Floyd isn't the most explosive receiver in the draft, but the Cardinals don't need him to be. They already have that in veteran star Larry Fitzgerald. Floyd instead uses his size and strength to make plays. Fitzgerald probably loves the pick because it will take some of the double teams off him. Floyd will fit in nicely as the number two receiver behind Fitzgerald. It also allows Cardinals wide receiver Early Doucet to play as the slot receiver, a position he will be more comfortable in. Having three solid receivers, will take some of the pressure off the Cardinals quarterbacks, who struggled at times last season. It will also help open up lanes for the team's running backs and play action off of that. Floyd will learn a lot from playing with Fitzgerald. The two could blossom into another dynamic duo of receivers in the desert for the Cardinals.
2. New England Patriots - Chandler Jones, DE Syracuse/ Dont'a Hightower, ILB Alabama
You can always count on the Patriots at least mulling over some trade options. Head Coach Bill Belichick is a draft genius and mastermind when it comes to orchestrating these trades. In this year's draft, the Patriots made two trades to move up in the first round. The Patriots knew all along that they needed defensive help in the draft. Both first round picks look to fill in those wholes. Their first selection, Chandler Jones, lacks the flashiness of many first rounders, but offers nice upside as a pass-rusher. As lesser known commodity, probably because of playing at Syracuse, Jones offers flexibility the Patriots love. The Patriots also love the versatility and athleticism of their second pick, Dont'a Hightower. Hightower has great size and strength to play the linebacker position. He defends the run exceptionally well and his tackling ability is quite strong as well. He fits the Patriots
mold because of the versatility he offers. The Patriots could slot him in their 3-4 with Brandon Spikes. They could also use him opposite Rob Ninkovich to play along side Jerod Mayo. Hightower is another Alabama pick by the Patriots. It shows how much Belichick respects and trusts Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban. The Patriots already clearly addressed their needs in the first round of the draft. Jones and Hightower help provide the depth, athleticism, flexibility, and talent defensively to help this team win. Both rookies will get a chance to play right away. The Patriots need them to step up for the sake of the Patriots' defense.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers - David DeCastro, G Stanford
Offensive line was the biggest need for the Steelers coming into the draft. DeCastro was a dream fit, but he was expected to go long before (possibly Top Ten) the Steelers' 24th pick. However, DeCastro fell through the cracks, and the Steelers were more than happy to select him. One thing to note from the start is that DeCastro is a guard. Guards are rarely chosen this high in the draft. For that to happen, the guards have to extremely talented and respected. That describes DeCastro to a T. DeCastro was a three-year starter at Stanford. He only gave up one sack during that span, and it was freshman year. His work ethic at Stanford was described as a tough kids, who cares and works really hard. He is a beast in terms of pass blocking, and his run blocking is excellent as well. DeCastro will slot into the starting lineup this season next to Maurkice Pouncey. Many experts think that DeCastro can be a rookie Pro Bowler just like Pouncey was. The two of them should provide much stronger protection for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and open up interior running lanes for the backs. DeCastro will immeadiately help improve the Steelers' offensive line.
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