The NFL Combine has come and gone, which means the next big thing on the NFL calendar is the Draft in April. A lot of players will move around the board based on their Combine performances, but it hasn't changed much for the Florida teams in the new 2012 NFL Mock Draft from SB Nation. One thing it did change is the Bucs pick at No. 5, where LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne might have earned a higher pick. As a result, they take Alabama running back Trent Richardson.
Richardson was limited at the Combine, but his impassioned defense of the value of running backs was hard to ignore, in his case anyway. Richardson is the exception that proves the rule -- a talented, versatile running back that can improve an offense from the first snap of the season.
Next up the Jaguars who take North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples. . . again.
Coples did nothing at the Combine to upset his status as the top outside pass rusher in the draft this year. In fact, Coples' speedy times in the workouts confirmed his explosive ability. The Jaguars could make some quick gains and help out Blaine Gabbert by improving their defense. They are talking contract with Jeremy Mincey. Pairing him with Coples would improve their pass rush.
Finally the Dolphins, who get a little bit of a surprise when Justin Blackmon slides to them at No. 8.
Prior to the Combine, most would have thought it impossible that Blackmon fell outside the top five. A week in Indy was a good reminder of exactly what people mean when they say the Oklahoma State product is not A.J. Green. Blackmon looks like he will be a fine receiver in the NFL. At his pro day, we may get a better idea whether or not he can be a dynamic one or just a solid possession receiver. Either way, the Dolphins could use a second set of hands to go with Brandon Marshall. That should make life easier for whoever their quarterback is this season.
For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars, visit Big Cat Country. For more on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, visit Bucs Nation. For more on the Miami Dolphins, visit The Phinsider. For more on all of the Florida teams, stay tuned to SB Nation Tampa Bay.