The 2012 NFL Draft is just a few short months away and the Stanford Cardinal expect to see numerous players selected in the first round. While most feel Andrew Luck is a consensus No. 1 pick, offensive linemen Jonathan Martin and David DeCastro could find themselves with just about any team in the league. Here is the latest mock draft from FOX Sports and Peter Schrager:
Luck:
1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford: Luck's going to be an Indianapolis Colt. That's not even an issue. The real question is, "What happens to Peyton Manning?" Because of the new collective bargaining agreement rules, it's not a crippling proposition to have both Manning's and Luck's salaries on the books. Would Luck be open to that? Would Manning? As I've been saying since Week 4, what Indianapolis decides to do with Manning this offseason should make for one of the most intriguing personnel moves of all time.
Martin:
9. Miami Dolphins*: Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford: If Miami can't get an elite QB in the first round, the Dolphins could do a lot worse than locking up another franchise tackle in Martin. Some quarterback - whether it be Matt Moore, a re-signed Chad Henne or a free agent to be named later - would have the amazing luxury of having Jake Long, Mike Pouncey and Martin protecting him for the next decade. Who that quarterback is remains the looming - and most important - offseason question in Miami this offseason. Oh, and finding a head coach, too.
DeCastro:
13. Arizona Cardinals: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford: The Arizona Cardinals' defense was one of the best stories of the season's second half. The offense struggled mightily, though. Look for Arizona to bolster the interior of its offensive line, adding a mauler like DeCastro in the middle. Lost in a lot of the Andrew Luck and Jonathan Martin draft buzz this year was the season DeCastro has had at guard for Stanford. He'll help open up holes for a run game that hasn't been very good in years.
The 2012 NFL Draft will run from April 26 to April 28. Regardless of where these three end up, Stanford fans should be very proud of the strides their players have made over the last few seasons.
For more on the Cardinal, head on over to Rule Of Tree.