C3 Mock 3.0: Picks 41-48

Draft week is here, and C3’s Mock Draft 3.0 is here.  This version takes is our final version and is our predictions of what we think will happen. Smokewagon is back making his picks along with me in the First Round.  We each give insight as to why we think each one makes sense.  As usual, we look at some of these selections from a Panthers Fan point of view, but no matter who you are a fan of, take a look and let us know your thoughts.  You can follow me on twitter at @PanthersDrafter and Smokewagon (@SamSslater96)

With JoLonn Dunbar and Alec Ogletree both finishing with negative grades from PFF for the year, the talented Shaq Thompson fills a huge need and is probably the best player left on the board too.  Playing in the NFC West, you’d better have good linebackers to chased down and to contain mobile QBs.

This young man is a spark plug at 5’8.  But he’s also a touchdown machine with 19 this past season.  He also averaged 6.1 yards per carry and with Stephen Jackson gone, look for the Falcons to bring in a very talented Running Back.  I’d prefer Ajayi but I think the Falcons prefer Abdullah.

This mammoth of a man who is 6’5/320 is just the guy to clog the middle and let the rest of the Defense run free.  Has broad shoulders and will do what is needed out of a NT.  Doesn’t have the best burst off the ball and that is the only reason he is available at 43. 

The Saints really struggled in pass protection and especially up the middle.  They did trade for Max Unger and they will look to switch to more of a power-running team with Mark Ingram, so beefing up the interior line makes sense. 

Xavier Rhodes is an animal but needs a running mate.  Alex Carter is long and very intelligent.  This will be a very solid addition to the Vikings D and former Panther, Captain Munnerlyn can focus on being the Nickleback. 

The 49ers signed Reggie Bush, but lost Frank Gore.  They have to add playmakers to help out Kapernick.  Ajayi is a three-down back that catches the ball out of the backfield better than any other Running Back in the draft.  I look for this to be a high value pick for the rebuilding 49ers.

The Dolphins have been cutting WRs left and right and you know they will have to target a WR with this pick.  Doesn’t Dorsett remind of the recently released Mike Wallace?  They wanted Wallace to stretch the field and now they need to replace that speed.  Hometown sensation will also bring some fans along with him.  Natural pick here.

The window is starting to close on Philip Rivers’ career (reports are this could be his last or that he could be traded during this draft) and he needs some talent in the run game to help him out.  Mathews is in Philadelphia and Coleman has been out for a visit.  After passing on Gurley in the first, this has to be the pick.