NFL Mock Draft: Full 1st round action

11. Chicago Bears: Darron Lee – OLB – Ohio State

Why?: John Fox is a defensive-minded Head Coach for a team that has a less than impressive defense.  He’s going to demand that change.  The Bears already made some key additions this offseason to bolster the defensive side of the ball, but Lee represents a building block for the future.  His athleticism is outstanding, and he can be moved all over the field, which Fox will love.

Replacing Matt Forte: There will be a major push by some in the building to draft Ezekiel Elliott (RB – Ohio State) to replace the departed Matt Forte.

For years, Forte was a fixture in the offense and was one of the best all around threats in the NFL.  Elliot shows similar potential and could be an attractive option for those wanting to recreate that.

12. New Orleans Saints: William Jackson III – CB – Houston

Why?: Only nine interceptions in 2015 is why.  Just 12 interceptions in 2014 is why.  Surrendering 45 touchdowns in 2015 is why.  The Saints need a playmaker in the secondary, and Jackson picked off or knocked down a lot of passes in college.

Personally, I think Jackson is way over-hyped, but I won’t be the one making this pick and a many people seem to like him a lot.

Could the Brees era be ending?: Saints football for the past decade has been defined by one man…Drew Brees.  Many people think he can do no wrong…those people haven’t seen how he has devastated the Saints salary cap.

Nearly 20 percent of the Saints cap goes to Brees this year.  That’s insane.  Worse?  They are looking to give him a new deal, and he wants it to be just as big, or bigger.  The Saints could/should look to trade back and take a young QB like Connor Cook (QB – Michigan State) to groom.

Next: Picks 13-14