Mel Kiper has released his first 2012 NFL mock draft (In$ider), and he has the Tennessee Titans taking Nick Perry, DE, USC. Perry has obviously become a very popular selection in mock drafts for the Titans. It does make a lot of sense because of the need the Titans have for a pass rusher, but it is something I hope they can address in free agency.

Here is what Kiper had to say about the pick:

He started as a freshman at Southern Cal, and it's because he is just a natural pass-rusher. This season, he added to his repertoire, and he can help a team early as a pass-rushing specialist in a 4-3 defense. Tennessee's pass rush was really bad this season; the Titans got to opposing quarterbacks on just 4.52 percent of drop-backs, a rate that was 31st in the NFL. Perry probably could add some bulk to his frame, but his instincts as a pass-rusher are in place and the Titans certainly need the help.

Kiper is obviously not as high on Alshon Jeffery as I am. It is going to be really interesting to see what he weighs in at when the combine comes around. That will be a big factor in where he goes.