With the draft coming up, I’m going to try and mock this thing as best I can; and, based on Mel Kiper’s past predictions, I can probably do better. You’ll see his mock drafts all over the web the next few months, but be advised: One, the guy’s a terrible judge in talent and, two, he’s seldom right. We’ll see how I do, but I can’t imagine doing much worse.

For past picks and predictions, click here.

Today’s Selection: Cincinnati Bengals, Pick No. 9

With the ninth pick, the Bengals have to address the defense, unless they plan on moving Chad Johnson and decide to address a receiver (and in this draft, there aren’t any top 10 receivers). There’s a good chance Vernon could be gone by this point, given his size and speed, and his ability to probably play end/linebacker in the NFL.

The Bengals need more than just one player to shape up that D, but getting a cornerstone guy who can play two positions with the ninth pick isn’t a bad start.