2015 NFL Predictions: Mock Draft – Pre-Combine Top 5 Picks – Winston #1 to Tampa Bay

2015 NFL Predictions: Mock Draft – Pre-Combine Top 5 Picks – Winston #1 to Tampa Bay: The 2015 NFL Scouting Combine is about to begin, and the performance of the players that participate will boost the draft stock of some while damaging the stock of others. In some cases, a player’s performance in the combine can even determine whether or not they are drafted at all. Needless to say, the combine will have a big impact on the 2015 NFL Draft, but before 40-yard dash times and bench reps come into play, here is a look at my current top-five picks for the NFL Draft.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State Seminoles 

While Oregon QB Marcus Mariota probably has more upside because of his mobility, it is going to take him to learn to play under center in a pro-style system, and there is no guarantee he will ever make the transition. Meanwhile, Winston already has the pocket presence, anticipation and ability to read defenses an NFL quarterback needs to be successful. He has also shown he is comfortable in big spots and comfortable playing from behind. He will have to say all the right things in the interview, but in the end, I expect the Buccaneers to opt for the NFL-ready Winston.

2. Tennessee Titans: Leonard Williams, DT, USC Trojans

Williams is probably the safest option on the board at any position, and he also happens to fill a major need for the Titans. Tennessee allowed the second-most rushing yards in the league last year, and Williams has the combination of size, strength and speed to help control the line of scrimmage and make plays in the backfield. Throw in the fact that Ken Whisenhunt has preferred a prototypical pocket passer throughout his coaching career, and it seems unlikely the Titans roll the dice on Oregon QB Marcus Mariota when Williams is a safe, strong option that addresses one of the team’s biggest problems.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars: Randy Gregory, DE, Nebraska Cornhuskers

Gus Bradley is a defensive-minded head coach, and after the Jaguars allowed the sixth-most points in the NFL last year, you can bet he will be looking to find players that can help change that. Gregory needs to bulk up a bit, but he is probably the most athletic pass-rusher in the draft, and his ability use elite speed and agility off the edge should make him a great fit in Bradley’s defensive system. Gregory is a great prospect and a great fit, and I expect the Jaguars to snatch him up and groom him to be the explosive playmaker the defense currently lacks.

4. Oakland Raiders: Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide

Given the depth at wide receiver in this draft, the Raiders could certainly trade this pick to a team looking to move up to snag Oregon QB Marcus Mariota. However, Cooper is the likely pick if they stay put. Oakland needs a true No. 1 target for QB David Carr, and Cooper is coming off a year when he terrorized the SEC on his way to being a Heisman finalist. He is probably the best route runner in this draft, and he certainly possesses the best combination of hands, route running and speed. As long as he manages a solid 40-yard dash time, Cooper will almost certainly cement his status as a top-five pick.

5. Washington Redskins: Dante Fowler, OLB, Florida Gators

Washington has a lot of needs, and if Oregon QB Marcus Mariota is on the board still as I have in my mock, I fully expect the Redskins to trade down to grab additional picks. They should have plenty of takers considering the New York Jets own the No. 6 pick and will likely jump on Mariota if he is left. If Washington stays put, I expect them to select a pass-rusher to replace OLB Brian Orakpo. Fowler can play on the line of scrimmage or in space, and his length, speed and motor give him a chance to be one of the most productive edge-rushers in the draft.

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