2015 NFL mock draft: P.J. Williams to Arizona Cardinals at No. 55

When the first-round picks from this mock draft were graded, the Cardinals scored the lowest for the pick of pass rusher Preston Smith. While I didn’t like the pick, I didn’t think it was the worst of the round. If you didn’t like that choice from Jess Root of Revenge of the Birds, you’ll have a hard time disagreeing with this one.

Root: Bruce Arians said he wanted a long, fast cornerback to add to the squad he already has. Williams is that guy. Perhaps falling a bit because of his recent DUI, the Cardinals have dealt with players who have some issues -- one with success in Tyrann Mathieu, and one without as much in Daryl Washington.

Williams has the length and speed the Cards want, and his ability to play press man will be a good match for the Cardinals’ defense, as they (at least under Todd Bowles) really liked playing press man with both outside corners and blitzing.

Also considered for this pick was Benardrick McKinney, as the Cardinals -- despite signing Sean Weatherspoon -- have some long-term questions at inside linebacker. In the end, Williams’ fit was a little better, and some believe he could end up being the best corner in this draft class.

Dan Kadar, SBNation.com: This is a pick that is a necessity, and one that happens to be a steal. Williams has legitimate first-round talent, but we could very well see him slide this far in the draft. He’s an experienced man coverage cornerback and at Florida State was often tasked with the opposing team’s best receiver. If you can make sure he’s stay on the straight and narrow, you have a long-term starter and what should quickly be one of the best cornerback duos in the league.

One down, two picks to go in the mock draft today. Up at noon is Jeff Hartman of Behind the Steel Curtain making the Pittsburgh Steelers.