NFL Nation: AFC West
Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Raiders in 2012.
Dream scenario (9-7): Maybe the Raiders get the Carson Palmer whom the last staff envisioned, and he regains his form from years ago. Although the tight end position is a nightmare, Oakland’s core of young wide receivers could burst onto the scene this season. Denarius Moore could be a superstar, and Juron Criner could be an ideal complement. Switching schemes can be dicey, but the Raiders’ offensive line looks better off in going to a zone-blocking scheme, and should be especially improved on the interior. Oakland also absolutely must cut down on penalties, and drastically reducing such mistakes seems like a reasonable and reachable goal. Also, only four teams threw more interceptions than the Raiders last season. Reducing picks along with having a exceptional pair of kicking specialists could greatly aid Oakland in winning the hidden-yardage battle.
Nightmare scenario (4-12): The Raiders have poor depth. They are also breaking in a new head coach and new schemes. As the season goes along, their depth will surely be tested -- and I don’t expect it to respond kindly. Oakland absolutely needs Darren McFadden to stay healthy this season. Of course, that has been a problem for its spectacular running back. When healthy, few in this league produce like McFadden, but the right tackle position looks like a trouble area. There also could be a drop-off coming on defense. The defensive line overall is strong, but where are the top edge pass-rushers and top cover men? In a passing league, that is a massive problem in my eyes. The best I can forecast for Oakland is to have great luck with injuries and sneak into the playoffs as a wild-card team, while their nightmare scenario could be selecting in the top five of next year’s draft.
Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Broncos in 2012.
Dream scenario (11-5): Peyton Manning takes a 2011 playoff team to the Super Bowl, which the Broncos win, of course. I find this scenario to be unlikely, but it is possible -- because I won’t doubt the greatness of Manning. For this to occur, Manning’s new teammates will have to quickly adapt to an offense that is extremely different than what they ran with Tim Tebow behind center. But, of course, Manning will be orchestrating it and can get an awful lot of out his teammates. The Broncos’ run defense improved dramatically from 2010 to 2011. They did lose their best run defender in Brodrick Bunkley, but if they can overcome that loss and remain strong in this department, it will go a long way toward getting opposing offenses into third-and-long situations. Denver’s pass-rushing duo of Elvis Dumervil and Von Miller, along with what looks like a vastly improved set of cornerbacks, could make things very difficult on opposing passing games. All of this plays well into the hands of the offense and Manning. Also, unlike the Manning years in Indianapolis, the Broncos were exceptional overall on special teams last season. There is no reason that shouldn’t keep up. Denver has quickly built this team around Manning, and to win now.
Nightmare scenario (4-12): Of course, the huge nightmare scenario for Denver is if Manning takes a big hit early in the season and is sidelined. As great as Manning has supposedly looked during his recovery process, taking big hits is the true test of this elder statesman’s health. As I alluded to above, I have some doubts as to how well the holdover Denver offensive players will adapt to the Manning way of playing offense. It will be like going from The Flintstones to The Jetsons. The offensive line is the spot that worries me most in this drastic transition. The offense now requires the linemen to be athletic, move in unison, excel with the mental aspects of the position, and be on the same page as Manning with all of his pre-snap adjustments. As is also the case with the receiver routes and adjustments, all of these drastic adjustments will take a lot of time and a ton of practice and game repetitions. Defensively, the loss of Bunkley does loom large, and the middle of this defense could be vulnerable. Also, the Broncos could also really use one more pass-rush threat to step up. Denver also will play a first-place schedule, and half of its games against the AFC North and NFC South, which seems very daunting. The rest of the division really fought injury problems in 2011; the Broncos remained quite fortunate on that front. If it goes bad in Denver this season, it might go really bad … like 4-12 bad.
NFL32: Revisiting the Carson Palmer trade
Adam Schefter and Wendi Nix revisit the Carson Palmer trade; Russell Wilson could start for the Seattle Seahawks; and some bold words from New Orleans Saints rookie Corey White.
Contract status of '12 first-round draft picks
Chris Mortensen and Wendi Nix remember the life and career of Junior Seau. Lorenzo Neal also reflects on Seau, his former teammate in San Diego.
The minicamp schedule includes both rookies and veterans unless specifically noted:
Arizona Cardinals
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Atlanta Falcons
OTA: May 29-31, June 5-7, June 12-15
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 19-21
Baltimore Ravens
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Buffalo Bills
OTA: May 29, May 31-June 1, June 5, June 7-8, June 11-12, June 14-15
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 19-21
Carolina Panthers
OTA: May 22-24, May 30-June 1, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Chicago Bears
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Cincinnati Bengals
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Cleveland Browns
OTA: May 22-24, May 30-June 1, June 12-15
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 5-7
Dallas Cowboys
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 12-14
Denver Broncos
OTA: May 21-23, May 30-June 1, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Detroit Lions
OTA: May 21-22, May 24, May 29, May 31-June 1, June 4-5, June 7-8
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Green Bay Packers
OTA: May 21-23, May 30-June 1, June 5-8
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Houston Texans
OTA: May 21-22, May 24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: June 12-14
Indianapolis Colts
OTA: May 15-17, May 22-24, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 12-14
Jacksonville Jaguars
OTA: May 15-17, May 22-24, May 29-June 1
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 12-14
Kansas City Chiefs
OTA: May 21-22, May 24, May 29, May 31-June 1, June 4-5, June 7-8
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Miami Dolphins
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 11-14
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 19-21
Minnesota Vikings
OTA: May 29-31, June 5-7, June 11-14
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 19-21
New England Patriots
OTA: May 21-22, May 24, May 29-31, June 4-5, June 7-8
Minicamp: May 10-12 (rookies), June 12-14
New Orleans Saints
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 11-14
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 5-7
New York Giants
OTA: May 23-24, May 30-June 1, June 4-5, June 7-8
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
New York Jets
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 4, June 6-7
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 12-14
Oakland Raiders
OTA: May 14-15, May 17, May 21-22, May 24, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Philadelphia Eagles
OTA: May 22-24, May 30-June 1, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 12-14 (rookies), June 12-14
Pittsburgh Steelers
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 12-14
St. Louis Rams
OTA: May 15-16, May 18, May 22-23, May 25, June 5-8
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
San Diego Chargers
OTA: May 29-31, June 5-7, June 11-14
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 19-21
San Francisco 49ers
OTA: May 22-24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Seattle Seahawks
OTA: May 22-24, May 30-June 1, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 11-13 (rookies), June 12-14
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
OTA: May 15, May 17-18, May 21-22, May 24, June 4-5, June 7-8
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 12-14
Tennessee Titans
OTA: May 30-June 1, June 5-7, June 11-12, June 14-15
Minicamp: May 11-12 (rookies), June 19-21
Washington Redskins
OTA: May 21, May 23-24, May 29-31, June 4-7
Minicamp: May 4-6 (rookies), June 12-14
Here is the "Monday Night Football" schedule for the 2012 season (all times Eastern).
Week 1: Sept. 10, 7:00 PM, Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens
Week 1: Sept. 10, 10:15 PM, San Diego Chargers at Oakland Raiders
Week 2: Sept. 17, 8:30 PM, Denver Broncos at Atlanta Falcons
Week 3: Sept. 24, 8:30 PM, Green Bay Packers at Seattle Seahawks
Week 4: Oct. 1, 8:30 PM, Chicago Bears at Dallas Cowboys
Week 5: Oct. 8, 8:30 PM, Houston Texans at New York Jets
Week 6: Oct. 15, 8:30 PM, Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers
Week 7: Oct. 22, 8:30 PM, Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears
Week 8: Oct. 29, 8:30 PM, San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals
Week 9: Nov. 5, 8:30 PM, Philadelphia Eagles at New Orleans Saints
Week 10: Nov. 12, 8:30 PM, Kansas City Chiefs at Pittsburgh Steelers
Week 11: Nov. 19, 8:30 PM, Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ers
Week 12: Nov. 26, 8:30 PM, Carolina Panthers at Philadelphia Eagles
Week 13: Dec. 3, 8:30 PM, New York Giants at Washington Redskins
Week 14: Dec. 10, 8:30 PM, Houston Texans at New England Patriots
Week 15: Dec. 17, 8:30 PM, New York Jets at Tennessee Titans
Week 16: Dec. 22, 8:30 PM, Atlanta Falcons at Detroit Lions
AFC EAST
1. New England Patriots
Home: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers
Away: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, Baltimore Ravens, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks
2. New York Jets
Home: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, San Diego Chargers, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers
Away: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, Pittsburgh Steelers, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks
3. Miami Dolphins
Home: Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, Oakland Raiders, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks
Away: Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers
4. Buffalo Bills 
Home: Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks
Away: Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers
AFC NORTH
1. Baltimore Ravens 
Home: Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants
Away: Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, Houston Texans, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins
2. Pittsburgh Steelers 
Home: Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins
Away: Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Tennessee Titans, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants
3. Cincinnati Bengals 
Home: Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Miami Dolphins, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants
Away: Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins
4. Cleveland Browns 
Home: Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins
Away: Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Indianapolis Colts, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants
AFC SOUTH
1. Houston Texans 
Home: Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings
Away: Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions
2. Tennessee Titans 
Home: Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions
Away: Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, San Diego Chargers, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings
3. Jacksonville Jaguars 
Home: Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Cincinnati Bengals, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions
Away: Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Tennessee Titans, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, Oakland Raiders, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings
4. Indianapolis Colts 
Home: Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings
Away: Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions
AFC WEST
1. Denver Broncos
Home: Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, Houston Texans, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Away: Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, New England Patriots, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers
2. San Diego Chargers 
Home: Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Tennessee Titans, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers
Away: Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
3. Oakland Raiders
Home: Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, Jacksonville Jaguars, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Away: Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers
4. Kansas City Chiefs 
Home: Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Indianapolis Colts, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers
Away: Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, Buffalo Bills, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFC EAST
1. New York Giants 
Home: Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers
Away: Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals
2. Philadelphia Eagles 
Home: Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Washington Redskins, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Detroit Lions, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals
Away: Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Washington Redskins, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers
3. Dallas Cowboys 
Home: New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Chicago Bears, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers
Away: New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Seattle Seahawks, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals
4. Washington Redskins 
Home: Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals
Away: Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, St. Louis Rams, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers
NFC NORTH
1. Green Bay Packers 
Home: Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, New Orleans Saints, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans
Away: Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks, New York Giants, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts
2. Detroit Lions 
Home: Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks, Atlanta Falcons, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts
Away: Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans
3. Chicago Bears 
Home: Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks, Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts
Away: Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans
4. Minnesota Vikings 
Home: Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans
Away: Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks, Washington Redskins, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts
NFC SOUTH
1. New Orleans Saints 
Home: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers
Away: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Green Bay Packers, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders
2. Atlanta Falcons 
Home: Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders
Away: Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers
3. Carolina Panthers 
Home: Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders
Away: Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, Chicago Bears, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 
Home: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers
Away: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders
NFC WEST
1. San Francisco 49ers 
Home: Arizona Cardinals, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, New York Giants, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins
Away: Arizona Cardinals, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots, New York Jets
2. Arizona Cardinals 
Home: St. Louis Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins
Away: St. Louis Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Atlanta Falcons, New England Patriots, New York Jets
3. Seattle Seahawks 
Home: Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, New York Jets
Away: Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins
4. St. Louis Rams 
Home: Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Washington Redskins, New England Patriots, New York Jets
Away: Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins
Nike has taken over as the NFL’s uniform supplier, but there doesn't appear to be any major changes in the uniforms for each AFC West team. There was a big dog-and-pony show in New York on Tuesday in which players from each team modeled the new uniforms.
There were some fabric changes for most teams, but visually pretty much everything remains the same sans some subtle changes. For example, the stripes on the Chiefs’ jerseys are a bit thicker and their numbers have moved from the sleeves to the shoulders.
Denver will be wearing orange as its primary home jersey. That move was announced long ago, and it is independent of the league switching to Nike. Don’t expect any other significant uniform changes for Denver. Orange used to be Denver’s alternate home uniform. Now, an all-navy look will be the alternate home uniform.
Also, the Chargers are using trimmed black in some merchandise logos.
The NFL's transformation into a pass-happy league has sent teams scrambling for ways to keep up defensively.
2012 NFL Draft
Rd. 1: April 26, 8 p.m. ET
Rd. 2-3: April 27, 7 p.m. ET
Rd. 4-7: April 28, Noon ET
Radio City Music Hall
New York City
Draft order | Draft home
• Mel Kiper's latest mock 
• Todd McShay's latest mock
• Mel Kiper's Big Board
• Todd McShay's Top 32
• Blog Network mock draft 2.0
• Draft Machine
AFC West blogger Bill Williamson snapped up three of them for the division he covers. Six other defensive linemen and 3-4 outside linebackers found homes elsewhere in the first round.
Offensive linemen (seven), defensive backs (five) and wide receivers (five) accounted for most of the remaining first-round selections.
In keeping with the pass-oriented theme, Alabama's Trent Richardson was the lone running back selected, landing in Cleveland with the fourth overall choice.
And, of course, we kicked off the mock with a couple of quarterbacks.
Analysis: They look at Luck and see a young guy who reminds them of the quarterback the franchise selected first overall in 1998. (Paul Kuharsky)
Analysis: Not much mystery here. The Redskins traded three first-round picks and a second-round pick to get to this spot, from which they believe they're taking their next franchise quarterback. The only way they don't take Griffin here is if the Colts take him, in which case the Redskins will happily take Luck. (Dan Graziano)
Analysis: The Vikings would love to trade down a few spots, presumably with a team that wants to draft Texas A&M quarterback Ryan Tannehill. But barring a deal, Kalil is the best player remaining on the board and the Vikings just so happen to need a long-term starter at left tackle. We're not buying (yet) any of general manager Rick Spielman's posturing about LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne. (Kevin Seifert)
Analysis: Not buying the speculation that the Browns will take Texas A&M QB Ryan Tannehill here. The Browns tipped their hand when coach Pat Shurmur and general manager Tom Heckert skipped Tannehill's pro day to watch Richardson, the draft's only elite running back who can be the centerpiece of Cleveland's offense. (Jamison Hensley)
Analysis: The Bucs could be considering Richardson and he's a possibility if he stays on the board. But Claiborne is the top cornerback in this draft. The Bucs need a long-term replacement for veteran Ronde Barber and could need a short-term replacement for Aqib Talib, who could face prison time or a league suspension. (Pat Yasinskas)
Analysis: The Rams are eager to find weapons for quarterback Sam Bradford. They had a tough time addressing that area during free agency despite an aggressive approach that led to deals with Cortland Finnegan, Scott Wells and others. The last time the Rams drafted a WR sixth overall, they landed Torry Holt. (Mike Sando)
Analysis: If he catches on quickly and can have an impact as a pass-rusher, Ingram can be the final piece for a very good defense. (Paul Kuharsky)
Analysis: Tannehill shot up the draft boards fast and may be a tad overrated at No. 8. But Miami needs a quarterback of the future in the worst way, and this is the best of what's left. Both Matt Moore and David Garrard have one year left on their contracts, leaving it open for Tannehill to take over in 2013. (James Walker)
Analysis: There's a common assumption the Panthers are locked in on getting a defensive tackle. That could end up happening. But they're open to all options and Kuechly might be the best player available. This team needs help anywhere it can add it on defense. (Pat Yasinskas)
Analysis: Going receiver here is the sexy pick. But getting an offensive tackle to protect QB Ryan Fitzpatrick's blind side is the smart pick. Reiff received great coaching at Iowa, which has become Offensive Tackle U. He closes Buffalo's revolving door at left tackle for the foreseeable future. (James Walker)
Analysis: The Chiefs would be thrilled to see Poe on the board at 11. He is the best player available who fits their biggest need. Poe has a chance to be a dynamic player on a defense full of young talent. (Bill Williamson)
Analysis: The Seahawks ranked fifth in takeaways, seventh in points allowed and ninth in yards allowed last season, but their pass rush was lacking. Coples would give them a badly needed pass-rusher opposite Chris Clemons, who had 11 of the team's 33 sacks during the 2011 season. Linebacker is another need position. (Mike Sando)
Analysis: The Cardinals could also use an offensive tackle and possibly another receiver. Michael Floyd was a consideration here. But in Upshaw, the team would be targeting a potential No. 1 pass-rusher, providing welcome support for promising youngsters Sam Acho and O'Brien Schofield. The Cardinals have no second-round pick, and pass-rush help is at a premium. (Mike Sando)
Analysis: They were hoping Upshaw would fall to them, as he'd upgrade the pass rush instantly and could make Anthony Spencer expendable before long. But with Upshaw gone one pick before, the Cowboys stick with the national champs and take a safety to upgrade their biggest 2011 weakness: the secondary. (Dan Graziano)
Analysis: Michael Brockers was tempting, but the pick here is Cox because he provides a pass rush from the interior of the defensive line right away and could be more NFL-ready than Brockers at this point. The Eagles are a win-now team that relies on its defensive line to pressure the passer, and Cox fits nicely into their interior line rotation. (Dan Graziano)
Analysis: The Jets would like to go defense here under head coach Rex Ryan. But with Alabama DE/OLB Courtney Upshaw and safety Mark Barron both off the board, drafting Floyd is a good fallback option. Floyd has a chance to start from Day 1 opposite Santonio Holmes and gives quarterback Mark Sanchez a much-needed weapon. (James Walker)
Analysis: The Bengals need a starting right guard, and DeCastro is the best guard in the draft. Smart and fundamentally sound, DeCastro is one of the safest picks this year and would extend the Bengals' recent good fortune in the draft. (Jamison Hensley)
Analysis: Mercilus is the best pass-rusher on the board at No. 18 and the Chargers would be happy to take him. He could be a slight over-draft, but he has big league potential. (Bill Williamson)
Analysis: Coach Lovie Smith expressed confidence last week in left tackle J'Marcus Webb, but rarely will you hear a coach say otherwise until he has an upgraded replacement. Webb was penalized 15 times last season and gave up 12 sacks, according to Pro Football Focus. Martin would provide an upgrade at a key position. (Kevin Seifert)
Analysis: They can go many different directions, but Kamerion Wimbley doesn't solve their pass-rush issues by himself, and Perry can help. (Paul Kuharsky)
Analysis: Cincinnati has done a great job in bolstering the depth at cornerback in free agency, signing Jason Allen and Adam Jones. But the Bengals, who eventually need to replace veteran Nate Clements, can't pass on the second-best cornerback falling into their laps. (Jamison Hensley)
Analysis: The Browns need speed and a deep threat. Look no further than Hill, who averaged 29.3 yards per catch last season (albeit 28 receptions) and ran faster than Baylor's Kendall Wright at the NFL combine. (Jamison Hensley)
Analysis: ESPN.com colleagues chose Gilmore in my absence based on an obvious need the Lions have at cornerback. Starter Eric Wright departed via free agency, and the Lions' pass defense collapsed in the second half of 2011. General manager Martin Mayhew doesn't draft for need, but Gilmore would address a big one. (Kevin Seifert)
Analysis: Inside linebacker is a big need for the Steelers after they released James Farrior. Hightower excelled in Alabama's 3-4 defense and was the unquestioned leader on the nation's top defense. Seems like a perfect fit. (Jamison Hensley)
Analysis: The Broncos would gladly snag Brockers. Defensive tackle is, by far, their most pressing need, and the versatile Brockers is a good value at No. 25. (Bill Williamson)
Analysis: Randle's size will make him a nice target for Matt Schaub and the Texans, and he brings a lot of upside to an offense that's already quite good. (Paul Kuharsky)
Analysis: The Patriots need athleticism on defense and the ability to rush the passer from the outside. Branch can help replace the combined 20 sacks New England lost this offseason with the departures of DEs Mark Anderson and Andre Carter. (James Walker)
Analysis: In my absence, ESPN.com colleagues chose Konz, the draft's top center, knowing that veteran Jeff Saturday is likely a one-year bridge from departed starter Scott Wells. General manager Ted Thompson will almost certainly draft a center, but he might wait until a later round knowing he has 2012 insurance in Saturday. (Kevin Seifert)
Analysis: The Ravens have a history of top prospects falling to them in the first round. Their luck would continue with Glenn, an athletic and versatile blocker who would start immediately at left guard. (Jamison Hensley)
Analysis: Receiver was the team's obvious top need heading into free agency. Adding Randy Moss and Mario Manningham bought some flexibility, but Moss represents a short-term investment. The 49ers could use another young receiver to grow with Alex Smith and, eventually, Colin Kaepernick. (Mike Sando)
Analysis: The Patriots were surprised such a top-end talent is available at No. 31. Sure, Jenkins comes with some character concerns. But New England's strong locker-room leadership will make sure it gets the best out of Jenkins, who has the physical ability to develop into a legit No. 1 corner. (James Walker)
Analysis: This was a tough call, because Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones just looks so much like a Giants pick. He's a super-athletic, high-upside pass-rusher from Tom Coughlin's alma mater. I mean, if Adams weren't on the board, this would have been a slam dunk. And the Giants still could go this way, or with Nebraska LB Lavonte David or Stanford TE Coby Fleener. But there's nothing wrong with Adams' upside potential, either. He becomes the Giants' starting right tackle right away, and if Will Beatty doesn't pan out, Adams has the ability to someday play on the left side. (Dan Graziano)
John Elway sits down with Adam Schefter to discuss recruiting and landing Peyton Manning, the expectations facing Manning this season, and how difficult it was to trade Tim Tebow.
Video: Tim Tebow 'excited to be a Jet'
Tim Tebow talks about joining the Jets, his role on the team, and his relationship with Mark Sanchez.NFL32: Will Broncos regret the money?
Suzy Kolber and Chris Mortensen discuss the possibility the Denver Broncos will regret the amount of money they gave to Peyton Manning; Ike Taylor answers a Twitter question; and the 32 crew debates Tim Tebow's adjustment to a possible backup role.
Brandt: Assessing Peyton Manning’s deal
Manning will make $18 million -- his jersey number -- regardless of injury. Simple.
Years Two and Three: The physical and the waiver
Not so simple. Manning will undergo what is termed a “postseason physical” 10 days before the start of the 2013 League Year, sometime in late February or early March. In the event Manning passes that physical, he will activate a $40 million guarantee, paid out as $20 million salaries in both 2013 and 2014.
The Broncos will have further protection with an injury waiver to Manning’s neck for these two years. In the event Manning suffers an injury that is related to his C-6/C-7 cervical spine fusion “and related pathologies,” the Broncos will be able to reduce the guarantee for the following year. For example, were Manning to suffer an injury in Week 10 of 2013 related to his neck injury, the Broncos would pay the rest of the 2013 salary, but not be on the hook for 2014.
The waiver gives the Broncos protection on one “body part” of Manning; the key body part of the transaction, his surgically repaired neck.
Years Four and Five: Annual physicals and guarantee
Manning is scheduled to make $19 million in both 2015 and 2016. The amount becomes guaranteed when Manning passes his physical prior to the start of each League Year. This is similar to the guarantee above, although on a year-to-year basis rather than the two-year guarantee of 2013-2014.
Of course, the Broncos can release Manning prior to that physical in either year and avoid any future liability.
There you have it: $96 million over five years, with guarantees throughout the contract that are triggered upon the passing of annual physical exams. And it contains a waiver on the pre-existing condition that Manning is arriving with, giving protection to the team.
My initial reaction is that Manning could have leveraged much more money if he wanted to. The Titans and Seahawks probably would have paid more and required less protection. This is a contract where the player saying, “It’s not about the money” truly means that. There are few deals in sports that are by definition good for both sides. This appears to be one.
ESPN.com IllustrationMight Tim Tebow end up in one of these uniforms when the dust settles following the Denver Broncos' acquisition of Peyton Manning?Where Tim Tebow might land
Coming on the heels of Peyton Manning deciding to sign with the Denver Broncos, our NFL bloggers examine potential landing spots for Tim Tebow, if Denver trades or releases the polarizing quarterback.
| Team | Analysis | |
|---|---|---|
| MEDIUM PROBABILITY | ||
 | David Garrard's signing probably lowers the chance of Tebow landing in Miami. But with an unpredictable front office and ownership, you never know for sure. -- James Walker | |
 | There's no room for Tebow on the roster, but you can't count the Patriots out. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels drafted Tebow with a first-round pick in Denver. McDaniels believed in Tebow before anyone else. -- JW | |
 | I don't see it, but Gary Kubiak likes to develop quarterbacks and he doesn't have a third after the team cut Matt Leinart. -- Paul Kuharsky | |
 | Everyone sees the connection. He's a local guy. The Jaguars could use a ticket-sales boost. But owner Shad Khan would have to force Tebow on general manager Gene Smith. -- PK | |
 | Longtime Aaron Rodgers backup Matt Flynn has departed via free agency, and there is some question about whether No. 3 quarterback Graham Harrell is ready to make the jump to No. 2. Coach Mike McCarthy praised Tebow prior to the 2010 draft, but this seems an unlikely pairing. -- Kevin Seifert | |
| LOW PROBABILITY | ||
 | Andy Reid and Marty Mornhinweg can never be ruled out when an intriguing QB project is on the market. And Tebow would be a backup who has started and won NFL games, which is what the Eagles are looking for. If he were a cheap free agent, maybe, but hard to see them trading anything for him. -- Dan Graziano | |
 | Kevin Kolb and John Skelton are the top two quarterbacks. The Cardinals need to find out what they have in Kolb, first and foremost. -- Mike Sando | |
 | The 49ers traded up in the second round of the 2011 draft for a mobile quarterback, Colin Kaepernick. It's doubtful they would suddenly turn to Tebow. -- MS | |
 | The Rams are moving forward with Sam Bradford as their starting quarterback. They would be better off with a more experienced backup. -- MS | |
 | Pete Carroll values mobility in a quarterback, but the position appears set for now with Matt Flynn, Tarvaris Jackson and Josh Portis, a third-stringer the team would like to develop. -- MS | |
 | New general manager Phil Emery has assembled a quarterback depth chart of Jay Cutler, Jason Campbell and Josh McCown. -- KS | |
 | Matthew Stafford and Shaun Hill are entrenched as the top two quarterbacks on the depth chart. Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan is one of the best QB coaches in the league, but it's unlikely he'll get his hands on Tebow. -- KS | |
 | Coach Leslie Frazier is committed to Christian Ponder, Joe Webb and Sage Rosenfels as his top three quarterbacks. The Vikings don't have the time necessary to spend developing Tebow. -- KS | |
 | It's hard to imagine because the Saints have Drew Brees at quarterback. But coach Sean Payton has such an innovative offensive mind that he could probably come up with a way to get Tebow on the field for a few plays a game. -- Pat Yasinskas | |
 | Coach Chan Gailey runs a spread offense, but this one is too pass heavy for Tebow. Buffalo also has a gimmick player in WR/QB Brad Smith. -- JW | |
 | The Jets have enough distractions and don't need to add Tebowmania. The team is committed to Mark Sanchez for at least two more years and recently signed Drew Stanton as the No. 2 quarterback. -- JW | |
 | Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli is a fan of Tebow as a person, but I doubt the Chiefs would be interested in this pairing. -- Bill Williamson | |
 | New Oakland head coach Dennis Allen saw the value of Tebow in 2011 when he was the Broncos' defensive coordinator. But I don't see where this pairing would make sense. -- BW | |
 | Can you imagine Tebow playing with one of his biggest critics in the NFL, Terrell Suggs? I can't either. The Ravens are looking to sign Joe Flacco to a long-term deal, and they repeatedly say they are happy with backup Tyrod Taylor's potential and growth. -- Jamison Hensley | |
 | Cincinnati is set with Andy Dalton as its starter and Bruce Gradkowski as its backup. Dalton was the AFC's best rookie passer, and Gradkowski has proven he can win games in relief. -- JH | |
 | This is the one team in the division that needs an upgrade at quarterback, but the Browns appear ready to go into camp with a quarterback competition between Colt McCoy, Seneca Wallace and a rookie draft pick. Plus, team president Mike Holmgren expressed concern about Tebow's mechanics coming out of Florida. -- JH | |
 | The Steelers didn't show Tebow much respect by the defenses they played against him in the playoff game this past season, so I can't imagine they would have him high on their free-agent quarterback list. Pittsburgh hasn't settled on a backup to Ben Roethlisberger, but it'll likely be either Byron Leftwich or Charlie Batch. -- JH | |
 | The backup to Andrew Luck needs to have some of Luck's qualities and have experience beyond what Tebow would bring. -- PK | |
 | They missed on Peyton Manning, but are perfectly happy with Matt Hasselbeck and Jake Locker as their QBs. Rusty Smith could stick as the third. -- PK | |
| NO CHANCE | ||
 | They're deep at quarterback with Kyle Orton signed to back up Tony Romo. Orton probably still sees Denver-area pro-Tebow billboards in his nightmares. The Cowboys don't need to invite extra controversy. -- DG | |
 | Set at quarterback with a two-time Super Bowl MVP who never misses a game. Kevin Gilbride's offense loves to throw the ball downfield, which isn't a Tebow strength. Up tight against the cap. -- DG | |
 | They're going to draft their QB of the future next month with the second pick in the draft. They don't need Tebowmania breathing down his neck. And can you imagine Mike and Kyle Shanahan changing their offense to fit Tebow the way John Fox and Denver did last season? Me neither. -- DG | |
 | The Falcons are set with Matt Ryan for the next decade or so. They don't use any gimmicks in their offense and they don't want to take the ball out of Ryan's hands. -- PY | |
 | The Panthers have one of the league's top young quarterbacks in Cam Newton. They're hoping they don't have to look for another quarterback for another 12 to 15 years. -- PY | |
 | From a business standpoint, it might make some sense for a franchise that struggles to sell tickets to bring Tebow back to Florida. From a football standpoint, it makes absolutely no sense. New coach Greg Schiano and offensive coordinator Mike Sullivan plan to run a conventional offense. They've already got a drop-back passer in Josh Freeman and they don't want to cause any headaches for a player who needs to bounce back from a rough 2011 season if he really is going to be their franchise quarterback. -- PY | |
 | The Chargers will have no interest in Tebow at all. -- BW | |
