2014 NFL Mock Draft: Pittsburgh Steelers Select Oklahoma State CB Justin Gilbert
By Matt Shetler
9. Buffalo Bills
Player Name: Jake Matthews
Position, School: OT, Texas A&M
Aug 4, 2013; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (6) during practice at Bryant Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports
The rise of Robinson and Lewan is good news for the Bills as they get a tackle in Matthews that can start on either side right away. Matthews played right tackle for two seasons at Texas A&M while Luke Joeckel held down the blind side. It’s that versatility that makes this blue-chip prospect so intriguing as he could step in right away and play on either side.
10. Detroit Lions
Player Name: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix
Position, School: S, Alabama
The Lions could look at a wide receiver or tight end here, but cornerback and safety are the two biggest needs for Detroit right now.
Clinton-Dix has injury concerns, but he’s clearly the best safety in this class and can step in as the team’s starter at free safety right away. Clinton-Dix has the size to be a hitter and the speed to play in coverage. He’s a dynamic three down player who has the talent to excel in any scheme right off the bat.
11. Tennessee Titans
Player Name: Anthony Barr
Position, School: LB, UCLA
Barr is an outstanding athlete who will fit very nicely into new Titans’ head coach Ken Whisenhunt’s 3-4 scheme. He played defense for the first time in 2012, after being a former running back, and made an instant impact, recording 13 sacks.
He had 20 tackles for loss and 10 sacks this past season. Barr has the speed and strength to come off the edge and is also very good in coverage. The Titans can’t go wrong with this pick.
12. New York Giants
Player Name: Aaron Donald
Position, School: DT, Pitt
The Giants have a need on the defensive line and Donald looks like a great fit. He could be the most dominant player in the draft and could rejuvenate some dominance to the New York defensive front.
Donald had a dominant Senior Bowl and a very good Combine and although he undersized is a very good fit for the Giants’ defense. He skyrocket up draft boards and while there may be some temptation here to take tight end Eric Ebron, it’s hard for the Giants to pass on the Pitt product.