If there is one that is clear after looking at several iterations of 2012 NFL mock drafts, it is that USC Trojans left tackle extraordinaire will be the first offensive lineman taken in the draft, and likely in the top five. That means the All-American junior made the right call financially to turn pro and forgo his senior season with Matt Barkley and company. In the latest mock draft at SB Nation, Kalil is projected to be selected third overall by the Minnesota Vikings.
Stanford Cardinal quarterback Andrew Luck is projected by Ryan Van Bibber to be picked first overall by the Indianapolis Colts, with Heisman Trophy winner and Baylor Bears quarterback Robert Griffin III getting picked second by the Washington Redskins, after a trade with the St. Louis Rams.
Of Kalil, Van Bibber wrote, "Kalil is ready-made to start on the left side. Like all rookies, savvy veteran pass rushers will get the better of him from time to time, but it represents a big upgrade for the Vikings." Kalil led a dominant offensive line for the Trojans in 2011 that allowed just eight sacks of Barkley all season, and Kalil himself allowed none.
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