Draft Study Guide: Panthers Mock 6.0

I am stepping in, guys! This mock draft is what I would do if I truly was the GM of the Carolina Panthers. The picks I make are not projections of what Dave Gettleman actually will do this time around, but with the draft less than five days away, I wanted to say how I really feel about the 2015 NFL Draft.

Round 1, Pick 25: WR Breshad Perriman, University of Central Florida

I think it is probably well-established at this point that I want Perriman for the Panthers. While I am hesitant to take him this early given how rough he is around the edges, I cannot pass up on the opportunity to add such a potentially dynamic pass-catcher to the wide receivers stables in Carolina. Perriman has game-breaking ability with his frame, speed, and catch radius. His route running and concentration must improve for him to become a star in the NFL, but as a third target after Kelvin Benjamin and Greg Olsen, Perriman will have time to mature and blossom under the tutelage of Ricky Proehl. I think that Perriman is not overly dissimilar to fellow UCF alumnus Brandon Marshall, who needed a year of seasoning in the NFL before exploding onto the scene in 2007. I do not think Perriman will ever receive the targets that Marshall has (averaging almost 158 receptions per season outside of his rookie year), but he has similar play making ability and will be an asset to the Panthers franchise.

Round 2, Pick 57: CB Eric Rowe, University of Utah

Rowe is another guy I was high on drafting later on before his combine numbers encouraged mainstream analysts to pay more attention to his tape and potential, which pushed him up public mocks into Day One territory. Rowe's length, athleticism and versatility make him valuable at this point of the draft, though I would prefer him in Round 3 since he has just one year of starter experience at cornerback. However, with talks that Tre' Boston may be moving to strong safety, Rowe is not locked in to developing as a cornerback. The Panthers can bring him into training camp and use him as a moveable piece, particularly in obvious passing downs where Boston can shift to strong safety and Roman Harper can go off the field. I do see him as a long-term fit at cornerback in the Panthers system because Carolina does not rely on leaving its cornerbacks on man-to-man islands, which helps make him worth the second round selection.

Round 3, Pick 89: LT Cedric Ogbuehi, Texas A&M University

Considered the top tackle option and a likely top five pick coming into the 2014 NCAA football season, Ogbuehi has seen his stock plummet due to inconsistent play and a torn ACL late in the season. The signing of Michael Oher and claiming of Jonathan Martin mean that the Panthers will not have to rush Ogbuehi along; this patience could allow him to realize his potential as a premier left tackle in the NFL. I think his floor is as an athletic right tackle who is an asset in both run- and pass-protection. Panthers fans might not be thrilled with such a tackle situation heading into 2015, but I have faith in the Panthers coaching staff that they can keep a healthier-than-ever Cam healthy this year.

Round 4, Pick 124: RB David Cobb, University of Minnesota

Cobb will not replace the dynamic outside run plays that DeAngelo Williams produced, but he is a strong, north-south runner who has the ability to develop into a strong starting running back. The Panthers like to use power runs and Cobb's leg drive (gained 54% of his 1,626 rushing yards after contact last season) and balance will make him an efficient runner in such a scheme. He demonstrates understanding of proper pass protection techniques and possesses the determination to grind for every yard available. Cobb is not a game-breaker, but his grittiness will make him a fan favorite.

Round 5, Pick 161: DE Za'Darious Smith, University of Kentucky

I mentioned Smith over a month ago as a potential Day Three target for the Panthers, and that is exactly where he shows up in this mock. Smith is a former basketball player but plays with more power than speed (even with a high 4.7 forty time) and could quickly be the best run-defending option across from Charles Johnson. A rotation of Smith and Ealy would reduce the need to rely on Wes Horton as well as the oft-suspended Frank Alexander. Smith also has the size to slide-inside if needed.

Round 5, Pick 169: LG Josue Matias, Florida State University

I selected Matias in the same slot in my Mock 3.0, and in each subsequent mock I have been tempted to re-slot him again and again. I feel that his talents would suit the Panthers well at left guard where none of Andrew Norwell, Amini Silatolu, or Edmund Kugbila can be seriously considered long-term fits on a team expecting to contend for the playoffs for the foreseeable future. Matias is a much-better pass protector than road grader thus far in his career, but I feel that would be beneficial for a Panthers team that should be primed to pass more than in the last few years with a fully recuperated Cam behind center. At this point in the draft, Matias would not be expected to usurp incumbent Andrew Norwell's starting spot immediately, but a healthy training camp competition along the offensive line could only prove to be positive, and if Matias becomes more of a run blocker, he could be special. 

Round 5, Pick 174: WR Titus Davis, Central Michigan University

For the second straight mock, I select the former Chippewa wide out at pick 174. Davis would bring attributes to the Panthers that no other receiver (outside of Jerricho Cotchery) could boast: solid route running and outstanding foot quickness. Despite being 6'1" with a 4.5 forty, I think that Davis could be better out of the slot than on the outside, especially as a compliment to Benjamin, Olsen, and Perriman. Davis will do the dirty work underneath and on third down and understands how to sit down against zone defenses. Davis could learn a lot from veteran Jerricho Cotchery before settling in as the #3 wide receiver and fourth weapon in the passing game.

Round 6, Pick 200: OLB Alani Fua, Brigham Young University

Fua is an athlete first and foremost. At 6'5" and 240 pounds with a 4.6 forty, Fua actually played a lot of man coverage over slot receivers at BYU, and the Panthers start two linebackers who excel in pass coverage. While Jimmy Graham and Tony Gonzalez are no longer in the NFC South, Tampa Bay is developing Austin Sefarian-Jenkins, Marques Colston runs routes from the slot, and no one would be surprised if Atlanta or New Orleans draft a playmaking tight end in the upcoming draft. Fua could also become an asset in select blitz packages, as he rushed the passer from a variety of slots and positions along BYU's front. In the sixth round, I swing for the fences with a versatile defensive piece that enhances line backer depth and special teams talent.

Round 7, Pick 242: DB Cam Thomas, Western Kentucky University

There are still a lot of question marks in Carolina's defensive backfield. Josh Norman has only had a single year of being an above average starter, Tre' Boston and Bene' Benwikere were rookies last year, Roman Harper will be 33 by the end of the season, and Colin Jones and Kurt Coleman are the only backups that were drafted (in the 6th and 7th rounds respectively). While Melvin White and Robert Lester have been okay after being signed as undrafted free agents, I think that competition is desperately needed, even after drafting Rowe in the second round. Thomas is stout in run support and excels at reading routes and quarterbacks rather than as a man-to-man corner. His 11 career interceptions demonstrate his nose for the ball. I think Thomas could develop as a cornerback or a free safety with some added bulk, much like Rowe. 

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Draft Study Guide: Panthers Mock 4.0

Just over three weeks until the draft, and I am getting giddy. If you have noticed that I change all of my picks each week, it is because I want to offer a variety of different perspectives as to who the Panthers might take. I am not saying one draft is absolutely more likely to happen than the last. Enjoy!

Round 1, Pick 25: OT D.J. Humphries, University of Florida

Humphries has arguably the highest potential of any offensive lineman prospect in the 2015 draft, boasting the upside of a franchise left tackle. Hailing from Mallard Creek High School, bringing home the Florida standout would be a move to ensure Cam Newton has his blindside protected for the rest of his career. He has good height and arm length, but his weight is a bit of a concern, especially for the power running game the Panthers utilize. Humphries is a superb athlete and demonstrated that athleticism in his matchup with Mizzou's Shane Ray. Humphries can be coached up on improving his hand placement and perhaps even being a knee-bender rather than a hip-bender to become an amazing left tackle for Carolina.

Round 2, Pick 57: DE Preston Smith, Mississippi State University

Yes, I realize that Dave Gettleman selected DE Kony Ealy in the second round last year, and I have high hopes for him. However, I doubt that he would hesitate to add another hog molly like Smith at this point of the draft. Smith has outstanding size and the ability to play the edge or shift inside. He is better rushing the passer from the interior but is an asset against the run when setting the edge. A rotation of Smith and Ealy opposite of Charles Johnson would make the Panthers defensive line that much more potent.

Round 3, Pick 89: CB D'Joun Smith, Florida Atlantic University

Smith played against lesser competition in Conference USA, but he has the athleticism and competitiveness to thrive in Carolina much like current starter Josh Norman. With a 4.45 40 at the combine, Smith answered questions about his speed on deeper routes. He also has above average ball skills and could develop into a ball hawk in a Panthers defense that focuses on rushing four and dropping seven to blanket receivers.  The Panthers have shown they are not afraid to select cornerbacks that did not face great competition, why not see if lightning strikes twice?

Round 4, Pick 124: WR Kenny Bell, University of Nebraska

Introducing my new favorite for "undervalued receiver that would fit the Panthers needs perfectly," 2014 First-team All-Big Ten receiver Kenny Bell. At 6'1" and having run three 40s between 4.38 and 4.42 seconds, Bell possesses the size and athleticism to succeed opposite of Kelvin Benjamin. He can easily compete for contested balls and steps up with such opportunities. In the highlight video here, you can see Bell's second gear as he runs away in the open field. His route running can use some work - nothing Ricky Proehl cannot help remedy. 

Round 5, Pick 161: FS Adrian Amos, Penn State University

There have been talks that Tre' Boston might benefit from shifting into the strong safety role; selecting Amos as a developmental FS prospect here in the fifth round would allow such a shift to occur. Amos has great speed and above average coverage skills, but he is lacking in run support ability. After playing in 49 games with 37 starts in his four years at Penn State, Amos has demonstrated excellent zone coverage as well as the ability to shift down to the slot, offering unique package possibilities early on in his career. Amos would be a selection for 2016 or perhaps even 2017 and beyond, but one with potential to be a plus starter at FS.

Round 5, Pick 169: RB Cameron Artis-Payne, Auburn Univeristy

Not a game breaker by any means, Artis-Payne's key traits are his patience and toughness. He will likely never be more than a solid rotational back, but Artis-Payne should at the very least be good for ~10 carries a game that can help move drives along. He played just one year above junior college but racked up 1,600 yards in his lone year at Auburn. Running back is a funky position; you never know who might end up being a gem.

Round 5, Pick 174: OLB Alani Fua, Brigham Young University

Here is a name you probably were not expecting to read. Fua is 6'5" and 238 pounds and ran a 4.59 40 at his Pro Day. He does a lot of stuff alright but does not stand out at any one trait. Fua's best skill may be his ability in pass coverage, and he could develop into a sort of tight end counter. Some may cast him as a 3-4 OLB, but the Panthers run a strange base formation anyways. A weapon like Fua could only serve to make the defense more flexible and dynamic. 

Round 6, Pick 200: DT Darius Philon, University of Arkansas

At this point in the draft, I am all about swinging for the fences. Philon is exactly that: a surprise declaration from this underclassman could mean big things for a patient team. Having played just one year at Arkansas, Philon is still very raw and needs to add strength and size to his frame to become effective against the run. However, Philon possesses outstanding explosion off the snap and flashes serious upside as a 3-technique DT that can disrupt the pocket on passing downs.

Round 7, Pick 242: WR George Farmer, University of Southern California

Farmer blew his knee out and missed the 2013 season, but he still has excellent hands and the attitude to catch contested passes over the middle. Farmer's major weakness last season was his lack of explosiveness, but a 4.35 second 40 yard dash at USC's pro day suggests Farmer might have more in the tank as he becomes comfortable with his knee post surgery. Even with the selection of Bell earlier in the draft, the I doubt many Panthers fans would complain about more competition at the receiver position, especially when some speed might be injected.

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Draft Study Guide: Panthers Mock Draft 2.0

It has been a week since I last released a mock draft and there have been a few pro days and the announcement of compensation picks during that time. Here is a new look at how the Panthers could be drafting in a little over a month.

Round 1, Pick 25: WR Breshad Perriman, University of Central Florida

That look after you've just clocked a 4.22 40... pic.twitter.com/UaZmXWkW9M
— Eric DeSalvo (@EricDeSalvo) March 25, 2015

Yes, I had him projected to the Panthers in the third round last week. But a sub-4.3 40, even if hand-timed, can do crazy things for a big receiver. Just look at the scouts reacting to the times they all have. So, this has led me to hope that the Panthers will draft a big bodied wide receiver from a school in Florida for the second straight year. Perriman possesses the aforementioned speed, to compliment a rock-solid 6'2", 212 pound frame that could make him a dynamic receiver on the outside. Riddle me this: if you have Kelvin Benjamin on one side, Breshad Perriman on the other, and Greg Olsen running up the seam, how do you stop Ted Ginn Jr. over the top or Cam taking off for a 34 yard scramble? You do not.

Another aspect of this selection is doubt about what tackle prospects could be available here. If DJ Humphries or Andrus Peatis available, I think the Panthers would pull the trigger there. However, I do not think that La'el Collins, Ereck Flowers, or TJ Clemmings can start on the left side from day one, which should be the expectation if we do take a tackle here. There are plenty of right tackles to be taken later in the draft. This mock anticipates four offensive lineman going before the Panthers select (Scherff, Humphries, Peat, and Fisher).

Round 2, Pick 57: OT Ereck Flowers, University of Miami (FL)

I know, I know - I said that right tackles can be found later in the draft, but right tackles who could transition to the left side after a year or two of NFL seasoning are worth second round picks. Flowers is a mauler first and foremost, which is why he can start from day one on the right side. His pass protection is a work in progress, however. His footwork can be sloppy and his hands do not carry the same power he displays in the run game. Michael Oher has been declared the de facto starting LT for 2015, and the Panthers have historically stuck with their declared LT (looking at you, Byron Bell), regardless of fan response or perceived ability. Flowers would be the BPA here and fits an important need down the line.

Round 3, Pick 89: DT Grady Jarrett, Clemson University

Offensive linemen do not look forward to seeing Grady Jarrett line up across from them. He has great off-the-snap quickness and combines it with good awareness and timing to explode at the snap and disrupt plays in the backfield. He is not a huge man, but he could instantly be the second best run-stopping defensive lineman for the Panthers. Putting Jarrett and Star side-by-side on rushing downs could force opposing teams to try running outside ("Go get 'em, Luke and TD!"). Keeping Jarrett in the Carolinas will be beneficial for both sides.

Round 4, Pick 124: DB Eric Rowe, University of Utah

I highlighted Rowe a couple days ago as a possible Day Three target, and here he shows up, as the Panthers's first selection on Day Three. His interception numbers are lacking (3), but Rowe has broken up 34 total passes. Rowe only has one year of experience at cornerback after playing at safety, he could potentially start at either role in the NFL.  Rowe has the size and potential to become an upper-echelon CB capable of defending the big-bodied receivers that the NFL is falling in love with.

Round 5, Pick 161: RB Mike Davis, University of South Carolina

Davis disappointed last year; he looked out of shape and played with a degree of nonchalance that has plagued recent South Carolina prospects (Jadaveon Clowney and Alshon Jeffrey come to mind). However, his 2013 season was impressive, and if motivated he could be a legitimate starting running back in the NFL. He could certainly spell Jonathan Stewart from the get go and develop into the lead back as Stewart's contract comes to an end.

Round 5, Pick 169: OT Jarmon Brown, University of Louisville

Brown is a big, big man and could develop into an asset on the right side of the offensive line given his quickness and frame. He struggled in pass protection in college, but his issues are with technique and could be coached up. The Panthers can certainly use depth along the offensive line, and Brown's floor is as a backup interior lineman. GM Dave Gettleman is loving these compensatory picks.

Round 5, Pick 174: OLB Jake Ryan, University of Michigan

Ryan has a similar physical profile to A.J. Klein with perhaps a bit more straight-line speed, but whereas Klein is heady and instinctual, Ryan's play style focuses on his competitiveness, effort, and physicality. Ryan would provide immediate depth both inside and outside at the linebacker position, as well as contributing on special teams. These extra picks have given the Panthers the luxury of drafting for reliable depth with decent starting potential, moves that can complete a roster cheaply.

Round 6, Pick 200: CB Garry Peters, Clemson University

How does a cornerback that has not allowed a touchdown in almost two years sound? Peters was First-Team All-ACC this year as a fifth-year senior. He will turn 24 during the season but has the physicality and bump-and-run mentality to contribute quickly in the right scheme. I think the Panthers play just the kind of scheme to benefit Peters, as they generate their pass rush via the front four and timely blitzes, meaning there is often deep coverage to help over the top. Peters ran in the same range as Josh Norman and could develop into a similar level player with patience.

Round 7, Pick 242: WR Mario Alford, West Virginia University

You want speed? Here you go! Alford ran a blistering 40 at his pro day that was hand-timed in the 4.3-range. He is small but could become an offensive weapon rather than a position-specific player. Panthers fans will doubt that Offensive Coordinator Mike Shula will know what to do with such a weapon, but I have faith in the Panthers organization that they would not let talent go to waste. Alford is also a weapon on special teams with home run capabilities. He has even been compared to T.Y. Hilton - one can only dream.

There you have it. Two wide receivers, two offensive linemen, two defensive backs, a defensive lineman, a linebacker, and a running back. A (what I believe to be) balanced draft focusing on players with modest ceilings but solid floors, but with a couple of possible hidden gems mixed in to ruffle the feathers a bit. What do you think?

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Draft Study Guide: Compensatory Picks Announced

The NFL has announced that 14 teams will receive a combined total of 32 compensatory picks in the upcoming draft - the Panthers have received two. Where are those picks and who might the Panthers select with them?

Is it sad that I was looking for this announcement all day? Constantly refreshing my Twitter feed? I Googled "NFL compensatory picks 2015" at least half-a-dozen times. As I have mentioned previously, we were not necessarily projected to receive any compensatory picks based solely on numbers of free agents lost and signed, but I had a feeling that some combination of Joe Webb, Antoine Cason, and Ed Dickson would be ruled to not count against us. Anyways, on to the good stuff.

The Panthers will be selecting 169th overall (first compensatory pick of the fifth round) and 213th overall (sixth compensatory pick of the sixth round).

[Cue Panthers fans rejoicing everywhere]

This is great news for GM Dave Gettleman and the Panthers franchise. Gettleman was brought up in scouting, has been successful in recent drafts, and has excelled in finding quality undrafted free agents. While his sixth round picks have both flunked (RB Kenjon Barner in 2013 and RB Tyler Gaffney last year), Panthers fans can find solace - and confidence - in his track record in the fourth and fifth rounds. Last year's finds of CB Bene Benwikere and S Tre' Boston payed serious dividends down the stretch last season as the Panthers fought their way into the playoffs somehow. 2013 fifth round pick A.J. Klein has provided solid linebacker depth and special teams play the past two seasons, while fourth rounder Edmund Kugbila has seemingly been on the Injured Reserves list his entire pro career.

Before I get into the picks, let me just establish that compensatory picks cannot be traded. The Panthers are locked into selecting at these two picks. Punter Brad Nortman is the last compensatory pick the Panthers made, in 2012. 

WR, Austin Hill, Arizona University

He tore his ACL during his junior season, and he did not look the same last season. And yet, his recent pro day performance indicated Hill may be trusting his knee more, translating to better speed and exlposiveness. His 4.62 and 4.57 40 times will not make any scouts jump up and down, but that is the same range that Kelvin Bejamin ran in last year. Hill was a semi-finalist for the Biletnikoff Award as a sophomore, and he has strong hands and knows how to use his 6'3" 212 pound frame. The Panthers will not have to rush him back, mostly because I do not think he would be the only wide receiver that the Panthers acquire between now and training camp. With patience and some professional strength and conditioning so that he can trust his knee again, Hill could be a real gem for the Panthers later in the draft.

FS, Adrian Amos, Penn State University

Amos is very athletic, running a 4.4 40 at his pro day after posting impressive shuttle numbers at the combine. He is much more of a center fielder-type safety than someone you want lining up in the box, but I believe much of that could be coached up by the Panthers staff. Amos has been criticized for seemingly shying away from making big plays and for weak tackling. Having watched his tape I wonder if it might be more of an attitude / swagger issue than actual technical form or football IQ. At this point in the draft, the Panthers should be looking for players they think have the potential to be serious contributors, and I believe Amos could become a starter with the right seasoning. At the very least, he could grow into a Colin Jones-type player with better coverage skills.

CB, Ladarius Gunter, University of Miami (Florida)

I cannot lie, when I saw that NFL.com had his comparable player as Carolina's own Josh Norman, my eyes lit up. The video I had seen of Gunter matched up. Neither Norman nor Gunter has blazing speed; both are big, physical receivers who like to get in the receiver's face. I will be keeping a close eye on how Gunter performs at Miami's pro day on April 1st - a strong performance there would validate the Josh Norman comparison more, and likely improve his draft stock. Gunter has experience on multiple phases of special teams and could contribute there immediately. He also possesses the versatility to play safety in single-high coverage.

RT Daryl Williams, Oklahoma University

If you like big, powerful offensive linemen, look no further. Williams is 100% hog molly and could be what Jeff Otah (shudder) was once meant to become as a road-grading right tackle to run behind. He definitely has more power than athleticism, which will lock him into being a right tackle or possibly necessitating a shift inside to guard. At this point in the draft, Williams potential value on the right side matches - if not exceeds - the draft capital the Panthers would be spending on him.

DT Leterrius Walton, Central Michigan University

Walton is a former offensive lineman, and that fact is evident in how he uses his hands and his lack of leverage. He demonstrates above average footwork and could become a dominant run stopper with time. Walton has a huge frame that could add on weight to allow him to better anchor against double teams. This would be a developmental pick in anticipation of Colin Cole's and Dwan Edwards's careers coming to a close soon.

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Draft Study Guide: Day Three Targets

For this portion of the Draft Study Guide, I will highlight some prospects as names-to-remember on the third day of the draft.

These picks will obviously be influenced by who the Panthers select on days one and two. I will look at five prospects that I have not previously delved into in detail that I think could be selected regardless of rounds one and two. 

OLB Kwan Alexander, LSU

Thomas Davis turns 32 today (happy birthday TD58!), and he cannot play forever, no matter how much he might like to do so. Grabbing Alexander early on day three will be a step to ensure that the Panthers will not be left scrambling when Davis eventually retires. Alexander is a bit slight (6'1" and 227 pounds), but some time in an NFL strength and conditioning program should remedy that quickly. He has good lateral quickness and straight line speed, possesses high character, and shows no fear when taking on offensive linemen. The main negative Alexander is indicted with is his lack of football awareness; he gets locked in on his assignment and can lose track of the ball, which led to some huge blown plays last season at LSU. However, bringing him in to study under Davis and Luke Kuechly would allow Alexander to learn the nuances of NFL linebacking from two of the greatest active linebackers. He can immediately come in and be a significant special teams performer, while providing depth at linebacker.

Estimated round: 3 or 4

DE Za'Darious Smith, Kentucky

Does anyone else get caught watching Za'Darius Smith when trying to chart Alvin Dupree?
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) March 19, 2015

With Greg Hardy officially not coming back, take a moment and examine the depth chart at the defensive end position. Charles Johnson is a Pro Bowl caliber end locked in on the left side. Then, there are a bunch of question marks. Kony Ealy showed flashes, but can he consistently hold up throughout a game? Mario Addison and Wes Horton are depth guys, and Frank Alexander has been suspended so much, it is kind of a surprise that he is still around considering Jerry Richardson's reputation. Smith has a strong motor, and could develop into a Mike Rucker-type run stopping anchor on the right side. He only played a single year in the SEC following a strong showing in the JUCO ranks, but was a significant part of Kentucky's defense last season. He will probably never have gaudy sack numbers, but he can become a strong run-defending defensive end in the NFL.

Estimated round: 4 through 6

CB / S Eric Rowe, Utah

Rowe was a free safety his first three years at Utah before switching to cornerback as a senior. It is that flexibility that I think could appeal to the Panthers. He is long and had a strong overall combine performance, but his hips look tight on tape and he has only played corner for one year, which is why I think he falls to day three. The Panthers could bring Rowe in and let defensive coordinator Sean McDermott piece him into the puzzle. In reading about and watching Rowe he reminded me a lot of recent visitor Alan Ball as a long safety / cornerback who is a scheme-specific player.

Estimated round: 4 or 5

OC Shaquille Mason, Georgia Tech

I understand the limitations Mason possesses in terms of pass protecting ability having come from the option offense at Georgia Tech. As lagging as his pass protection may be, he is an absolute mauler in the run game and could succeed there from day one. I would bring him into training camp telling him he could compete for a starting spot at RG; the best of Andrew Norwell, Trai Turner, and Mason could be our starting duo with the third providing quality depth. Amini Silatolu and Edmund Kugbila cannot stay healthy, and I hope they have ended the Panthers' obsession with small-school guards with crazy names. Mason's size and limited experience in pass protection drive him down day three.

Estimated round: 5 or 6

WR Tre' McBride, William & Mary

He looks the part of an NFL wide receiver, but McBride does not come without his question marks. He ran a 4.41 40 at the combine, but he rarely appears to run away from defenders on tape. In fact, he often struggles to create separation, leading to some incredible acrobatic catches. McBride has become successful at fighting for contested balls, but having played at William & Mary, why were the catches so contested in the first place? McBride also has special teams experience. If WR coach Ricky Proehl feels confident he can teach McBride how to get open against NFL defenses, the W&M product could be a great day three selection. 

Estimated round: 4 or 5

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Grade Report: FA S Kurt Coleman, Kansas City Chiefs

GM Dave Gettleman has signed another free agent safety - his fourth in three offseasons. How did he do with his newest acquisition?

The Player:

Kurt Coleman was the 14th ranked cornerback in the country coming out of high school. While attending Ohio State University, Coleman switched positions to safety. He was an All-American his senior year (68 tackles, 5 interceptions, 3 forced fumbles) and was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles - and defensive coordinator Sean McDermott - in the seventh round. In 2011 and 2012, Coleman made 171 tackles, had six interceptions, and forced two fumbles in 29 games. He made three interceptions last year for Kansas City as a part-time player, and has value due to his versatility.

The Fit:

Coleman can play either safety position, has seen some time as a nickleback, and makes strong contributions on special teams. Coleman has been very adamant in interviews earlier today that he intends on competing for a starting position as a safety. Tre Boston impressed down the stretch last season, and Roman Harper is the lone veteran presence in the defensive backfield. Coleman seems to have been signed to take Robert Lester's place on the roster; Lester has bounced back-and-forth between the roster and the practice squad enough to show that the coaching staff feels they have seen all there is to see. Coleman seems to strike many of the same notes as already-Panther Colin Jones.

The Contract:

2 years - $2,800,000; $600,000 signing bonus

The Grade and Analysis:

B; I think this signing speaks most to the weakness of the safety draft class this year. If Gettleman felt there was another Boston-esque safety available in the middle rounds of this year's draft, I think he would have addressed the position in that manner. Coleman will provide quality depth and a special teams presence at a low-cost rate, something valuable to a playoff team. 

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