29. Green Bay Packers: Jarrad Davis, linebacker, Florida
We’re not too sure why experts have mocked the Packers to go cornerback. They simply need to find an inside linebacker so Clay Matthews can move to his more natural EDGE position. The trickle-down effect this would have is massive. While Davis is considered more of a 4-3 outside linebacker, we can easily see him transitioning to the inside in Green Bay’s system. It’s a solid fit all the way around.
30. Pittsburgh Steelers: Taco Charlton, EDGE, Michigan
Jarvis Jones and Bud Dupree combined for 5.5 sacks last season. These are two recent first-round picks that simply have not lived up to expectations. With Jones having now moved on to Arizona, there’s surely a need here. Charlton is the best fit as a 3-4 EDGE guy with exceptional ability to get the to quarterback. He could be an immediate impact player for Pittsburgh.
31. Atlanta Falcons: Derek Rivers, EDGE, Youngstown State
Threw you for a loop here, aye? Rivers is someone that’s gaining a lot of traction heading into the draft and it would not be a surprise to see him go in the first round. In fact, the Falcons have quietly shown interest in the small-school product. He’s a tremendous fit next to Vic Beasley and could potentially find time as a Day 1 EDGE starter for Atlanta. That’s how high we are on him in Dan Quinn’s defensive system.
32. New Orleans Saints: T.J. Watt, EDGE, Wisconsin
Watt might not be as highly heralded as his older brother, but he surely does have the tape that tells us a story of someone who can provide consistent 10-plus sack potential. Likely a better fit in a 3-4 scheme, Watt would make the Saints’ defense just that much better after they added safety Jamal Adams earlier in the first round.