Cols
Mock Draft 2021
In
the midst of the Covid pandemic, it’s been a strange football season and none
more so than in the college game. With a host of player opt-outs, 139 FBS games
cancelled or rescheduled and 19 bowl games cancelled due to the pandemic, it
has been no ordinary year. The formal NFL combine was also cancelled and
face-to-face visits stopped. For the opt-out’s, organised college pro days have
been the only avenue for scouts to see these prospects up close in 2021. It
will be interesting to see if Front Office decision making becomes more
volatile with less information available or if teams become more reliant on
game tape and it lends to better evaluations of football skills ahead of athleticism.
The
2021 draft class certainly appears to be deep with offensive talent. There is a
feeling that the QB class appears to be one of the strongest in years,
particularly at the top of the class. Whether this perception is accurate or is
magnified by simple supply and demand economics will only be apparent in
upcoming years. There is a noticeable drop-off in depth after the top 5 names
and this may be fuelling some of the demands for teams to select a QB early. There
is potential for the first 4 picks of the draft to all be spent on franchise
QB’s which would be an NFL first (the 1971 class had Jim Plunkett, Archie Manning
and Dan Pastorini go 1,2,3 and in 1999 Tim Couch, Donovan McNabb and Akili
Smith followed suit). The WR class also has some stand-out performers including
the 2020 Heisman winner Davonta Smith and his college teammate Jaylen Waddle
and 2019’s standout WR in LSU’s Ja’Marr Chase. Add to this Florida’s Kyle Pitts
at TE and a second consecutive deep OT class and it’s entirely possible we
could see a top 10 full of difference makers on the offense.
On
the defensive side of the ball, there isn’t a Chase Young type player who could
push for #1 overall but look out for names such as Micah Parsons, Patrick
Surtain and Jaycee Horn who could all push for a slot in the top 10. Without a
blue-chip pass rush prospect it may lead some teams to reach on pure potential.
My
mock draft for 2021 follows the same simple rules as previous years. I assume
no draft day trades and try to best guess the lottery numbers as teams look to
take the next step towards Super Bowl LVI in California.
1 – Jacksonville Jaguars
Following a disastrous 1-15 season the Jaguars are again in rebuild mode,
this time with Urban Meyer coming out of semi-retirement and entering the NFL
for the first time. He is unlikely to replicate his 187-32 college record but
is ideally placed to begin re-tooling the Jags roster
Off-Season Additions : CB Shaquill Griffin
(Seattle), WR Marvin Jones (Detroit), WR Jamal Agnew (Detroit), S Rayshawn
Jenkins (LA Chargers), DT Roy Robertson-Harris (Chicago), DT Malcolm Brown (t-New
Orleans)
Off-Season Losses : WR Keelan Cole (NY
Jets), TE Tyler Eifert (free agent)
Trevor Lawrence helped Clemson win the National Championship as a freshman, becoming the first passer to do so since Jamelle Holieway in 1985. He’s declared a year early, finishing his college career with over 10,000 passing yards, 90 passing TD’s and a further 18 rushing TD’s.
Lawrence has all the tools to excel and is an immediate upgrade on Gardner Minshew. It would be a huge shock if this pick is any different. You would think he becomes the Day One, Week One starter for the Jaguars.
The pick : QB Trevor Lawrence (Clemson)
2 –
New York Jets
The Adam Gase era drew to a close in New York following a 2-14 season and
the Jets brought across the 49ers former D co-ordinator Robert Saleh for his
first head coaching role. He will work closely with GM Joe Douglas in
rebuilding a weak roster in NY. The major off-season decision was to give up on
QB Sam Darnold, only 3 years removed from his selection #3 overall. The Jets
are hunting for a franchise QB. Again.
Off-Season Additions : DE Carl Lawson
(Cincinnati), WR Corey Davis (Tennessee), DT Sheldon Rankins (New Orleans), CB
Justin Hardee (New Orleans), WR Keelan Cole (Jacksonville), DE Vinny Curry
(Philadelphia), RB Tevin Coleman (SF), LB Jarrad Davis (Detroit), OG Dan Feeney
(LA Chargers)
Off-Season
Losses : QB Sam Darnold (t-Carolina), OG Pat Elflein (Carolina), DE Henry
Anderson (New England), LB Jordan Jenkins (Houston), LB Tarell Basham (Dallas),
WR Breshad Perriman (Detroit), CB Brian Poole (free agent)
The trade of Sam Darnold telegraphs this
pick as another QB at #2. The new regime weren’t tied to D
arnold and GM Joe
Douglas gets to add his own guy as the new face of the franchise.
Wilson had a breakout 2020 passing for 3,692 yards with 33 passing TD’s and a further 10 rushing TD’s for BYU, breaking many of Ty Detmer’s passing records along the way.
Whoever is selected here will be expected to contribute immediately. Only
James Morgan and Mike White are currently in the Jets QB room, and they have
never thrown an NFL regular season pass between them.
The pick : QB Zach Wilson (Brigham Young)
3 – San Francisco 49ers (via Miami Dolphins,
via Houston Texans)
The 49ers were unable to replicate their Superbowl run of 2019 moving
from first to worst in the NFC West last year. Injuries and the Superbowl
hangover hit hard but this is a roster that can win now. The 49ers have made
major moves by re-signing All-Pro LT Trent Williams to a 6-yr $138m deal then acquiring the #3pick
at the expense of their #12 pick and two future 1st round picks plus
a 3rd. GM’s build or shatter their reputations on such aggressive
moves
Off-Season Additions : C Alex Mack
(Atlanta), LB Samson Ebukam (LA Rams), LB Nate Gerry (Philadelphia), S Tavon
Wilson (Indianapolis)
Off-Season
Losses : WR Kendrick Bourne (New England), DE Kerry Hyder (Seattle), CB Akhello
Witherspoon (Seattle), DE Solomon Thomas (Las Vegas), RB Tevin Coleman (NY
Jets), CB Richard Sherman (free agent), RB Jerick McKinnon (free agent), CB
Jason Verrett (free agent)
The 49ers grew tired of middling QB play and injuries to Jimmy Garoppolo and have thrown their chips into the middle of the table. To give up such draft capital, this has to be a QB pick. There are plenty of media reports suggesting Kyle Shanahan’s interest in Alabama QB Mac Jones and whilst these rumours have a lot of traction, the draft capital they sacrificed to get up to #3 would make the pick surprising as there is a pretty strong case to argue Mac Jones would have been available well into the 1st round.
If Jones is the guy for Lynch and Shanahan then kudos for the bravery
involved in the move. Mac Jones is
a good QB but the you’re expecting the earth
when you give up such significant cost. With a strong roster and one of the
finest offensive minds of this generation at HC, the 49ers are an ideal landing
spot for any rookie QB. Whether the 49ers plan to sit their new passer a year
behind Jimmy G or not will be really interesting and if we knew this pre-draft,
this could also tip their hand as to the pick.
I’m going against the rumour treadmill here and ignoring Mac Jones at my peril. If the 49ers are retaining Jimmy G then I’ve a strong suspicion the pick could be Trey Lance. He isn’t the finished article, with only 17 starts and 318 career passes at FCS level with North Dakota State but many scouts argue that his upside is the highest of all the QB’s in this class. Lance missed out on the 2020 season due to the pandemic and decided to declare early for the draft. With all this in mind, he could possibly benefit from a year behind a veteran QB.
Justin Fields meanwhile has
excelled for Ohio State the last 2 years, albeit his 2020 didn’t quite reach
the heights of his amazing 2019 season where he threw for 42 TD’s, rushing for
10 more and only had 3 int’s. There seems to have been a campaign against
Fields pre-draft which I’m not on board with. To me Fields is the most
pro-ready QB behind Lawrence, boasting a strong arm and athleticism (ran the 40
in 4.4) to run the RPO. He would be landing in the perfect spot in San
Francisco and has the tools to prosper under Shanahan’s tutelage.
The pick : QB Justin Fields (Ohio State)
4- Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons moved on from long-standing GM Thomas Dimitroff and HC Dan
Quinn in 2020 as the franchise continued to struggle to close out games. With
very little cap room, new GM Terry Fontenot and HC Arthur Smith need an influx
of talent. The need is most pressing on defense, though they look to be
entering the season with at least 2 unproven starters on the o-line. With cap
difficulties Fontenot is operating with a shoestring budget and will largely
have to strengthen the roster via the draft in 2021. The big question is
whether they feel the current talent level, combined with better coaching and
some shrewd draft picks can lift the team back into playoff contention or
whether the Falcons are entering a full roster rebuild. Only once the pick is
in at #4 will this be apparent to everyone outside the Falcons war room.
Off-Season Additions : RB Mike Davis
(Carolina), RB/KR Cordarrelle Patterson (Chicago), S Erik Harris (Las Vegas), S
Duron Harmon (New England), CB Fabian
Moreau (Washington), LB Barkevious Mingo (Chicago), TE Lee Smith (t-Buffalo)
Off-Season
Losses : C Alex Mack (SF), S Keanu Neal (Dallas), S Damontae Kazee (Dallas), S
Ricardo Allen (Cincinnati), OG Justin McCray (Houston), DE Charles Harris
(Detroit), RB Todd Gurley (free agent), RB Ito Smith (free agent), OG James
Carpenter (free agent)
A new GM and Head Coach are typically
afforded the luxury of time and therefore the confidence to plan more
long-term. At 36-yrs old Matt Ryan isn’t getting any younger, but he is still
playing at a high-level. This could be an opportunity to secure the QB of the
future or to provide one final push with the vet who owns all the Falcons
franchise passing records that are worth owning.
New GM Terry Fontenot has been
non-committal, re-iterating several times his draft philosophy of BPA and using
free agency as the tool to fill positional needs. Atlanta know that 3 QB’s will
likely be off the board here. Is the 4th QB one that the Falcons
would have interest in? Would the 49ers / Mac Jones rumour play-out? If so, is
there heightened trade interest at #4? Would the Falcons consider Fields or use
the opportunity to trade out and strengthen more areas of the roster?
I traditionally run a no-trade mock and also have Fields off the board. Whilst a trade-down makes sense, the early rush on QB’s at least allows Atlanta the choice of best non-QB in this draft class, an enviable position for a first time GM. The pick could be QB. Trey Lance has tremendous upside and it could be argued that of the top 4 QB’s he would benefit most from some development time behind a veteran QB.
However, I think the Falcons will look for immediate contributors from this draft. The strongest need on the roster is defense but the first round is top-loaded with offensive talent. If Fontenot is true to his BPA approach then I think the board consists of OT Penei Sewell, TE Kyle Pitts or WR Ja’Marr Chase.
The Pick : TE Kyle Pitts (Florida)
5- Cincinnati Bengals
There was early optimism in Cinicinnati in 2020 as #1 pick Joe Burrow
made an impressive start to his rookie campaign, throwing for over 2,600 yards
in his first 10 starts. Unfortunately a week 11 hit tore his ACL and MCL in his
knee and the Bengals ultimately endured their 5th consecutive losing
season.
Off-Season Additions : DE Trey Hendrickson
(New Orleans), CB Mike Hilton (Pittsburgh), CB Chidobe Awuzie (Dallas), OT
Riley Reiff (Minnesota), DT Larry Ogunjobi (Cleveland), S Ricardo Allen
(Atlanta)
Off-Season
Losses : DE Carl Lawson (NY Jets), CB William Jackson (Washington), DT Geno
Atkins (free agent), TE Cethan Carter (Miami), WR A.J Green (Arizona), WR John
Ross (NY Giants), RB Giovani Bernard (Tampa), CB Mackensie Alexander
(Minnesota), C B.J Finney (Pittsburgh), QB Ryan Finley (t-Houston)
The season ending injury to rookie QB Joe
Burrow was final confirmation of plentiful warning signs during the first 10
games that the Bengals must afford him better protection in 2021. He was sacked
32 times in 10 starts and whilst the signing of Riley Reiff in free agency was
a start, they urgently need to fortify the O-line via the draft. This obviously
brings Oregon OT Penei Sewell into consideration but the Reiff signing may
suggest otherwise, unless they intend to move him inside to Guard.
Certainly the selection of Sewell could give the Bengals their starting QB and
LT for the next decade. However, I think the opportunity to link Joe Burrow up
with his old LSU teammate Ja’Marr Chase might just be too tempting for the
Bengals to ignore. Chase was a difference maker in 2019 and despite opting out
of the 2020 season, is still arguably seen as the best WR available. The
connection to Burrow must be enticing. The Bengals can address pass pro on the
interior OL until rounds 2-3.
The Pick : WR Ja’Marr Chase (LSU)
6- Miami Dolphins (via Philadelphia Eagles)
The Dolphins dedicated their 2020 season in memory of legendary HC Don
Shula who died last offseason aged 90. Shula would be impressed with second
year HC Brian Flores who led the franchise to a 10-6 record, only narrowly
missing out on the playoffs with a Week 17 defeat on the road in Buffalo. The Miami Front Office continue to be one of
the most active and dynamic trade partners and after several trades currently
enter the draft at #6 and #18 with a further 2 second round picks. They are in a
strong position to strengthen the roster and build on last years success.
Off-Season Additions : WR Will Fuller
(Houston), LB Benardrick McKinney (t-Houston), TE Cethan Carter (Cincinnati),
DT Adam Butler (New England), QB Jacoby Brissett (Indianapolis), CB Justin
Coleman (Detroit), C Matt Skura (Baltimore), LB Duke Riley (Philadelphia), RB
Malcolm Brown (LA Rams), DT John Jenkins (Chicago), OG D.J Fluker (Baltimore)
Off-Season
Losses : DT Davon Godchaux (New England), LB Kyle Van Noy (New England), C Ted
Karras (New England), QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (Washington), LB Kamu Grugier-Hill
(Houston), OT Julie’n Davenport (Indianapolis), OT Ereck Flowers (t-Washington),
DE Shaq Lawson (t-Houston)
The Dolphins continue to amass draft capital thanks to the 49ers huge trade to get up to #3. The fascinating aspect of this was the Dolphins subsequent move from #12 back into #6. This must indicate that they felt their top target will be available at #6 but not make it outside the top 10.
The intention in Miami must surely be to open up the offense more to Tua in his second year, but he needs more weapons to succeed. It just so happens that 2 of his college receivers Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith are still on the board and Miami can seize on this. Heisman Trophy winning Smith seems to have taken plenty of knocks over his frame (6’1, 175) and it may be an issue against bigger CB’s but he didn’t appear to have any struggles against press on his college tape. Smith’s 2020 was exceptional, posting 1856 receiving yards and 23 TD’s in 13 games. Miami only added Will Fuller at receiver in free agency. Fuller is ideally the deep threat WR2 and only signed on a 1-yr deal.
Miami could go in many directions but must be tempted by one of the elite WR’s
in this class.
The Pick : WR DeVonta Smith (Alabama)
7 – Detroit Lions
The firing of Matt Patricia (13-28-1) during the 2020 season was only the
beginnings of the winds of change in Detroit. Matt Stafford asked for, and was
duly granted a trade to the Rams in exchange for Jared Goff and the Lions saw
their leading WR’s Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones depart via free agency. It’s
not just all change on the offense either. Patricia was renowned for the
success of his defenses in New England but he left Detroit with the team ranked
in the bottom five in most of the key defensive metrics last year. There is a
lot of work to do for the new duo of GM Brad Holmes and HC Dan Campbell. Where
do they start?
Off-Season Additions : QB Jared Goff (t-LA
Rams), DE Michael Brockers (t-LA Rams), RB Jamaal Williams (Green Bay), WR
Tyrell Williams (Las Vegas), WR Breshad Perriman (NY Jets), WR Kalif Raymond
(Tennessee), LB Alex Anzalone (New Orleans), DE Charles Harris (Atlanta), TE
Josh Hill (New Orleans), K Randy Bullock (Cincinnati)
Off-Season
Losses : QB Matthew Stafford (t-LA Rams), WR Kenny Golladay (NY Giants), WR
Marvin Jones (Jacksonville), WR Jamal Agnew (Jacksonville), LB Jarrad Davis (NY
Jets), CB Justin Coleman (Miami), DT Danny Shelton (NY Giants), S Miles
Killebrew (Pittsburgh), LB Reggie Ragland (NY Giants), CB Desmond Trufant
(Chicago), S Duron Harmon (Atlanta), RB Adrian Peterson (free agent)
Dan Campbell wants the Lions to get tougher. Their defense simply fell apart last year and they may well be looking for a tone setter via the draft. The immediate name that jumps out to me is Penn State LB Micah Parsons. They could also be looking for a CB to pair with 2020 #3 pick Jeff Okudah who underwent a chastening learning experience as a rookie.
However, the obvious pick is WR as the Lions urgently need to find replacements
for Golladay, Jones, Amendola and Agnew. Golladay was their true WR1 and won’t
be easily replaced. The free agent signings of Tyrell Williams and Breshad
Perriman are not enough, they’re underwhelming WR2’s at best. Detroit have arguably
the weakest WR group in the NFL right now and they have to address it urgently
in the draft. I have the Lions completing the run on the top 3 WR’s here and
selecting the explosive Jaylen Waddle.
The Pick : WR Jaylen Waddle (Alabama)
8 – Carolina Panthers
Rookie Head Coach Matt Rhule made a good first impression in Carolina
despite their 5-11 record and will be operating with a fit again Christian McCaffery
and newly acquired QB Sam Darnold next year. The offense is better tooled than
what Darnold had to work with in New York and it will be intriguing to see how
he performs with a better supporting cast and the brains of up and coming OC
Joe Brady. The 2020 draft was about
addressing their defense. A more balanced draft class is in order for 2021
Off-Season Additions : OG Pat Elflein (NY
Jets), OT Cameron Erving (Dallas), DE Morgan Fox (LA Rams), LB Haason Reddick
(Arizona), CB A.J Bouye (Denver), TE Dan Arnold (Arizona), LB Denzel Perryman
(LA Chargers), WR David Moore (Seattle)
Off-Season
Losses : WR Curtis Samuel (Washington), RB Mike Davis (Atlanta), DE Stephen
Weatherly (Minnesota), DE Efe Obada (Buffalo), OG Chris Reed (Indianapolis), QB
Teddy Bridgewater (t-Denver), DT Kawann Short (free agent), OT Russell Okung
(free agent)
It was 2019 when the Panthers last drafted
someone on the offensive side of the ball. Whilst they did attempt to address
some holes via free agency, I wasn’t particularly sold on either of the Pat
Elflein or Cam Erving signings. It just so happens that Penei Sewell has
slipped through to #8 due to the rush on QB’s and receivers. Sewell is still
only 20 years old and was a 2020 opt-out. It’s probably an unfair comparison to
link him to Anthony Munoz but the potential in Sewell is All-Pro. The Panthers
would have Sewell and Taylor Moton as their book-end tackles. Not a bad welcome
to Carolina for Sam Darnold.
The Pick : OT Penei Sewell (Oregon)
9 – Denver Broncos
Denver suffered their 4th consecutive losing season in 2020,
the second longest streak in team history. Broncos legend John Elway continues
as president of football operations but relinquished the role of GM to George
Paton whose priority will be to turnaround an ineffective offense that ranked
28th in pass yards and 32nd in rushing. Elway had mis-fired
at QB in the draft twice with Brock Osweiler (2nd Rd 2012) and Paxton
Lynch (1st Rd 2016) and the jury is still out on Drew Lock (2nd
Rd 2019). Paton has brought in Teddy Bridgewater in exchange for a 6th
round pick. Is he the future or a bridge QB for the franchise?
Off-Season Additions : CB Ronald Darby
(Washington), CB Kyle Fuller (Chicago), RB Mike Boone (Minnesota), QB Teddy
Bridgewater (t-Carolina)
Off-Season
Losses : CB A.J Bouye (Carolina), TE Nick Vannett (New Orleans), RB Phillip
Lindsay (Houston), LB Jeremiah Attaochu (Chicago), DT Jurrell Casey (free
agent)
Rumours were that Denver made a strong run
at Matt Stafford before he was traded to the Rams. A signal of dissatisfaction
with their QB situation. Drew Lock has not distinguished himself in 18 NFL
starts, tying the NFL lead for interceptions (15) last season in only 13 starts
and posting the lowest completion percentage of all QB’s with at least 150
passes. The Teddy Bridgewater trade changes the picture a little here and
probably makes a trade up less likely. However, if the Broncos sit tight at #9
and one of the passers of their choice is still available they may look for a
longer term option to sit behind Bridgewater for a season. I’ve a sneaky
suspicion the Broncos have a strong interest in LB Micah Parsons too. He looks
a Bronco defender and A.J Johnson and Josey Jewell hit free agency after 2021. However,
the main issue is on offense and with Trey Lance surprisingly still available,
I expect the Broncos wouldn’t hesitate to add him to the roster.
The Pick : QB Trey Lance (North Dakota
State)
10 – Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys failed to capitalise on a down year in the NFC East in Mike
McCarthy’s first year as HC. Their season wasn’t helped by losing Dak Prescott
for the year in week 5 but the problems stemmed as much from a defense that
struggled to stop anyone, ranking 31st against the rush and xxth
against the pass. DC Mike Nolan was fired and former Atlanta HC Dan Quinn takes
on the task of improving their defense, something he failed to achieve in
Atlanta
Off-Season Additions : LB Tarell Basham (NY
Jets), S Keanu Neal (Atlanta), S Damontae Kazee (Atlanta), DE Carlos Watkins
(Houston), DE Brent Urban (Chicago), OT Ty Nsekhe (Buffalo), TE Jeremy Sprinkle
(Washington)
Off-Season
Losses : CB Chidobe Awuzie (Cincinnati), OT Cameron Erving (Carolina), S Xavier
Woods (Minnesota), QB Andy Dalton (Chicago), TE Blake Bell (Kansas City)
Jerry Jones is allegedly enamoured with
Kyle Pitts but I don’t see him lasting this far into the draft. It would be a
luxury pick for an offense already loaded with several playmakers, particularly
when they have a defense that really struggled last year and needs an influx of
talent. The run defense was bad and Christian Barmore could be in consideration
to plug the middle, but the better value is at cornerback where the Cowboys
would have their choice from Patrick Surtain, Jaycee Horn and Caleb Farley. Both
Surtain and Horn have NFL bloodlines and many have Surtain ranked as the top
cornerback available. The Cowboys can pair him with 2nd rd pick
Trevon Diggs from last years draft.
The Pick : CB Patrick Surtain (Alabama)
11 – NY Giants
The Giants had a strong off-season, adding the top WR available and one
of the best free agent CB’s. They’ll also welcome superstar RB Saquon Barkley
back into the mix. The biggest question mark on offense could still be QB, but
the Giants are all-in on Daniel Jones. The defense was solid in 2020 but lacks
a blue-chip pass rusher. The 2021 draft class contains lots of potential, but
no sure-fire candidates. Do the Giants have someone in mind?
Off-Season Additions : WR Kenny Golladay
(Detroit), CB Adoree Jackson (Tennessee), TE Kyle Rudolph (Minnesota), RB
Devontae Booker (Las Vegas), DE Ifeadi Odengibo (Minnesota), WR John Ross
(Cincinnati), DT Danny Shelton (Detroit), LB Reggie Ragland (Detroit), QB Mike
Glennon (Chicago)
Off-Season
Losses : OG Kevin Zeitler (Baltimore), DT Dalvin Tomlinson (Minnesota), LB
Kyler Fackrell (LA Chargers), QB Colt McCoy (Arizona), RB Wayne Gallman (free
agent), WR Golden Tate (free agent)
The Giants are in an interesting spot at
#11. Their most pressing need is an edge rusher but I’m not sure there is an
obvious choice in the top 20 of this years class. There are plenty of edge prospects
with enticing upside such as Kwity Paye or Gregory Rousseau to tempt the G-men or a trade-down may suit them on a
needs basis (which as we know GM Dave Gettleman has never traded down….)
Instead I have the Giants looking at best value for their pick at #11 and one
thing we know is that Gettleman likes to build from the O-line. There’s good
depth here and providing more protection for Daniel Jones would be welcome in
what is a big season for the 3rd year pro. I have Rashawn Slater
heading to New York to provide a nice bookend tandem with 2020 1st
rd pick Andrew Thomas.
The Pick : OT Rashawn Slater (Northwestern)
12 – Philadelphia Eagles (via Miami
Dolphins, via San Francisco 49ers)
The Eagles 2017 superbowl victory seems only a distance memory and it
will be all change again this year with a new HC and starting QB in Philly. How
Nick Sirianni and Jalen Hurts perform will be closely watched by the fanbase.
With the Eagles moving out of #6 overall, it would certainly seem like Hurts is
their guy, for now at least. So will the Eagles double-down on their round 1
actions from last year and look to add a play-making receiver? Or will they look
to rebuild their once vaunted defense again?
Off-Season Additions : S Anthony Harris
(Minnesota), LB Eric Wilson (Minnesota), S Andrew Adams (Tampa), QB Joe Flacco
(NY Jets)
Off-Season
Losses : QB Carson Wentz (t-Indianapolis), CB Jalen Mills (New England), WR
DeSean Jackson (LA Rams), S Johnathan Ford (Jacksonville), DT Malik Jackson
(Cleveland), DE Vinny Curry (NY Jets), LB Duke Riley (Miami), LB Nate Gerry
(San Francisco), QB Nate Sudfeld (San Francisco), OT Jason Peters (free agent),
CB Nickell Robey-Coleman (free agent)
I’ve been able to successfully predict the
Philly pick in consecutive years but this one feels a lot different. They have
had a tendency to address specific needs in Rd1 and so I think someone like CB
Jaycee Horn is certainly in play. He’s a combative type whose tough play (and
talk) would be appreciated in Philly. If one of the top 3 WR’s slide then I
think they could be in contention too, despite the selection of Jaelan Raegor
in the 1st last year. However, I just have an inkling the Eagles are
going to surprise everyone. My pick is for Penn State LB Micah Parsons. There
are some character question marks, but the guy can flat-out play. He was a 2020
opt-out but as a sophomore displayed great ability against the run and
intriguing pass-rush skills. He won’t fit every scheme but has huge potential
on the right team. The Eagles haven’t typically valued LB’s highly under Howie
Roseman but he’s arguably the top defensive player in this years draft and the
massive upside makes it worthwhile.
The Pick : LB Micah Parsons (Penn State)
13 – Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers (7-9) finished the season on a 4-game win streak but it
wasn’t enough to save HC Anthony Lynn’s job. The organisation were delighted
with the play of rookie QB Justin Herbert but he took plenty of shots behind an
O-line that will undergo overhaul in 2021 following the retirement of Mike
Pouncey and release of Trai Turner. Off season priority #1 was to provide
better protection for Herbert. Free agency added arguably the NFL’s best Center
in Corey Linsley and the Steelers Matt Feiler. The Chargers will hope Bryan
Bulaga bounces back from an injury hit 2020 but could seek further
re-enforcements via the draft. Charger stalwarts Melvin Ingram and Casey
Hayward don’t look likely to return and they leave holes to fill on the edge
and at corner
Off-Season Additions : C Corey Linsley
(Green Bay), OT/OG Matt Feiler (Pittsburgh), TE Jared Cook (New Orleans), OT
Oday Aboushi (Detroit), LB Kyler Fackrell (NY Giants), CB Ryan Smith (Tampa),
QB Chase Daniel (Detroit)
Off-Season
Losses : TE Hunter Henry (New England), S Rayshawn Jenkins (Jacksonville), LB
Denzel Perryman (Carolina), QB Tyrod Taylor (Houston), OG Dan Feeney (NY Jets),
OT Sam Tevi (Indianapolis), DT Isaac Rochell (Indianapolis), LB Nick Vigil
(Minnesota), DE Melvin Ingram (free agent), OG Trai Turner (free agent), CB
Casey Hayward (free agent), C Mike Pouncey (retired)
I think the Chargers focus in terms of
positional needs will be on offensive line and defensive backs and potentially
an edge rusher opposite Joey Bosa on the first 2 days of the draft. Looking at
players high up on the draft board I think OT Christian Darrisaw, OT/OG Alijah
Vera-Tucker, CB Jaycee Horn and CB Caleb Farley could all be in play. I believe
they’ll be influenced by the overall priority to add protection for Justin
Herbert. Christian Darrisaw is a 3-yr starter who improved year-on-year for the
Hokies, in 2020 he was attributed with allowing only 6 QB pressures all season
(no hits or sacks)
The Pick : OT Christian Darrisaw (Virginia
Tech)
14 – Minnesota Vikings
The Vikes offense didn’t skip a beat following the departure of Stefon
Diggs, rookie WR Justin Jefferson had a sensational debut season in his place.
Dalvin Cook continued to get better posting 1,918 scrimmage yards and 17 TD’s despite
missing a pair of games. Kirk Cousins too continued to post impressive statistics
with 4,265 passing yards in 2020. Amazingly for a Mike Zimmer team, things were
pretty awful on the other side of the ball.
Minnesota conceded 475 pts which ranked for 3rd worst
all-time for the franchise and ranked 27th and 25th respectively against rush
and pass. Injuries and opt-outs can explain some of the issues with Anthony
Barr, Danielle Hunter, Mike Hughes and Michael Pierce all unavailable by season
end, but more help is needed.
Off-Season Additions : DT Dalvin Tomlinson
(NY Giants), CB Patrick Peterson (Arizona), DE Stephen Weatherly (Carolina), S
Xavier Woods (Dallas), LB Nick Vigil (LA Chargers), CB Mackensie Alexander
(Cincinnati), C Mason Cole (t-Arizona)
Off-Season
Losses : S Anthony Harris (Philadelphia), TE Kyle Rudolph (NY Giants), OT Riley
Reiff (Cincinnati), RB Mike Boone (Denver), LB Eric Wilson (Philadelphia), DE
Ifeadi Odenigbo (NY Giants), DT Shamar Stephen (Denver), DT Jaleel Johnson
(Houston)
The obvious pick is defense here, Zimmer
won’t want his unit near the league basement again. However, there is a gaping
whole at LT that hasn’t been addressed in free agency and LG could also use an
upgrade. With Darrisaw, Slater and Sewell now all off the board the Vikes don’t
have one of the top three tackles available. Maybe the Vikes see the versatile Alijah
Vera-Tucker not as a Guard but as a LT where he played for USC in 2020,
otherwise they’ll maybe address on Day Two. Assuming Tackle isn’t the selection,
then it’s surely defense. The obvious need is on the edge opposite Danielle
Hunter but I’m not sure an edge rusher goes in the top 20 this year – there’s
lots of promise but no sure fire pick. I’ve assumed the Vikes stick with Tucker
who will try out at LT and at the very worst should slide inside to LG and
prosper.
The Pick : OL Alijah Vera-Tucker (USC)
15 – New England Patriots
Tom Brady won another Superbowl ring but not in New England. Bill
Belichick meanwhile posted a 7-9 season sans Brady and opened the Patriots cheque
book in free agency. The Patriots potentially have a number of covid opt-outs
returning in 2021 to further bolster the roster. Tom has proved he can do it
without Bill. Now it’s Belichick with a point to prove in 2021.
Off-Season Additions : ED Matt Judon
(Baltimore), TE Jonnu Smith (Tennessee), TE Hunter Henry (LA Chargers), DB
Jalen Mills (Philadelphia), WR Nelson Agholor (Las Vegas), DT Davon Godchaux
(Miami), WR Kendrick Bourne (San Francisco), LB Kyle Van Noy (Miami), DE Henry
Anderson (NY Jets), C Ted Karras (Miami), LB LaRoy Reynolds (Atlanta), OT Trent
Brown (t-Las Vegas)
Off-Season
Losses : OG Joe Thuney (Kansas City), DT Adam Butler (Miami), S Terrence Brooks
(Houston), LB Brandon Copeland (Atlanta), OT Marcus Cannon (t-Houston)
The Patriots brought Cam Newton back as the presumed starter in New England for 2021. It’s another 1-year deal and whilst Newton is only 31 he is not the QB of his heyday or the long-term answer in Foxboro. The fact Newton was re-signed indicates the Pats don’t believe Jarrett Stidham to be the eventual starter either, so at #15 a QB selection is certainly in the mix.
Following free agency the Pats are much better tooled at the skill positions than they were in 2020 but it’s looking obvious that N’Keal Harry is a bust and maybe some investment at WR is advisable. Perhaps the Pats also look to secure Devin McCourty’s successor at safety or add to the cornerback depth. I’m not completely sure where they go.
The QB question needs addressing sooner or later but equally there are some good young corners on the board. I’m finally swayed by the strong link between Belichick and Nick Saban and have the Pats taking the Crimson Tide QB.
The Pick : QB Mac Jones (Alabama)
16 – Arizona Cardinals
Arizona certainly added some big names to their roster in the off-season,
acquiring yet another Texan escapee in J.J Watt, former Bengal A.J Green and to
a lesser extent former Steelers RB James Conner. How many miles are left on the
clock for the trio remains to be seen but they will provide wily veteran
presence on a team on the rise. Team needs should be straight-forward. They
need additional cornerback help and could do with upgrades at Guard and Tight
End with insurance at RB
Off-Season
Losses : RB Kenyan Drake (Las Vegas), CB Patrick Peterson (Minnesota), LB
Haason Reddick (Carolina), TE Dan Arnold (Carolina), DE Angelo Blackson
(Chicago), C Mason Cole (t-Minnesota), WR Larry Fitzgerald (free agent), LB
De’Vondre Campbell (free agent), DT Corey Peters (free agent), G J.R Sweezy
(free agent)
The Pick : CB Jaycee Horn (South Carolina)
17 – Las Vegas Raiders
After 3 seasons Jon Gruden has yet to post a winning record upon his
return to the Silver and Black, although the Raiders have improved their win
totals each year. Entering the draft the Gruden and Mayock will be looking to
upgrade a defense that surrendered nearly 30 points per game in 2020 and appear
to be in the process of a complete overhaul of their O-line after trading away
3 of their 2020 starters this offseason
Off-Season Additions : DE Yannick Ngakoue
(Baltimore), RB Kenyan Drake (Arizona), WR John Brown (Buffalo), DE Solomon
Thomas (San Francisco), DT Quinton Jefferson (Buffalo), C Nick Martin
(Houston), S Karl Joseph (Cleveland), WR Willie Snead (Baltimore), CB Rasul
Douglas (Carolina)
Off-Season
Losses : WR Nelson Agholor (New England), RB Devontae Booker (NY Giants), DE
Takkarist McKinley (Cleveland), WR Tyrell Williams (Detroit), S LaMarcus Joyner
(NY Jets), S Erik Harris (Atlanta), DT Maurice Hurst (San Francisco), C Rodney
Hudson (t-Arizona), OT Trent Brown (t-New England), OG Gabe Jackson
(t-Seattle), DE Vic Beasley (free agent)
The team needs would seem to be obvious. Bodies are needed on that O-line and improvements to the pass-rush, some help at LB and some competition at Safety to play alongside Johnathan Abram. Where the Raiders look to address on Day One will likely be dictated by the picks before them.
With Micah Parsons off the board I have the top names of S Trevon Moehrig, LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah or maybe an O-lineman such as Teven Jenkins or Dillon Radunz. They could also wish to roll the dice on an edge rusher such as Kwity Paye, Jaelan Phillips or Gregory Rousseau.
I think the choice
comes down to their view of the overall depth of the draft at each position. I’d argue the O-line
class is pretty deep and they can hold off until Day Two. The edge rushers are
perhaps too much of a lottery and again one to address later. This leaves
Safety and LB. There is a consensus #1 safety in the draft and a perception
of a fair drop-off after him. Based on this alone, I have Trevon Moehrig
joining the Raiders at #17
The Pick : S Trevon Moehrig (TCU)
18 – Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins are back on the board with their 2nd pick of the round. I think the pick is likely somewhere in the trenches. I’m leaning more towards the O-line, especially following the trade of Ereck Flowers back to Washington. The rumour is that 2020 2nd round pick Robert Hunt is to slide inside to Guard and that leaves only free agent signing D.J Fluker at Right Tackle.Adding a rookie here to provide competition and ultimately transition to starter would be an ideal scenario.
I think an excellent pick for the Dolphins would be Oklahoma State’s RT Teven Jenkins. He’s an absolute ground mover in the run game and a 3-yr starter in college. The other surprise option could be at RB where Myles Gaskin missed time last season and whilst Malcolm Brown was added maybe a game changer like Najee Harris or Travis Etienne could be considered.
The Pick : OT Teven Jenkins (Oklahoma
State)
19 – Washington Football Team
The Redskins gave up on 2019 1st rd QB Dwayne Haskins midway
through last year and saw Alex Smith retire this off-season. 38-yr old Ryan
Fitzpatrick has joined his 9th NFL team in his perennial bridge QB
role and the Skins now need to find a successor. Despite the turmoil at QB the
Redskins won the NFC East albeit with a 7-9 record and have the makings of a
top-tier defense in the capitol.
Off-Season Additions : CB William Jackson
(Cincinnati), WR Curtis Samuel (Carolina), QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (Miami), CB
Darryl Roberts (Detroit), WR Adam Humphries (Tennessee), C Tyler Larsen
(Carolina), OT Ereck Flowers (t-Miami)
Off-Season
Losses : CB Ronald Darby (Denver), LB Kevin Pierre-Louis (Houston), TE Jeremy
Sprinkle (Dallas), CB Fabian Moreau (Atlanta), ED Ryan Kerrigan (free agent),
QB Alex Smith (retired), LB Thomas Davis (retired)
I don’t think Washington force a QB pick on Day One although you can never be entirely sure with Dan Snyder in overall control. Instead I have the Skins following best-player available and swooping to draft Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah.
Ron Rivera loves his fast mobile LB’s and
made Shaq Thompson a priority pick back in the 2015 draft in Carolina. The selection of
JOK strengthens the one area of the Washington D not currently regarded as a
strength. The Skins need a specific role for him, he’s not a between the lines
thumper, but the way the NFL is heading, he’s the prototype modern LB –
undersized, fast, versatile and excels against the pass. He was so good in
coverage that Notre Dame utilised him to cover slot WR’s. The Skins could use
him a chess-piece at LB and Safety and he's also shown he can rush the passer as evidenced
by 5.5 sacks in 2020.
The Pick : LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
(Notre Dame)
20 – Chicago Bears
The Bears appear to be stuck in the middle of the pack following successive
8-8 seasons. Their inability to find a franchise QB is a large reason why they have
been unable to take that next step. Andy Dalton is next man up as he moves
across from Dallas on effectively a one year deal. The Bears have a 1st
round pick for the first time since 2018 but sitting at #20 they will
likely need to move up to have a chance to select any of the top 5 QB’s.
Instead they may elect to improve other parts of their offense with OT and WR
likely options.
Off-Season Additions : QB Andy Dalton
(Dallas), LB Jeremiah Attaochu (Denver), DE Angelo Blackson (Arizona), WR
Marquise Goodwin (San Francisco), RB Damian Williams (Kansas City), CB Desmond
Trufant (Detroit)
Off-Season
Losses : DT Roy Robertson-Harris (Jacksonville), CB Kyle Fuller (Denver), RB
Cordarrelle Patterson (Atlanta), QB Mitchell Trubisky (Buffalo), DE Brent Urban
(Dallas), LB Barkevious Mingo (Atlanta), DT John Jenkins (Miami), CB Artie
Burns (free agent)
21 – Indianapolis Colts
There should be optimism in Indy after the Colts had an impressive 11-5
season which eventually ended in the wild card playoff game in Buffalo. A lot will
depend on the success of Frank Reich’s reclamation project of Carson Wentz. If
Wentz returns to his early Philly form then the Colts could become serious
contenders. GM Chris Ballard does most of his good work via the draft and will
be looking to somehow replace retired LT Anthony Castonzo whilst also improving
the pass rush and finding more WR talent.
Off-Season Additions : QB Carson Wentz
(t-Philadelphia), OT Sam Tevi (LA Chargers), DT Isaac Rochell (LA Chargers), OG
Chris Reed (Carolina), OT Julie’n Davenport (Miami)
Off-Season
Losses : DE Denico Autry (Tennessee), QB Jacoby Brissett (Miami), LB Anthony
Walker (Cleveland), S Tavon Wilson (San Francisco), OT Anthony Castonzo
(retired), DE Justin Houston (free agent), S Malik Hooker (free agent), TE Trey
Burton (free agent)
22 – Tennessee Titans
The AFC South champion Titans won double digit games for the first time
since 2008 but fell at the first playoff hurdle to the Ravens in the wild card
round. The offense was tied 2nd in the NFL in total yardage with
Derrick Henry posting 2,027 rush yards and Ryan Tannehill throwing for 3,819
yards and 33 TD’s. They lost OC Arthur Smith who took up the HC role in Atlanta
but return the majority of their starters on offense. The defense did not fare
so well and was ranked 29th against the pass. They’ve allowed a
number of starters to depart but made some solid moves in free agency but will
need to complement them further via the draft.
Off-Season Additions : LB Bud Dupree
(Pittsburgh), DE Denico Autry (Indianapolis), CB Janoris Jenkins (New Orleans),
OT Kendall Lamm (Cleveland), CB Kevin Johnson (Cleveland), WR Josh Reynolds (LA
Rams)
Off-Season
Losses : TE Jonnu Smith (New England), CB Adoree Jackson (NY Giants), WR Corey
Davis (NY Jets), DE Jadeveon Clowney (Cleveland), DT DaQuan Jones (Carolina),
CB Malcolm Butler (Arizona), CB Desmond king (Houston), WR Adam Humphries
(Washington), WR Kalif Raymond (Detroit), S Kenny Vaccaro (free agent)
The Titans will be looking to the draft to provide more WR depth and probably help at Corner and resolving the vacant Right Tackle position. There's plenty of options at #22. I think Ole Miss Elijah Moore would certainly add some options to the passing game and OT/OG Alex Leatherwood would have a good shot at winning the right tackle spot. However, the main issues last year were on defense so assuming the medicals check out I have Northwestern's Greg Newsome upgrading a secondary which was ranked 29th against the pass in 2020.
23 – NY Jets (via Seattle Seahawks)
The Jets second pick of the draft comes at #23 and it's time for Robert Saleh to add a piece to his defense. I think they'd ideally like a CB but with Newsome just off the board they could consider Asante Samuel Jr or Caleb Farley or may just hold off until Round 2. The 49ers defensive foundation was built around a strong D-line and the Jets already have the makings of a strong unit here. However, they perhaps lack a true impact ass rusher in the group. The options are plentiful but I have the Jets considering Kwity Paye or Jayson Oweh, two athletic freaks whose production doesn't quite match their physical potential yet. Under Saleh, they'll hope that this comes to fruition
The Pick : EDGE Kwity Paye (Michigan)
24
-Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers fell apart last season after an 11-0 start. They ended up
losing 5 of their last 6 games including a home playoff defeat to divisional
rivals Cleveland. The defense was decimated by injuries but it was the declining
offense that fell off a cliff. Ben Roethlisberger’s play dropped off
dramatically too in the run-in but he will return for at least a further
season. The Steelers need to provide him better support than a run offense that
ranked dead last in the NFL but will have to do so with an O-line that has 3
starters not returning in 2021.
Off-Season Additions : OT Joe Haeg (Tampa
Bay), S Miles Killebrew (Detroit), C B.J Finney (Cincinnati), RB Kalen Ballage
(LA Chargers)
Off-Season
Losses : LB Bud Dupree (Tennessee), CB Mike Hilton (Cincinnati), OL Matt Feiler
(LA Chargers), RB James Conner (Arizona), C Maurkice Pouncey (retired), OT
Alejandro Villanueva (free agent)
25 – Jacksonville Jaguars (via LA Rams)
The Jags re-enter the draft again at #25 and one of the obvious picks could be along the O-line to protect their newly acquired franchise QB. LT Cam Robinson has largely disappointed so the position definitely comes into play here. The Jags also need help along the D-line too and it's noticeable that they addressed the interior D-line during the off-season but failed to add an edge rusher. The roster has plenty of holes still so I could see TE being prioritised but it's probably more a Day 2 pick. I'm finally settling on the Jags selecting another playmaking WR to give their the new QB some more weapons and the top man on my board is the tough slot receiver Elijah Moore out of Ole Miss. While his route running is raw he has the ability to take any catch to the house with his run after catch ability.
The Pick : WR Elijah Moore (Ole Miss)
26 – Cleveland Browns
The Browns won a play-off game for the first time in 26 years and are a
franchise finally on the rise. Despite the 11-5 record they were still
outscored by opponents 419-408 and had the 22nd ranked pass defense.
GM Andrew Berry has added a number of pieces to the D during free agency but is
expected to continue to do so via the draft. With a stellar draft class the
Browns could be looking further than just a single playoff victory.
Off-Season Additions : S John Johnson (LA
Rams), CB Troy Hill (LA Rams), DE Jadeveon Clowney (Tennessee), Takkarist
McKinley (Las Vegas), DT Malik Jackson (Philadelphia), LB Anthony Walker
(Indianapolis)
Off-Season
Losses : OT Kendall Lamm (Tennessee), CB Terrance Mitchell (Houston), DT Larry
Ogunjobi (Cincinnati), CB Tavierre Thomas (Houston), CB Kevin Johnson
(Tennessee), DT Vincent Taylor (Houston), LB Tae Davis (Houston) S Karl Joseph
(Las Vegas), DT Sheldon Richardson (free agent), DE Adrian Clayborn (free
agent)
The Browns have added a defensive back in
the 1st or 2nd round in each of the last 3 drafts. I
think there is a strong chance that continues this year. They’ll hope that free
agent signings Clowney and McKinley can provide a boost opposite of Myles
Garrett but could be looking to add a young edge rusher into the mix also. The
other possibility could be a WR after Odell Beckham ended up on IR last year and Rashard
Higgins was only re-signed on a 1-yr deal this offseason. However, I'm going with value instead and in a relatively weak class for interior D-linemen Alabama's Christian Barmore has plenty of upside. The worry is that he never became a full-time starter at Alabama but he has pass-rush ability that is at a premium on the interior. The Browns can afford the upside risk with their improving roster.
The Pick : DT Christian Barmore (Alabama)
27 – Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens made the playoffs for the 3rd consecutive season and gave Lamar Jackson his first playoff win before eventually succumbing 17-3 in Buffalo. The Ravens unsurprisingly were ranked the #1 rush offense with
Lamar Jackson hitting 1,000 rush yards for the 2nd time in his
career thus becoming the only QB to ever achieve that landmark. Rookie J.K Dobbins
came into his own, becoming the feature back in the latter part of the year. However
the Ravens owned the 32nd ranked pass offense and the unit needs
help at WR. Their defense remains solid (7th overall in yards per
game and 2nd in scoring defense) but saw Matt Judon and Yannick Ngakoue
depart in free agency.
Off-Season Additions : OG Kevin Zeitler (NY
Giants), WR Sammy Watkins (Kansas City), S Geno Stone (Houston)
Off-Season
Losses : LB Matt Judon (New England), DE Yannic Ngakoue (Las Vegas), DE Jihad
Ward (Jacksonville), RB Mark Ingram (Houston), C Matt Skura (Miami), WR Chris
Moore (Houston), WR Willie Snead (Las Vegas), OG D.J Fluker (Miami), OT Orlando
Brown (t-Kansas City)
28 – New Orleans Saints
Drew Brees ended his career with an interception and the Saints exited
the playoffs in the divisional round to the Buccaneers. Jameis Winston and
Taysom Hill will battle it out for his spot. The defense has become the
strength of this team and ranked 4th overall in yardage. The Saints
have massive issues around the salary cap and saw a number of offseason casualties.
They will have to rely on the draft to re-fortify their roster.
Off-Season Additions : TE Nick Vannett
(Denver), DE Tanoh Kpassagnon (Kansas City), FB Alex Armah (Carolina)
Off-Season
Losses : QB Drew Brees (retired), DE Trey Hendrickson (Cincinnati), CB Janoris
Jenkins (Tennessee), DT Sheldon Rankins (NY Jets), CB Justin Hardee (NY Jets),
WR Emmanuel Sanders (Buffalo), TE Jared Cook (LA Chargers), LB Alex Anzalone
(Detroit), TE Josh Hill (Detroit), FB Michael Burton (Kansas City), DT Malcolm
Brown (t-Jaguars)
The Pick : CB Caleb Farley (Virginia Tech)
29 – Green Bay Packers
The Packers reached the NFC Championship
game for the 2nd consecutive season for Matt LaFleur but were unable
to overcome the Buccaneers who handed them two comfortable defeats in 2020. Aaron
Rodgers returns as the 2020 passing leader in terms of TD passes, interception
% and completion % and does not look to be in a hurry to relinquish his
starting job to 2020 1st rd pick Jordan Love. He could use more help
at WR and the Pack somehow have to replace the departed Corey Linsley arguably
the best center in the NFL. Kevin King was re-signed to a 1-yr deal opposite stand-out
Jaire Alexander but the Pack will likely look for a corner via the draft.
Off-Season Additions : None
Off-Season
Losses : C Corey Linsley (LA Chargers), RB Jamaal Williams (Detroit), LB Christian
Kirksey (Houston), DE Montravius Adams (New England), QB Tim Boyle (Detroit) G
Lane Taylor (Houston)
The lingering memory of the Packers NFC Championship defeat was the sight of Aaron Rodgers continually harassed by the Buccs pass-rush. Whilst All-Pro Tackle David Bakhtari missed that game through injury, the Packers have been weakened this off-season with the departure of fellow All-Pro Center Corey Linsley. I wouldn't be at all surprised to see the Pack address this over the first 2 days of the draft.
They could also look to spend a long overdue high pick on a WR opposite Davante Adams. Both Allen Lazard and Marquez Valdes-Scantling are big play threats who make remarkable catches and simple drops with similar frequency. The Pack could also be looking for further help in their secondary.
For me, the high-risk but need pick would be Landon Dickerson. He's probably the best Center in the draft but unfortunately has undergone two ACL injuries during his college career. Instead the Pack may choose to select Creed Humphrey, a solid 3-yr starter at Oklahoma who could play across any position on the interior.
30 – Buffalo Bills
QB Josh Allen took a huge leap in 2020 and the Bills finally broke the
Patriots dominance in the AFC East and returned to the AFC Championship Game
for the first time since 1993. The roster is primed for another run into the
playoffs but they do need to get younger on the D-line and generate a bit more
pass rush. Josh Allen’s running masked a very weak rushing attack, so the Bills
could choose to take a RB early too but GM Brandon Beane has put most of this failure onto the performance of their O-line
Off-Season Additions : WR Emmanuel Sanders
(New Orleans), P Matt Haack (Miami), QB Mitchell Trubisky (Chicago), DE Efe
Obada (Carolina), LB Tyrell Adams (Houston), OT Bobby Hart (Cincinnati), TE
Jacob Hollister (Seattle), G Forrest Lamp (LA Chargers), RB Matt Breida (Miami)
Off-Season
Losses : WR John Brown (Las Vegas), WR/KR Andre Roberts (Houston), DT Quinton
Jefferson (Las Vegas), TE Tyler Kroft (NY Jets), OT Ty Nsekhe (Dallas), OG
Brian Winters (Arizona), CB Josh Norman (free agent)
It’s a well rounded roster but the Bills need more competition on the O-line and some youth on the D-line. I think there are a few candidates to consider. On the o-line Alex Leatherwood, Dillon Radunz or Samuel Cosmi may be under consideration. On the D-line I think there are numerous potential options such as Jayson Oweh or a surprise pick in Washington's Joe Tryon who seems like an ideal fit in Buffalo. One outside bet is Asante Samuel Jr who has a link to HC Sean McDermott who was the DC in Philadelphia when Asante Samuel Sr was at the height of his powers. Some Bills fans are calling for Clemson HB Travis Etienne but I suspect Buffalo still have faith in Devin Singletary and Zack Moss.
The Pick : EDGE Joe Tryon (Washington)
31 – Baltimore Ravens (via Kansas City
Chiefs)
The Ravens have their second 1st round pick here. I think they could easily be looking at the WR position and I have Terrace Marshall Jr, Rondale Moore and Kadarius Toney available here as options. However, I think the Ravens instead use the pick they gained from the Orlando Brown trade to select his direct replacement at Right Tackle with the team selecting Alabama's Alex Leatherwood who should become a plus run blocker in the NFL
The Pick : OT/OG Alex Leatherwood (Alabama)
32 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tom Brady gained yet another Superbowl and Bruce Arians held the post-Superbowl rallying call to re-unite the team for another run in 2021. Sure enough GM Jason Licht has done his utmost to retain the majority of the roster.
Off-Season Additions : RB Giovani Bernard (Cincinnati)
Off-Season Losses : OT Joe Haeg (Pittsburgh), CB Ryan Smith (LA Chargers), S Andrew Adams (Philadelphia), TE Antony Auclair (Houston), RB LeSean McCoy (free agent)
It's hard to pick holes in a roster which has just won the Superbowl and returns it's starters, and in reality the main focus is on adding youth onto units which are aging. Most obviously this is across the D-line and of course at QB. I don't think they see a Tom Brady replacement here at #32 but there are a number of young edge rushers with fantastic athletic ability who maybe quite haven't hit on their potential yet. The great thing is that this could be the ideal landing spot for them to be eased into the rotation year one without too much expectation. The straight choice here is possibly between Jayson Oweh and Gregory Rousseau
The Pick : EDGE Jayson Oweh (Penn State)
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