NFL Draft 2012: News, Notes, Video And More

NFL Draft Trade: Vikings, Browns Swap Picks, According To Reports

NFL Draft 2012: Browns Likely To Stay Put At No. 4

The Cleveland Browns own the fourth overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft. Two of the more popular picks projected for them are Justin Blackmon and Trent Richardson. FOX's Jay Glazer reports that Richardson, the former Alabama Crimson Tide running back, isn't expected to get past the Browns at No. 4.

Browns General Manager Tom Heckert told reporters before the draft that the team feels pretty "confident" picking fourth, which means they probably have a pretty good idea of who they'll take.

The draft's top two quarterbacks, Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III, will go first and second overall, respectively. The Vikings are expected to choose either Morris Claiborne or Matt Kalil with the third pick. From there, Richardson would be available to the Browns, as would Blackmon.

Reporters differ on who the Browns prefer. Richardson comes across as more of a sure thing, but Blackmon could add some much-needed explosion to the Cleveland offense.

For more on the Browns, visit Dawgs By Nature and SB Nation Cleveland. Check out Mocking the Draft for more on the NFL Draft.

Andrew Luck's Contract With Colts Will Be Worth $22 Million

It's been officially confirmed that Andrew Luck will be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft, and there's also little suspense on what the terms of his contract will be once the Indianapolis Colts make it official on Thursday night. The former Stanford Cardinal quarterback is expected to sign a four-year deal worth just over $22 million. Via ESPN's Adam Schefter:

When No. 1 overall picks Andrew Luck signs with Indianapolis, it is expected to be a four-year deal worth just over $22 million.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 26, 2012

Under the new CBA, agreed upon last summer, there's very little room for the agents of draft picks to negotiate. The Colts should have Luck signed pretty quickly, agreeing to a deal that will be a slight increase over what Cam Newton got from Carolina as last year's No. 1 pick.

For all news and information regarding the Indianapolis Colts, please visit Stampede Blue. For lots more on the 2012 NFL draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

Patriots Shoot Down NFL Draft Trade Rumors

It's the day of the NFL draft, so you know the rumors are coming out in full force. Earlier on Thursday, a report stated that the New England Patriots had contacted the Seattle Seahawks to talk about what it would take to move up to the 12th pick in the draft, which the Seahawks own. Calls like that are made often between teams in the lead up to the NFL draft, so it seemed plausible that it happened.

But the Patriots' Twitter account disputed with the report, which came from NFL Network's Albert Breer. The Pats tweeted: "The Patriots have not spoken w/ Seattle about moving up to the #12 pick."

Well, then.

The only way we'll find out will come when the Seahawks turn in the card when the 12th pick comes up.

For more on the Seahawks, check out Field Gulls and SB Nation Seattle. For lots more on the 2012 NFL draft, please visit Mocking the Draft.

Redskins Confirm Robert Griffin III Will Be 2nd Pick In 2012 NFL Draft

It has been known for some time now that the No. 1 pick in Thursday's 2012 NFL draft will be Andrew Luck. It has also been assumed, ever since they traded up to secure the draft's No. 2 overall selection, that the Washington Redskins would pick former Baylor Bears quarterback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III.

Mike Florio at ProFootballTalk reports that Redskins general manager Bruce Allen confirmed Thursday on the NFL Network's "2012 NFL Draft Kickoff Show" that Griffin will go to the Redskins at No. 2.

"[W]e think that Robert fits our offense to a tee," Allen said. "We’re excited about being able to complement him with what we’ve already been able to do with some of his special talents. Obviously his charisma is going to be embraced by the Redskins Nation."

Now that this officially puts to rest the speculation about Luck and Griffin, the attention can firmly turn to the rest of the field.

For all news and information regarding the Baylor Bears and Robert Griffin III, head on over to Our Daily Bears. For updates and perspective on the Washington Redskins, check out Hogs Haven. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, please visit Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Trade Rumors Heating Up As Draft Time Nears

Thursday night's opening round of the 2012 NFL draft is fast approaching. As the No. 1 selection draws near, the rumors and buzz are only becoming more intense.

Adam Schefter of ESPN has reported that there are still quite a number of teams looking to entertain trade offers for moving up or down in the draft, as well as teams trying to learn all they can about prospects at the 11th hour.

Schefter reports that Baylor Bears wide receiver Kendall Wright has many teams doing last-minute work and trying to figure out when (or whether) they will decide to target him.

Teams reportedly willing to trade up in the order if the right player is available include the Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles, San Diego Chargers, New England Patriots and Green Bay Packers.

Teams who may be willing to trade down in the order for the right price include the Minnesota Vikings (who currently hold the No. 3 overall pick), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 5 overall), Miami Dolphins, Seattle Seahawks, Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets and Detroit Lions.

For lots more on the 2012 NFL draft, you can always visit Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft Rumors: Michael Brockers To Cowboys Chatter Heats Up

Indications are that the Dallas Cowboys are thinking about targeting LSU Tigers defensive lineman Michael Brockers for their first-round pick in Thursday's 2012 NFL Draft. The Cowboys own the No. 14 overall pick and there have been many rumblings that Brockers is high on their list, should he still be available when their number comes up.

According to Tim MacMahon of ESPN Dallas/Ft. Worth, Cowboys fans and pundits are knocking Brockers for being merely a bigger version of Marcus Spears, with the added information that Spears had even better numbers for LSU at the same age.

The Valley Ranch spin would probably be that Brockers is a raw prospect who would be a valuable run-stopper right away and have potential to develop as a pass rusher. Just remember that a lot of the same people projected Spears to be a star, not just a solid rotation player.

It remains to be seen whether Brockers will head to Dallas, but the comparisons are interesting, at the very least.

For all news and information regarding the Dallas Cowboys, please visit Blogging the Boys. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can always visit Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft Rumors: Bills See Mark Barron As Day-One Starter

The Buffalo Bills own the 10th overall pick in Thursday's opening round of the 2012 NFL Draft. There's a lot of speculation as to whom the Bills will select, but at least one analyst believes Buffalo will look to beef up their defense.

Joe Buscaglia of WGR 550 SportsRadio in Buffalo posted his final mock draft, in which he suggests that the Bills will select safety Mark Barron of the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Ultimately, I think Mark Barron is the guy the Bills' desire. My league source tells me the Bills view Barron as a "playmaker" and "day-one starter." Chris Brown of BuffaloBills.com believes that the team views Barron as a "once-in-a-generation safety." Bills scout Darrell Moody called Barron a "complete player," and someone that's good against running backs and tight ends in coverage. He's been linked to the Bills by Peter King, Michael Lombardi, Adam Schefter and Nolan Nawrocki. If a smokescreen, it's one of the more elaborate in recent memory. But the idea of pairing Barron with Byrd is something I think has the Bills salivating. Nothing against George Wilson, but he is a 31-year old, one-year starter. Barron would be a response to the tight ends within the division. Despite it not being the team's greatest need, if they believe he is the best player there is enough of an argument to be made that it would immediately upgrade the defense, then it should be the pick.

Barron's stock is quite high, but it is possible he could still wind up with Buffalo at No. 10.

For all news and information regarding the Buffalo Bills, please visit Buffalo Rumblings. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Chandler Jones Expects To Be 3rd Round Pick

Syracuse Orange defensive end Chandler Jones will be entering the 2012 NFL Draft, which begins with the first round on Thursday. Jones has quite a family pedigree, as his brothers are Baltimore Ravens player Arthur Jones and UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon "Bones" Jones.

Late in April, Jones' stock in the draft was quickly rising, with Mike Mayock saying that the DE would be the best defensive player out of this year's draft in three years' time.

Chris Fedor of Sports Radio Interviews transcribed a recent interview Jones conducted with WNST in Baltimore. He was asked where he thinks he will be picked and although he is aware of the buzz, he is remaining realistic.

Right now they say I'm ranked and can go as high as the middle of the first round but I don't feed into that at all. I'm still expecting third round so if I do go higher everything will be a surprise.

If Jones is indeed picked in the first round, it will likely come as a big surprise to a lot of people, not least of whom being the player himself.

To read more about Chandler Jones and the Syracuse Orange, please visit Troy Nunes is an Absolute Magician. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Bills GM Says Trade Up Is Unlikely

The first round of the 2012 NFL Draft will finally take place on Sunday. The Buffalo Bills are sitting pretty with the No. 10 pick overall, but some later rumors suggested that the team might be interested in trading up in the order.

Bills general manager Buddy Nix spoke to Chris Brown at the official Bills website and says he's unsure of how these rumors got started:

"I dont have any idea how that came up because there's no validity to it. We haven't expressed any interest in moving either way. Our answer every time has been we'll listen. "

Nix says that the team is willing to listen to any offers, but at present, they would be more likely to move down in the draft order, rather than up.

For all news and information regarding the Buffalo Bills, please visit Buffalo Rumblings. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Time, TV Schedule, And More

The NFL Draft kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday, with live television coverage on both NFL Network and ESPN.

NFL Draft Rumors: Eagles Could Consider Ryan Tannehill, According To Report

In an NFL Draft feature on Thursday morning, I predicted the Philadelphia Eagles would be the team that makes a move in the 2012 NFL Draft that no one saw coming. Based on their history, the Eagles are a bit of a wild card in the NFL Draft.

There's a rumor out there supporting my idea that the Eagles will shake things up on draft night. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, rumors are circulating that the Eagles could trade up to the 11th pick in the draft if Ryan Tannehill remains on the board. The Chiefs hold the 11th pick and are said to have some interest in Tannehill. They're also said to have interest in trading back.

The Eagles currently have Michael Vick at quarterback but he's good for a few injuries each year so having a backup plan makes sense. Eagles coach Andy Reid also likes stockpiling quarterbacks because they're such a valuable commodity. Another rumor to keep an eye on.

For more draft news and rumors on the Eagles, visit Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft Rumors: New Name For Patriots 31st Pick

The New England Patriots hold the No. 31 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, which begins on Thursday. Many believe that the Patriots will trade their spot in the draft order, but if they remain where they are, there may be a new prospect name in the mix.

Jason La Canfora of NFL.com reports that the Pats may be interested in Vanderbilt Commodores cornerback Casey Hayward.

Like others, I expect New England to trade one of its two first-round picks. If they stay at No. 31, though, they have done a lot of work on corners. It would be a surprise, but I continue to hear strong reports on Vandy corner Casey Hayward. New England did a lot of work on him. If New England does deal with Cleveland, and move back atop the second round, then Howard may be in play there as well.

The Patriots definitely seem to be interesting in selecting a cornerback at some point in this year's draft. Hayward would be an interesting choice.

For news and information regarding the New England Patriots, please visit Pats Pulpit. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

Patriots, Seahawks Have Had Trade Talks, According To Report

The New England Patriots are one of the teams to watch in the 2012 NFL Draft because they have two first round picks and a penchant for trading. Most NFL Draft experts think the Patriots will end up trading one or both of their first round picks -- No. 27 and No. 31 -- and one draft rumor says they could be moving up quite a bit.

NFL Network's Albert Breer reports the Patriots have inquired with the Seattle Seahawks about a possible trade up to the 12th overall pick. This could just be some due diligence, or it could be a legitimate interest in moving up to No. 12. That would be extremely expensive for the Patriots, likely costing them at least both first round picks.

I'm not exactly sure who the target would be but one guess would be Alabama's Mark Barron. Belichick has worked with Alabama head coach Nick Saban in the past so that, combined with the Patriots biggest need coming in the secondary, has me thinking Barron would be the target, but that's just a guess (as it all is) at this point.

The Patriots are also seeking pass rushers, which is something to keep in mind.

For more on the Patriots in the NFL Draft, visit Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can always visit Mocking the Draft.

2012 NFL Draft: What To Expect In Round 1 On Thursday Night

The 2012 NFL draft is only hours away at this point and, outside of the first two picks, there's plenty of intrigue in this draft.

NFL Draft: Tim Couch Talks About The Process, The Money And Why Hummers Are Awful

Spencer Hall caught up with someone who knows a bit about the NFL Draft and its oddities in the form of one Tim Couch, former Cleveland Browns quarterback and No. 1 draft pick in 1999. We talked about the moment you go from college player to draft pick, the unreality of professional salaries to a college player, and why the H1 was the worst automobile for casual conversation ever.

NFL Draft Rumors: Vikings Could Be Leaning Towards Morris Claiborne

The first round of the 2012 NFL Draft arrives on Thursday. The consensus top three picks have been seen as a virtual lock for some time now, but the draft, if nothing else, is endlessly unpredictable.

The Minnesota Vikings hold the No. 3 overall pick and speculation from the outset has leaned toward the idea that the team would be selecting USC Trojans offensive tackle Matt Kalil, believed to be the top offensive lineman in the draft. On Thursday, Michael Lombari of the NFL Network reported that the Vikings are "focused" on LSU Tigers cornerback Morris Claiborne. Lombardi stated that the Vikings would then opt to pick up a tackle in the second round.

Most mock drafts up until this point have tied the Vikings to either Kalil or Oklahoma St. Cowboys wide receiver Justin Blackmon. The discussion of Claiborne is an interesting development.

For all news and information regarding the Minnesota Vikings, please visit the Daily Norseman. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can always visit Mocking the Draft.

2012 NFL Draft: Jamaar Jarrett Fails Combine Drug Test

Arizona State terror merchant Vontaze Burfict wasn't the only Sun Devil whose positive drug test at the 2012 NFL Draft Combine was revealed on the eve of the 2012 NFL Draft: so did Jamaar Jarrett, a defensive end, according to Rob Rang of CBS Sports.

Jarrett was not regarded as a blue-chip prospect by any means; he doesn't make the cut in Mocking the Draft's listing of the top 100 players in the 2012 NFL Draft, and is also not in their ranking of the best available defensive ends, so he probably didn't lose millions of dollars based on his drug use prior to the Combine.

But for players like Jarrett, coming in with a slate clear of any character marks might be the key to getting drafted. A red flag like a failed drug test — which evinces a lack of the discipline required to keep a nose clean, if nothing else — can be the difference between being invited to a training camp and scrambling to make a practice squad.

For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, please visit Mocking the Draft, or stop by SB Nation's dedicated NFL Draft hub.

NFL Draft 2012: Will One Of Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III Be A Bust?

The only drama about Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III being the first and second picks of the 2012 NFL draft is how long it will take the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Redskins to announce those selections on Thursday night. But might one of them be successful, while the other busts? Quarterbacks taken in the top two have a history of being duos comprised of one star and one bust, as Mark Maske of The Washington Post writes.

The Colts certainly remember one of the last major one-two quarterback drafts. They grabbed Peyton Manning with the No. 1 selection in 1998, and Ryan Leaf, the No. 2 pick, foundered with the San Diego Chargers. But there have been just four one-two QB drafts since the AFL-NFL merger, and three -- 1993's Drew Bledsoe-Rick Mirer one-two, 1998's Manning-Leaf tandem and 1999's Tim Couch-Donovan McNabb combo -- have featured one quarterback living up to his hype, while the other falls short.

The Colts and Redskins will likely hope 2012's top two turns out like 1971's, when Jim Plunkett and Archie Manning both panned out in the pros.

For more Colts news, head to Stampede Blue. For more Redskins coverage, check out Hogs Haven. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, please visit Mocking the Draft, or stop by SB Nation's dedicated NFL Draft hub.

Vontaze Burfict Responds To Pre-Draft Criticism

Vontaze Burfict is likely the biggest enigma likely to hear his name called when the 2012 NFL Draft gets underway on Thursday night. The Arizona State Sun Devils linebacker had plenty of issues during his college career, the majority of which were made public, leading to quite a few questions about his maturity as he transitions to playing professional football.

According to the player in an exclusive interview with SB Nation's Mocking The Draft, however, Burfict says he's grown up and focused on football.

It was part of growing up, who is not immature in college? I have been trying to change my image with the media. Even my trainer has been trying to get me mad and upset in training to see how I will react in training when I am tired. I am ready to make an impact on the field.

It remains to be seen whether Burfict has matured enough to make our own Jon Bois' nightmare scenario play out, but it will be interesting to see how the linebacker's past effects his future beginning Thursday evening.

For all news and information regarding Burfict, please visit House of Sparky. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

Cowboys Eye Dont'a Hightower If They Trade Down, According To Report

The Dallas Cowboys reportedly have a set plan in mind for the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft on Thursday. They are reportedly very high on Alabama safety Mark Barron, but if their target is off the board by the time their No. 14 selection rolls around, they could be trading down to grab a different target.

Tim MacMahon of ESPN Dallas reports that the Cowboys would look to pick up Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Dont'a Hightower if they miss out on Barron.

If Barron and other targets are gone, Jerry Jones could attempt to trade down, gaining extra picks to move toward the bottom of the first round. In that scenario, there is a strong possibility that the Cowboys could target the fourth potential first-round pick from the Crimson Tide's top-ranked, national-title defense: linebacker Dont'a Hightower.

These reports seem to indicate that the Cowboys will be looking to beef up their defense any way they can.

For all news and information regarding the Dallas Cowboys, please visit Blogging the Boys. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can always visit Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Chandler Jones Keeps Rising

Chandler Jones may not have made himself a household name during his time as a member of the Syracuse Orange, but he's certainly helped himself out heading into the 2012 NFL Draft. The defensive end is rising up draft boards across the league and, according to Mike Mayock, where ever he ends up might not even be high enough to match his actual potential.

"I'm gonna make a statement," Mayock said recently, according to Mocking The Draft. "Three years from now, I'm gonna say Chandler Jones is the best defensive player to come out of this draft."

That says quite a bit about the defensive end's future in the NFL, or at least will lead to a lot of hype that is difficult to live up to, but Mocking the Draft sprinkled a bit of reality on the hype while looking at Jones' recent rise.

It's his first step, which at times was inconsistent, that leads to so much buzz. Jones will need to be coached up. He'll have to add strength. But if a team can figure out how to couple Jones' athletic gifts and length correctly, the comparisons to Pierre Paul may be more than just physical.

For all news and information regarding the Orange, please visit Troy Nunes is an Absolute Magician.For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

2012 NFL Draft: Mike Mayock Talks Trade Candidates

Will teams do much trading in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft? NFL Network's Mike Mayock discussed that possibility.

NFL Draft 2012: Would Bengals Pass On David DeCastro?

The first round of the 2012 NFL Draft arrives on Thursday. The Cincinnati Bengals possess two first-round draft picks and many have projected that the team would use one of them to select talented Stanford Cardinal guard David DeCastro.

Josh Kirkendall at Cincy Jungle breaks down what to expect from the Bengals during the three days of the draft. One of his points touches upon whether the team will opt to pass on DeCastro, should the guard still be available when Cincinnati's turns come up.

PASSING ON DECASTRO? If Stanford Guard David DeCastro is available at either No. 17 or No. 21, we're not projecting front office to pull the trigger. There's three reasons. Cincinnati likely believes (they believe, not us) that they did enough during free agency to settle the need to select a guard in the first round. And despite the animosity growing regarding the argument, the Cincinnati Bengals have never selected an offensive guard in the first-round during their 40-plus-year history. We'd absolutely welcome the change, to be honest. We just don't expect them to. And more than a handful of front office personnel, especially former executives like Bill Polian, argue that guards are rarely worth first-round selections.

On Thursday night, we will find out whether the situation will arise. It is possible DeCastro may be off the board before the Bengals' turn arrives.

For all news and information regarding the Cincinnati Bengals, please visit Cincy Jungle. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft Odds: Trent Richardson Lone Running Back in First Round?

NFL Draft Rumors: Bills Have 'Legitimate' Interest In Matt Kalil

The first day of the 2012 NFL Draft arrives on Thursday. The Buffalo Bills currently have good positioning in the first round, holding the No. 10 pick, but they may apparently be looking to trade up in the order in hopes of bagging their most desired target.

According to Mark Gaughan at BuffaloNews.com, the Bills have a "legitimate" interest in the top offensive tackle in the draft, Matt Kalil from the USC Trojans. Kalil is expected to go No. 3 in the draft to the Minnesota Vikings, but that could all change.

Charley Casserly of the NFL Network reported Wednesday night the Bills are willing to part with the No. 41 pick and flip first-round spots to move up.

The more one looks at the top of the draft board, the more it looks like the Bills have a good chance to move up, with the Vikings or someone else, to get Kalil.

Gaughan suggests that the Vikings, with the all-important No. 3 pick and a plethora of other NFL teams not wishing to miss out on their first-round targets, may be able to create a bidding war for the slot in the hours leading up to the opening round on Thursday night.

For all news and information regarding the Buffalo Bills, please visit Buffalo Rumblings. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Chandler Jones Could Be Draft's Best Defensive Player, Says Mike Mayock

The buzz about former Syracuse Orange defensive end Chandler Jones heading into Thursday night's first round of the 2012 NFL draft has been somewhat muted, at least compared to many of the higher-profile players in the draft pool; Mocking the Draft ranks Jones as the 38th-best player available. But NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock thinks Jones will one day be regarded as the draft's best defensive player.

Rotoworld scribbled down Mayock's thoughts on Jones from Wednesday night.

"I'm gonna make a statement," said Mayock. "Three years from now, I'm gonna say Chandler Jones is the best defensive player to come out of this draft."

Mike Lombardi concurred with Mayock, and also said that there's a chance Jones could be a top-10 pick. If he is, that could put him in the company of Quinton Coples and Courtney Upshaw, seen as two of the better players who could end up at defensive line in this draft. Several other projections suggest Jones could be a match for the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 15 or the New England Patriots at No. 19, according to Big East Coast Bias.

For lots more on the 2012 NFL draft, please visit Mocking the Draft, or stop by SB Nation's dedicated NFL Draft hub.

Browns' Options Down To Trent Richardson Or Morris Claiborne

The Cleveland Browns are once again trying for a rebuilding season in 2012. The team will look to pick up some much-needed components via the 2012 NFL Draft that begins on Thursday. As with several other teams, the game plan for the Browns is beginning to trickle out as of Thursday morning. The Browns currently hold the No. 4 overall pick in the draft and are set up to claim one of the most elite players in this year's deep talent pool.

In an on-air report on Thursday, Bob Holtzman of ESPN stated that the Browns have narrowed their decision at No. 4 down to either Alabama Crimson Tide running back Trent Richardson or LSU Tigers cornerback Morris Claiborne. Those options are right in line with the consensus opinion of where those two players would fall in the draft order. Mocking the Draft has Richardson and Claiborne ranked as the No. 3 and No. 4 talents, respectively, in this year's class.

Both players represent positions where Cleveland could use an upgrade. The only question will be which player the Browns feel most improves their team in the short-term and going forward.

For more news and information regarding the Cleveland Browns, head on over to Dawgs by Nature. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Panthers Want Justin Blackmon If He Falls, According To Report

The first day of the 2012 NFL Draft arrives on Thursday and anticipation is at a fever pitch among fans of football at both the collegiate and professional levels. There is no end to speculation of which draftees will land where and the guessing will continue right up until every name has been called. Some of the game plans and strategies are beginning to trickle out on Thursday, however.

The Carolina Panthers are looking to build a solid defense to accompany their Cam Newton-led offense, but their plan to stock up on defenders would be put on hold should Oklahoma St. Cowboys wide receiver Justin Blackmon still be on the board when Carolina's No. 9 pick rolls around. Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer reports:

Most draft experts don't see Blackmon sliding past St. Louis at No. 6. But if Blackmon were to slip to 9, where the Panthers pick after losing a coin flip to Miami, look for general manager Marty Hurney to grab him and worry about the defense in subsequent rounds.

Person goes on to say that if the Panthers remain at No. 9 (Hurney has not ruled out a trade back in the order for the right package), they may instead target North Carolina Tar Heels defensive end Quinton Coples.

For all news and information regarding the Carolina Panthers, please visit Cat Scratch Reader. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can check out Mocking the Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Cowboys Targeting 4 Players, Including David DeCastro

With the first day of the 2012 NFL Draft finally arriving on Thursday, more and more team plans are beginning to become apparent -- or even leak, in some instances. The Dallas Cowboys are just one of the many teams who are hoping to significantly improve their playoff chances by adding some missing pieces via the draft.

According to Clarence E. Hill, Jr. of the Star-Telegram, the Cowboys appear to have a definite game plan in place heading into the early rounds of the draft.

According to a source, the Cowboys are targeting four players at No. 14 -- Mississippi State defensive tackle Fletcher Cox, Stanford guard David DeCastro, Alabama safety Mark Barron and LSU defensive end Michael Brockers.

Simply put, it will be either DeCastro or a defensive player for the Cowboys' pick today.

DeCastro would be a great addition for any team that needs help on its offensive line. It remains to be seen whether he will still be around, however, when Dallas makes its pick at No. 14.

For all news and information regarding the Dallas Cowboys, please visit Blogging the Boys. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, you can always visit Mocking the Draft.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: One Last Look With Trade Predictions Included

How will the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft shake out on Thursday night?

NFL Draft Rumors: Buffalo To Trade Up For Matt Kalil?

Former USC Trojans offensive tackle Matt Kalil has been rumored by many to be the No. 3 overall pick by the Minnesota Vikings. But with the Vikings' interest in Kalil apparently waning, according to Peter King's report two days ago, other teams could slide into the picture. One of those teams is the Buffalo Bills, who have the No. 10 pick and, unlike some of the teams above them, could really use a left tackle. However, Buffalo would apparently be interested in trading up to ensure Kalil's availability rather than hoping he slides all the way from No. 3 to No. 10, according to CBS Sports' Charley Casserly:

Buuffalo I am told would like to trade up to take Matt Kalil and will give up a second rd draft choice to do it.

— Charley Casserly (@CharleyCasserly) April 25, 2012

Casserly's spelling -- Buuff -- aside, this is a move that could make sense for the Bills. Left tackle is a need, and if the Vikings don't go with Kalil -- or trade their pick, leaving Kalil on the board -- moving up for the best prospect at the position in the draft isn't a bad idea.

For more on the Bills, head over to the SB Nation blog Buffalo Rumblings. For more on Richardson and the 2012 NFL Draft, check out SB Nation's draft hub and blog, Mocking The Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Trent Richardson No. 1 Atop Jets Draft Board

Trent Richardson is apparently the top-rated player on the New York Jets draft board, according to a report Wednesday by ESPN's Sal Paolantonio. The news has fueled late speculation that the Jets could try to make a trade up from their No. 16 pot in the 2012 NFL Draft order in order to snag the running back out of Alabama. Richardson said Wednesday that he received a call from the organization when he arrived in New York.

"They wanted to know my information as far as whether that's the right number to reach me in case something does happen, with them trading up," Richardson said.

Considering how far the Jets would have to jump up to ensure a crack at Richardson, it is unlikely a deal will get done either before or during the draft. Richardson would fit nicely in an offense that will look to run the ball frequently under new offensive coordinator Tony Sparano, however.

For more on the Jets, head over to the SB Nation blog Gang Green Nation. For more on Richardson and the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation's draft hub and blog, Mocking The Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: RG3 Almost Certain To Be Picked By Redskins, Says Mike Shanahan

The Washington Redskins are going to select Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III. The writing has been on the wall since the team made a blockbuster trade with the St. Louis Rams. Nevertheless, head coach Mike Shanahan took the day before the draft to remind the world that things even the most certain outcomes have uncertainties.

Shanahan, having a little fun ahead of the draft, said via the Redskins' official Twitter feed that there was a 99.9 percent chance that Griffin would be the team's pick with the second-overall selection.

A tenth of a percent chance that the pick might be someone other than Baylor quarterback sounds odd. Shanahan added, "nothing is 100 percent."

Last week the Colts confirmed that Andrew Luck would be their selection with the first pick in the draft, confirming what most had assumed since December. Griffin has been meeting with the Redskins in the day leading up to the draft.

For more Redskins coverage, check out Hogs Haven. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, please visit Mocking the Draft, or stop by SB Nation's dedicated NFL Draft hub.

NFL Draft 2012: Vontaze Burfict, Jayron Hosley Failed Drug Tests, According To Report

One day away from the 2012 NFL Draft, add a pair of names to the list of players who've made significant mistakes over the past couple weeks. Former Arizona St. Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict and Virginia Tech Hokies cornerback Jayron Hosley join Ohio St. Buckeyes tackle Mike Adams in failing drug tests, Jay Glazer reports:

NFL teams were informed this week of 2 more players of note who have flunked drug tests: ASU LB Vontaze Burfict and Va Tech CB JayRon Hosley

— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) April 25, 2012

Burfict was once projected as a first-round selection, but an underwhelming 2011 season marred with discipline issues both on and off the field and a disastrous Combine have some wondering whether he'll even be drafted. This sort of thing won't help. Hosley stands a better chance of recovering, as he's projected to go in the second or third and doesn't have a track record as damaged as Burfict's.

Visit SB Nation's Mocking The Draft and stay tuned for more NFL Draft coverage here.

NFL Draft 2012: RG3 On His Critics, The NFL, And What Fuels Him (VIDEO)

NFL Draft 2012: Dan Patrick Talks About How The Process Has Changed

At the EA Sports NCAA 2013 preview party, our own Dan Rubenstein got a chance to speak with noted media superstar Dan Patrick about the 2012 NFL Draft.

After touching upon the endless GIF-ability of the radio and television sports expert, Patrick had a lot to say about the draft. He of course has a very informed take, speaking about how the level of scrutiny is much higher than it used to be, but that he expects largely the same results as in years past, regardless of the advanced scouting and abundance of information. Patrick also picks his future Pro Bowl players from this year's crop of draftees.

The video is well worth a watch, as Patrick and Rubenstein cover a wide range of topics in a short amount of time, including Trent Richardson, flannel shirts, Tony Romo looking sad and how one would best approach shaking hands with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Check it out:

For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, please visit Mocking the Draft, or stop by SB Nation's dedicated NFL Draft hub.

NFL Draft 2012 Schedule: 3-Day Event Begins Thursday At 8 P.M.

The 2012 NFL Draft schedule is set with the Indianapolis Colts slated to make their first selection just after 8 p.m. ET this Thursday. Once again you will have your choice between Rich Eisen's NFL Network crew or faithful standbys Chris Berman and ESPN for your viewing pleasure. Both stations will beam in live from Radio City Music Hall, broadcasting picks as they happen with analysis and likely a technical difficulty or two.

For the third straight year, the draft will be run over three days. Thursday will be dedicated to the first round only, Friday will host rounds two and three, and the final four rounds will take place Saturday. You can check out the full schedule below:

Round 1: Thursday, April 26, 8 ET, ESPN and NFL Network, Channel 88 Sirius XM

Rounds 2-3: Friday, April 27, 7 ET, ESPN and NFL Network, Channel 88 Sirius XM

Rounds 4-7: Saturday, April 28, noon ET, ESPN and NFL Network, Channel 88 Sirius XM

For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, stay tuned to this StoryStream as well as SB Nation's Draft Hub. Also be sure to check out the blog Mocking The Draft for everything you need to know about this year's prospects.

NFL Draft 2012: Alfonzo Dennard Released From Jail

Former Nebraska cornerback Alfonzo Dennard, arrested early Saturday morning, was released from jail Monday after posting $500 bail. He's charged with third degree felony assault of a police officer.

Dennard allegedly punched a man outside a bar in Lincoln, Neb. He's accused of punching a police officer in the face who was trying to break up the fight. He reportedly continued to resist arrest until being restrained by four officers. In addition to the felony, he was also charged with two misdemeanors: third-degree assault and resisting arrest.

Before his arrest, Dennard was considered a likely second- or third-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, which begins Thursday. Now, it won't be a surprise to see his stock tumble all the way into the fourth round. From the Associated Press:

NFL.com draft analyst Gil Brandt said if Dennard drops from the third to fourth round because of the arrest, it could cost him about $300,000 in salary over a standard four-year rookie contract. Brandt said some teams might hesitate to take a player with a criminal record because NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has made it known he wants to the league to project a good image.

Dennard was involved in a notable on-field scuffle during his final game with the Cornhuskers, throwing a punch at South Caroline wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (video) during the Capital One Bowl. Both players were ejected from the game.

For more on Dennard, check out Nebraska blog Corn Nation.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Rise Of The Pass Rushers

Pass rushers are rising up draft boards fast with the 2012 NFL Draft just days away. How does that change the outcome in the first round?