UTTQ Mock Draft #2: What If The Panthers Draft AJ Green? (1-5)

With the 2011 NFL draft only days away, it has become widely expected that the Carolina Panthers will select a quarterback in hopes of reviving the franchise and bringing in a fresh face for new coach, Ron Rivera's tenure. However, what would happen if the Panthers shocked the world and decided to select Georgia's star wide receiver AJ Green? Well the majority of mock drafts would be busted and chaos would ensue. The 2011 draft is wrapped up in uncertainty as to who will go where more so then any year in recent memory, and this mock draft looks at what pieces could fall into place should the Panthers go WR with the 1st overall pick.

1. Carolina Panthers - Adriel Jeremiah Green , WR, Georgia

For what seems like forever now, the Panthers have been searching far and wide for someone to dazzle at the receiver spot opposite Steve Smith. And many failures later in former college stars such as Dwayne Jarrett, and attempts to bring Muhsin Muhammad back for a swansong, Carolina sits atop the draft order with an offense that defines ineptitude. Green would bring an immediate impact to the Panthers offense and give tremendous help to whoever is under center. All signs are pointing towards Steve Smith having played his last down in Carolina, but if the team can lure him back for another go around, the Panthers would have a formidable duo at receiver. Why not a quarterback you ask? Well it comes down to the fact that the 2011 draft lacks the true elite prospect at gunslinger that Matt Ryan, Matthew Stafford, Sam Bradford have been and Andrew Luck would represented. Cam Newton is a project QB that has only one successful season at the Div I level to show while Blaine Gabbert spent his college days at Mizzou in a spread offense. Since the 2008 draft, and its two QBs that led playoff runs, it has become commonplace for 1st round QBs to start right away. And neither Newton nor Gabbert are prepared for this, especially with the disarray that is the Panthers offense. With Green penciled in across from Smith, the Panthers offense will be formidable. Without a second round pick, the Panthers would have to make some kind of trade to get one out of Christian Ponder, Ryan Mallet, Jake Locker, Colin Kaepernick, or Andy Dalton who should be available in the second round. Or we could get really crazy here and say that Ron Rivera puts his faith in Jimmy Clausen who turns his career around and starts partying like he's still in South Bend.

2. Denver Broncos - Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama

Despite whatever move the Panthers make short of snatching away Dareus, this pick is all but certain. QB Kyle Orton is the prime of his career at age 28 and has showed flashes of brilliance the past two seasons, which combined with Brandon Lloyd's coming out party in 2010 sets the Bronco's offense up well. Then comes the defense which only managed to rack up an astonishing 23 sacks, albeit without stud lineman Elvis Dumervil whose presence will nearly double that number in 2011. Marcell Dareus has stunned scouts throughout the offseason and has drawn numerous comparisons to last year's 2nd overall pick, Nadamakung Suh. The only possible substitute to picking Dareus would be to get greedy on offense and grab Green if he is still available. However in this draft he is not, so we move forward.

3. Buffalo Bills - Von Miller, LB, Texas A&M

Despite a worse record in 2010, the argument can be made that the Bills offense took a step forward with the emergence of Steve Johnson as a viable top receiver and Fred Jackson as a sturdy number one back. Ryan Fitzpatrick also wasn't too shabby and turned in an above-average year under center. At this point in the draft, the Bills have an embarrassment of riches with both Cam Newton and Blaine Gabbert available. However, as stated earlier, neither of these two prospects are world breakers and as the Bills pick early in the second round, they should have prime selection of the second tier options. Miller has flown up draft boards this offseason with his freakish workouts and godly abilities which should lead to an immediate impact in the NFL. By selecting Miller, the Bills will be adding this athletic freak to a linebacking core that includes the talented Paul Posluszny and former pro-bowler, Shawne Merriman. The lights have been on for quite awhile for Merriman, yet if he is able to find the ever-elusive light switch in 2011, the Bills will not only have a formidable linebacking core, but a stellar defense that could sport two perennial pro-bowlers.

4. Cincinnati Bengals- Julio Jones, WR, Alabama

The Bengals fall into quite the awkward position at the 4th overall pick. Two years ago they shocked the world by making the playoffs yet fell hard back to earth in 2010. The once explosive offense led by Carson Palmer could be completely gone in 2011, as Terrell Owens and Cedric Benson are free agents, and Palmer and Chad Ochocino have demanded out of Cincy. With Green off the board, the Bengals could reach for Alabama's Julio Jones but the 4th overall pick has to bring impact value and Jones isn't a top 5 pick. Picking a QB would cause the Bengals to lose any leverage they may have against Palmer, who has threatened to retire if not traded. In addition, the best player still around is Patrick Peterson who would be a welcome addition, but doesn't fill a need. Thus Cincy must make an ultimate decision on what to do with Carson Palmer and we predict they will call his bluff and force the QB to retire in his prime years. When it comes down to it, the Bengals are desperate for offense with promising young guns Jordan Shipley and Jermaine Gresham not ready to shoulder the load yet, and are almost forced to go offense with this pick. They need AJ Green but with the opportunity to grab him, their most likely move is to trade down to select Jones later in the top 10, or make the drastic reach and select him 4th. Some possible trade candidates could be the 49ers at the 9th pick or the Texans at the 11th, who both covet LSU's stud defensive back, Patrick Peterson.

5. Arizona Cardinals - Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina

Things get very interesting when the Cards are on the clock in a situation they never expected to be in with both Newton and Gabbert available. Larry Fitzgerald has already iterated his opposition to Arizona selected a QB with this pick but the opportunity may be too much for the Cards to pass up. Plus the consensus seems to be that 2011 may be Fitzgerald's last in the Red and White while either Newton or Gabbert would be with the franchise to many years to come. However, the Cards are already carrying youngsters Max Hall and John Skelton with the latter having shown some promise late in the 2010 season. It may be too early to give up on these guys regardless of how much the Arizona offense struggled a season ago. If the Cards want to keep Fitz around they would do best to abide by his wishes and stay away from both Newton and Gabbert. Without the likes of Miller and Dareus around, and the lack of offensive threats with Green and Jones being gone, the Cards will look to upgrade their D-Line with the addition of talented North Carolina DE, Robert Quinn who will look to become an impact pass rusher in a defense that lacks a standout at the position.

With the Cardinals selection rounding out the top 5, who would have thought that both Newton and Gabbert would still be available to the teams with picks 6-10. Expect to see both these guys and possible another QB gone before the Texans get to pick at 11.

UTTQ 2011 NFL Mock Draft

After much hard work and dedication, we at UTTQ present to you the UTTQ 2011 NFL Mock Draft. Please note that many things can change between now and next week, so some of these picks may seem blasphemous even as soon as tomorrow. Updates may be made but there are no guarantees. Also, please excuse the fun we had with formally naming most of the colleges. And now, without further ado, our 2011 NFL mock draft, round one:

1. CAROLINA PANTHERS--Cam Newton, QB, Auburn

It seems like the Panthers have, for the most part, solidified this pick. Jimmy Clausen and company were obviously not the answer last season, and in Newton they have a proven winner.

2. DENVER BRONCOS--Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama

The Broncos are in need of a strong presence up front, and Dareus could be the answer. Denver's defensive line will provide better security for the back eight, including the return of DE Elvis Dumervil.

3. BUFFALO BILLS--Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri-Columbia

The Bills have options at this pick, but they also desperately need a quarterback. Gabbert may be a reach at this point, but he also provides immediate relief from Ryan Fitzpatrick, even though Fitzpatrick performed admirably last season.

4. CINCINNATI BENGALS--A.J. Green, WR, Georgia

Green could very well be Ochocinco's replacement, and provide the Bengals with a true number one. However, with the quarterback situation being a mess, Green may have to learn quickly.

5. ARIZONA CARDINALS--Von Miller, LB, Texas Agricultural & Mechanical

Miller is the best linebacker in this draft by far, and will be an instant upgrade in a linebacking core currently led by veteran aging Joey Porter. Miller will hopefully bring his tenacity to a struggling Cardinals defense.

6. CLEVELAND BROWNS--Patrick Peterson, CB, Louisiana State

Peterson is by far the best pick available, and even though the Browns could use an upgrade at wideout, Peterson is too good to pass up. He will undoubtedly enhance a tenacious cornerback group featuring Joe Haden, Sheldon Brown, and the newly acquired Peterson.

7. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS--Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina-Chapel Hill

With the addition of Quinn, the 49ers could have a potent group up front, which currently features Isaac Sopoaga, Justin Smith, and Aubrayo Franklin. Quinn can also substitute for Manny Lawson or Parys Haralson on key third downs.

8. TENNESSEE TITANS--Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn

Fairley could provide major stability in a weak inside D-line. The Titans will appreciate the brute force and athleticism that Fairley brings, but underlying character issues are also prevalent. It was not long ago that another good DT in Tennessee was brought down by off the field issues as well.

9. DALLAS COWBOYS--Tyron Smith, OT, Southern California

Smith brings much needed help to an aging Cowboys O-line. Smith's power and mechanics could allow him to eventually replace Marc Colombo on the right side.

10. WASHINGTON REDSKINS--Julio Jones, WR, Alabama

Jones is one of the best players still available, and the Redskins will need an upgrade at a weak receiving core that currently features Anthony Armstrong as the new No. 1. Jones will provide the next Redskins starting QB, whoever it may be, with a reliable weapon.

11. HOUSTON TEXANS--J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin-Madison

Watt brings a strong raw power to the Texans' D-line, with the ability to blast through offensive tackles and the speed to pursue the runner. Watt or Cameron Jordan out of Cal could be the pick here.

12. MINNESOTA VIKINGS--Cameron Jordan, DE, California-Berkeley

Jordan uses quickness and technique to get to the ball, but also has the size and strength to create space. Jordan will undoubtedly improve a Vikings defensive line that has some wear and tear along it. A quarterback may also be considered here, but it seems too risky for the Vikings to go with a rookie (might as well go with Joe right?).

13. DETROIT LIONS--Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska-Lincoln

Detroit gets their coveted man in the Cornhusker corner, who won the 2010 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year Award. Amukamara can certainly use his agility to cover top receivers and make the Lions' defense respectable again.

14. ST. LOUIS RAMS--Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri-Columbia

The hometown boy Smith would be an addition to an newly rejuvenated Rams defense and an eventual long-term replacement to the aging James Hall. Ideally, however, the Rams should trade this pick if Green and Jones are already off the board. Smith may be a risky pick here.

15. MIAMI DOLPHINS--Mike Pouncey, OG, Florida

The Dolphins are put in a perilous predicament here. With no pick in the second round, they must make their first pick count. And with so many needs to fill, this will be no easy selection. The Dolphins will look to trade down and possibly secure a quarterback like Ryan Mallett late in the first. But with no other options, Pouncey would be a good pick here, strengthening an offensive line that must protect whoever is running the ball.

16. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS--Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue

Kerrigan brings an unrelenting athleticism to his game, and his style is the perfect fit in a Jaguars defense that needs improvement. Kerrigan may not be finesse, but his brute strength and will can propel this defense in a tough offensive division.

17. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS--Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College

Castonzo is smart and talented, and is a perfect fit for the Patriots' aging offensive line. Castonzo is quick and always thinking ahead, and Bill Belichick will surely appreciate his heads-up play.

18. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS--Cameron Heyward, DT, Ohio State

Heyward is fierce and aggressive, and brings a big game to the table when it matters most. The Chargers D-line has deteriorated over the years, and Heyward came help bring it back to prominence in a tough AFC West.

19. NEW YORK GIANTS--Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama

The Giants may very well take a flier on Ingram, whose draft stock fell after knee concerns. Ingram could be the Giants' next great back, but he may be too much of a reach here.

20. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS--Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa

Clayborn brings another new face to a rebuilding Bucs' defense, and he'll be just what the doctor ordered. Clayborn plays with such a tenacity that he's refined himself to being patient and watching as the play develops. He will be a good addition.

21. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS--Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin-Madison

Carimi boasts a high IQ and relentless motor that is sure to make him a top O-lineman in KC for years to come. Although the Chiefs already have an average O-line, Carimi's presence could allow younger players like Jamaal Charles to further develop.

22. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS--Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State

The Colts would like to keep Peyton Manning upright a few extra years, and Sherrod can help with that. As a pass protector, Sherrod will hopefully be able to use his unique skills to protect Manning's blind side.

23. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES--Nate Solder, OT, Colorado-Boulder

The Eagles winded up 4th in sacks allowed last season, and 3rd in quarterback hits. The Eagles could use a guy like Solder, whose size and power would be a major plus in protecting Michael Vick.

24. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS--Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson

Bowers first round free fall finally ends here, where he goes to a Saints defense that was 18th in the league in sacks last year. The Saints will face stiff competition in their division this year, and Bowers may end up being worth the risk of taking here.

25. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS--Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado-Boulder

Smith has risen the draft boards and provides the Seahawks with a nice addition to a secondary that ranked 25th last year in interceptions. Another option at this point could be Washington QB Jake Locker.

26. BALTIMORE RAVENS--Muhammed Wilkerson, DL, Temple

The Ravens could literally go anywhere with the pick, but Wilkerson may be the best available. Wilkerson's versatility is a plus, but he will mostly line up at DT.

27. ATLANTA FALCONS--Kyle Rudolph, TE, Notre Dame du Lac

The Falcons could use fresh talent on the other side of the ball, but Tony Gonzalez isn't getting any younger. Rudolph will provide stability at the tight end position for Matt Ryan for years to come.

28. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS--Justin Houston, LB, Georgia

With Mark Ingram gone, the Patriots will probably take a flier here, if they wish to retain this spot. Houston is the best player available, and provides the defense with more young talent on the outside.

29. CHICAGO BEARS--Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Liuget can penetrate the O-line very well and would suit a traditionally hard-nosed Bears defense. The Bears could use an O-lineman, but there's none worth the value at this pick. And, Liuget may be a steal.

30. NEW YORK JETS--Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor

The Jets could use another pass rusher to make their defense even more stifling, a Taylor could be the best available. Taylor would also provide better insurance behind Sione Puoha, if he's not starting right away.

31. PITTSBURGH STEELERS--Aaron Williams, CB, Texas at Austin

The Steelers seem to be attracted to Williams, and Williams could provide as backup to the aging Ike Taylor and Ryan Clark. Ideally, the Steelers would like to pick an interior lineman, but all the top ones are gone.

32. GREEN BAY PACKERS--Brooks Reed, DE, Arizona

The reigning Super Bowl champs would like to find a someone who can operate opposite Clay Matthews. Reed could be the choice, but Green Bay has many options at this point.

2011 NFL Draft Stock: Jake Locker

One of the biggest quarterback names last year was that of Jake Locker. Locker, who decided to return to the University of Washington for his senior season, spurned what many thought would be a top 5, if not, number one overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Locker became Washington's son, but unfortunately had an abysmal season stats-wise, throwing for nearly 550 yards less than he did in his junior campaign. Locker's Washington team did however make it to a bowl game, earning a surprising win over Nebraska in the Holiday Bowl. Locker's stock has undoubtedly dropped, but he still has a legitimate chance of making it in the NFL.

Many draftniks see Locker's ability to run the ball as a major plus. Playing defensive back in middle school, Locker seems to be tougher than most quarterbacks, and well built for a scrambling role. Locker's passing abilities are not to be forgotten either, but he does have a tendency to force many throws into tight coverage. He has no trouble looking for openings in pass protection, but some may worry whether he has the ability to stand in the pocket and make throws. There's certainly no questioning his toughness, and he also shows varied signs of leadership in tense situations. Preferably Locker would most likely fit in a system that has an established backfield that can take the pressure off his throws, which may not always be accurate.

Madden 12: Concussions Gone Too Far?

The newest version of the Madden NFL video game series will soon have a cover athlete to don its cover (and be cursed for life). Aaron Rodgers, Michael Vick, Peyton Hillis, and Adrian Peterson all vie for a chance to be on the cover, and they all certainly deserve it amidst the accolades they accomplished last season. However, another surprising story that has come up regards the game's new concussion features. The NFL has been trying to educate its players about the dangers of head injuries and concussions recently. Certainly concussions are a bad thing, with many former players suffering immeasurable mental and physical losses due to their days of playing in a lesser caring league. However, implementing concussions in Madden has gone a bit too far. Players who suffer concussions in the game are likely to miss the rest of the game, effectively hindering one's progress as the game goes along. It makes the game more realistic, but the disadvantage is that you can't control that. Sure, someone can get a concussion in the game, but what if it's a guard or long snapper or something? The computer controls most of the players in the game, unless there's a new feature that allows you to control all 11 men on the field at the same time. So, essentially, the game doesn't really teach kids how to avoid concussions or anything. Most of it just deals with fate. This stems from a larger argument that the more realistic video games get, the less they become "video games". Video games are meant to have unrealistic "pinball scores" or more silly galavanting than usual. Video games are a way to escape from reality, and allow one to control a player however they like. In any case, adding concussions is a waste of time. Unless you're one who loves adjusting to injuries and having new personnel on the field, I suggest you turn this feature "off" for good.

2011 NFL Draft Stock: Colin Kaepernick

In recent weeks, the quarterback that has jumped into the conversation for possible first round selections in April's draft is former Nevada QB, Colin Kaepernick. The four-year starter has wowed scouts at both the NFL Combine and at Nevada's Pro Day. Kaepernick brings experience as a leader and an incredibly strong arm to the table having been a former pitcher that could touch 95 mph with his fastball. The signal caller led the Wolfpack to an 13-1 season in 2010, including a win against Boston College in the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, a season defining victory over then 4th ranked Boise State, and a share of the WAC Championship.

The team that drafts Kaepernick will be getting a QB that has rushed for at least 1100 yards and 17 TDs along with throwing an average of 20 TDs per over the last three seasons. Kaepernick is intriguing as his potential to be great depends on the type of teaching he receives in the NFL. Many will doubt the QBs stats as he played in weaker WAC and a system that focused on his abilities. The question stands as to if Kaepernick will be able to run a pro-style offense effectively. The first round may be a bit of a reach, but second or third round seems to be where this gunslinger will be taken. Kaepernick's potential could lead him to becoming the next Michael Vick or perhaps JaMarcus Russell. Only time will tell.

2011 NFL Draft Stock: Cam Newton

Cam Newton, the winner of the 2010 Heisman Trophy, led the Auburn Tigers to the National Championship Game, beating the previously unbeaten Oregon Ducks. Newton's leadership allowed the Tigers to squeak out a win vs. Oregon, but even that may not have been enough to make him a solid top 5 pick. Newton's abilities and talent has been questioned by many a critic, but he has consistently shown an inner strength throughout the entire draft process.

Cam Newton is a player who came to prominence this season, noted for his running and passing skills that led Auburn to an unbeaten season. His frame is ideal for an NFL quarterback, and his accuracy during his college career has been notable. However, due to his limited playing time (mostly just this season), many NFL draftniks are unsure whether he is simply just a one-hit wonder or not. A controversy also arose at the end of the season concerning illegal eligibility benefits with Newton's father. Newton has not escaped those who wonder whether these red-flags may be a concern at the next level. However, the numbers do not lie, and Newton has proven that he is worth a look in the top 15 of the draft. Those looking for a quarterback will need to assess whether Newton can fit their scheme. Ideally, Newton would be able to start right away, preferably with a team that has an offensive line set in place.