NFL Media draft expert Mike Mayock answered questions about the 2016 for 90 minutes on a teleconference Friday and of needs for teams and how those needs might be met. College Football 24/7 compiled a quick look at some of Mayock's commentary connecting specific players with specific clubs, not just for first-round picks but later rounds as well.
Carolina Panthers
Could the defending NFC champions spend a first-round pick on a cornerback ? Mayock believes the draft's top four cornerbacks -- , , and -- will likely be gone by the time the Panthers are on the clock with the No. 30 pick. If so, options include Miami's or , but Mayock thinks GM Dave Gettleman could wait a round or two before attempting to fill the hole at CB.
Cleveland Browns
It might be time for the Browns, who hold the No. 8 pick, to think about life without Joe Thomas. The outstanding left tackle, at 32 years old, could be an ideal mentor for Notre Dame's or, if he happened to fall, Ole Miss' . Mayock said the club might also be wise to entertain a Thomas trade. "He's 32 with a heavy salary, and he knows they're not winning any s in the next couple years," Mayock said.
Dallas Cowboys
The way Mayock sees it, the Cowboys but to take Ohio State's at No. 4. But the club could also give another Ohio State prospect, RB , due consideration.
Detroit Lions
Mayock expects offensive tackles , and to be off the board by the time the Lions pick at No. 16 overall. If so, Ohio State's could be Detroit's answer, or Texas A&M's . If the Lions wait until the second round to take an offensive tackle, keep an eye on Indiana's or Texas Tech's Le'Raven Clark, who Mayock described as having "the wingspan of a pterodactyl." ... Mayock also sees Clemson DE as a potential fit for the Lions in the first round.
Miami Dolphins
Although isn't likely to fall to Miami's pick at No. 13, Mayock believes the Dolphins would be thrilled if the former Ohio State running back did. If the Cowboys at No. 4 are the ceiling for Elliott's draft hopes, the Dolphins might be the floor. A cornerback could be Miami's play in the first round. Asked if No. 13 is too soon for Houston's or Ohio State's , Mayock said "not really, because there's going to be a run on corners in a little while."
New York Jets
The situation with Ryan Fitzpatrick shouldn't impact the Jets' interest in a quarterback, whether it be in Round 1 or later. If the club wants to bet a first-rounder on one, Mayock believes Memphis' could be the match. That is, if Buffalo .
Philadelphia Eagles
If the Eagles choose to address their offensive line with a third-round pick (No. 79 overall) that will be their second pick of the draft. Possibilities include TCU's , Auburn's , and LSU's . With expected to be the club's choice with the No. 2 pick, some protection for that investment could be in order.
San Diego Chargers
Mayock foresees a bolt on Florida State CB 's .
San Francisco 49ers
Mayock believes the 49ers' No. 7 overall pick is "a little too rich" to take Memphis QB , but is unclear about how the club views its quarterback situation, given the Colin Kaepernick trade discussions. If the club uses a pick outside of the first round to add some competition at the position, three to watch for include Ohio State's , Penn State's , and Arkansas' .
More draft possibilities, spanning all rounds, from Mayock:
Tennessee Titans: Michigan State OL , Michigan State DE , Eastern Kentucky DE , Boise State LB .
Atlanta Falcons: Alabama LB , Georgia LB , Ohio State LB
Indianapolis Colts: Alabama C
New England Patriots: Texas Tech OL Le'Raven Clark
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