Matchmaker: Finding the perfect draft prospect for every team in the AFC
The majority of NFL teams will head into the draft with a strategy of sticking with their board and taking the best player available rather than reaching to fill a need.
But what if a combination of value, need, and scheme fit all fell together perfectly?
AFC | NFC
Baltimore Ravens
Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State
The draft's consensus No. 1 cornerback still sitting on the board would be a dream scenario for Baltimore. Pairing Ramsey with Jimmy Smith, in addition to the safety tandem of Eric Weddle and Lardarius Webb, would go a long way toward helping the defense bounce back after an incredibly disappointing year.
Buffalo Bills
Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
Buffalo shouldn't waste much time if Ragland is still on the board when the draft in the opening round. A true three-down linebacker, the Alabama product would be quick to emerge as a long-term staple in the front seven of Rex Ryan's defense.
Cincinnati Bengals
Keanu Neal, S, Florida
Having let Reggie Nelson walk in free agency, Cincinnati is evidently looking to get younger on the back end. Neal's physicality makes him an impact player in the box, but he also has the athleticism to contribute in pass coverage.
Cleveland Browns
Jared Goff, QB, Cal
The Browns should be targeting a quarterback of the future at the top of the first round. Carson Wentz may be getting more attention leading up to the draft, but Goff's ability in the vertical game makes him the far more sensible fit for Hue Jackson's offense.
Denver Broncos
Cody Whitehair, OL, Kansas State
Whether it's Colin Kaepernick, Mark Sanchez, or a rookie quarterback taking over, the Broncos desperately need to bolster the offensive line. Whitehair is the perfect fit for Gary Kubiak's zone-heavy scheme either at guard or tackle.
Houston Texans
Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
It remains to be seen whether Brock Osweiler will ever truly emerge as a franchise quarterback, but Houston is certainly banking on it. Coleman, the draft's most explosive playmaker, would be a strong complement to DeAndre Hopkins at receiver.
Indianapolis Colts
Jonathan Williams, RB, Arkansas
With roster needs across the board, the Colts likely can't justify spending an early pick on a running back. Addressing the running game is imperative to take some pressure off Andrew Luck, though, and Williams coming off an injury could push him into a mid-round range that makes sense for Indianapolis.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
With two quarterback-needy teams sitting up top, the Jaguars could end up having a top target fall right into their laps at No. 5. Jack's explosiveness from a number of positions would be a key addition for Jacksonville's up-and-coming defense.
Kansas City Chiefs
Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
The Chiefs should be searching for Sean Smith's replacement if the defense is to remain strong in 2016. Apple is another cornerback with prototypical size who can excel in man coverage.
Miami Dolphins
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
The Dolphins have come up short in every attempt to find a long-term replacement for Lamar Miller this offseason. Elliott would be an instant three-down contributor that can take pressure off Ryan Tannehill in Adam Gase's offense.
New England Patriots
Shilique Calhoun, DE, Michigan State
Not having a first-round pick shouldn't keep the Patriots from landing an impact player early. Calhoun could immediately step into a sub-package role to help the defense overcome the loss of Chandler Jones.
New York Jets
Dak Prescott, QB, Mississippi State
The Jets need to address their future at quarterback, regardless of whether Ryan Fitzpatrick re-signs. Prescott can thrive as part of Chan Gailey's spread system, competing with 2015 fourth-round pick Bryce Petty for the long-term role behind center.
Oakland Raiders
Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
The Raiders have done a tremendous job rebuilding their defensive front in recent drafts. Rankins, an interior presence capable of dominating against the run and getting after the quarterback from the three-technique spot, would be the final piece for a potentially dominant unit.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
Pittsburgh should be hoping one of the top four offensive tackles falls to them in the first round. Decker's physical presence, presumably on the left side, can provide a significant upgrade following the free-agent departure of Kelvin Beachum.
San Diego Chargers
Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
King Dunlap's contract shouldn't keep the Chargers from taking a top-tier left tackle when they have the chance. Tunsil would solidify a long-struggling unit up front, upgrading the protection around Philip Rivers for the latter years of his NFL career.
Tennessee Titans
Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
Tennessee would be thrilled to have Conklin on the board in the middle of the first round. After stockpiling picks in a massive trade with Los Angeles, this is still a strong addition at right tackle that allows Taylor Lewan to remain on the left side.
Related: Finding the perfect draft prospect for every team in the NFC