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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Matt Kalil Projects As Top Lineman Taken, No. 2 Or No. 3

The 2012 NFL Draft doesn't begin until April 26, but the one thing we think we know for sure is that quarterback Andrew Luck appears headed to the Indianapolis Colts as the number one pick. After that, Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III is in the mix for the No. 2 pick, but it may depend on whether or not a team trades up into that spot. USC Trojans All-American left tackle Matt Kalil will likely be the top offensive lineman taken in the draft, and could go as high as No. 2 overall.

In a pair of mock drafts on CBS Sports, Kalil is projected to be picked either second or third. Dane Brugler has Kalil going No. 2 overall to the St. Louis Rams, noting, "With the Jason Smith selection (No. 2 overall pick in 2009) looking like a dud, St. Louis will have a tough time passing on Southern California tackle Matt Kalil."

Analyst Rob Rang has wide receiver Justin Blackmon getting picked second by St. Louis, with Kalil falling to the Minnesota Vikings at No. 3. "The Vikings aren't likely to pass on an opportunity to draft a future Pro Bowler," said Rang. "Scouts would like to see Kalil play with more consistent technique, but he's been able to dominate at the collegiate level based only on his size (6-6, 295) and athleticism."

For more on Kalil and the USC Trojans, head on over to Conquest Chronicles. To talk about the NFL Draft in general, head on over to Mocking the Draft.