ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. released his second mock draft this week ahead of next week's NFL Combine in Indianapolis.
Here is how Kiper sees the first round shaping out for the teams in the NFC North.
No. 3 overall - Minnesota Vikings
Kiper's pick: USC offensive tackle Matt Kalil
Kiper writes: "The Vikings need to upgrade at left tackle, and Kalil is the rare one who could step into that position right away at the NFL level. Great feet, arm length, athleticism and finishing skills as a run-blocker make him a very complete prospect. I can see the Vikings tempted if (WR, Justin) Blackmon is around here, which he very well could be, because they're also lacking weapons in the passing game. They could also go for a cornerback. It'll be one of three, all top needs."
No. 19 overall - Chicago Bears
Kiper's pick: Ohio State offensive tackle Mike Adams
Kiper writes: "We know the Bears will be looking for help at wide receiver, but just because the offensive line could be characterized as semi-adequate doesn't mean they should make the mistake of neglecting it and letting it fall apart again. Mike Tice knows as well as anybody that Jay Cutler can be successful in the passing game first if he's not getting hit on every play. Adams is a guy who I've come around on, because he simply knows how to protect the pocket. He can slide his feet and doesn't get beat inside, but he has the length and technique to protect the edge."
No. 23 overall - Detroit Lions
Kiper's pick: North Alabama cornerback Janoris Jenkins
Kiper writes: "At one time, Jenkins was destined to be a top-10 pick, and his talent level hasn't dipped. After exiting Florida, he spent a year at North Alabama, and is finally ready for the NFL. As a pure cover corner, in terms of pure instincts, ball skills and athleticism, you're looking at a potential Pro Bowl player. Jenkins is already a major threat in the return game. He has a history, but get him in the right system, and you could have a star. We know Detroit needs help at corner, and Jenkins might be too much value to pass up here."
No. 28 overall - Green Bay Packers
Kiper's pick: Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith
Kiper writes: "The Packers are another team that should be looking for the best value possible at either safety or cornerback, and Smith provides value here. What I like about Smith is his ability to do it all. He's not the world's greatest athlete, but any scout will tell you: At this position, you take the instincts over the athlete 100 out of 100 times. Smith gets great jumps in coverage and will get in passing lanes, but he's also outstanding in run support. You don't lose ground in one area when he's out there."
Around the NFC North:
Increase in touchbacks led to decrease in concussions on kickoffs
Brad Biggs - Chicago Tribune
Tommie Harris "overwhelmed by support"
Sean Jensen - Chicago Sun Times
Creative thinking finds best coach for position, McCarthy says
Kareem Copeland - Green Bay Press-Gazette
Former Packer Tauscher says Driver still has something to offer
Bob Wolfley - Journal Sentinel
Carter thinks receivers in general overlooked by Hall of Fame
Mark Craig - Star Tribune
Vikings' threat to leave Minneapolis is on the back burner, for now
Bob Sansevere - Pioneer Press


