7.84-second three-cone drill. 4.59-second 20-yard shuttle.
Evaluation: Three-technique tackle with good get off. Quick enough to be disruptive and not get reached. Finds the ball vs. the run — can stack and shed when single-blocked — but gets moved vs. the double and on down blocks and is generally on the ground too much. Needs to do a better job of using his hands in the pass rush but has some some jolt in his hands, a decent closing burst and an interesting swim move. Occasionally used as a stand-up rusher. Is fairly quick looping around on stunts. Runs to the ball and consistently plays hard. Mature — married father of two.
This story was originally published April 30, 2015 at 6:48 PM with the headline "The Star’s NFL Draft tracker: Chiefs pick CB Marcus Peters; Bucs take Winston No. 1."