SB Nation's latest 2011 NFL Mock Draft throws a changeup for the Denver Broncos selection with the second overall pick. For the last couple of mocks, LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson had been the pick under the "best player available" rationale. Then last week it changed to Clemson defensive end Da'Quan Bowers.
This week former North Carolina Tar Heels defensive end Robert Quinn is the selection. Quinn missed the entire season and was ruled permanently ineligible by the NCAA for receiving agent benefits and preferential treatment. Mocking the Draft rates him as the No. 8 overall prospect in this draft. MTD also had very positive things to say about Quinn last spring, but there are questions over Quinn's future NFL position.
Is Quinn a defensive end or is he best-suited to be an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense? The Broncos have Elvis Dumervil returning from injury and there is the continuing hope that Robert Ayers will emerge as a serious threat on defense. Color me skeptical on Quinn for the Broncos right now, but evaluations and workouts could change that position.
Auburn defensive tackle Nick Fairley is still the No. 1 pick in this mock, while Peterson goes to the Arizona Cardinals at No. 5. Other defensive linemen the Broncos could take include Marcell Dareus (No. 3 to Buffalo) and Bowers (No. 6 to Cleveland).
Missouri's Blaine Gabbert is the only quarterback to go in the top 10 picks, with the Tennessee Titans making that selection at No. 8.
Making his first appearance in SB Nation's mock draft, Colorado Buffaloes offensive tackle Nate Solder goes to the Indianapolis Colts at No. 22. The 6-foot-9 lineman should definitely hear his name called in the first round.