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A lot has happened since my first mock draft. To start, the draft order has changed dramatically. New teams are picking within the top ten, with their picks holding the key as to how the rest of the draft pans out. Within one day, the 49ers traded with the Miami Dolphins to acquire the third pick. Immediately afterwards, the Dolphins traded back into the top ten, grabbing the sixth pick from the Philadelphia Eagles. After both of these deals, it’s important to note that the Dolphins have turned their original trade for Laremy Tunsil into five first-round picks. A job well-done by the Miami front office.
Collegiate pro days are also wrapping up. The top quarterbacks of the draft shined, with Trevor Lawrence and Zach Wilson leading the bunch. Justin Fields also stood out, running a 4.44 40-yard dash. Only one other quarterback has ran a faster 40-yard time, with Robert Griffin III running a 4.41 at the 2012 combine. Other skill players, such as Najee Harris of Alabama, also established a name for themselves. Do not be surprised if you see dark-horse players like Harris go in the first round of this draft.
Without further ado, here is my latest version of the NFL Draft. Please note again that any trades will be indicated in parentheses after the player is listed.
1. Trevor Lawrence – Quarterback, Clemson
Even after Pro Day, Trevor Lawrence is still the best quarterback available in this draft. His accuracy and agility allow him to extend nearly every play, making him a one-of-a-kind talent. First year Head Coach Urban Meyer should be tunnel-visioned on taking Lawrence with the first pick.
2. Zach Wilson – Quarterback, BYU
With news hitting headlines that the Jets traded their former quarterback Sam Darnold, there was almost no question what the next step in their reconstruction was. With the second pick, the Jets will without a doubt take Zach Wilson. Ranked as the second-best quarterback in this draft behind Lawrence, Zach Wilson could bring a dynamic culture to the Meadowlands. His athleticism and ability to move out of the pocket will allow him to be creative in a young Jets offense. Coming aboard a team that is desperate for a new voice, Zach Wilson could be their anchor for years to come.
3. Justin Fields – Quarterback, Ohio State (Texans’ Pick Via Trade from Dolphins)
It’s almost too easy to predict what John Lynch and the 49ers have in mind with the third pick. Seeing Jimmy Garoppolo has performed sub-par since their Super Bowl 54 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, it’s beginning to look like the franchise will go in a different direction. With other top names available, such as Justin Fields and Mac Jones, the question is: who will the 49ers take? Rumors have surfaced that Head Coach Kyle Shanahan and General Manager John Lynch are divided on who to take. Lynch is reportedly interested in Fields, but Shanahan loves Mac Jones. I have the 49ers taking Justin Fields here. John Lynch has the final say on the pick, and Fields is a quarterback who needs time to develop. He can sit behind Garoppolo until his contract expires, and then takeover once he is ready. It’s a win-win for the 49ers.
4. Trey Lance – Quarterback, North Dakota State (Via Trade from Falcons)
The Patriots have exceeded every expectation this offseason. They signed both of the top free agent tight ends, they signed key defensive pieces in Matt Judon and Jalen Mills, and they signed two more receivers in Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne. With Bill Belichick showing signs of unusual aggressiveness, it would not be surprising to see the Patriots trade up for their long-term quarterback. Trey Lance fits a similar mold to Cam Newton. He relies on his legs to extend plays and has a cannon for an arm (Newton had a strong arm when he first entered the league). If drafted, Lance can sit behind Newton for his first season and learn the system. Once Newton’s deal is over, Lance can come in and take over. The only thing stopping this scenario from playing out is Bill Belichick finally applying the brakes to his aggressive offseason.
5. Penei Sewell – Offensive Tackle, Oregon
Like my first mock draft, the Bengals select Penei Sewell with the fifth pick. If the draft plays out this way, the Bengals will be in golden position to take their franchise tackle. The 6’6”, 330-pound prospect from Oregon could help lead a dismal Bengals front line. Joe Burrow struggled with protection last season, and Sewell could slide right in to protect Burrow’s blind side.
6. J’Marr Chase - Wide Receiver, Louisiana State
If you’re in Vegas right now, I would bet $1000 that the Dolphins will take a wide receiver with the sixth pick. After Miami traded out of the top three, there was speculation that they would hold off on drafting a skills player first. However, after they pulled off their second trade with Philadelphia, there’s no question that Miami wants offense. With rumors still circling that the Dolphins will take a wide receiver; the sixth pick puts them in a more realistic slot to take one. J’Marr Chase is the most raw-talented player in this draft, offering speed and agility like no other prospect. Miami would be gaining a huge boost if they draft him, especially on the outside.
7. Micah Parsons – Linebacker, Penn State
The Lions hold the key to how the rest of the first round plays out. Seeing that they have needs are nearly every position, there are numerous scenarios that occur. If the Lions take a quarterback, that forces teams in the latter-half to wait until the second round to take a quarterback. If they take defense, other defensive-needy franchises may think about other positions, such as offensive line. With this pick, I have the Lions selecting Micah Parsons. Like I mentioned in my previous draft, Parsons can fit two molds as one player. He can provide coverage in the middle of the field and act as a forceful pass rusher. This fills two key needs for the Lions, helping a defense that allowed 32.4 points per game in 2020 (worst in NFL). Parsons has the ability to lead this defense, and it seems like a no-brainer for Detroit.
8. Kyle Pitts – Tight End, Florida
It seems as though the Deshaun Watson rumors in Carolina are long over. With Sam Darnold set to take the reins in 2021, it looks like the Panthers will no longer pursue a quarterback in the open market or in the draft. Instead, they free themselves up to take other skill players. With tight end being a weak spot without prime Greg Olson, a fresh face would be ideal for Carolina. Kyle Pitts is one of, if not the most dynamic player in this draft. He can line up anywhere as a receiver, as well as provide sufficient blocking for the run game. Sam Darnold could use a man of Pitts’ caliber, and with the eighth pick, it makes too much sense.
9. Reshawn Slater – Offensive Tackle, Northwestern
Multiple rumors have connected the Denver Broncos with prospect Micah Parsons. However, with the Lions taking Parsons with the seventh pick, it forces Denver to re-think their strategy. Reshawn Slater has been gaining publicity during the past few weeks. His pro day proved that he can be an all-around player on the line and give a team multiple options on offense. After paying him to a fairly large contract, it’s safe to say Denver’s current tackle, Juwan James, has not produced. With injuries plaguing him in 2019 and his opt-out in 2020, Denver has not seen the production equal his salary. Therefore, it leaves the Broncos open to cut James and take fresh talent. Slater could be a monster if developed properly under accredited coach Mike Munchak and could be the centerpiece for protecting Drew Lock.
10. Patrick Surtain II – Cornerback, Alabama
The Cowboys are still in desperate need for secondary depth, even after the major parts of free agency. Jerry Jones did not spend on big names, leaving Dallas to lean on the draft for new talent. Surtain is the consensus-best cornerback in this draft, and if drafted by America’s team, he would see immediate playing time with Trevon Diggs and Anthony Brown.
11. Caleb Farley – Cornerback, Virginia Tech
Although an injury risk with his most recent surgery, Caleb Farley is still the second-best cornerback available. With the Giants looking for younger talent to help out, it still makes too much sense for Farley to go here. James Bradberry and Logan Ryan could use someone to help in the slot, and Caleb Farley could be the long-term answer if developed properly. Newly-added Adoree Jackson is a heavy injury risk and could be in and out of the lineup. Caleb Farley can also help on the outside if needed, making this pick a winner for the Giants.
12. Devonta Smith – Wide Receiver, Alabama
The Eagles’ wide receiver corps is still horrendous. Alshon Jeffery and Greg Ward are still the top two options in Philadelphia, making this corps in desperate need of new talent. Devonta Smith is the most proven wide receiver in this class, being the Heisman Winner and the number one target for Alabama. Smith would quickly climb the ranks in Philly, and if used to match his strengths, he could be a star.
13. Christian Darrisaw – Offensive Tackle, Virginia Tech
Similar to my first mock draft, I still have the Chargers going with Christian Darrisaw. Signing Corey Linsley and Matt Feiler was a good start in rebuilding their offensive line, but they still need younger talent for development. Christian Darrisaw is the best lineman available at this point and could help with blocking downfield. Darrisaw would be the second player from Virginia Tech taken in the first round.
14. Kwity Paye – Edge, Michigan
The Warwick native has made a strong name for himself within the past few weeks. His aggressive nature off of the snap and ability to get to the pocket quickly make him a high-quality talent. The Vikings are in the process of rebuilding their defensive line from the ground up. Danielle Hunter and former Viking Everson Griffin never shaped up to the hype, leaving massive gaps to be filled. Paye seems to be a perfect fit for Minnesota, and if taken here come draft night, it’s almost a guarantee he’ll be heading there.
15. Gregory Rousseau – Edge, Miami (Via Trade from Patriots)
In my previous mock draft, I said Rousseau has jumped around many draft boards. I first had him landing with the Dolphins at 18, but with the Falcons trading back with the Patriots, Rousseau seems like a guaranteed match. Similar to Minnesota, Atlanta has also had its fair share of issues with defensive linemen. Dante Fowler Jr. only recorded three sacks in fourteen games, and Jacob Tuioti-Mariner only had one sack last season. With Atlanta struggling to get to the quarterback, they could be looking to add some new pieces to find a solution. Rousseau is very agile and is known for getting to the quarterback. His 15.5 sacks from 2019 should be enough for Atlanta to see that he can be a franchise pass-rusher.
16. Alijah Vera-Tucker – Interior OL, USC
The Cardinals made another significant improvement to their line by acquiring center Rodney Hudson from the Raiders this offseason. However, guard still remains a spot for improvement. Vera-Tucker falls to 16 once again, making it a no-brainer pick for Arizona.
17. Jalen Waddle – Wide Receiver, Alabama
The Las Vegas Raiders are fighting an uphill battle when it comes to finding star wide receivers. While they drafted Henry Ruggs II early last year, he was on and off of the field with injuries. Hunter Renfrow and Nelson Agholor also struggled with consistency, making this corps very unstable. Before going down with an injury last season, Jalen Waddle was one of the best receivers in college football. If the Raiders take him at 17, Waddle could easily shape into their number one option. The only concern is if he will return to his prior form.
18. Najee Harris – Runningback, Alabama
As we get closer to draft night, more and more rumors are surfacing that the Dolphins will take two offensive skill players in the draft. With the ‘Phins taking J’Marr Chase with the sixth pick, that bares the question of who they could take at eighteen. Najee Harris is the answer. Similar to players such as Derrick Henry, Harris can provide the ground-and-pound material to any backfield. He also possesses quick acceleration and light feet, allowing him to make plays on the outside as well. Miami has been looking for a franchise runner, and if Harris is available, don’t be shocked if the Dolphins pull the trigger.
19. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Linebacker, Notre Dame
With the Football Team using free agency to upgrade their secondary, it leaves them open to upgrade other position groups in the draft. One name that comes to mind is Owusu-Koramoah. Washington’s linebacking core is aging, with Jon Bostic and Josh Harvey-Clemons beginning to slow down in production. Koramoah is an aggressive talent that isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. After recording eleven tackles and three forced fumbles in 2020, the Fighting Irish prospect could do some serious damage in Washington if taken here.
20. Trevon Moehrig-Woodard – Safety, TCU
The Bears lost a big piece on defense in 2021 with the release of cornerback Kyle Fuller. Instead of re-signing to a cheaper deal, Fuller packed his bags and signed with the Denver Broncos. That only leaves Eddie Jackson, Jaylon Johnson, and newly signed Desmond Trufant to lead the backfield. At the 20th pick, I have the Bears taking Trevon Moehrig-Woodard. The consensus-best safety in this draft, Moehrig could help Chicago find peace in the secondary for a low cost. He would slot behind Deon Bush at strong safety, and then take over as the starter once he is caught up to speed. It’s a good way for Chicago to slowly rebuild at the fraction of the price.
21. Asante Samuel Jr. – Cornerback, Florida State
I still have the Colts going with Samuel Jr. with this selection. The Florida State corner can help provide consistency to this Indianapolis defense with his speed and height. He recorded a 4.45 forty-yard dash and 35-inch vertical during his pro day. If taken by Indy, he would be paired on the outside with Xavier Rhodes.
22. Zaven Collins – Linebacker, Tulsa (Via Trade from Titans)
With Bud Dupree leaving in free agency, the Steelers are in need for linebacking help. Alex Highsmith is a good compliment option, but injuries make him a liability as a full-time starter. The Jets could potentially take a linebacker with the 23rd pick, with CJ Mosley getting older and the depth chart getting slimmer. This trade will allow the Steelers to jump ahead of the Jets an take another franchise linebacker. Collins is a quality rusher who would pair up with Devin Bush upon his return from injury.
23. Travis Etienne – Running Back, Clemson (Via Trade from Seahawks)
General Manager Joe Douglas still hasn’t signed a franchise runningback after they released Le’Veon Bell. To add on top of things, the Steelers leaped in front of them and took a linebacker. This almost forces the Jets to think offense again. Najee Harris is already off of the board, making Travis Etienne the best runningback available. I had Etienne going to the Jets in my last mock draft due to his consistency and overall athleticism. The Clemson prospect could be the next identity of the Jets backfield.
24. Jaycee Horn – Cornerback, South Carolina (Via Trade from Steelers)
The Titans lost both Malcolm Butler and Adoree Jackson this offseason, making their secondary slim in depth. This trade with the Steelers, plus the Jets passing on a cornerback, allows the Titans to add another piece to their backfield. Jaycee Horn falls all the way into their laps at 24, and this is a perfect move for the Titans. Horn is a top-20 talent with the ability to be a lockdown corner. If this occurs, the Titans might be in the running for one of the biggest draft robberies in history.
25. Tevon Jenkins – Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma State (Via Trade from Rams)
Similar to my first draft, the Jaguars opt to protect Trevor Lawrence by adding Tevon Jenkins to their roster. While Jenkins still needs work with his footing, he could be a consistent option long-term for Jacksonville.
26. Jayson Oweh – Edge, Penn State Instead of going with a linebacker from my previous draft, the Browns add a key pass rusher to help star Myles Garrett. One of two defensive line prospects from Penn State, Oweh is aggressive on the snap and can be very shifty. Lining up on the other side of Myles Garrett, Oweh could be deadly under Joe Woods and the Browns defense.
27. Wyatt Davis – Offensive Guard, Ohio State
The Ravens once again take Wyatt Davis with the 27th selection. Interior linemen should be on General Manager Eric DaCosta’s radar, seeing they favor the run game over any offensive scheme. Wyatt Davis would provide Head Coach John Harbaugh the ability to develop a key piece to replace older players up front.
28. Mac Jones – Quarterback, Alabama
This is the best-case scenario for the Saints. With the other top quarterbacks being taken with the first four picks, no other team is in dire need of a quarterback. Sean Payton and the Saints are in a sticky situation, having to choose from two unproven quarterbacks. Jameis Winston struggled mightily with the Buccaneers, and with only a few games under his belt in New Orleans, there are questions on how he will perform. Utility player Taysom Hill also struggled at times while he was the starter in 2020. By drafting Mac Jones, it gives the Saints a completely fresh start. His accuracy down the field and similar physique to Drew Brees makes this pick doable for New Orleans. If the Saints doesn’t take Jones, there’s a chance he falls into the second round.
29. Rashod Bateman – Wide Receiver, Minnesota
It happened again. The Packers take Rashod Bateman with the 29th pick in the draft. The big man would fit perfectly in Green Bay, lining up on the outside with Devante Adams. His presence would also provide cushion if Adam Lazard or Marquez Valdes-Scantling go down with another injury. All four receivers together would be one of the deadliest wide receiver corpses the NFL has ever seen.
30. Jaelan Phillips – Edge, Miami
Similar to the Chiefs in my first mock draft, the Bills are in position to take the best player available. Jaelan Phillips would provide more depth for the Bills for pass rush and help compliment players such as Ed Oliver and Matt Milano. Phillips is the second rusher from Miami to be taken in the first round, with Gregory Rousseau being the first.
31. Jaylen Mayfield – Offensive Tackle, Michigan
The Chiefs are in a completely different situation than from my first draft. After releasing both Eric Fisher and Mitchell Schwartz due to salary cap concerns, the Chiefs are in need of offensive tackles. Jaylen Mayfield is the best offensive linemen available at 31, and he would be playing with newly signed tackle Joe Thuney from the New England Patriots.
32. Christian Barmore – Defensive Tackle, Alabama
The Buccaneers’ situation has not changed one bit since last time. They managed to re-sign every person they needed to bring back, including Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. The Bucs will take the best player available here, and that will be Christian Barmore. His ability to play the 3-4 and 4-3 defense will allow Todd Bowles to devise different schemes. Expect Tampa Bay to still be the best team in the NFL after the draft.
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