Mock Drafts
Jordan Katz’s Prediction Style 2021 NFL Mock Draft: 2.0
This is my prediction style mock draft. The goal with these mocks is to give my guesses on what I think all 32 teams would do if the draft was tomorrow. I also have a personal mock draft (https://draftstock.net/2021/01/04/what-would-i-do-2021-nfl-mock-draft-2-0/). In that style, I take control of all 32 teams, and make the selections that I feel fit them best. My evaluation of players and where they fit best can be found there. This mock is strictly attempting to get every selection correctly.
ROUND ONE
1) Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence, QB Clemson- No analysis needed here. Over the next few months there will be debates between Justin Fields and Trevor Lawrence from the media to keep things interest. None of it will change the fact that Lawrence will be the first name called on April 29th.
2) New York Jets: Justin Fields, QB Ohio State- The Jets hold the keys to the entire draft. If they choose to stick with Sam Darnold, they can haul a king’s ransom for this pick. If they want a quarterback at two, Miami will be the recipient of a bevy of trade offers.
Right now, my guess is the Jets take Fields because of who they choose to hire as their next Head Coach. Outside of Titans Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, I think all the other potential candidates would want “their guy,” at quarterback.
3) *TRADE* Cincinnati Bengals (from Dolphins via Texans): Penei Sewell, OT Oregon- Cincinnati is the most obvious team to aggressively pursue trading up for Penei Sewell. What separates them from other suitors is that the Dolphins could keep a top five selection by trading with the Bengals. Joe Burrow gets his franchise left tackle to protect his blindside.
4) Atlanta Falcons: Zach Wilson, QB BYU- Atlanta’s misfortunes in 2020 have left them in a prime position to select the heir to Matt Ryan’s throne. Zach Wilson is being billed as a carbon copy of Patrick Mahomes because of his play style and ability to improvise. Guess who also sat in their first year to learn the finer points of quarterback play in the NFL…
5) *TRADE* Miami Dolphins (via Bengals): DeVonta Smith, WR Alabama- Unless the Dolphins have Ja’Marr Chase significantly higher on their draft board, it makes sense to get Tua Tagovailoa a target he’s already familiar with. Smith follows up what should be a Heisman trophy winning season with a top five selection.
6) Philadelphia Eagles: Ja’Marr Chase, WR LSU- Jalen Hurts earned the right to go into 2021 as the Eagles’ starting quarterback. If he’s going to be successful, the Eagles need a true number one receiver. Chase is going to regain the buzz he had preseason during the draft process.
7) Detroit Lions: Trey Lance, QB North Dakota State- The Lions seem committed to moving on from Matthew Stafford this offseason, which means they’re in a prime spot to select a quarterback. Lance may be QB4, but he’s still a top 10 lock. At 20 years old, he also might possess the most upside of any quarterback not named Lawrence.
8) *TRADE* Arizona Cardinals (via Panthers): Kyle Pitts, TE Florida- If the Panthers miss on the top quarterbacks, they are a trade down candidate. Talented players are bound to fall as quarterbacks rise. If Arizona gets the opportunity to move up for an offensive chess piece like Kyle Pitts, you better believe that the front office and coaching staff will do everything in their power to make it happen.
9) Denver Broncos: Rashawn Slater, OL Northwestern- In my personal mock, where I take control of all 32 teams (https://draftstock.net/2021/01/04/what-would-i-do-2021-nfl-mock-draft-2-0/), I wrote about Slater’s upside as a guard at the next level. My gut tells me NFL teams will agree, and look at him as a potential all-pro guard. That’s what Denver does here.
10) Dallas Cowboys: Patrick Surtain II, CB Alabama- Last year, Jerry Jones took the “sexy pick” of CeeDee Lamb, despite having needs in other areas. He selects the sexy pick again here, but this time, it’s at a position of need.
Surtain is not my top cornerback, but I think his ability in multiple schemes will make him the top cornerback off the board in a few months.
11) New York Giants: Micah Parsons, ILB Penn State- Parsons falling all the way to 11?! How could this happen? It’s not as crazy as it sounds. He’s a phenomenal talent, but linebackers don’t possess the value they once had. It’s true that the Giants get a steal here with one of the best players in this draft. However, don’t be shocked if Parsons goes lower than you expect in a few months.
12) San Francisco 49ers: Caleb Farley, CB Virginia Tech- Assuming San Francisco acquires a quarterback before the draft (and I would not be so sure that’s the case), they are an easy candidate to select one of the top corners. Richard Sherman and Jason Verrertt are likely out the door, leaving a gaping hole in the secondary that must be filled.
13) Los Angeles Chargers: Christian Darrisaw, OT Virginia Tech- There are no trade partners for the Chargers here because of two moves inside the top 10. However, Darrisaw solidifying their tackle spot is a fine consolation prize. I would rather see him at right tackle, but many think he’s a quality left tackle at the next level and will become better in the vertical set as he progresses.
14) Minnesota Vikings: Gregory Rousseau, EDGE Miami- Rousseau’s physical gifts have him atop many draft boards despite not playing in 2020. A team like Minnesota could gamble on him at 14 because they’ve had success with raw but talented EDGE rushers in the past under Head Coach Mike Zimmer.
15) New England Patriots: Mac Jones, QB Alabama- Well, Patriots fans won’t like this one. Bill Belichick is going to try to find a young quarterback to groom this offseason. Chances are, it’s Jimmy Garoppolo after San Francisco let’s him go. Having said that, would you be shocked if it’s a quarterback that his best buddy Nick Saban has turned into a Heisman trophy finalist?
16) *TRADE* Carolina Panthers (via Cardinals): Kwity Paye, EDGE/DL Michigan- Carolina is a tough team to predict if they do not select a quarterback. Should they slide down the board to collect assets, BPA (best player available) makes the most sense. Paye lining up opposite of Brian Burns is also a nightmare for opposing defenses.
17) *TRADE* Chicago Bears (via Raiders): Jaylen Waddle, WR Alabama- One of the big three wide receivers will slide on draft day, just like CeeDee Lamb did last year. If that player makes it past the Patriots at 15, expect a bidding war to arise from teams farther down the draft board. Chicago pays the highest price and allows Vegas to stay in range for the player they want.
18) Miami Dolphins: Najee Harris, RB Alabama- Selecting running backs in round one has become taboo, but I think Miami will look for a bell cow with their second first round selection. Both Harris and Etienne are beyond elite and well deserving of being selections that “buck the recent trend.”
19) Washington Football Team: Rashod Bateman, WR Minnesota- Washington’s playoff appearance will make it challenging for them to select a quarterback of the future in this draft. However, they could easily acquire a younger veteran in the offseason and add a weapon opposite Terry McLaurin with this first round selection.
20) *TRADE* Las Vegas Raiders (via Bears): Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, ILB Notre Dame- If the Raiders had moved down further, they would’ve missed on the three down linebacker they need at the second level of their defense. That’s why they took the Bears’ offer instead of one further down the board with a bigger return according to the trade value chart.
21) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: Azeez Ojulari, EDGE Georgia- Ojulari is not projected to be a round one selection right now. Nevertheless. following an incredible bowl game, and what should be a strong draft process, he could easily wind up in the top 32 selections. Jacksonville needs to get to the passer better in 2021, and Ojulari can help do that.
22) Indianapolis Colts: Jalen Mayfield, OT Michigan- Even though the Colts have a ton of cap space, Anthony Castonzo is likely a cap casualty this offseason. The Colts offensive line was really good in his absence, and he’s a free cut of 16 million dollars off the books.
Mayfield is best at right tackle, but my gut tells me a team will slot him in at left tackle and hope his lower body technique continues to improve.
23) Cleveland Browns: Jay Tufele, IDL USC- The Browns are set to lose Larry Ogunjobi to free agency, and Sheldon Richardson could be a cap casualty as well. Tufele is the top interior linemen in the class because he produces as a 1-tech and a 3-tech.
24) Tennessee Titans: Terrace Marshall Jr., WR LSU- Much like in my personal mock, my rationale for the Titans selecting a wide receiver is simple. Their receiving core after Corey Davis is suspect, and I can’t see them giving Davis a big contract off of one solid season. Marshall steps in and becomes their number two wide out from day one.
25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Samuel Cosmi, OT Texas- Donovan Smith may have been paid this offseason, but he was dreadful for most of the year. Cosmi’s athleticism and ability to cut off edge rushers from successfully running the arch will be tempting for a team that throws as much as the Bucs do.
26) Baltimore Ravens: Wyatt Davis, IOL Ohio State- Look for Baltimore to try and trade out of round one come April. After the top guys, this draft will have a lot of polarizing opinions because of the oddity that was the collegiate football season.
Should the Ravens be stuck in this spot, addressing the interior of their offensive line makes a lot of sense. Wyatt Davis is the perfect scheme fit because of how physical he is in the run game.
27) New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Joseph Ossai, EDGE Texas- Ossai is still learning the finer points of the position, but he’s shown the ability to line up and succeed from the strong and weak sides on the defensive front. The Jets need edge rushers, making Ossai an easy selection here.
28) Pittsburgh Steelers: Kyle Trask, QB Florida- The Steelers will aggressively pursue young reclamation projects at the quarterback position during the offseason. Even though they likely land one, part of doing mock drafts is playing out different scenarios.
Therefore, assuming they strike out before draft day, the Steelers could get aggressive in their pursuit for Mac Jones or Kyle Trask. Both players would benefit from sitting behind Ben Roethlisberger and learning how to go through multiple reads against NFL coverages.
29) New Orleans Saints: Eric Stokes, CB Georgia- Janoris Jenkins has looked solid at times this offseason, but he’s aging and could be a cap cut somewhere in the next two years. Stokes is strong in press-bail, and breaks out of his T-Step with quickness and poise.
30) Buffalo Bills: Alijah Vera-Tucker, IOL USC- Buffalo’s interior offensive line play could be bolstered this offseason. Vera-Tucker leads a group of plug and play starters at guard that will come off the board in the 25-50 range of this year’s draft.
31) Green Bay Packers: Kadarius Toney, WR Florida- Aaron Rodgers has done a tremendous job turning Allen Lazard and Marquez Valdes-Scantling into decent players. Despite this, a real threat opposite Davante Adams would take this offense to a different level. Toney’s ability with the ball in his hands would add a different dimension to the Packers’ offense.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: Dylan Moses, ILB Alabama- Defensive Coordinator Steve Spanguolo loves smart players with good instincts because he asks a lot of his defense in terms of schemes. Moses might have lost the buzz he had around him from a few months ago, but he’s an elite football mind at the linebacker position. “Spags,” would love him in the middle of the defense.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Cincinnati Bengals trade the #5, #37 and a 2022 3rd round pick to the Miami Dolphins for the #3 and a 2022 5th round pick.
2) Arizona Cardinals trade the #16 and #48 to the Carolina Panthers for the #8 and a 2022 4th round pick.
3) Chicago Bears trade the #20 and #83 to the Las Vegas Raiders for the 17th Overall Selection.
Jordan Katz 2021 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: “What I Would Do”
Mock Draft Season is upon us! As of this moment, a little over half the league has their eyes set on the offseason, and subsequently, the NFL Draft. Even though many have published mock drafts already, this is the true start of #MockDraftSZN.
By now, scouts and draft experts have their opinions of the big name guys in the process. Now it’s true that evaluations on almost all players will continue to change. Many analysts have only begun their process into these draft prospects. However, with the college season just about done, there is enough to start having concrete opinions on players.
For those that are viewing my work for the first time, there are a few things you should know about my mocks. I produce two kinds of mock drafts; a personal and a prediction. The reason for this is simply transparency for the viewer. When you read a person’s mock draft, you might not be aware of what went into their decision. Are they trying to get the selection correct? Do they have information on a player that is going to rise, so they stuck them with a team that fits to get a reaction from readers? Is it their opinion of the player, the scheme fit, or both, that drove the decision towards the selection?
As you can see by the title, this is what I would do if I were in charge of all 32 teams. The selections are based on where I currently have certain players ranked, as well as what I think teams will need to address during this upcoming offseason. Any trades that are made are trades that I believe will benefit both teams.
With that being said, it is my pleasure to welcome y’all to the REAL official start of DraftSZN. Let’s cook.
ROUND ONE
1) Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence, QB Clemson- About five years ago, I got a phone call from one of my best friends telling me to take a look at this high school Quarterback prospect from Georgia. “He’s a can’t miss prospect,” JP told me. It’s safe to say that one collegiate career later, Lawrence lived up to that billing.
Lawrence has the physical attributes to dominate this league for two decades. His arm talent is off the charts. He possesses ridiculous athleticism for someone who is 6’6. Lawrence can make throws at all three levels of the field, with precision and zip behind the throw. Jacksonville may not have won a lot in recent memory, but this is the kind of player that changes your franchise.
2) New York Jets: Zach Wilson, QB BYU- Justin Fields dominated during the College Football Playoff game against Clemson. He showed deep ball accuracy, multiple reads, and elite toughness after taking a shot to the ribs in the first half.
Having said that, my QB2 remains Zach Wilson. Wilson has a big arm, along with zero fear when letting it rip. He throws a very catchable 50/50 ball that’s often in the right spot for his receiver. Wilson can improvise with the best of them, and has tremendous accuracy on the move.
There are definitely some concerns about his anticipation and willingness to attempt any throw in any window. His footwork could be cleaned up as well.
Nevertheless, Wilson is the new modern day gunslinger that NFL teams are falling in love with.
3) *TRADE* Detroit Lions (from Dolphins via Texans): Justin Fields, QB Ohio State- When he unlocks his hips in his throw, Justin Fields can sling it with the best of them. He’s a dual threat quarterback with really good arm talent. The concern with Fields is that he loses his technique when facing some pressure. If he’s too stiff in his lower body, he’s often high and wide with throws. This is why he’s still my QB3 despite a phenomenal bowl game.
However, that doesn’t make Fields a bad prospect. His upside is still tremendous, which is why Detroit jumps Atlanta to select him.
4) Atlanta Falcons: Penei Sewell, OT Oregon- While the Falcons have Jake Matthews and Kaleb McGary, neither have been overly impressive in recent memory. Penei Sewell is a can’t miss offensive tackle prospect because of his elite footwork and athleticism. His kickslide in the vertical set is so clean and his hips are so fluid. Sewell is the best player in the class not named Lawrence, and the correct selection for Atlanta if the first three picks are quarterbacks.
5) Cincinnati Bengals: Micah Parsons, ILB Penn State- Parsons sat out the 2020 campaign, but his draft status will not be affected in the slightest. A three down linebacker with elite athleticism, Parsons is built for the modern day game. What shocked me the most on tape was how effective he is as a pass rusher. His knowledge for gap assignments really helps him in both the run and pass game. Even though the Bengals miss on their franchise left tackle, they still select one of the best players in this draft.
6) Philadelphia Eagles: Ja’Marr Chase, WR LSU- Chase is not the top receiver on my board, but he’s the exact kind of player the Eagles need. I think Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith have higher ceilings than Chase. Waddle is a big time burner with elite quickness, and Smith can do it all.
Despite this, Chase is the guy the Eagles receiving core needs because he has the highest floor of the three players. He’s terrific at the catch point and he’s awesome at the line of scrimmage against tight coverage.
7) *TRADE* Miami Dolphins (from Lions): Jaylen Waddle, WR Alabama- Should they trade down, pairing one of the Alabama receivers with Tua Tagovailoa is the obvious answer for Miami. The selection of Waddle over Smith has more to do with the makeup of the Dolphins receiving core and offense.
Jaylen Waddle has dynamic playmaking ability from the slot. He stretches the field, he’s elite with the ball in his hands, and his route tree from the slot is diverse. Waddle is the player that the Dolphins need to add to their receiving core this offseason.
8) Carolina Panthers: Trey Lance, QB North Dakota State- Carolina’s quarterback of the future is not Teddy Bridgewater. In fact, he might not be the quarterback of the present in 2021. Reports from Carolina were that former GM Marty Hurney was canned because of his philosophical differences with Head Coach Matt Rhule. I think it’s safe to assume that those differences revolve around the quarterback position.
Lance is smart with the football, he has the ability to beat you with his legs, and he can stretch the defense because he has a cannon for an arm. Plus, he’s only 20 years old. Lance has some big time upside.
9) Denver Broncos: Jaycee Horn, CB South Carolina- The competition for the top cornerback off the board in April is just as competitive as the race to be the top wide receiver taken. Jaycee Horn, Caleb Farley and Patrick Surtain II, all have similar strengths and skill sets. All three are best in man coverage. They use their length extremely well in different ways.
What separates Horn for me has more to do with the other two players. Farley’s game is the most polished, but he has durability concerns. Surtain is very strong in off-man coverage, but he’s not as strong as the other two in tight man-to-man.
Horn is physical and he breaks on the ball extremely well. He’s a terrific fit in the Broncos’ defense.
10) Dallas Cowboys: Kwity Paye, DL Michigan- Paye is one of the biggest risers on draft boards from September to now. He has a lethal first step and the ability to win from multiple places along the defensive front. The Cowboys need a pass rusher to compliment Demarcus Lawrence, making Paye the easy selection here.
11) New York Giants: Kyle Pitts, TE Florida- Pitts could wind up as my top pass catcher off the board if the fit is right. He’s the best pass catcher in the class and the best tight end prospect I have ever scouted. Pitts can beat corners in tight coverage with elite quickness and a great release. Linebackers can’t stay with him, and defensive backs are not physical enough to guard him. Pitts is going to dominate the NFL for years to come.
12) *TRADE* Tennessee Titans (from Chargers): DeVonta Smith, WR Alabama- The Chargers are a good “trade back,” candidate in this draft because they need assets to fill out their roster. The Titans chose not to pick up the option on Corey Davis, which means they will either need to tag him, overpay for one year of production, or find his replacement in the draft. Even though the draft is loaded with receiving talent, there is a sizable gap between the big three and the rest of the group. To me, this trade makes a lot of sense both ways.
13) San Francisco 49ers: Caleb Farley, CB Virginia Tech- Back to back cornerbacks here. The Niners are a candidate to trade up for a quarterback in the next few months. However, in this scenario they were unable to do so, which puts cornerback atop their wishlist.
Farley would be the first cornerback off the board if he had a clean bill of health. He’s the best of the big three at mirroring opposing receivers, he’s able to press successfully, and his footwork in his backpedal is strong. If he’s able to stay healthy, he can be a star at the next level.
14) Minnesota Vikings: Christian Darrisaw, OT Virginia Tech- Darrisaw is similar to Rashawn Slater in the sense that system is key for his success. I think Darrisaw has elite potential at right tackle because of his ability in the run game. He drives opponents to the turf, he’s a beast at the second level, and his first step allows him to gain leverage easily. For a team that runs the ball as much as Minnesota does, Darrisaw is a home run selection.
15) New England Patriots: Rashawn Slater, OL Northwestern- Rashawn Slater is a reincarnation of the “Zack Martin,” dilemma from a few years ago. He could be a really solid tackle at the next level. He’s athletic, his hips are fluid, and he seals defenders really well in the run game.
Or, a team could take his athleticism and stick him at guard. Slater’s strikes do not always land in the vertical set, but he gains leverage really easily in the jump set. This is what Zack Martin was. Slater could be an elite guard at the next level.
16) Arizona Cardinals: Dillon Radunz, OT North Dakota State- This is a little high for Radunz. Nevertheless, Arizona needs athletes up front for their system, and Radunz is a big time athlete. His kickslide is terrific and he packs a better counterpunch than some of the other athletic tackles in this draft. If Radunz has a quality Senior Bowl week, he could solidify himself as a top 40 selection.
17) Las Vegas Raiders: Patrick Surtain II, CB Alabama- Vegas has selected a lot of cornerbacks early in drafts recently, but all of them have struggled. The back end of this defense is a disaster. Surtain’s ability to mirror, as well as his quickness when driving on the football, should help him become the number one cornerback that Vegas is missing.
18) Miami Dolphins: Creed Humphrey, IOL Oklahoma- While Wyatt Davis is slightly ahead of Humphrey on my personal board, Humphrey is a better fit for the Dolphins. He’s better in pass protection and has the ability to play center or guard at the next level. With Miami failing to find a trade partner here, they continue to build their offensive line.
19) Washington Football Team: Chris Olave, WR Ohio State- With Washington outside of striking distance to move up for a quarterback, they’ll most likely look to bring in a young quarterback like Sam Darnold or Mitch Trubisky to compete with Alex Smith. Therefore, they move to a different need; getting Terry McLaurin some help.
Olave is a “jack of all trades,” kind of receiver. His route running ability is ridiculous for a collegiate wide receiver. Adding him opposite McLaurin would create a lot of matchup problems for opposing defenses.
20) Chicago Bears: Terrace Marshall Jr., WR LSU- Allen Robinson is gone during this offseason, which means the top need on Chicago’s wish list is a wide receiver. Sure, the quarterback position is also a possibility. However, my guess is either a franchise tag for Mitch Trubisky, or a veteran via free agency or trade.
Marshall is one of the more interesting prospects in the draft because he’s not getting the buzz he deserves. At 6’3, Marshall wins down the field with long strides, a good release off the line, and the ability to haul in the majority of 50/50 balls. Marshall should be a first round guy come April.
21) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: Azeez Ojulari, EDGE Georgia- Jacksonville needs talent on defense regardless of the position. Ojulari is just that. He’s a bit undersized as a straight edge rusher, but he’s terrific at running the arch. He has a bevy of moves too, which makes him a really interesting prospect.
22) Indianapolis Colts: Gregory Rousseau, EDGE Miami- At 6’5, Rousseau has elite size and athleticism. His technique, however, needs some cleaning up. Rousseau has a lot of upside, but sitting out 2020 puts his draft stock in a precarious situation. Make no mistake, he’s not the only player in this spot.
With so many players sitting out the year, there will be a lot of gambles by GM’s on upside. Rousseau is one of those gambles. If you take him, you need to have a good foundation in place already. A team like the Colts is built to take one of those risks.
23) Cleveland Browns: Dylan Moses, ILB Alabama- The buzz on Moses has cooled, but I’m still a firm believer in what he can be at the next level. He’s so smart and possesses great instincts. Plus, he’s a great athlete, and a three down linebacker at the next level. For me, Moses is still firmly in round one.
24) *TRADE* Los Angeles Chargers (from Titans): Samuel Cosmi, OT Texas- Cosmi struggles with power rushers, but he’s a big time athlete for the tackle position. Whoever, the Chargers next coach is will use some tempo with this loaded offense. The Chargers need a true left tackle, making Cosmi a very good fit.
25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Najee Harris, RB Alabama- The Bucs are still going to be “all-in,” in 2021. With two feature running backs available, and a desperate need for a real running game, the Bucs seem like the obvious team to take Harris or Travis Etienne in round one.
I have Harris higher on my board because of his ability between the tackles, as well as his balance through contact.
26) Baltimore Ravens: Wyatt Davis, IOL Ohio State- Davis is a mauler up front. He gains leverage with good grip strength, and drives defenders with a powerful lower body. Davis is a perfect fit for a run heavy offense like the Ravens.
27) *TRADE* Philadelphia Eagles (from Jets via Seahawks): Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, ILB Notre Dame- If General Manager Joe Douglas does not trade out of the number two overall selection, you can bet your bank account that he will try to trade out of the 27th pick for more assets. Owusu-Koramoah has no business still being on the board, and Philly desperately needs a three down player to command the second level of their defense. This was an easy call both ways.
28) Pittsburgh Steelers: Alijah Vera-Tucker, IOL USC- Vera-Tucker is an interesting study because he does not do anything well, but also isn’t poor in a specific area. His feet are occasionally heavy, but he’s an effective pass blocker because he plays with good pad level and gains leverage with timely strikes. He’s not a finisher in the run game, but he walls off defenders well. He’s a plug and play left guard, which is exactly what the Steelers need.
29) New Orleans Saints: Kadarius Toney, WR Florida- When Drew Brees hangs it up in a few weeks, Head Coach Sean Payton will have to come to the realization that his receiving core cannot just be Michael Thomas. Toney is a perfect fit in Payton’s offense because of his ability with the ball in his hands.
30) Buffalo Bills: Eric Stokes, CB Georgia- Stokes is often at the line of scrimmage, and very willing to command the opposing team’s top target. He’s best in press-bail, but his footwork is also strong in off-coverage. Head Coach Sean McDermott would love Stokes’ skill set for his defense.
31) *TRADE* Cincinnati Bengals (via Packers): Pat Freiermuth, TE Penn State- “Baby Gronk,” is one of my favorite players in the draft. He’s terrific at the catch point, he’s physical in his route, and he’s an excellent blocker. Cincinnati trades up for a middle of the field threat that can contribute in the red zone.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Myers, IOL Ohio State- It’s not a sexy pick, but the Chiefs’ offensive line has regressed during the second half of the season. Josh Myers can play center or guard, and his fluidity in his hips, as well as his footwork, make him a really interesting top 40 selection.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Detroit Lions trade the #7, #39, a 2022 2nd Round Pick and a 2022 3rd Round Pick to the Miami Dolphins for the #3 and a 2022 4th Round Pick.
2) Tennessee Titans trade the #24, #88 and a 2022 1st Round Pick to the Los Angeles Chargers for the #12 Overall Selection.
3) Philadelphia Eagles trade the #38 and #70 to the New York Jets for the #27 and #129.
4) Cincinnati Bengals trade the #37 and #100 to the Green Bay Packers for the #31 Overall Selection
“What Would I Do?” 2021 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Two Rounds
By: Jordan Katz
Folks, we are a little less than a month away from the end of the regular season and the official start of #MockDraftSZN. It’s the most wonderful time of the year; and no, I’m not talking about the Christmas song.
Normally after the first mock draft, trades are included from that point on. However, because this is earlier than my second installment typically is, this mock draft will have no trades as well. There is a second round this time though. Hopefully this gives you all a better idea of which players I have my eye on at this time.
*The Draft Order is based on my projections for the remaining games on the NFL schedule.
ROUND ONE
1) New York Jets: Trevor Lawrence, QB Clemson- The Jets have been waiting for a franchise quarterback like Lawrence since Joe Namath retired. They thought Sam Darnold was going to be that guy, but things didn’t work out that way. Fortunately, Lawrence appears to be the “can’t miss,” prospect the Jets have been looking for. Lawrence can make all the throws. He has the arm strength to fit passes into tight windows, he has a quality deep ball, and his mechanics from top to bottom are terrific.
Having said that, I do have an unpopular opinion when it comes to Lawrence. I don’t love the “generational talent,” tag he has. His physical gifts are there, but Lawrence has a tendency to force some throws to his first read. His 50/50 ball placement could also be better. In my opinion, Joe Burrow was a better prospect.
Nevertheless, Lawrence is still great. He’s still a franchise quarterback, he’s still one of the best prospects to come out in the last 20 years, and he’s still the prize of this draft class.
2) Jacksonville Jaguars: Zach Wilson, QB BYU- A bit of a surprise here at QB2. Many will say this is too high for Wilson because he has the lowest floor of the top four quarterbacks. His footwork is subpar, he plays reckless at times, and he thinks he can make any throw in the book.
On the plus side, the negatives in his game are things the NFL no longer cares about. Offenses in the NFL have become about mobility from the quarterback. The player has to be able to make quick decisions with the football in a more up-tempo offense. 50/50 balls are encouraged, and turnovers are not as big of an issue as they once were. Wilson has great placement on his throws down the field, and he can rip it into tight windows despite some injury history. Wilson’s upside is significantly higher than Justin Fields or Trey Lance, which is why he’s the selection for the Jaguars here.
3) Cincinnati Bengals: Penei Sewell, OT Oregon- Sewell’s athleticism is off the charts. His ability to cut off edge rushers from successfully running the arch to the quarterback is second to none. When the draft process is all said and done, Sewell will be in the conversation for the best offensive line prospect to come out in the last few years. Cincinnati has to land an elite offensive lineman this offseason, which makes Sewell a perfect fit.
4) Dallas Cowboys: Justin Fields, QB Ohio State- A few years ago, the Cowboys had a ton of injuries, which landed them a top five selection. Their misfortunes allowed them to make a luxury pick inside the top five; Ezekiel Elliott. This time around, they also luck into a luxury selection; Justin Fields.
The Cowboys have been hesitant to pay Dak Prescott because of the impact that would have on their salary cap. Having a talented rookie quarterback allows teams to build out their roster significantly better. The Cowboys would be no exception.
Fields is the “QB2,” for many. He makes plays with his legs, and he has immense arm talent. The only concern is that he’s an upper body thrower, and his play style is similar to Cam Newton. Can that type of guy be successful at 6’3?
5) Atlanta Falcons: Kwity Paye, DL Michigan- Paye is the big riser during the college football regular season. When he lines up along the interior, he is unstoppable. Paye has a quick get off, he’s calculated with his strikes, and he can long arm opposing linemen. He may not be the “sexy name,” during the draft process, and this is a little high for him. Having said that, Paye is easily a top player in this draft.
6) Philadelphia Eagles: Micah Parsons, ILB Penn State- Talk about a perfect fit. The Eagles need playmakers in their back seven. Micah Parsons is a hometown kid who can captain the middle of their defense for a decade. Easiest selection of any mock draft.
7) Carolina Panthers: Kyle Pitts, TE Florida- If there is a team to take Pitts in the top 10 where he belongs, it’s the Panthers. Pitts is an elite athlete at the tight end position. He uses his body at the catch point, he uses his athleticism at the top of the route, and you rarely see any double catches from Pitts on tape. He is a matchup nightmare at the next level.
8) Denver Broncos: Trey Lance, QB North Dakota State- There is a legitimate chance the top four picks next spring are all quarterbacks. This is not to say the best four prospects are quarterbacks. There are just so many teams at the top that need quarterbacks.
When the Broncos’ roster is healthy, it is a better one than people realize. Adding a dual threat, modern day type of quarterback like Lance in on a valuable rookie contract could allow them the flexibility to build a playoff roster in a year or two.
9) Los Angeles Chargers: Jaylen Waddle, WR Alabama- Before diving into the selection, prepare for the Chargers to trade down a lot over the course of future mock drafts. If Penei Sewell does not fall to them, they are the team to trade down and acquire assets in this year’s top five.
Considering there are no trades in this mock, the Chargers are forced to stay at this spot. Wherever they pick in 2021, they should consider a playmaker to pair with Keenan Allen. Mike Williams has not blossomed the way the Chargers may have thought, and next year is his fifth year option.
Waddle’s ability to make plays down the field, his route running, and top end speed make him a top 10 prospect next spring.
10) Chicago Bears: Ja’Marr Chase, WR LSU- With Allen Robinson likely out the door, the Bears become desperate for a number one receiver. Fortunately, they will probably be in range for one of Waddle, Chase or DeVonta Smith.
As mentioned in the previous mock, just because Waddle is above him, does not mean that Chase is overrated in any way. Waddle’s game is just slightly more polished than Chase. Chase is an elite down the field threat with terrific ability on 50/50 plays. If he learns to vary his releases, he will be a star.
11) Washington Football Team: Rayshawn Slater, OL Northwestern- NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah recently pegged Slater as his top offensive lineman in the 2021 NFL Draft Class (https://twitter.com/MoveTheSticks/status/1332500132617547777). He was the first one on the Mekhi Becton train last year as well, so expect Slater to rise on many draft boards, as he does here.
Slater has terrific technique, but the length of his arms is a question for the offensive tackle position in the NFL. While he has the intelligence to play tackle at the next level, NFL teams may want him to play a guard because of his measurements. Even if he moves inside, Slater will still be a very good pro.
12) Detroit Lions: DeVonta Smith, WR Alabama- The buzz right now is still around the Lions letting Kenny Golladay walk, which means they will need a number one wide receiver. Some question Smith’s frame (he’s only 175 pounds), but he plays bigger than that. Smith is willing to take on contact, and his release against press coverage is really strong. He’s a playmaker, regardless of his frame.
13) San Francisco 49ers: Jaycee Horn, CB South Carolina- Richard Sherman and Jason Verrett may not be back with the Niners after this season, making them the most likely team to select secondary in the top half of this draft. Horn is currently my top cornerback because of his competitiveness and ball skills. He’s willing to be physical, and he locates the ball better than anyone in the draft. This is a great fit, and an even better one if Defensive Coordinator Robert Salah stays for another season.
14) *Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Terrace Marshall Jr., WR LSU- Full disclosure, the goal was to send DeVonta Smith back with Tua Tagovailoa. With Smith off the board, they turn to the next best deep threat available.
Marshall uses his size and long strides to win down the field. He’s a physical player at the catch point, which makes him a good 50/50 guy and a red zone target.
15) Arizona Cardinals: Samuel Cosmi, OT Texas- Cosmi in the top 20 is a bit of a reach, but the fit here is perfect. Cosmi’s biggest asset is his athleticism. He’s an easy mover, he’s long, and even though his technique needs some work, his hips are so fluid when opening up into his kickslide. Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury needs athletes up front to run his offense, and Cosmi is definitely an athlete along the offensive line.
16) New England Patriots: Pat Freiermuth, TE Penn State- The irony of “Baby Gronk,” being drafted by the Patriots is outstanding, but it’s also a real possibility. Freiermuth is a better blocker than his counterpart at the top of this draft; Kyle Pitts. His knowledge of how to use his frame in routes allows him to win at the top of the stem. Freiermuth is a terrific fit in the Patriots current offense.
17) Miami Dolphins: Travis Etienne, RB Clemson- Etienne is a three down running back that can change games every time he touches the ball. The value on running backs has decreased in the draft, but Etienne is worthy of being the exception to the new rule. Miami needs a feature back, making this pick a perfect match.
18) Indianapolis Colts: Caleb Farley, CB Virginia Tech- With Xavier Rhodes on a one year prove it deal, and the cornerbacks falling down the draft board in this mock, the Colts are in a perfect position to scoop up a guy like Farley. Farley has ideal size and length for the position. He’s at his best in man coverage, and he shows a rare ability in press coverage for a collegiate corner. Injuries are a concern, but because of his technique and fluidity as an athlete, Farley should hear his name called early next April.
19) New York Giants: Gregory Rousseau, EDGE Miami- The Giants defense has improved dramatically during the 2020 campaign. Having said that, they are still missing that “X-Factor,” up front. Leonard Williams is having a great season, but pairing him with a quality edge rusher is the best way for him to excel moving forward.
Rousseau is an elite athlete off the edge. His technique still needs work, but you can’t teach his ability to run the arch.
20) Minnesota Vikings: Creed Humphrey, IOL Oklahoma- Minnesota will likely address the trenches with a few of their selections in 2021. Humphrey is a top 20 guy if he moves to guard at the next level. His physicality, along with his knowledge of when to pin down on opposing interior rushers make him an elite pass blocking prospect in the middle. For a balanced offensive attack like Minnesota, Humphrey at left guard makes a ton of sense.
21) Las Vegas Raiders: Jay Tufele, IDL USC- In the last mock draft, I mentioned how I didn’t love the idea of any interior defensive linemen being selected in the top 25 of this draft. While I still agree with that, Tufele would be an attractive selection for a Jon Gruden coached team because of his competitiveness and high motor.
Of course, the more likely scenario is that General Manager Mike Mayock finally uses a quality roster to his advantage and trades down.
22) Tennessee Titans: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, ILB Notre Dame- The defense that led the Titans to the AFC Championship game last year is now a weakness. An impact player in the run and pass game is a must for them at the top of next year’s draft. Owusu-Koramoah has the athleticism to play man coverage on tight ends and running backs, which will make him an attractive option in the back end of round one.
23) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: Wyatt Davis, IOL Ohio State- Davis is a physical mauler up front. He uses power from his frame to drive opposing players when pulling. He also strikes with precision, which allows him to gain consistent leverage. The fit makes sense too. Jacksonville will likely need a balanced attack for whichever rookie quarterback commands the huddle next fall.
24) Baltimore Ravens: Trey Smith, IOL Tennessee- Interior offensive linemen go back to back here. The interior of the Ravens’ offensive line has struggled in 2020. They don’t have many needs this offseason, but this is one of them. In order to re-establish their dominant run game, they need maulers along the interior. That is Trey Smith in a nutshell.
25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Najee Harris, RB Alabama- This pick is predicated on Tom Brady returning in 2021, but if the Bucs are still “all in,” next year, this is the most obvious round one selection. Ronald Jones and Leonard Fournette have been laughable. Najee Harris is explosive, his vision has improved drastically, and he gains tough yards. This is the player the Bucs are missing offensively.
26) New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Patrick Surtain Jr., CB Alabama- A “best player available,” selection, but one at a position of need for the Jets. The Jets need a top player in the secondary this offseason. Surtain has versatility because of his footwork out of his break, and his technique in off man coverage.
27) Cleveland Browns: Dylan Moses, ILB Alabama- Moses is a really strong three down linebacker. The injuries are a concern, because athleticism is his calling card. However, he’s a football guy. His intelligence is off the charts for the position. Moses fits in perfectly into the middle of Cleveland’s defense.
28) Buffalo Bills: Shaun Wade, CB Ohio State- Buffalo takes a “luxury pick,” here, however it’s one that makes a lot of sense. Head Coach Sean McDermott loves aggressive schemes on defense. Wade is one of the best man cover guys in the draft, albeit strictly from the nickel position. He could grow into someone that can play both the nickel and the boundary, but his struggles locating the ball on the outside mean that he should be a nickel guy from day one.
29) New Orleans Saints: Rashod Bateman, WR Minnesota- Drew Brees is likely departing in the offseason, which means the “Michael Thomas and nothing,” receiving core is probably getting upgraded. If a YAC legend and down the field threat like Bateman is available, Head Coach Sean Payton might make the pick himself.
30) Pittsburgh Steelers: Marvin Wilson, IDL Florida State- The Steelers are another team that would likely trade down from this position, especially if they acquire a young quarterback in the league for draft capital. Should they stay here, a player like Marvin Wilson makes sense. His upside in the middle of a 3-4 defense outweighs the fact that he plays high at times.
31) Green Bay Packers: Chris Olave, WR Ohio State- PLEASE give Aaron Rodgers a number two receiver! Olave’s route running prowess would be dynamic next to Davante Adams in Green Bay’s offense. This is an easy fit.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: Dillon Radunz, OT North Dakota State- There are a few tackles in this draft that could become excellent pros because of their length, athleticism, and physicality. Some struggle with footwork, some lunge at the oncoming rusher, and some just need to be more consistent. Radunz is one of those guys. A team like Kansas City is perfect for taking one of the top tackles behind Sewell. The player can improve their technique while backing up Eric Fisher for a year, then replace Fisher when he inevitably walks in free agency after the 2021 season.
ROUND TWO
33) New York Jets: Kadarius Toney, WR Florida
34) Jacksonville Jaguars: Asante Samuel Jr., CB Florida State
35) Cincinnati Bengals: Carlos Basham Jr., EDGE Wake Forest
36) Dallas Cowboys: Jaelan Phillips, EDGE Miami
37) Atlanta Falcons: Zaven Collins, EDGE/OLB Tulsa
38) Philadelphia Eagles: Christian Darrisaw, OT Virginia Tech
39) Carolina Panthers: Derion Kendrick, CB Clemson
40) Denver Broncos: Liam Eichenberg, OL Notre Dame
41) Los Angeles Chargers: Alex Leatherwood, OL Alabama
42) Chicago Bears: Mac Jones, QB Alabama
43) Washington Football Team: Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR USC
44) Detroit Lions: Joseph Ossai, EDGE Texas
45) San Francisco 49ers: Josh Myers, IOL Ohio State
46) *Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Jalen Mayfield, OT Michigan
47) Arizona Cardinals: Paulson Adebo, CB Stanford
48) New England Patriots: Daniel Faalele, OT Minnesota
49) Miami Dolphins: Jevon Holland, CB/FS Oregon
50) Indianapolis Colts: Jordan Davis, IDL Georgia
51) New York Giants: Eric Stokes, CB Georgia
52) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Minnesota Vikings: Brevin Jordan, TE Miami
53) Las Vegas Raiders: Azeez Ojulari, EDGE/OLB Georgia
54) Tennessee Titans: Rondale Moore, WR Purdue
55) Los Angeles Rams: Hamsah Nasirildeen, FS/LB Florida State
56) Baltimore Ravens: Aidan Hutchinson, DL Michigan
57) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jackson Carman, OT Clemson
58) Seattle Seahawks: Hamilcar Rashed Jr., EDGE Oregon State
59) Cleveland Browns: Andre Cisco, FS Syracuse
60) Buffalo Bills: Alijah Vera-Tucker, IOL USC
61) New Orleans Saints: Trevon Moehrig, FS TCU
62) Pittsburgh Steelers: Javonte Williams, RB North Carolina
63) Green Bay Packers: Jabril Cox, ILB LSU
64) Kansas City Chiefs: Tyson Campbell, CB Georgia
Jordan Katz 2021 Prediction Style NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Midseason
Ladies and Gentlemen… WE ARE BACK! Even though we have just passed the halfway point of the NFL Season, there are multiple teams that are already looking forward to next year’s draft. While it’s still extremely early in the scouting process, there are some known facts about the 2021 draft class already.
First off, this class includes one of the best quarterback prospects to ever exist. Trevor Lawrence has the ability to make all the throws, he understands route timing and where the ball should be, and he also has the mobility inside and outside the pocket to extend plays. Lawrence is a franchise changer, and many teams will be interested in landing the Clemson star at the top of this draft.
Next, there are a number of talented receivers that are projected to enter the league next year. Ja’Marr Chase is the big headliner, but he may not be WR1 when this is all said and done. Despite a broken ankle, Jaylen Waddle projects as an explosive slot receiver with top end speed and quality route running. Rashod Bateman is strong at the catch point, and makes plays with the ball in his hands. In short, this class has it all. From home run hitters down the field like DeVonta Smith and Terrace Marshall Jr., to guys like Rondale Moore and Chris Olave run a clean route tree; it’s a quality class from top to bottom.
There are a few questions that still need to be answered about this draft class. For example, EDGE rusher looks to be a weak position this year. Who’s going to emerge as the second guy behind Gregory Rousseau? Similarly, which offensive tackle will be the second player off the board behind Penei Sewell? Is there enough depth at these positions to find talent later in the draft?
These questions, and plenty of others will be addressed in the coming months. For right now, here’s a look at the projected stars of next year’s NFL Draft.
Unlike my normal mock drafts, there will be no trading in this mock, seeing as how we are still extremely early in the process. This will also be a one round only mock for the same reason. The order is done based on my projections of the rest of the season. Therefore, if your favorite team is picking too high, I apologize in advance.
#MockDraftSZN is back. Let’s cook.
Round One
1) New York Jets: Trevor Lawrence, QB Clemson- The Jets have become a laughing stock as an organization during these past few months (although some would argue it’s been much longer than that). It has led to speculation that Trevor Lawrence could pull a Peyton Manning and return to school. It has also led to the idea that Lawrence could pull an Eli Manning or John Elway and ask to be traded before the draft.
Assuming Trevor Lawrence is willing to go to the Jets organization, this is a no brainer. They need a franchise changer, and he is just that. However, don’t be shocked if he opts to avoid this dumpster fire.
2) Jacksonville Jaguars: Penei Sewell, OT Oregon- The temptation is going to be there for the Jaguars to replace Gardner Minshew II with one of the top rookie quarterbacks. If I were running the show, I would look to build a roster around Minshew. Minshew has done a nice job with limited weapons and a below average offensive line.
If you’re wondering how good Penei Sewell is as a prospect, Sewell would have been the top offensive linemen selected last year as well. He’s an elite athlete with impeccable footwork and fluid hips. Sewell is the definition of a “can’t miss.”
3) New York Giants: Justin Fields, QB Ohio State- Daniel Jones has shown that he is not the long term answer as a franchise quarterback. He struggles to keep control of the ball, and he does not come off of his first read quick enough. Even though they also need help along the offensive line, a lot of their struggles stem from Jones staying at the bottom of the drop.
The debate between Justin Fields and Trevor Lawrence will be one that dominates the draft scene all year. It’s very reminiscent of the Andrew Luck-Robert Griffin III debate from years ago. Fields has improved drastically in his ability to read the defense. When you combine that with his arm talent and mobility, there’s plenty to like here from the Ohio State star.
4) Cincinnati Bengals: Micah Parsons, ILB Penn State- The decision by Parsons to not play in 2020 might have helped his draft stock more than actually playing. Sure, everyone already knows he’s a three down linebacker with big time athleticism. Nevertheless, he wasn’t the top five lock that he appears to be at this moment. Parsons is widely considered as the top defensive player in this draft, and he would be an excellent pick for the Bengals if they wound up in the top five.
5) Dallas Cowboys: Patrick Surtain II, CB Alabama- The Cowboys chose to not pay Byron Jones last offseason, which has really hurt their defense this year. Surtain possesses the ideal height and length for the position, and mirrors receivers well along the boundary. He’s not an elite cornerback prospect at the moment because he’s a little slow out of his backpedal, which shows up against better route runners on tape. Despite this, he’s still the top corner in the class, and the easy selection for Dallas if they pick in the top 10.
6) Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Jaylen Waddle, WR Alabama- Miami still needs help revamping their offense, which includes getting more elite weapons for Tua Tagovailoa. The curveball here, is that this selection is not Ja’Marr Chase.
Chase is a big time playmaker with elite ability down the field and at the catch point. He’s a terrific prospect, no question. Having said that, Waddle is a burner with a quality route tree and the ability to score every time he touches the ball.. He’s quick in and out of his cuts, which adds to his ability to take the top off of the opposing defense. In short, he’s a more complete player than Chase, which is why he’s currently my top wide receiver.
7) Washington Football Team: Zach Wilson, QB BYU- Trey Lance is widely regarded as “QB3,” in this draft, but that might be a misinformed opinion at the moment. Lance has a cannon for an arm, as well as dual threat ability, but he’s inaccurate at times because of his mechanics, and struggles to go through his progressions.
Zach Wilson is the exact same player, with a bigger arm, and is improving in the mental aspects of the game. He has no fear in terms of fitting throws into tight windows, and the arm talent to do so at the next level. Don’t be shocked if Wilson leapfrogs Lance as QB3 in this draft.
8) Los Angeles Chargers: Ja’Marr Chase, WR LSU- Chase had a stellar year at LSU with Joe Burrow in 2019, largely because Burrow gave him chances on 50/50 balls down the field. Chase has terrific body control at the catch point and a quality release at the line of scrimmage. With Mike Williams on his fifth year option next year, and likely to hit free agency following that, Chase could slide into the wide receiver two spot fairly easily.
9) Atlanta Falcons: Trey Lance, QB North Dakota State- Lance’s decision to play one game this year against a lesser opponent on minimal practice time is going to hurt his draft stock. Lance’s flaws were on display during the majority of the game. His inaccuracy and failure to go through progressions will now be the topic of conversation, even after he shines during the pre-draft process because of his big arm. Lance should still wind up in the top half of the draft, but if Wilson continues to shine at BYU, he could fall down the board, as I alluded to earlier.
10) Denver Broncos: Dylan Moses, ILB Alabama- Moses checks every box for a modern day linebacker. He has great instincts, he’s an elite athlete, and a quality tackler. Most importantly, much like Parsons, Moses is also a three down linebacker because he shows good instincts in coverage. Parsons is a lock to go in the top 10, but there is no reason Moses can’t join him in that area.
11) Minnesota Vikings: Gregory Rousseau, EDGE, Miami- Rousseau has elite size and length for the edge position. When he wins a rep, it’s usually because of his physical traits and athleticism. Minnesota has had success in teaching technique to gifted athletes in the past (Danielle Hunter for example), and they will try to do so again in an attempt to revamp their defensive front.
12) Carolina Panthers: Creed Humphrey, IOL Oklahoma- Humphrey was a projected first round pick if he came out last year, but opted to stay in school. Fortunately for him, the decision should not affect his draft stock that much. He’s athletic, he plays with good balance from top to bottom, and he’s able to gain leverage with power and technique. Humphrey would be a good boost to the interior line of the Panthers.
13) Detroit Lions: DeVonta Smith, WR Alabama- For some reason, the rumblings around the Lions are that Kenny Golladay could hit free agency this offseason. Even though the draft is loaded at receiver, and the Lions can replace Golladay on the cheap, the decision is still questionable.
If they ultimately go that route, Smith’s size, speed, and ability to win at the line of scrimmage would be an attractive option for Detroit in the middle of round one.
14) New England Patriots: Trey Smith, IOL Tennessee- If New England wins enough games to wind up in the middle of the pack, they will put themselves out of the quarterback discussion in this draft. The Patriots would then turn to their next biggest need, which is fixing their offense.
Smith is a mauler up front and could fit nicely in the Patriots new run heavy offense. When the Patriots inevitably let Joe Thuney go after this year, they will need to replace him. Smith can do that from day one.
15) San Francisco 49ers: Caleb Farley, CB Virginia Tech- The Niners will likely opt to trade down if they wind up selecting in the top 15. If they stayed put, they could address their secondary, which has been exposed a bit for its lack of depth during this season. Farley is a long, athletic cornerback with quality traits in man coverage. As long as Farley answers medical concerns, he’s a top 20 lock.
16) Miami Dolphins: Travis Etienne, RB Clemson- In order to select a running back in round one nowadays, that running back has to be a three down guy with home run ability and excellent vision. Etienne has improved immensely in the passing game, which means he now fits the criteria of a first round running back. Miami’s offense gets the feature back it needs moving forward.
17) Chicago Bears: Rashod Bateman, WR Minnesota- Allen Robinson is likely walking in free agency, which means Chicago’s incredibly thin receiving core becomes even more thin. Bateman’s ability in 50/50 situations will have NFL coaches salivating. He needs to improve as a route runner, but Bateman has big time upside at the next level because of his athleticism and ability with the ball.
18) Philadelphia Eagles: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, ILB Notre Dame- Owusu-Koramoah is excellent in coverage, which is a necessity for modern day linebackers. Athleticism is his strength, which allows him to lock down opposing tight ends without any help. He would be a necessary piece at the second level of the Eagles defense,
19) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: Jay Tufele, IDL Southern California- I don’t love Tufele in the top 20, but he could wind up there because of a lack of depth at the position. Tufele is better suited as a one tech in the NFL because he does a good job of collapsing the pocket. Even though he flashes as a three tech at USC, a space eater role would fit him nicely.
20) Las Vegas Raiders: Jaycee Horn, CB South Carolina- Horn has put together an excellent season in South Carolina. He has terrific ball skills, he plays aggressive, and he’s incredibly quick out of his T-step. In short, he’s a perfect fit for Jon Gruden’s defense.
21) Cleveland Browns: Terrace Marshall Jr., WR LSU- If the Browns do trade Odell Beckham Jr., they will likely replace him early in this upcoming draft. Marshall Jr., is excellent down the field, and he wins a lot of 50/50 throws. Baker Mayfield likes to give his receivers chances, which should allow Marshall to succeed in Cleveland should this scenario play out in April.
22) Indianapolis Colts: Kwity Paye, EDGE Michigan- The Colts defense is improved, but they still need a game changer off the edge. Paye is a breakout star at Michigan during the 2020 campaign. He has a quick first step, and the ability to gain leverage against opposing tackles. Paye has impressive grip strength, which allows him to bully his way to the quarterback. This is a great fit alongside DeForest Buckner.
23) Arizona Cardinals: Kyle Pitts, TE Florida- Okay, so chances are Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury’s offense is unlikely to incorporate the tight end much no matter who is at the position. However, Kyle Pitts is an elite “move,” tight end. He can split out because of his athleticism, and he uses his size to separate both at the catch point, and in his route. Giving a guy like Pitts to a mastermind like Kingsbury should be unfair.
24) Tennessee Titans: Chris Olave, WR Ohio State- The Titans declined Corey Davis’ fifth year option, which puts them in the market for a receiver in this draft. Olave is a slippery route runner. He breaks clean at the top of his route, he sells fakes nicely, and his route tree is really strong. Olave has good hands as well.
25) New Orleans Saints: Rondale Moore, WR Purdue- If you haven’t figured it out, the theme of this draft is pass catchers galore. Head Coach Sean Payton will love a playmaker like Rondale Moore in his offense. Moore is a big time athlete and he’s lethal with the ball in his hands. He’s quick in and out of his cuts, which allows him to separate at the top of his stem from opposing defensive backs. This is a perfect fit.
26) Baltimore Ravens: Wyatt Davis, IOL Ohio State- Speaking of perfect fits, Wyatt Davis going to a run heavy team is “what you want.” Davis runs over 3-tech lineman with perfect technique in his upper body and immense power. He can get out to the second level and destroy linebackers. The Ravens interior offensive line does need some help, and Davis is a day one starter for most teams in the NFL.
27) New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Pat Freiermuth, TE Penn State- Freiermuth and Pitts will be debated as “TE1,” throughout the draft process. Truthfully, it will depend on what the team drafting is looking for.
Freiermuth is more of a “do-it-all” tight end compared to Pitts. Not that Pitts is a bad blocker, but Freiermuth is better. He’s not as athletic as Pitts, but he separates in similar ways. Freiermuth uses his big frame to gain leverage at the top of his routes, and he wins contested catches with said frame.
In this mock, “Baby Gronk,” lands in the AFC East with the rebuilding Jets.
28) Buffalo Bills: Shaun Wade, CB Ohio State- Wade might be best suited as a nickel corner in the NFL. He mirrors extremely well from the slot, but he struggles locating the ball when he’s on the boundary. Fortunately, Head Coach Sean McDermott is excellent at putting his players in a position to succeed, particularly on the defensive end.
29) Green Bay Packers: Marvin Wilson, DL Florida State- Wilson’s tape is up and down. He flashes the ability to gain leverage at will along the interior. He also has a tendency to play high and completely take himself out of plays. Come “Draft SZN,” some team is going to fall in love with his physical traits and select him in the top 40.
30) Pittsburgh Steelers: Kyle Trask, QB Florida- While I don’t love the idea of Trask in round one right now, Pittsburgh is going to lose Ben Roethlisberger this offseason if the Steelers make a deep run. They could look to make a short term fix in free agency, or pursue a Sam Darnold/Daniel Jones/Dwayne Haskins type of player on the trade market. A more likely option is looking to the draft for a QB on a rookie deal to help them in terms of cap flexibility.
31) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Samuel Cosmi, OT Texas- Cosmi is a big time athlete up front. He struggles with power rushers at times, but he’s excellent at cutting off edge rushers from successfully running the arch. Donovan Smith has been a turnstile this year, and it would be in the best interest of Tampa Bay to replace him as soon as possible.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: Asante Samuel Jr., CB Florida State- Once you get past Jaycee Horn, the cornerback class is a minefield that NFL teams will have to navigate. Lots of players in this class have some NFL traits, but also some glaring weaknesses. Samuel is strong in mirror technique, as well as off-man coverage, but his ball skills are really lacking and he’s weak in press coverage. If the team that drafts Samuel can improve his ball skills, some team might have a quality number two cornerback on their hands.
Jordan Katz’s Prediction Style NFL Mock Draft 4.0: Final
Finally…. I said FINALLY…. the NFL Draft HAS COME BACK! We have arrived at one of the greatest spectacles in sports today. The NFL Draft is where the new season is officially upon us. This is the moment where hope springs eternal for the millions… AND MILLIONS… of NFL fans.
This mock draft is the traditional one that you all are used to reading. The goal in this mock draft is to attempt to predict what will actually happen. I do not take my grades into account, nor do I take my feelings about team needs into account (all of that is done in my personal mocks, which you can find here https://draftstock.net/2020/04/15/jordan-katzs-what-would-i-do-nfl-mock-draft-5-0-final/).
A slight format change to this one. Trades are not only indicated by an asterisk, they are also indicated by the literal word “trade,” in front of the team that is moving up. The team moving backwards will have the traditional asterisk that you are used to seeing. Trades that occurred before the mock draft will not have an asterisk.
With the #MockDraftSZN winding down, I want to thank you all for keeping up with my draft coverage for another season. I truly appreciate every read and every like on social media. Even if you were just clicking on the links and giving a quick scroll to see what your favorite team did, that means a lot to me.
So without further adieu, it’s time to cook up one final mock draft for 2020. Or, to paraphrase The Rock…
If Ya Smelllllllllllll, What The MOCK! Is, Cooking.
ROUND ONE
1) Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU
Is there a point to analysis here?
2) Washington Redskins: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State
Reports indicate that Washington is shopping this pick, but I don’t think there will be enough interest. There are four quarterbacks at the top of the board (Joe Burrow, Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert and Jordan Love), but only three teams in the top 10-15 picks that need a quarterback. Washington will likely be stuck with this selection.
However, when your consolation prize for not trading out is Chase Young, are you really “stuck?”
3) *TRADE* Miami Dolphins (from Lions): Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama
Despite all the rumors, Tua is still going to be the second quarterback selected. I realize the buzz right now is all around Justin Herbert. Reports indicate that Miami has him as their top choice. Even the Giants are reportedly “in love,” with the former Oregon star.
Nevertheless, Dolphins Owner Stephen Ross has been infatuated with Tua Tagovailoa ever since his freshman year at Alabama. There is no question that, if healthy, Tua is viewed as a game changing talent. I find it hard to believe that Ross would change his tune after Tua received a clean bill of health.
The Dolphins have the draft capital to control which quarterback they select in this draft. In my opinion, that quarterback will still be Tua.
4) New York Giants: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia
I might be falling for the bait here, and in more ways than one. First off, Dave Gettleman does not select offensive linemen in the first round. He has yet to do so as a general manager in the NFL.
Second, the Giants have been linked to Isaiah Simmons for quite some time. With the depth at offensive line in this draft, they can take one in round two and be just fine.
Having said that, it feels like this is the time for Gettleman to go offensive line. They have to protect quarterback Daniel Jones in order for Jones to develop properly. They have to block better up front for their star running back, Saquon Barkley.
If the Giants do go tackle at the fourth selection, there is a widespread belief that they will choose Andrew Thomas. Obviously, you all know by now that Thomas is my top tackle by a mile. It’s nice to see someone finally agree with me.
5) *Detroit Lions (from Dolphins): Isaiah Simmons, ILB/OLB/FS Clemson
The Lions have been linked to Jeffrey Okudah for a very long time. However, I think that’s largely because people have assumed the Lions will trade down. A lot of mock draft analysts do not believe in trying to predict trades. Therefore, they have just handed Okudah to Detroit because he’s a position of need, and ignored the fact that cornerbacks do not typically go in the top five.
General Manager Bob Quinn wants to trade out of the third spot. If the Giants pass on Simmons, I can’t imagine the Lions doing the same. Simmons is a generational defensive talent, and the Lions have a defensive minded head coach in Matt Patricia.
Jeffrey Okudah feels like the tired selection. Isaiah Simmons feels like the wired selection.
Editor’s Note: For months, I have told y’all that the Giants hold the keys to the draft. Assuming the Giants take Simmons, the Lions would select Okudah, and offensive line would fall a bit. If the Giants take a tackle, the top defensive pieces in the draft could see a slide down the board.
6) Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Love, QB Utah State
Surprise! Jordan Love leaps over Justin Herbert in my final prediction mock. The Chargers have been infatuated with Love for a while now. They met with him at the combine, and had a virtual meeting with him as well.
Now I do think the Chargers will select Tua Tagovailoa if he is available. Having said that, in the debate of Love versus Herbert, I think the Chargers want the dual threat playmaker that is Jordan Love.
For those scoring at home, this means that Justin Herbert, who many think is “QB2,” is the quarterback that falls down the draft board.
7) Carolina Panthers: Jeffrey Okudah, CB Ohio State
One of Okudah or Simmons is going to slide a bit on draft day because of the quarterbacks getting mixed into the top of the draft. Neverthless, I can’t see either making it past Carolina. They have a need for both players. Luke Keuchly retired, making Simmons an ideal replacement. James Bradberry left, making Okudah an ideal replacement. Either selection is a big with for the Panthers.
8) Arizona Cardinals: Tristan Wirfs, OT Iowa
Wirfs feels like a layup for Arizona. He’s the most athletic offensive linemen in this draft by a mile, and the Cardinals need everything on the offensive line. The one key factor for Arizona is that offensive linemen they select must be athletic enough to play in Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury’s offense. Wirfs is just that.
9) *TRADE* Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Jaguars): Jedrick Wills, OT Alabama
Tampa Bay has entered win now mode after the acquisition of Tom Brady. That means acquiring a right tackle and a cornerback early in this draft.
With the way offensive line is flying off the board, the Bucs trade up to land the only true right tackle at the top of the draft; Jedrick Wills.
10) Cleveland Browns: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville
Mekhi Becton rounds out the top 10, and it also means that all four of the top offensive linemen have been selected. The top four tackles are generational talents. Currently, the offensive line play in the NFL is disastrous. When you get this kind of talent at one of the most important positions in the NFL, you have to pounce on it early.
Becton fills the Browns need of a starting left tackle.
11) *TRADE* Atlanta Falcons (from Jets): CJ Henderson, CB Florida
The rumors surrounding the Falcons and CJ Henderson feel more like destiny than smoke. General Manager Thomas Dimitroff has made the big splash once before, trading all the way up for Julio Jones. Truthfully, I think there is a chance the Falcons move up even higher than this for the player they desire.
If the player they desire is in fact Henderson, look for them to move into the 8-11 range for the former Florida star.
12) Las Vegas Raiders: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama
Truth be told, figuring out the first wide receiver off the board is a complete guessing game. I’m going with Jeudy because he was deemed “WR1,” for the longest time.
However, don’t sleep on the Raiders picking Henry Ruggs III as the top guy. Head Coach Jon Gruden loves speedy receivers, and no one is more of a burner than Ruggs.
13) *TRADE* New England Patriots (from 49ers via Colts): Justin Herbert, QB Oregon
I think this is a realistic scenario that plays out. Whoever the fourth quarterback off the board is, be that Herbert, Tua or Love, falls outside the top ten. At that moment, the Patriots get aggressive and move up for the successor to Tom Brady.
While New England is without a second round selection, they do hold a ton of ammunition in this draft. Frankly, if the Patriots can wait until the teens to move up, they probably avoid giving up a future first rounder.
In my mind, Herbert will be the one to fall because the Dolphins still love Tua, and the Chargers have wanted Jordan Love from the jump.
14) *Jacksonville Jaguars (from Buccaneers): Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn
Following the trade down, the Jaguars select the player they would have at nine. Brown is reacquiring the buzz he had before his lackluster performance at the NFL Combine. Some think he will go as high as seven where Carolina selects.
I think the more likely scenario is that he winds up in Jacksonville.
15) Denver Broncos: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama
Denver is in a perfect position to draft a pass catcher at the top of this draft. They have the assets to trade up, should the receivers go earlier than expected. They also pick high enough to capitalize on the top receivers falling a bit.
Ruggs is the pick over CeeDee Lamb because some team is going to fall in love with his potential.
16) *New York Jets (from Falcons): Josh Jones, OT Houston
Don’t worry Jets fans, I’m not happy about this either. Passing on one of the top flight receivers for an offensive tackle that I gave a fourth round/developmental grade to is less than ideal.
However, I think this is the direction the Jets go if they miss on the top four tackles. Wide Receiver is loaded, and the Jets really like Josh Jones. General Manager Joe Douglas trades down, acquires assets to help build the roster, and selects their starting right tackle.
17) Dallas Cowboys: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU
At some point, Chaisson will be selected by a team that could use an edge rusher, but is taking him because he’s clearly the best player on the board. That is exactly what the Cowboys are doing here.
18) Miami Dolphins (from Steelers): Austin Jackson, OT USC
Austin Jackson has solidified himself as a first rounder because of his athleticism. For a young player, he has a terrific understanding for cutting off the arch for the opposing edge rusher. In my opinion, 18 is his floor. Miami needs a tackle that is athletic enough to play the left or right side, depending on what they decide. That describes Austin Jackson more than Josh Jones.
19) Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears): Javon Kinlaw, IDL South Carolina
Kinlaw slides down the board a bit, largely because someone has to. With the amount of talent at the top, players are bound to fall when positional need gets mixed in. The Raiders need a three technique in the middle of their defense, so they scoop up Kinlaw.
20) Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams): AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
For a while, Kristian Fulton was viewed as the number three corner off the board. However, from what I’ve seen in the past month, he could slide a bit on draft day due to concerns about his ability to be physical.
Terrell uses his size and length well in cover one and cover three. He also has big time ball skills. Jacksonville will go corner with one of their first two selections. They choose Terrell at 20.
21) Philadelphia Eagles: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma
Another surprise here. Lamb falling outside the top 20 seems unrealistic, but it’s not as inconceivable as you might think. The receiver class is so good that teams may look to address different needs early on. Even with how good the top three are, rookie receivers can struggle with their transition to the NFL if they are not in the right system.
The Eagles reap the benefits and get Carson Wentz a legitimate number one receiver.
22) Minnesota Vikings (from Bills): Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama
Much like Jacksonville, Minnesota will go cornerback with one of their two first round selections. Diggs is not high on my personal board, but many scouts are intrigued by his length and his footwork in off coverage.
23) *San Francisco 49ers (from Patriots): Justin Jefferson, WR LSU
While it makes little sense for the Niners to trade down and select a receiver not as good as the one they could have had at 13, I think that’s what they wind up doing. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan is all about the system. Justin Jefferson’s versatility and ability at the catch point make him a perfect fit for the system. Not to mention, the Niners would acquire necessary draft assets in the middle rounds that they currently lack.
24) *TRADE* Los Angeles Chargers (from Saints): Ezra Cleveland, OT Boise State
The Chargers need a starting left tackle at some point during this draft. Thankfully, the class is loaded at offensive tackle. Not to mention, the Chargers have the draft capital to get the guy they want if they have to move up. With OL flying off the board, the Chargers move up for an elite athlete in Ezra Cleveland.
25) Minnesota Vikings: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
Isaiah Wilson is a late bloomer in the mock draft process. The NFL seems to love his physicality and size. They seem to care very little about the flaws in his technique.
This should not surprise you though. If you’ve followed my mock drafts, you know that my thought process is different from the NFL in this matter. The NFL believes they can teach players with elite size and strength the technique necessary to succeed. I believe intelligence outweighs measurables. Wilson falls into the category of the former. Hence why he will be a top 40 selection.
26) *Detroit Lions (from Dolphins via Texans): Antoine Winfield Jr., CB/FS Minnesota
Antoine Winfield Jr., is another late bloomer in the draft process, but this one is warranted. Winfield has the man cover ability to line up as a nickel corner, the physicality to play near the line of scrimmage, and the range to play a single high safety spot. His versatility will be an attractive option to teams selecting in the back end of round one.
27) Seattle Seahawks: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State
General Manager John Schneider typically moves up and down the draft board early on, but the need for a pass rusher will force him to stay put. Gross-Matos is easily the next best edge rusher after Chaisson, which is why he should land in the top 40 picks during the NFL Draft.
28) Baltimore Ravens: Jeremy Chinn, LB/S Southern Illinois
The Ravens will likely go defense with their first pick, but where they go is a mystery. They need a do-it-all player on the second level of their defense. That player could be Patrick Queen or Kenneth Murray, but it could also be Jeremy Chinn.
Chinn is a lesser version of Isaiah Simmons. Chinn is a hybrid safety/linebacker that can read and react in zone coverage, but also make impact plays against the run. His phenomenal combine performance should help him be selected in the top 50 picks of the NFL Draft. I think his ceiling is the back end of round one, which is where he winds up in this mock.
29) *TRADE* Carolina Panthers (from Titans): Justin Madubuike, IDL Texas A&M
One of the teams in the back end of round one will trade out. Based on the players available, and the potential draft targets that are left, Tennessee made the most sense.
Carolina trades up for a three technique interior defensive linemen that they desperately need.
30) Green Bay Packers: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU
A bit of a surprise here. For a while, Denzel Mims was the player that the media thought would go after Justin Jefferson. However, there has been a lot of buzz lately surrounding Jalen Reagor.
Reagor is a big time deep threat who can also make plays with the ball in his hands. He would fit nicely in the Packers passing attack.
31) San Francisco 49ers: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan
Ruiz is a mystery to me. Not in terms of the player, he’s a stud. Ruiz’s technique, intelligence and ability to wall off pass rushers make him worthy of a first round pick.
The reason he’s a mystery is because I do not know where his draft value is as an interior offensive linemen. I could see him starting at center for the Dallas Cowboys next year, which could put him at pick 17. It could also put him at pick 51, in the middle of round two.
My best guess is Ruiz winds up in the back end of the first round with one of the teams that needs help along the interior of their offensive line.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma
As much fun as it would be to give the Chiefs the top running back off the board, the needs on defense are just too great. Murray would be the three down linebacker that the Chiefs have been missing ever since Derrick Johnson retired.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #26 and #70 to the Detroit Lions for the #3, #109 and #183.
2) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #14, #76 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #9 Overall Selection.
3) Atlanta Falcons trade the #16, #78 and #120 to the New York Jets for the #11 Overall Selection.
4) New England Patriots trade the #23, #87, #100 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the San Francisco 49ers for the #13 and a 2021 4th Round Pick.
5) Los Angeles Chargers trade the #37 and #71 to the New Orleans Saints for the #24 Overall Selection.
6) Carolina Panthers trade the #38, #113, and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Tennessee Titans for the #29 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: Patrick Queen, ILB/OLB LSU
Good players are bound to fall into round two this year because of the depth and talent of this draft class. The Bengals capitalize by selecting a three down linebacker that should have gone in round one.
34) Indianapolis Colts (from Washington): Brandon Aiyuk, WR Arizona State
Aiyuk is being mentioned in round one, so there’s a good chance he’s not available for the Colts here. However, if he is, the Colts will scoop him up because of his ability after the catch.
35) Detroit Lions: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma
Detroit continues to revamp their defense here in round two. Gallimore’s quickness will give the Lions the pass rusher from the interior that they have lacked.
36) New York Giants: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama
McKinney could very well be the first safety off the board during the draft. With that being said, it also does not mean he has to go in round one. While I have multiple safeties in round one, there is a chance that none go in the first round.
The Giants scoop up the only true single high free safety in the draft.
37) *New Orleans Saints (from Chargers): Jalen Hurts, QB Alabama
Many think the Saints will address quarterback at some point during this draft. Jalen Hurts is viewed as a top 50 selection because of his intangibles and ability outside the pocket. New Orleans trading backwards in round one and selecting Hurts feels like a match made in heaven.
38) *Tennessee Titans (from Panthers): Ross Blacklock, DL TCU
Blacklock will go a little lower than he should because of his injury history. However, he should still go top 50 because of how quick he is off the snap, and how disciplined he is against the run.
39) Miami Dolphins: AJ Epenesa, EDGE/DL Iowa
AJ Epenesa was once a first round lock. Now, it would be a surprise if he goes on day one. The Dolphins could be the team that scoops him up in round two. They can play him at multiple spots along the front seven, which will maximize his skill set at the next level.
40) *TRADE* Seattle Seahawks (from Texans via Cardinals): Bryce Hall, CB Virginia
Seattle has measurement requirements for the cornerbacks they select. Even though this draft class is extremely talented at corner, there are very few players that meet the Seahawks desired measurables. Hence why Seattle gets aggressive and trades up for Bryce Hall.
41) Cleveland Browns: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU
Fulton’s slide into day two will not last long, but it will exist. I don’t think the NFL scouts trust his ability when mirroring receivers in man coverage. That, along with his lack of physicality, will make him slide a bit.
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia
As I said in my personal mock draft, no running backs on day one is a very likely scenario. The amount of talent, combined with the positional value, could force the group as a whole to fall a bit.
Jacksonville capitalizes on this and selects the top running back in the draft, according to most.
43) Chicago Bears (from Raiders): Lucas Niang, OT TCU
The Bears need to select whoever is the best offensive linemen on their draft board at 43. My guess is that Lucas Niang will be the guy. They need a right tackle with big time length and raw power.
44) Indianapolis Colts: Grant Delpit, SS LSU
Delpit was a first round pick for a while. However, the concern over his final year at LSU has him sliding down draft boards. I would still select him in round one, but my guess is he winds up going on day two.
45) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU
Gladney is the ideal cornerback for defensive coordinator Todd Bowles. He’s phenomenal in man coverage, and has the ability to play nickel cornerback as well. This is a perfect fit.
46) Denver Broncos: Logan Wilson, ILB Wyoming
Logan Wilson is rising up the media mock drafts based on what people are hearing in NFL circles. Lots of scouts seem to think he’s a three down linebacker that packs a wallop.
I’m not sure I agree, but this mock is not about me.
47) Atlanta Falcons: Zack Baun, EDGE/OLB Wisconsin
Atlanta has always loved undersized players with high motors during the Dan Quinn era. They select another one here in Zack Baun.
48) New York Jets: Denzel Mims, WR Baylor
Mims appears to be lower on the NFL boards than many of us thought. I cannot stress how much of a mistake that is. Mims has a big time catch radius, he makes plays down the field, and he’s terrific at the catch point. The Jets get a steal here.
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Darrell Taylor, EDGE Tennessee
Darrell Taylor is another guy that the NFL appears to be higher on than the media has been. The Steelers need an edge rusher once they inevitably let Bud Dupree go. This could be a selection that very few see coming when the Steelers get on the clock.
50) Chicago Bears: Ashtyn Davis, FS/SS California
Unlike Taylor, Davis is a favorite among the mock draft community. Many think he has the versatility to be a free safety or a strong safety at the next level. I think the NFL will see him as more of a cover two strong safety, which is why he does not go towards the top of round two.
51) Dallas Cowboys: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn
Dallas has to look for a secondary piece at some point on day two. Igbinoghene plays tough, and his man cover skills are very impressive for someone who is still learning the position. His technique when mirroring opposing receivers will be very attractive to teams selecting on day two.
52) Los Angeles Rams: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
Lewis is a polarizing player among the media. Some like his length and athleticism. Others question his gap control and ability to counter when rushing the passer. It’s hard to predict where he will wind up, but the Rams desperation for an edge rusher could lead to their selection of Lewis.
53) Philadelphia Eagles: Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL LSU
I don’t think Philadelphia will rush to selecting a secondary piece because they recently acquired Darius Slay. Instead, they select a starting left guard here in round two.
54) *TRADE* Jacksonville Jaguars via Buffalo Bills (Bills Acquire Yannick Ngakoue): Tee Higgins, WR Clemson
This scenario played out in my personal mock draft as well. Why not go all in if you’re the Bills? The Patriots are not there to block your path to a division title. Buffalo trades multiple day two picks to land a game changing pass rusher.
Jacksonville uses the acquired asset to select a pass catcher that they desperately need.
55) Baltimore Ravens (from Falcons via Patriots): Robert Hunt, IOL Louisiana
Baltimore needs help along the interior of their offensive line. Hunt brings the physicality in the run game that they will look for.
56) Miami Dolphins (from Saints): Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
Miami will select a bell cow at some point in the first two rounds. Jonathan Taylor feels like the number two guy according to most because of his vision between the tackles.
57) Los Angeles Rams (from Texans): Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU
Running backs go back-to-back here. “CEH,” has gained steam lately as a player who can make an impact in every facet of the game. I think he leapfrogs JK Dobbins as becomes the third running back selected.
58) Minnesota Vikings: Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama
Minnesota needs a three technique in the middle of their defense. Davis is a player with ideal size and length for the position. While I don’t have him this high, I think the NFL does.
59) *Houston Texans (from Seahawks): Marlon Davidson, IDL Auburn
Houston trades down to acquire assets, but still selects a starter along their defensive front. Davidson is stout against the run, which will make him a popular player on day two.
60) *TRADE* Las Vegas Raiders (from Ravens): Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah
The Raiders need a starting cornerback opposite last year’s first round selection, Trayvon Mullen. With cornerbacks flying off the board in round two, the Raiders get aggressive and move up for Jaylon Johnson.
61) Tennessee Titans: Matthew Peart, OT UCONN
Peart’s size and length will have teams gawking at him on day two. While I think Peart is better served at left tackle because of his fluidity in pass sets, I think a team like the Titans will try to teach him how to be a physical right tackle.
62) Green Bay Packers: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
Kmet is the top tight end in a very weak draft class. Green Bay needs a tight end to stretch the middle of the field, which is why they reach for Kmet.
63) Kansas City Chiefs (from 49ers): JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State
Dobbins should not go this low, but I think the NFL is lower on him than I am. Kansas City scoops up an ideal running back for their zone rushing attack.
64) *Houston Texans (from Seahawks via Chiefs): Matt Hennessy, IOL Temple
I’d like to believe that Head Coach/General Manager/Houston Overlord, Bill O’Brien, is smart enough to realize that the team needs offensive line help. I also thought he was smart enough to see the value in DeAndre Hopkins.
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) Seattle Seahawks trade the #59 and #64 to the Houston Texans for the #40 and #111.
2) Buffalo Bills trade the #54 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for EDGE Rusher Yannick Ngakoue.
3) Las Vegas Raiders trade the #80 and #91 to the Baltimore Ravens for the #60 and #225.
ROUND THREE
65) Cincinnati Bengals: Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR Michigan
66) Washington Redskins: KJ Hamler, WR Penn State
67) Detroit Lions: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan
68) New York Jets (from NY Giants): Josh Uche, EDGE/OLB Michigan
69) Carolina Panthers: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn
70) *Detroit Lions (from Dolphins): Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State
71) *New Orleans Saints (from Chargers): Amik Robertson, CB Louisiana Tech
72) *TRADE* Minnesota Vikings (from Cardinals): Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado
73) Jacksonville Jaguars: Jake Fromm, QB Georgia
74) Cleveland Browns: Kyle Dugger, SS Lenoir-Rhyne
75) Indianapolis Colts: Adam Trautman, TE Dayton
76) *Jacksonville Jaguars (from Buccaneers): Curtis Weaver, EDGE Boise State
77) Denver Broncos: Jonah Jackson, IOL Ohio State
78) *New York Jets (from Falcons): Michael Pittman, WR USC
79) New York Jets: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State
80) *Baltimore Ravens (from Raiders): Chase Claypool, WR Notre Dame
81) Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears): Bryan Edwards, WR South Carolina
82) Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Biadasz, IOL Wisconsin
83) Denver Broncos (from Steelers): Ben Bartch, OT St. John’s
84) Los Angeles Rams: Jordyn Brooks, ILB Texas Tech
85) Detroit Lions (from Eagles): Saahdiq Charles, OT LSU
86) Buffalo Bills: Troy Pride Jr., CB Notre Dame
87) *San Francisco 49ers (from Patriots): Jonathan Greenard, EDGE Florida
88) New Orleans Saints: Davon Hamilton, IDL Ohio State
89) *Arizona Cardinals (from Vikings): Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame
90) Cleveland Browns (from Texans): Van Jefferson, WR Florida
91) *Baltimore Ravens (from Raiders): Cam Akers, RB Florida State
92) Baltimore Ravens: Alex Highsmith, EDGE Charlotte
93) Tennessee Titans: Antonio Gibson, RB/WR Memphis
94) Green Bay Packers: Malik Harrison, ILB Ohio State
95) Denver Broncos (from 49ers): Darnay Holmes, CB UCLA
96) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Chiefs): Eno Benjamin, RB Arizona State
97) Cleveland Browns: Akeem Davis-Gaither, ILB Appalachian State
98) New England Patriots: Troy Dye, ILB Oregon
99) New York Giants: Quartney Davis, WR Texas A&M
100) *San Francisco 49ers (from Patriots): Michael Ojemudia, CB Iowa
101) Seattle Seahawks: Damien Lewis, IOL LSU
102) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jacob Eason, QB Washington
103) Philadelphia Eagles: K’Von Wallace, FS/SS Clemson
104) Los Angeles Rams: Michael Onwenu, IOL Michigan
105) *Arizona Cardinals (from Vikings): Terrell Burgess, SS Utah
106) *TRADE* Los Angeles Chargers (from Ravens): Zack Moss, RB Utah
TRADES IN ROUND THREE
1) Minnesota Vikings trade the #89 and #105 to the Arizona Cardinals for the #72 and #202.
2) Los Angeles Chargers trade the #112 and a 2021 5th Round Pick to the Baltimore Ravens for the #106 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
Jordan Katz’s “What Would I Do” 2020 NFL Mock Draft: Final (5.0)
Well ladies and gentlemen, we have hit the final few stages of #MockDraftSZN. As we wrap up 2020 and get ready for the NFL Draft to take place, I decided to add in a fourth round for your viewing pleasure. As always, trades that took place in this mock draft are denoted with an asterisk. Any previous trades that occurred beforehand have a parenthesis with the team that formerly held the selection. We have a few surprising player trades in here as well.
Once again, a big thank you to those that have kept up with my draft coverage this year. I truly appreciate every read and every like on social media. Even if you were just clicking on the links and giving a quick scroll to see what your favorite team did, that means a lot to me.
The First Round of the NFL Draft is about a week away, but the first round of my final “What Would I Do” Mock (yes we changed the name from Jordan Katz Personal mock) starts….
….right….
…now!
ROUND ONE
1) Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU
I still don’t think the offensive line can hold up, but this pick is going to be Joe Burrow. Therefore, we’ll just move on.
2) Washington Redskins: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia
Washington would love to trade out here, but based on my board, there is no rush for the Dolphins or Chargers to move up for a quarterback.
Thomas is the best offensive tackle I’ve ever scouted. What catapulted him to the top spot on my big board (https://draftstock.net/2020/03/19/jordan-katz-2020-big-board-2-0-top-50/) was his athletic testing at the combine. His three cone drill and 10-yard split were phenomenal, which answered my one question about him. How well can Thomas be at the second level? His kick-slide on tape is outstanding, he has the power to bully defensive linemen, but his quickness off the snap was my one knock. He answered that.
Washington nabs a franchise left tackle to replace Trent Williams.
3) *Miami Dolphins via Detroit Lions: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon
Herbert is ahead of Tua Tagovailoa on my board by a fair amount. Herbert has a big arm, he’s smart with where to place the football when pushing it down the field, and he has plus arm strength outside the hash marks. Touch can be a question at times, and mechanics can evade him if he rushes a throw. Having said that, there’s a lot of star potential here because of his athleticism and raw arm talent.
Trading up to three costs significantly less than trading up to five. Hence why Miami waits, and then comes up.
4) New York Giants: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State
Okay Giants fans, this looks like an improbable situation, and a pipe dream at best. However, instead of selling Chase Young the prospect, because we all know how good Young is, I’m going to sell y’all on how this happens in real life.
What if all three of the top selections are quarterbacks? The first overall pick is guaranteed to be Joe Burrow. Let’s assume Washington successfully baits Miami into trading up for the second overall pick. Detroit is so desperate to trade out that they would take less from a team to move backwards in the draft. A team like New England that needs a quarterback desperately, could pay less than advertised to come up from down the draft board. Even a team like New Orleans could move up. They could attempt what the Chiefs pulled with Patrick Mahomes and Alex Smith a few years ago. All of this could bait the Chargers to make the move up from six. Contrary to popular belief, it’s unlikely the Chargers are series about starting Tyrod Taylor.
The scenario I just drew up is a reasonable and realistic idea. Washington will look to trade because Chase Young alone does not make them a playoff team. Plus, they need a franchise left tackle to protect their franchise quarterback. Detroit will look to trade because…. well let’s face it; Detroit will look to trade.
Just like that, the Giants have Chase Young fall into their lap.
5) *Detroit Lions via Miami Dolphins: Jeffrey Okudah, CB Ohio State
Detroit trading down is basically a lock. Now the reason people feel it’s a lock is because Chase Young goes second overall. He did not do so here.
However, even if Young is on the board at three, trading down still makes sense for the Lions. They need a number one cover corner just as much as they need an elite pass rusher. You could argue that, because of the trading of Darius Slay, and the signing last year of Trey Flowers, they need the cornerback more.
That is why Detroit passes on Young, acquires some assets, and picks Okudah.
6) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Los Angeles Chargers: Jedrick Wills Jr., OT Alabama
Following the surprising acquisition of Tom Brady, Tampa Bay catapults to a title contender in 2020. Having said that, they still have a few holes to fix. One of those is a starting right tackle.
Only one of the top tackles in this draft played right tackle during his final season in college; Jedrick Wills. Wills is a force up front, possessing ridiculous grip strength and raw power. He’s a perfect fit for an offensive line that Tom Brady captains.
Tampa Bay gets aggressive and trades up to find their right tackle of the present, as well as the future.
7) Carolina Panthers: Isaiah Simmons, OLB/ILB Clemson
The unicorn of the draft once again finds himself landing with the Carolina Panthers. Truth be told, this is the most realistic spot for Simmons to land in real life as well. If the Giants pass on Simmons at four, I can’t imagine him making it past the Panthers at seven.
Simmons can do it all. He can bring pressure off the edge, as well as filling lanes against the run from the interior. He can cover running backs and tight ends, but he also knows how to read the quarterback’s eyes in zone coverage. The team that can use him the best is a defensive minded team like Carolina.
8) Arizona Cardinals: Tristan Wirfs, OT Iowa
Wirfs is an unbelievable athlete for the offensive line position. In a Kliff Kingsbury offense, which is guaranteed to be up tempo, having a guy up front that can excel at the second level is a must. Having that player also be an elite pass protector is an added bonus. Wirfs and Arizona are a perfect match.
9) *Las Vegas Raiders via Jacksonville Jaguars: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma
The Raiders have a lot of assets later on in this draft. This provides them with the ammunition to pay a little extra to slide up a few spots, should the opportunity present itself.
The Jaguars have so many needs that trading down in this draft early on feels like a must.
10) Cleveland Browns: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville
Easy selection here. The Browns are in a perfect position to grab their starting left tackle at the 10th overall selection. The best fit for the Browns remains rushing to the virtual podium and selecting the top remaining offensive tackle on the board.
11) New York Jets: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama
For the large majority of the draft season, I have had Henry Ruggs as my number two wide receiver. Ruggs is a better route runner than he is given credit for, and he’s the most dynamic playmaker with the ball in his hands amidst this entire draft class. Nothing against Jerry Jeudy, he is phenomenal. I just prefer Ruggs because of his upside.
He’s also been the selection for the Jets for quite some time. More often than not, they miss on all four of the top offensive linemen.
In short, this is more of the same.
12) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Las Vegas Raiders: Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn
Jacksonville trades backwards and still selects the player they would have picked at nine. Brown had a disappointing combine athletically, but his tape is too good to ignore. He’s quick off the snap, he’s a bull at the point of attack, and he has a relentless motor. I don’t think Brown is exclusively a one technique at the next level either. His versatility, along with his size, make him a star prospect.
13) San Francisco 49ers (from Colts): Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama
The Niners and Colts pulled off a shocking offseason trade that sent DeForest Buckner to the Colts in exchange for the 13th overall selection. Now that the Niners select in this spot, look for one of the top receivers to come off the board here.
Kyle Shanahan does an excellent job of making something out of nothing when it comes to offensive weapons. Having said that, his offense is at its best when there are legitimate playmakers in it. The Niners need a skilled route runner that can also take the top off of a defense to compliment Deebo Samuel. Enter, Jerry Jeudy.
14) *Los Angeles Chargers via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jacob Eason, QB Washington
If you have followed my draft coverage from the start of this season, you know I am all in on Jacob Eason. It’s well documented that Eason has incredible arm talent. Where my evaluation is different from others is his touch throws. While Eason does need to become more adept at delivering the touch throw, he can do it. Plus, in a clean pocket, he has the ability to make touch throws.
The Chargers trading back and selecting their future franchise quarterback is likely a scenario that is only possible in my personal mock draft. In real life, look for the Chargers to select one of Jordan Love of Justin Herbert early on.
Editor’s Note: Love is actually a better scheme fit than Eason because the Chargers offensive line is in shambles. In my scenario, Eason will sit the first year, which is why I am comfortable having the Chargers trade back and take him later. Plus, Eason is significantly higher on my personal board. Love turns the ball over a lot, and his mechanics inside the pocket are a concern.
15) *Seattle Seahawks via Denver Broncos: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU
K’Lavon Chaisson is head and shoulders better than every edge rusher in this draft not named Chase Young. His dip and bend ability off the edge is out of this world. Seattle desperately needs a top pass rusher, so they fly up the board to grab the former LSU star.
16) Atlanta Falcons: Javon Kinlaw, IDL South Carolina
Kinlaw is an athletic specimen. He can dip and rip past opposing offensive linemen, and his quickness makes him a matchup nightmare along the interior. Atlanta needs “dogs,” on the defensive side of the ball. Kinlaw is definitely that kind of dude.
17) Dallas Cowboys: CJ Henderson, CB Florida
The analysis here is simple. If by some miracle on draft day CJ Henderson made it to the Cowboys selection, it would be the fastest record pick in virtual draft history. Henderson is viewed by many as the best cover corner in the draft not named Jeffrey Okudah. He also has the athleticism to succeed against upper echelon receivers at the next level.
18) Miami Dolphins (from Steelers): Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU
Somewhere along the way everyone forgot how much of a game changer Grant Delpit is when he is on. Sure, his 2019 tape is up and down, something I’ve mentioned on numerous occasions.
Having said that, when he’s near the line of scrimmage, he’s a game wrecker. Delpit generates pressure in the box the way Jamal Adams does in New York.
He is worthy of a first round pick; it’s that simple.
19) Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears): Patrick Queen, OLB/ILB LSU
Even with the addition of Corey Liddleton to their defense, Queen still makes the most sense for the Raiders at 19. On the weak side of a 4-3 defense, Queen can change games. He excels in coverage. Queen reads and reacts well when he’s in zone, but he also can lock down running backs out of the backfield, as well as tight ends on the line of scrimmage. Against the run, Queen plays with ruthless aggression. It sometimes causes him to miss tackles, but Head Coach Jon Gruden will love his attitude. All in all, this is a perfect fit.
20) Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams): Kristian Fulton, CB LSU
Cover corner is a massive need for the Jaguars in this draft. While they could wait until day two because of the depth at cornerback, Jacksonville is in perfect range to select one of Fulton or Jeff Gladney at 20.
Fulton is slightly higher than Gladney on my personal board because he’s a more complete cover corner. His footwork in off coverage exceeds Gladney’s by a sizable margin.
21) Philadelphia Eagles: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU
The Eagles are an interesting team to attempt to mock. Part of me thinks Philly is a dark horse team to move up and acquire one of the big three receiving targets.
However, because they gave up multiple assets to land Darius Slay, staying put at 21 might be the move they are forced into making. Fortunately, Justin Jefferson is a terrific talent that fits perfectly into Head Coach Doug Pederson’s offense. He can win from anywhere on the field, he makes plays with the ball in his hands, and he can win contested catches.
22) Minnesota Vikings (from Bills): Jeff Gladney, CB TCU
Much like Jacksonville above, cover corner is a must for Minnesota early in this draft. Unlike Jacksonville above, Minnesota does not have an early second round pick to fall back on. The Vikings have to select the best cornerback on the board at either the 22nd or 25th overall selection.
Jeff Gladney’s man cover skills make him the pick here. He can mirror receivers from the boundary, as well as the slot position.
23) New England Patriots: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama
Once again, I feel the need to reiterate that Tua Tagovailoa is not going to make it this low. The mock draft is what I would do if I were in charge of all 32 teams. Not only is Tua my QB4, but his injury concerns would make him drop down the draft board if I ran the show for everyone.
Nevertheless, the gamble would be worth it for a team like New England. With Tom Brady taking his talents to Tampa Bay, the Patriots are in need of a starting quarterback. Contrary to popular belief, that player is not Jarett Stidham.
Tua is actually an ideal selection for the Patriots. If he works, they have their starting quarterback for the next decade. Tua could also lead the Patriots to the playoffs right away if he’s healthy. He has a big arm, he makes plays outside the pocket, and he’s becoming smarter with the football.
If he doesn’t, there’s a kid out of Clemson that I’ve heard is pretty good…
24) New Orleans Saints: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State
New Orleans is a tough team for me to gauge. Their only immediate need is a quarterback of the future, and I am much lower on Jordan Love than the public. They could trade out of this spot, something they might be able to do in real life. Having said that, I can’t justify any team trading up to this spot.
Arnette can be an immediate contributor in the nickel corner spot, while eventually taking over the second boundary position opposite Marshon Lattimore. Frankly, that could happen as early as this upcoming season because Janoris Jenkins is not what he once was.
25) Minnesota Vikings: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State
Minnesota needs to revamp what was once a vaunted front four on defense. Gross-Matos has a better move set than people realize. He can long arm tackles with his length, and he has a decent bull rush. He likes the cross-chop method of beating opposing tackles as well.
Gross-Matos struggles with countering the punch from opposing offensive tackles. He’s also not an elite athlete on the edge.
Nevertheless, there is enough in the tool box to make Gross-Matos a quality edge player in the NFL.
26) Miami Dolphins (from Texans): Austin Jackson, OT USC
Austin Jackson is a very polarizing tackle. Truth be told, liking him as much as I do goes against everything I stand for in terms of offensive line traits. What I typically look for is smart players with good technique, and the intelligence to play in multiple schemes.
Jackson is a big time athlete with a terrific kickslide. However, he lacks the power in his grip strength. He also lacks the intelligence to handle extra rushers or counter moves from edge rushers.
Why do I like him so much, you ask? Jackson already has a feel for how to properly cut off edge rushers from successfully running the arch. Considering his youth (just 20 years old), that’s extremely impressive.
I think over time Jackson’s technique will get better, making him a quality tackle in the future.
27) *Denver Broncos via Seattle Seahawks: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan
Unlike Jackson above, Ruiz is the exact kind of offensive lineman I typically like. He understands twists and stunts up front. He possesses the power to wall off interior rushers. Lastly, his athleticism is big time. He can pull into space, find his target, and finish his blocks. Denver trades back and selects a day one starter.
28) Baltimore Ravens: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma
Baltimore is a good trade down candidate should they miss on Murray or Patrick Queen in round one. Fortunately for them, Murray is here for them to select.
Many people like Murray in the top 20, but I have Queen over Murray because of Queen’s ability in coverage. Having said that, Murray is a do-it-all linebacker in his own right, and worthy of a first round selection. He’s a tackling machine, and a stud against the run. Improving his cover skills would make him an elite linebacker in the NFL.
29) Tennessee Titans: AJ Epenesa, DL Iowa
Epenesa makes sense to move inside to a 3-4 defensive end at the next level. He can play as a five technique, but he can use his quickness and move-set to his advantage. Epenesa does not have the dip and bend ability to be an edge player. Move him inside, to a team like Tennessee, and you’ll see success.
Editor’s Note: If only someone could have told the rest of the draft community that this is where Epenesa should have been all along. What mock draft analyst has seen this for multiple months now?…. Oh that’s right, ya boy did.
30) Green Bay Packers: Denzel Mims, WR Baylor
Pass catcher is atop the wish list for the Green Bay Packers this offseason. There are a bounty of them to choose from at 30, which means trading down could be in play for them. However, no one wanted to move up, so Mims is the pick.
What makes me excited about this selection is the idea of Mims playing with Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers loves back shoulder throws. He likes throwing to players that remain strong at the catch point against tough coverage. Both of these are areas that Denzel Mims excels in.
31) San Francisco 49ers: Ross Blacklock, DT TCU
Blacklock is a great candidate to replace DeForest Buckner. He has big time quickness as a pass rusher. Blacklock’s lethal first step and ability to rip past opposing interior offensive linemen make him a matchup problem for opposing offensive lines.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia
While I would love to give Kansas City a running back here, the bottom line is the Chiefs need defense much more. Hall is a perfect scheme fit for Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Hall excels in cover three, showing terrific instincts in off coverage and a great first step. He’s a willing tackler, and possesses the ability to be physical in coverage. This is a terrific fit.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #39, #153 and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Detroit Lions for the #3 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
2) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #14, #45, #117 and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Los Angeles Chargers for the #6 and a 2021 5th Round Pick.
3) Las Vegas Raiders trade the #12, #80 and #121 to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #9 and #157.
4) Seattle Seahawks trade the #27. #59 and #101 to the Denver Broncos for the #15 and #178.
ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL LSU
The Bengals once again get Burrow’s starting center at LSU to play alongside him in Cincinnati. Chances are, Cushenberry would move to guard in this scenario. However, he has the athleticism and intelligence to do so.
34) Indianapolis Colts (from WAS): Laviska Shenault, WR Colorado
Playmaker is actually a major need for the Colts in this draft. Shenault is a better system fit here than others because he can create big plays with the ball in his hands. Based on where Philip Rivers is at in his career, he will need a few “YAC,” guys to help him out.
35) Detroit Lions: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama
Detroit continues to revamp their secondary. McKinney is the single high safety with elite range that Head Coach Matt Patricia has lacked in recent years.
36) New York Giants: Lucas Niang, OT TCU
Offensive line remains a need for the Giants, particularly on the right side of the line. While Niang is not the highest remaining tackle on my board, he is the best fit. Niang mauls opponents in the run game. He has the size and build of a prototypical left tackle.
37) Los Angeles Chargers: Matthew Peart, OT UCONN
Matthew Peart has elite size and length for the position. Also, Peart is light on his feet, and shows the intelligence to pick up extra rushers. Peart can play the right side for a year before transitioning to left tackle.
38) Carolina Panthers: Antoine Winfield, CB/FS Minnesota
Carolina does have to replace James Bradberry early in this draft. However, what they need above all is playmakers in the secondary. Winfield is a playmaker. He plays nickel corner, single high safety, and a cover two spot. Winfield has the intelligence and athleticism to do all three at the next level.
39) *Cincinnati Bengals via Miami Dolphins: Jeremy Chinn, LB/S Southern Illinois
Chinn is a lesser version of Isaiah Simmons. He can read and react from the safety position, he ranges sideline to sideline with elite athleticism, and he plays downhill with poise. While some may select him to be a starting safety at the next level, I think a 4-3 weakside linebacker also fits his skill set tremendously. Cincinnati selects him to do the latter.
40) *Los Angeles Rams via Houston Texans: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State
The Rams rushing attack is what makes their offense go. The down year on the ground correlated with their missed playoff appearance. With running backs falling a bit, the Rams get aggressive and trade up for a feature back.
41) Cleveland Browns: Josh Uche, EDGE/OLB Michigan
If you’ve kept up with my draft analysis, you know that I would love to see Josh Uche in a LEO linebacker role at the next level. Cleveland needs pass rush help, but they also need to improve the second level of their defense. This is a perfect spot for Uche.
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia
Leonard Fournette’s days in Jacksonville are numbered. This is the draft to land his replacement. It just so happens that running backs fell in this draft, so the Jaguars land a three down back like Swift.
43) Chicago Bears (from Raiders): Matt Hennessy, IOL Temple
The Bears desperately need help along the interior of their offensive line. Hennessy has the intelligence to slide to guard if asked to. He could also play his natural position of center, with the incumbent Cody Whitehair, sliding to the guard spot. Whitehair was successful at guard in the past, so the transition should be easy.
44) Indianapolis Colts: Ashtyn Davis, SS California
Davis is a favorite among the draft community. He flies to the football, he plays aggressive downhill, and ranges sideline to sideline with big time athleticism. Davis shows enough range to be a successful safety in cover two. However, if you put him next to a single high safety like Malik Hooker, you could get the best possible Ashtyn Davis at the next level.
45) *Los Angeles Chargers via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU
Even if you are a team’s primary “bell cow,” nowadays you have to be able to do something in the passing game. Edwards-Helaire can tote the rock, as well as making plays in the passing game. The Chargers will go running back at some point in this draft. Edwards-Helaire and Austin Eckler would be a dynamic tandem.
46) Denver Broncos: Van Jefferson, WR Florida
Denver needs a number two wide receiver to compliment Courtland Sutton. A route running technician like Van Jefferson would be perfect to play on the opposite side. Sutton stretches the field, while Jefferson moves the chains.
47) Atlanta Falcons: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
Tough call here between Terrell and Jaylon Johnson. Johnson has the physicality that Head Coach Dan Quinn would like in his cornerbacks. However, I went with Terrell because of his ability in off coverage, as well as his ball skills.
48) New York Jets: Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame
Assuming the Jets go receiver at 11, my guess is that they will get aggressive in their pursuit of Trent Williams. At the very least, that’s what I would do.
If they opt to do that, Okwara is a very interesting option on day two. His motor runs high, and he has big time athleticism off the edge. He’s not the most technically sound. Okwara struggles to set the edge, and has a tendency to play high. However, in a weak edge class, Okwara’s dip and bend ability make him an attractive day two option for a defense led by Gregg Williams.
49) *Tennessee Titans via Pittsburgh Steelers: Ben Bartch, OT St John’s
The Titans seem confident in their offensive line moving forward, but Dennis Kelly is more of a swing tackle in my estimation. Bartch is a smart, athletic offensive linemen that can start at right tackle from day one. The Titans use some assets to trade up and land their guy in round two.
50) *Carolina Panthers via Chicago Bears: Justin Madubuike, IDL Texas A&M
Madubuike was in consideration for the Panthers at their selection earlier in the round. He’s the best of the “second tier,” guys against the run at the interior defensive line spot. With him still on the board, Carolina uses assets and moves up to land another defensive starter.
51) Dallas Cowboys: Kyle Duggar, SS Lenoir-Rhyne
This is a little early for Duggar, but safety flew off the board in this mock. Duggar is a big time athlete. He has a terrific nose for the football close to the line of scrimmage. Duggar would make an immediate impact for the Cowboys in their run defense.
52) *Houston Texans via Los Angeles Rams: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma
Front seven has gone from the Texans strength, to one of their needs entering the 2020 NFL Draft. Gallimore’s quick first step and athleticism as a pass rusher would make him a good compliment on the opposite side of JJ Watt.
53) Philadelphia Eagles: Malik Harrison, ILB Ohio State
Philadelphia needs help at the second level of their defense. While this is high for Harrison, it’s also a major need for the Eagles. Plus, there are teams below them that would scoop Harrison, should they look to trade backwards.
Harrison is a big time athlete who is best when playing downhill against the run. He shoots the correct gaps, and rarely misses tackles.
54) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Buffalo Bills (Bills acquire Yannick Ngakoue): Jalen Reagor, WR TCU
Why not go all in if you’re the Buffalo Bills? They have the cap space, and they now have the path to a division title with the departure of Tom Brady in New England. I think multiple day two selections would land Yannick Ngakoue, because Jacksonville knows Ngakoue does not want to return.
The Jaguars then select an actual deep threat for Gardner Minshew. Reagor can stretch the field, and make big plays happen with the ball in his hands.
55) Baltimore Ravens (from teams): Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan
Physicality and intelligence. These are the two adjectives best used to describe Ben Bredeson. He’s a perfect fit in the middle of the Ravens offensive line. Baltimore wants to run the football, but their schemes demand intelligence up front. I love this pick.
56) Miami Dolphins (from Saints): Cam Akers, RB Florida State
I really believe this could be the scenario for running backs on draft day. We could see none of them go on day one, perhaps one player at most.
Then the flood gates open on day two and running backs come flying off the board. It’s all about positional value, and running backs do not have the value that other positions do.
Akers is my best running back available, so Miami snatches him up to be their bell cow in 2020 and beyond.
57) Los Angeles Rams (from Texans): Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah
Los Angeles played out the perfect draft here. They got aggressive for a running back, which will help bring their offense back to normal. Johnson then fell to their second selection, making him an easy pick. Johnson’s man-to-man skills along with his physicality make him a perfect compliment to Jalen Ramsey in the back-end.
58) Minnesota Vikings: Jonah Jackson, IOL Ohio State
Offensive line remains a need for the Vikings. Jackson’s intelligence upfront makes him an attractive day two selection for any team. However, it’s his nimble feet in pass protection that has me excited about this fit in particular. The Vikings struggle protecting Kirk Cousins at times. Jackson will help that.
59) *Denver Broncos via Seattle Seahawks: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn
The Broncos need a number two cornerback to play opposite AJ Bouye. Igbinoghene is new to the position, but he’s picked it up very quickly. Plus, he’s physical, which Head Coach Vic Fangio demands his defenders to be.
60) Baltimore Ravens: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah
It’s weird when the Ravens need to draft multiple defensive pieces early. However, that is where we are. Anae feels like a perfect fit for Baltimore. He can line up in multiple spots along the defensive front, and has the ability to win pass rushing reps in multiple ways.
61) *Pittsburgh Steelers via Tennessee Titans: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
I don’t love the idea of Wilson going in round two, but he’s the perfect scheme fit for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Wilson is a mauler; he has impressive length, and terrific grip strength. His footwork leaves a lot to be desired, and he has a tendency to play high. However, Pittsburgh’s late third rounder could be too late in terms of landing their ideal tackle. Hence why they choose to do so here.
62) Green Bay Packers: Marlon Davidson, DL Auburn
Much like Isaiah Wilson a few spots ago, this is high for Davidson based on my draft profile of him. Much like Isaiah Wilson a few spots ago, this is such an ideal fit, that I made the selection anyway.
Green Bay needs beef up front and has to improve against the run in 2020. Davidson is a quality run stopper along the interior.
63) Kansas City Chiefs (from 49ers): Saahdiq Charles, OT/IOL LSU
I’m very intrigued by a team kicking Charles inside at the next level. He has big time athleticism and really good footwork, but his grip strength is less than stellar and his punches do not always land. An athletic front could move him inside and turn him into a terrific guard. Charles could even transition back to tackle later in his career because he’s intelligent enough to do so.
64) Seattle Seahawks (from KC): Ezra Cleveland, OT Boise State
The Seahawks love athletic offensive linemen, but their drafted selections have struggled in recent memory. Part of the reason is because they look for players with premium athletic traits and not necessarily the athletes with elite footwork.
Cleveland may have issues at times with his pad level, but he has elite footwork. This is an athlete that could work very well in Seattle.
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) Los Angeles Rams trade the #52, #84 and #126 to the Houston Texans for the #40 and #111.
2) Tennessee Titans trade the #61 and #93 to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the #49 and #199.
3) Carolina Panthers trade #69, #113 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Chicago Bears for the #50 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
4) Buffalo Bills trade the #54 and a 2021 Conditional 3rd Round Pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for EDGE Rusher Yannick Ngakoue.
ROUND THREE
65) Cincinnati Bengals: Michael Pittman Jr., WR USC
66) Washington Redskins: Zack Baun, EDGE/OLB Wisconsin
67) Detroit Lions: Jabari Zuniga, EDGE Florida
68) New York Jets (from Giants): Michael Ojemudia, CB Iowa
69) *Chicago Bears via Carolina Panthers: Troy Pride Jr., CB Notre Dame
70) Miami Dolphins: Bryan Edwards, WR South Carolina
71) Los Angeles Chargers: KJ Hamler, WR Penn State
72) *New Orleans Saints via Arizona Cardinals: Jordan Love, QB Utah State
73) Jacksonville Jaguars: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn
74) Cleveland Browns: Robert Hunt, IOL Louisiana
75) Indianapolis Colts: Alton Robinson, EDGE Syracuse
76) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Alohi Gilman, SS Notre Dame
77) Denver Broncos: Troy Dye, ILB Oregon
78) Atlanta Falcons: Eno Benjamin, RB Arizona State
79) *Washington Redskins via New York Jets (Jets Acquire Trent Williams): Tee Higgins, WR Clemson
80) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Las Vegas Raiders: Darnay Holmes, CB UCLA
81) Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears): Davon Hamilton, IDL Ohio State
82) Dallas Cowboys: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
83) Denver Broncos via Pittsburgh Steelers: Terrell Burgess, SS Utah
84) *Houston Texans via Los Angeles Rams: Jonathan Greenard, EDGE Florida
85) Detroit Lions via Philadelphia Eagles: Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR Michigan
86) Buffalo Bills: Alex Highsmith, EDGE Charlotte
87) New England Patriots: Adam Trautman, TE Dayton
88) *Arizona Cardinals via New Orleans Saints: Harrison Hand, CB Temple
89) Minnesota Vikings: Chase Claypool, WR Notre Dame
90) Cleveland Browns (from Texans): Akeem Davis-Gaither, ILB Appalachian State
91) Las Vegas Raiders (from teams): Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama
92) Baltimore Ravens: Zack Moss, RB Utah
93) *Pittsburgh Steelers via Tennessee Titans: Jalen Hurts, QB Oklahoma
94) Green Bay Packers: Jack Driscoll, OL Auburn
95) Denver Broncos (from 49ers): Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama
96) Kansas City Chiefs: Antonio Gibson, RB/WR Memphis
97) Cleveland Browns: Brandon Aiyuk, WR Arizona State
98) New England Patriots: Willie Gay Jr., ILB Mississippi State
99) New York Giants: Hakeem Adeniji, OL Kansas
100) New England Patriots: Lynn Bowden, WR Kentucky
101) *Denver Broncos via Seattle Seahawks: Netane Muti, IOL Fresno State
102) Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyler Biadasz, IOL Wisconsin
103) Philadelphia Eagles: Logan Sternberg, IOL Kentucky
104) Los Angeles Rams: Tyler Johnson, WR Minnesota
105) Minnesota Vikings: Rashard Lawrence, IDL LSU
106) *Atlanta Falcons via Baltimore Ravens: Shane Lemieux, IOL Oregon
TRADES IN ROUND THREE
1) New Orleans Saints trade the #88, #130 and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Arizona Cardinals for the #72 Overall Selection.
2) New York Jets trade the #79 and a 2021 Conditional 5th Round Pick to the Washington Redskins for Offensive Tackle Trent Williams.
3) Atlanta Falcons trade the #119 and #143 to the Baltimore Ravens for the #106 Overall Selection.
ROUND FOUR
107) Cincinnati Bengals: Thad Moss, TE LSU
108) Washington Redskins: Jordyn Brooks, ILB Texas Tech
109) Detroit Lions: Damien Lewis, IOL LSU
110) New York Giants: Kenny Willekes, EDGE Michigan State
111) *Los Angeles Rams via Houston Texans: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
112) *New England Patriots via Los Angeles Chargers: Josh Jones, OT Houston
113) *Chicago Bears via Carolina Panthers: Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR Liberty
114) Arizona Cardinals: Michael Onwenu, IOL Michigan
115) Cleveland Browns: Amik Robertson, CB Louisiana Tech
116) Jacksonville Jaguars: Anthony Gordon, QB Washington State
117) *Los Angeles Chargers via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Leki Fotu, NT Utah
118) *Philadelphia Eagles via Denver Broncos: K’Von Wallace, FS/SS Clemson
119) *Baltimore Ravens via Atlanta Falcons: Gabriel Davis, WR UCF
120) New York Jets: KJ Hill, WR Ohio State
121) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Las Vegas Raiders: Solomon Kindley, IOL Georgia
122) Indianapolis Colts: Lamichal Perine, RB Florida
123) Dallas Cowboys: Jordan Elliott, IDL Missouri
124) Pittsburgh Steelers: Quartney Davis, WR Texas A&M
125) *Los Angeles Chargers from New England Patriots: Geno Stone, FS Iowa
126) *Houston Texans via Los Angeles Rams: Levonta Taylor, CB Florida State
127) Philadelphia Eagles: AJ Dillon, RB Boston College
128) Buffalo Bills: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State
129) Baltimore Ravens (from Patriots): Curtis Weaver, EDGE Boise State
130) *Arizona Cardinals via New Orleans Saints: Brandon Jones, SS Texas
131) Arizona Cardinals (from Texans): Nick Coe, IDL Auburn
132) *Cincinnati Bengals via Minnesota Vikings: Darrell Taylor, EDGE Tennessee
133) Seattle Seahawks: Nick Harris, IOL Washington
134) *Dallas Cowboys via Baltimore Ravens: Devin Duvernay, WR Texas
135) Pittsburgh Steelers (from Titans): David Woodward, ILB Utah State
136) *Tennessee Titans via Green Bay Packers: Darrynton Evans, RB Appalachian State
137) Jacksonville Jaguars (from 49ers): J.R. Reed, SS Georgia
138) Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Strnad, ILB Wake Forest
139) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Anthony McFarland, RB Maryland
140) Jacksonville Jaguars: Anfernee Jennings, EDGE/OLB Alabama
141) Miami Dolphins: John Simpson, IOL Clemson
142) Washington Redskins: Isaiah Hodgins, WR Oregon State
143) *Baltimore Ravens via Atlanta Falcons: Logan Wilson, ILB Wyoming
144) Seattle Seahawks: Tanner Muse, ILB/OLB/SS Clemson
145) *Denver Broncos from Philadelphia Eagles: Charlie Heck, OT North Carolina
146) *Denver Broncos from Philadelphia Eagles: Collin Johnson, WR Texas
Trades In Round Four
1) New England Patriots trade the #125, #172 and a 2021 5th Round Pick to the Los Angeles Chargers for the #112 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
2) Philadelphia Eagles trade the #145 and #146 to the Denver Broncos for the #118 Overall Selection.
3) Cincinnati Bengals trade the #147 and #215 to the Minnesota Vikings for the #132 Overall Selection.
4) Dallas Cowboys trade the #165 and a 2021 5th Round Pick to the Baltimore Ravens for the #134 Overall Selection.
Jordan Katz Prediction Style NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Pre-Free Agency
Editor’s Note: This article was written prior to announcement of Compensatory Picks.
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the mock draft y’all have been waiting for. This is my first real look at predicting the way the first two days of the draft could go. In 1.0, there was still a lot of guessing because the Combine had not occurred yet. Well, the proceedings in Indianapolis have come and gone, and we now have a more concise idea of the players that are being discussed as round one selections.
A few things to keep in mind about my prediction style mocks. This is NOT based on my own opinions of players, nor do I take into account my evaluation of team needs. This is strictly based on what I have heard and what I have read. It is based on Combine meetings and what the draft media believes each team could do.
Any trades that were made in this mock draft (which are denoted with an asterisk next to the team) are predictions based on the rumors going around the league, as well as what I think the teams could look to do based on the way the board falls.
Lastly, this is by no means a finished product. Some teams may address their needs via free agency in a few days. Having said that, this is the way I think the draft could go if it took place tomorrow.
ROUND ONE
1) Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU
Burrow met with the Bengals during the Combine, and it seems this selection is now a foregone conclusion. Having said that, sometimes during #MockDraftSZN, you have to play out different scenarios. So for the “analysis,” to this pick, let’s play out the scenario I did in my personal mock draft (https://draftstock.net/2020/03/01/jordan-katz-2020-nfl-mock-draft-4-0-post-combine/).
What if Joe Burrow pulls an Eli Manning and tells the Bengals he won’t play for them? Do the Bengals trade out of the first pick and select a QB later on? Do they stay where they are and select Tua Tagovailoa? Do they neglect the Quarterback position all together?
I think the most likely option is that the Bengals would just select Tua Tagovailoa. I do not see the Bengals coming away from this draft without a franchise QB. Either Tua or Burrow will be the top pick, and based on the meetings in Indianapolis, it seems like Joe Burrow is the lock.
2) *Miami Dolphins via Washington Redskins: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama
The Miami Dolphins love Tua Tagovailoa. Owner Stephen Ross has wanted him since early October. Miami spent the entire 2019 season acquiring assets for the opportunity to land a quarterback in this draft. Lastly, Tua received a clean bill of health, and some think he can be ready for training camp. Therefore, the only question appears to be, will Miami trade up to two or three to land the former Alabama star?
Washington has been pumping out rumors that they are interested in drafting Tua at two. This feels like their way of saying they would like to trade down, considering they just picked Dwayne Haskins last year.
3) Detroit Lions: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State
Detroit is in the best position of the 2020 NFL Draft. If Washington trades out to a team needing a QB, they get arguably the best player in the draft in Chase Young. If Washington takes Young, Detroit now becomes the team to trade backwards and acquire assets. A win-win situation for Detroit in Round One.
4) New York Giants: Isaiah Simmons, ILB/OLB Clemson
I’ll admit, I have some doubts right now about this selection. Dave Gettleman is publicly enamored with the offensive line class, which makes me think he might do the smart thing and take a tackle in round one.
However, I go back to Gettleman’s comments earlier this offseason about needing defensive pieces (he actually said offense is easy, but I’m ignoring his stupidity for the sake of competent writing). The chess piece of the 2020 draft is Isaiah Simmons because he can do so much on the defensive side of the ball. I still think he is the selection at four for Big Blue.
5) *Indianapolis Colts from Washington Redskins via Miami Dolphins: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon
The infamous double trade down! By trading out of the second overall selection, Washington is admitting that even someone with Chase Young’s talent does not make them a playoff team in 2020. Therefore, why not continue to stockpile assets and trade down again? Plenty of teams need quarterbacks, and the beauty of a strong draft class is that you can select a star caliber player outside of the top 10. Washington continues to acquire assets, while Indianapolis trades up for their franchise QB.
6) Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Love, QB Utah State
The debate between Love and Herbert as QB3 may not be solved until draft day, largely because they have very different skill sets. Love makes plays by being aggressive with the football. He is willing to pull the trigger in any window, and against any coverage scheme.
On the other hand, Herbert is more conservative with the ball, but his arm still allows him to make big time throws.
I think the better fit for the Chargers offense is Jordan Love. This is why QB3 might be decided based on if the Chargers are the third, or fourth team to select a QB on draft night.
7) Carolina Panthers: Jeff Okudah, CB Ohio State
If a QB is on the board here, Carolina is another potential trade down candidate. In the scenario that all four QBs go ahead of them, they wind up selecting the top player on their board. Okudah replaces pending free agent James Bradberry, and changes the way the Panthers play defense because of his elite man coverage ability.
8) Arizona Cardinals: Tristan Wirfs, OT Iowa
The run of offensive tackles could begin with Arizona. Wirfs showed elite athleticism during the NFL Combine, which pairs perfectly with Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury’s offense. Since all four of the top tackles are viewed as day one starters, Arizona takes the best scheme fit for their up tempo, spread offense. That player is Wirfs.
9) Jacksonville Jaguars: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville
Becton makes the most sense for Jacksonville because of his ability in the run game. He is a mauler, with the athleticism to get out to the second level and the power to run over defenders. I love this fit because Jacksonville can run behind Becton whenever they want, and they can leave him on an island in pass protection.
10) Cleveland Browns: Jedrick Wills Jr., OT Alabama
OT3 in my prediction mock is the top offensive tackle according to many. The reason Wills fell is strictly because the Giants went with Isaiah Simmons at four. If the Giants take a tackle instead, they will select Wills because Wills is viewed as the most complete prospect of the offensive tackle group. If Arizona is the first team selecting a tackle, Wills could wind up going later than expected.
11) New York Jets: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia
I still have no idea how Thomas is the fourth guy among the top four tackles, but as a Jets fan, I’m not complaining. The run on tackles ends with the Jets scooping my second best player in the draft.
12) Las Vegas Raiders: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama
I know Jerry Jeudy is expected to be the first wide receiver selected next month. However, you can make a legitimate argument for each of the big three to be the top guy taken. Jeudy is the best route runner, Lamb’s game is the most complete, and Ruggs is the most explosive. It could depend on which team is selecting when the first receiver comes off the board. If that team is Vegas, don’t be surprised if Head Coach Jon Gruden bangs the drum for Ruggs because of how dynamic he is as a playmaker.
13) *Washington Redskins via Indianapolis Colts: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama
Washington hit a home run with the selection of Terry McLaurin last year. Adding Jerry Jeudy to their receiving core would give Dwayne Haskins all the tools he needs to succeed.
14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: CJ Henderson, CB Florida
Henderson had a phenomenal weekend in Indianapolis, catapulting his draft stock by demonstrating his elite athleticism. The Buccaneers were miserable against the pass last year, making Henderson an easy selection.
15) *Seattle Seahawks via Denver Broncos: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU
Seattle is most likely going to let Jadeveon Clowney walk in free agency, putting them back in the market for an edge rusher this offseason. Don’t be surprised if they look to get aggressive and move up the draft board for Chaisson. He has big time dip and bend ability, and excels as a rusher from both the stand up position as well as wtih his hand in the dirt.
Denver could be a trade down candidate if the offensive tackles are gone by the time they select. With the depth of the receiver class, and the measurable difference between Andrew Thomas and the next best tackle, Denver could acquire assets while still selecting a quality player later in round one.
16) *Philadelphia Eagles via Atlanta Falcons: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma
Should a receiver start to fall like Lamb did here, the Eagles will be one of the teams looking to come up to select them. With Atlanta missing out on Chaisson by one pick, the trade between the two teams writes itself.
Editor’s Note: One of the big three receivers is going to fall in round one. The draft class is too strong at receiver for this not to happen. It does not mean that teams think less of Lamb, assuming Lamb is the guy that falls.
17) Dallas Cowboys: Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn
Dallas is likely to select defense early in the 2020 draft. Brown struggled during the athletic portion of the Combine, but his tape is terrific. He is a do-it-all defensive tackle that can start from day one.
18) Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Austin Jackson, OT USC
Once Miami moves up for a QB, the rest of the draft is anyone’s best guess. Despite a surprisingly competitive season in 2019, this team has so many needs. Their offensive line is a mess, and you cannot run out a rookie QB out behind a bad offensive line. This makes O-Line my guess as to the selection at 18.
19) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Patrick Queen, ILB LSU
When you flip on the tape of the final few games, there were not many better players in college football than Patrick Queen. We know that General Manager Mike Mayock took a lot of stock in postseason play based on his first round selections from last year (Clelin Ferrell at four, Trayvon Mullen later on). Not only is Patrick Queen a player at a position of need, he also had a terrific postseason for the LSU Tigers.
20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU
Jacksonville taking a corner in round one feels like a layup after the AJ Bouye trade. Fulton’s footwork on tape will make him highly coveted in the back end of round one. Assuming the Jaguars pass on a cornerback at nine, don’t be shocked if they try to trade up higher than 20 to ensure they land the cornerback that they covet.
21) *Atlanta Falcons via Philadelphia Eagles: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
Here is my first real curveball of the draft. Atlanta taking a running back after cutting Devonta Freeman would not be surprising. Even if they chose to do so in round one, I don’t think anyone would call it a huge shock.
If the first running back off the board is not D’Andre Swift, that’s where many would be stunned. Jonathan Taylor had a superb career at Wisconsin, and he showed home run athleticism during his workout at the NFL Combine. He also interviewed extremely well, and one of the teams that informally interviewed him was the Falcons. This could be a move off of people’s radar that comes to fruition next month.
22) Buffalo Bills: Denzel Mims, WR Baylor
Mims tested off the charts athletically during the weekend in Indy. He’s a big body receiver that makes plays down the field with his size and his athleticism. That is the exact player Buffalo is looking for to round out their receiving core.
23) New England Patriots: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama
New England has plenty of needs heading into this draft, which is a rarity for the Patriots during this dynasty. Assuming they are able to re-sign Tom Brady (because that’s the only way you can begin to predict their offseason), look for the Patriots to replace Devin McCourty with one of the talented safeties in this draft.
McKinney is a ball hawk in the back end, best served in cover one or cover three. His game play on tape is actually very reminiscent of McCourty. This would be a smooth transition for the back end of Bill Belichick’s defense.
24) New Orleans Saints: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU
There may not be a better fit in the back end of round than Jeff Gladney to the New Orleans Saints. He excels in man coverage, and the Saints need a man cover corner to play opposite Marshon Lattimore. The Saints would be able to blitz more and create more turnover opportunities.
25) Minnesota Vikings: Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU
The Vikings are losing so many secondary pieces that a defensive back in round one should be a lock. Delpit had an up and down 2019 season at LSU, but he’s a playmaker near the line of scrimmage, and he has the ability to range from the single high safety position (even though he struggled to tackle at times last year).
26) *Washington Redskins from Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Josh Jones, OT Houston
Washington is going to need a replacement for Trent Williams once they trade him this offseason. Josh Jones is an elite athlete for a tackle. He has fluid hips and natural ability in pass protection. If he cleans up his footwork (much like Austin Jackson), Jones could be a quality starter for a long time.
27) *Denver Broncos via Seattle Seahawks: Javon Kinlaw, DT South Carolina
I have no idea how Denver pulled this off. They trade down and select a top 15 talent in Kinlaw while acquiring assets. It’s extremely unlikely that Kinlaw lasts this long on draft night, but this is the beauty of a quality draft. When there is a lot of talent, players will fall.
28) Baltimore Ravens: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma
Murray’s game is very reminiscent of Patrick Queen from a few picks ago. He is the modern day three down linebacker because of his range from sideline to sideline, as well as his ability to cover tight ends and linebackers. Baltimore enters this draft needing defense, a spot that they have rarely been in. More importantly, they are in desperate need of linebackers.
29) Tennessee Titans: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan
Tennessee will most likely select offensive line in round one. Ruiz has the intelligence and athleticism to smoothly transition to guard in the NFL, making him the selection over Lloyd Cushenberry.
30) Green Bay Packers: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU
Green Bay should be locked into a receiver at this spot, and based on the way the board fell, they would definitely scoop up Justin Jefferson.
Having said that, keep an eye on Kenneth Murray or Patrick Queen at this spot, should they be available. Blake Martinez is a pending free agent, and is likely to leave in free agency. With the depth of the receiver class, the Packers could take a middle linebacker in round one, and capitalize on what is a talented group of day two receivers.
31) San Francisco 49ers: Antoine Winfield Jr., FS Minnesota
Of the players that stood out at the Combine, there may have been none bigger than the 5’9 defensive back from Minnesota. Winfield has some Tyrann Mathieu in his game. He can range from the single high position, and he mirrors slot receivers very well. The one question scouts and draft experts had about him was if he possessed NFL level athleticism, which Winfield answered with his workout in Indianapolis. This is probably his ceiling in the draft, but San Francisco needs a replacement for Jimmie Ward, making it plausible for Winfield to sneak into round one.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia
Well, this is the scenario the league should fear. Kansas City winding up with one of the top three running backs makes their offense completely unstoppable in 2020. Swift is the one cut, home run hitter that this offense is missing out of the backfield.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #26, #70, and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Washington Redskins for the #2 Overall Selection.
2) Indianapolis Colts trade the #13, #75 and a 2021 1st Round Pick to the Washington Redskins for the #5 and #148.
3) Seattle Seahawks trade the #27, #59 and #64 to the Denver Broncos for the #15 and #95.
4) Philadelphia Eagles trade the #21, #53, #127 and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Atlanta Falcons for the #16, #70 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: Lucas Niang, OT TCU
Cincinnati just took their franchise QB. An offensive tackle catapults to the top of their draft wish list in order to properly protect Joe Burrow.
34) Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: Ross Blacklock, IDL TCU
Blacklock could sneak into round one after a terrific weekend in Indianapolis. If he did not have an injury history, his tape combined with his athleticism would make him a round one lock.
35) *Los Angeles Rams via Detroit Lions: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State
I doubt Gross-Matos makes it to round two, but that’s the way the board fell in this prediction mock. The Rams move up to address a need at edge rusher because they hate draft picks.
36) New York Giants: Matthew Peart, OT UCONN
If the Giants do select Isaiah Simmons in round one, addressing the offensive line in round two becomes a must.
37) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Los Angeles Chargers: Jacob Eason, QB Washington
I have said it for months in my personal mock drafts; the best scheme fit for any QB this year is Jacob Eason winding up in the hands of Bruce Arians.
38) Carolina Panthers: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma
Gallimore uses his quickness to his advantage as a pass rusher. He would be a good compliment along the interior for Kawann Short.
39) Miami Dolphins: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State
The Dolphins will come out of this draft with a starting running back. Dobbins is my top running back, but I think he’s RB3 when the draft rolls around in April.
40) *Dallas Cowboys via Arizona Cardinals: Jeremy Chinn, FS Southern Illinois-
The Cowboys need help all throughout their secondary. Chinn is a big time athlete with impressive range. He would fit nicely in the Cowboys defense.
41) Cleveland Browns: Ashtyn Davis, SS California
Davis is a thumper on tape, with solid ability in cover two. His versatility should make him a day two favorite of many teams.
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: AJ Epenesa, DL Iowa
This is not the best fit for Epenesa, but Jacksonville will need a pass rusher once they trade Yannick Ngakoue. They scoop up Epenesa after a poor showing from him at the Combine.
43) Chicago Bears via Las Vegas Raiders: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
AJ Terrell slides into the Bears second cornerback slot opposite Kyler Fuller.
44) Indianapolis Colts: Justin Madubuike, IDL Texas A&M
The Colts interior defense has been less than stellar for quite some time. Madubuike brings some toughness and physicality to the middle of the Colts defense.
45) *Los Angeles Chargers via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ezra Cleveland, OT Boise State
After trading back and acquiring a few assets, the Chargers select the tackle they would have picked at 37.
46) Denver Broncos: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado
Denver needs a playmaker opposite Courtland Sutton to help Drew Lock progress in 2020. Shenault’s ability after the catch is very reminiscent of a former Broncos wide receiver, Demariyus Thomas.
47) Atlanta Falcons: Josh Uche, EDGE/OLB Michigan
Uche is undersized for the straight edge position, but he would be a nice fit as a LEO linebacker in Dan Quinn’s defense (aka, where Vic Beasley should have played).
48) New York Jets: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU
Reagor’s play speed is much faster than his athletic testing showed at the Combine. He should still be a high selection on day two.
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
More offensive linemen being selected highly. Wilson is a mauler in the run game. His length and physicality will make him an attractive option for the Steelers.
50) Chicago Bears: Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL LSU
Chicago needs to address their offensive line in order to help Mitchell Trubisky (or whomever their QB is) succeed in 2020.
51) *Arizona Cardinals via Dallas Cowboys: Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama
Arizona needs to replace multiple starters along their defensive front. My guess is they will do that early on day two.
52) *Detroit Lions via Los Angeles Rams: Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama
The cornerback class is incredibly deep, which is why Detroit can trade back, acquire assets, and still select a starting caliber player.
53) *Atlanta Falcons via Philadelphia Eagles: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State
Desmond Trufant is looking like he will be a cap cut in a few days. Arnette’s footwork and ball skills make him a potential day one starter in the NFL.
54) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Buffalo Bills (Buffalo Acquires Yannick Ngakoue): Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR Michigan
Buffalo is one of the teams looking to acquire Yannick Ngakoue. I think they are the most likely team to give up a premium draft choice in order to land the talented pass rusher.
Jacksonville needs playmakers, which is why they select DPJ here.
55) *Cleveland Browns from Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Zack Baun, EDGE Wisconsin
Cleveland continues their aggressive offseason mentality they have developed. They trade up for an impact pass rusher in Baun.
56) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
Miami may choose to address pass rusher via free agency, but right now it’s near the top of their draft needs.
57) Houston Texans: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU
A monster postseason will have Edwards-Helaire highly coveted by teams with zone blocking schemes up front.
58) Minnesota Vikings: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia
Minnesota doubles up on secondary players because they need multiple starters in the back-end.
59) *Denver Broncos via Seattle Seahawks: Malik Harrison, ILB Ohio State
Harrison’s strength is in the run game, but Head Coach Vic Fangio likes defensive players that are physical. This is a natural fit.
60) Baltimore Ravens: Tee Higgins, WR Clemson
My guess is that the draft media is overreacting to Higgins not working out in Indianapolis. I think he will still be a day two selection because of his red zone ability and catch radius.
61) *New York Jets via Tennessee Titans: Matt Hennessy, IOL Temple
New General Manager Joe Douglas will aggressively pursue revamping the Jets offensive line this offseason. He trades up to land the Jets starting Center in 2020.
62) Green Bay Packers: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
Green Bay continues to add weapons for Aaron Rodgers with the top tight end in this draft class.
63) Kansas City Chiefs via San Francisco 49ers: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn
The Chiefs are being gutted at cornerback in terms of the players that will enter free agency. With the defensive back class as strong as ever, look for them to select one early in the draft.
64) *Denver Broncos from Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn
Denver does need to think about replacing Garrett Bolles, who has been awful since entering the league. With a quality tackle class that has some depth to it, this could be a move for them on day two.
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) Los Angeles Rams trade the #52, #84 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Detroit Lions for the #35 and a 2021 5th Round Pick.
2) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #45 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Los Angeles Chargers for the #37 and a 2021 4th Round Pick.
3) Dallas Cowboys trade the #51 and #82 to the Arizona Cardinals for the #40 Overall Selection.
4) Buffalo Bills trade the #54 Overall Selection to the Jacksonville Jaguars for Yannick Ngakoue.
5) Cleveland Browns trade the #74, #115, and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Atlanta Falcons for the #55 and #140.
6) New York Jets trade the #68 and #120 to the Tennessee Titans for the #61 Overall Selection.
ROUND THREE
65) Cincinnati Bengals: Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah
66) Washington Redskins: Troy Pride Jr., CB Notre Dame
67) Detroit Lions: Marlon Davidson, IDL Auburn
68) *Tennessee Titans from New York Jets via New York Giants: Ben Bartch, OT St. John’s
69) Carolina Panthers: Robert Hunt, IOL Louisiana
70) *Washington Redskins via Miami Dolphins: Brandon Aiyuk, WR Arizona State
71) Los Angeles Chargers: Cam Akers, RB Florida State
72) Arizona Cardinals: KJ Hamler, WR Penn State
73) Jacksonville Jaguars: Kyle Dugger, SS Lenoir-Rhyne
74) *Atlanta Falcons via Cleveland Browns: Adam Trautman, TE Dayton
75) *Washington Redskins via Indianapolis Colts: Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame
76) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah
77) Denver Broncos: Darnay Holmes, CB UCLA
78) Atlanta Falcons: Alohi Gilman, FS/SS Notre Dame
79) New York Jets: Michael Ojemudia, CB Iowa
80) Las Vegas Raiders: Davon Hamilton, IDL Ohio State
81) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Jalen Hurts, QB Oklahoma
82) *Arizona Cardinals via Dallas Cowboys: Curtis Weaver, EDGE Boise State
83) Denver Broncos via Pittsburgh Steelers: Nick Harris, IOL Washington
84) *Detroit Lions via Los Angeles Rams: Troy Dye, ILB Oregon
85) Philadelphia Eagles: Saahdiq Charles, OT LSU
86) *Cincinnati Bengals via Buffalo Bills: Van Jefferson, WR Florida
87) New England Patriots: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan
88) New Orleans Saints: Bryan Edwards, WR South Carolina
89) Minnesota Vikings: Damien Lewis, IOL LSU
90) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Jordyn Brooks, ILB Texas Tech
91) Las Vegas Raiders from Houston Texans via Seattle Seahawks: Brandon Jones, SS Texas
92) Baltimore Ravens: Kenny Willekes, EDGE Michigan State
93) Tennessee Titans: Chase Claypool, WR Notre Dame
94) Green Bay Packers: Willie Gay Jr., ILB Mississippi State
95) *Seattle Seahawks from Denver Broncos via San Francisco 49ers: Netane Muti, IOL Fresno State
96) Kansas City Chiefs: Hakeem Adeniji, OL Kansas
TRADES IN ROUND THREE
1) Cincinnati Bengals trade the #107 and #147 to the Buffalo Bills for the #86 Overall Selection.
Jordan Katz 2020 NFL Mock Draft 4.0: Post Combine
The most pivotal weekend in the draft process has come and gone, which means it is time for an updated mock draft. We had some extremely impressive athletic performances during the weekend’s proceedings in Indianapolis. Henry Ruggs and Isaiah Simmons dominated the show, but there were plenty of other players that raised their draft stocks significantly at the Combine.
A few things to keep in mind about my personal style mock drafts. This is strictly what I would do if I were in charge of all 32 teams. If a trade is made, it is because it makes sense for both teams. The selections are based off of my own rankings, as well as my evaluation of team needs. There is also a hidden twist in this mock draft, which you will see early on (Big J tease right there).
Mock Lyfe Never Sleeps, and we’re grinding our gears once again. Let’s get to it.
ROUND ONE
1) *Miami Dolphins via Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU- Part of doing mock drafts is playing out different scenarios, even in a personal style mock draft like this one. So let’s shake things up and assume that Burrow pulls an Eli Manning, and says he does not want to play in Cincinnati. What do the Bengals do?
I think the easy answer is to trade out. Even if Cincinnati has to take “less value,” they would easily pull at least two first round picks from Miami in a trade. In short, Cincinnati can still pull enough value to create a roster that’s ready to insert a QB in 2021. Miami uses their assets to land a franchise QB, while Cincinnati gets their roster ready for Trevor Lawrence next year.
2) Washington Redskins: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State- In my previous mock, I gave Washington Andrew Thomas, a franchise left tackle to protect their franchise QB. This time, I’ll give them a franchise changing defensive talent.
By now you know that Young is an elite player that changes games as a pass rusher. For those that want to argue “he disappeared late in the season,” the dude had 10 QB pressures and four QB hits against Clemson alone. That narrative is ridiculous, and it’s generated by people looking for clicks. Young is a player that changes your franchise, plain and simple.
3) *Indianapolis Colts via Detroit Lions: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon- In my previous mock, I had the Colts make the jump up for Herbert around pick seven. He’s an ideal guy for Head Coach Frank Reich; a big guy that can make all the throws and moves around with plus athleticism. In this scenario where Joe Burrow chooses to not go to Cincy, the Bengals could still trade out and select a QB at five like Herbert. Therefore, the Colts have to move a little higher up the board to get their guy.
4) New York Giants: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia- While everyone is all over Mekhi Becton and Tristan Wirfs after this weekend, my top Dawg (if you know, you know) is still Andrew Thomas. His tape is just simply miles better than anyone I have ever scouted. Thomas is smart in pass protection, he throws a wicked first punch, and his hands are always ready for counters. With him “slipping,” to four, the Giants land their left tackle of the future.
5) *Cincinnati Bengals via Miami Dolphins: Jedrick Wills Jr., OT Alabama- If the Bengals do trade out because Joe Burrow refuses to play for them, it makes the most sense for them to build out a roster that can be competitive without elite QB play. Wills would sure up Cincinnati’s offensive line and give them the foundation to select Lawrence in 2021, as I mentioned above.
Editor’s Note: As you know by now from reading my personal style mock drafts, I am lower on Tua Tagovailoa than others. So while Tua is an option for the Bengals if Burrow opts to play elsewhere, for me, he is not.
6) Los Angeles Chargers: Tristan Wirfs, OT (TACKLE, Not Guard) Iowa- I mean, what else does this dude have to do to convince the masses that he is a franchise left tackle? He ran the 40 yard dash in 4.86 seconds, his 10 yard split was sub 1.7 seconds (a freakish time), and he showed elite power in his legs during vertical and broad jumps. We know his game matches his athleticism, so why move him to guard? Wirfs deserves the chance to start a tackle right away.
7) Carolina Panthers: Jeffrey Okudah, CB Ohio State- I thought about mocking a scenario where the Panthers re-sign James Bradbury, but I just can’t see them putting 15+ million into a corner with amount of needs they have. Instead, they use that money to rebuild their roster, and select the best cover corner in the draft like they did last time.
8) Arizona Cardinals: Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn- Arizona has a number of needs in the trenches, one of which is continuing to revamp their front seven. Brown did not have a good weekend, struggling during the athletic portion of the Combine. However, he still has phenomenal tape. His ability to win one-on-one matchups with quickness and power will make him a hot commodity early in the draft.
9) Jacksonville Jaguars: Isaiah Simmons, OLB/ILB Clemson- With all the talent at the top this year, someone has to fall once the Quarterbacks get mixed in. This time, that someone was the Unicorn. Jacksonville is in a prime position to capitalize on players that fall, and they do so here.
10) Cleveland Browns: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville- Think about how good of an athlete you have to be to run a 5.11 in the 40 at 364 pounds. Now imagine that player was a mauler up front with legit first round technique. That’s who Mekhi Becton is, and that’s the player the Browns are getting at 10.
11) New York Jets: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama- Okay, so in a world where the Jets have to go receiver, CeeDee Lamb should still be the choice. His game is the most complete of any receiver in the class. However, Ruggs proved why he’s my WR2 this weekend, so let’s make the case for him to be WR1.
If you believe Ruggs is a better route runner than the draft media is giving him credit for, which I do, then you have an elite player on your hands. Ruggs can win contested catches with strong hands and a big time vertical. In fact, he had the highest recorded vertical of any player to run a sub 4.3 in the history of the Combine (shout out to Nick Depinho for this stat). This is an elite playmaker, and in an era where you have to make YAC plays to be successful, maybe Ruggs deserves to be WR1.
12) Las Vegas Raiders: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma- Allow me to take this opportunity to explain why Lamb is still my WR1. Lamb is a threat to score in so many ways. He can take the top off of the defense, he’s a nightmare with the ball in his hands, and he’s ridiculously quick in and out of cuts. Lamb’s 10 yard split at the combine was 1.46, which is just .03 seconds slower than Henry Ruggs! His game is complete, and that’s why he is still WR1 on my board.
13) *Detroit Lions via Indianapolis Colts: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU- I prefer when the prospects work out at the combine because it’s a free chance to compete against your fellow draft prospects. However, I recognize that this is a business, and Chaisson made a good business decision. The edge rushers that did work out did not have a good weekend, making Chaisson a top 20 lock. His dip and bend ability would be a terrific fit in Matt Patricia’s aggressive defense.
14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU- Tampa Bay’s defense was number one against the run last year. However, they were third to last against the pass. Something tells me that the Bucs could use defensive backs this offseason. Todd Bowles plays man to man defense a lot, and Fulton shows good technique when mirroring and trailing receivers. This is a very good fit.
15) *Philadelphia Eagles via Denver Broncos: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama- Philadelphia getting aggressive for one of the big three wide receivers makes a lot of sense. They do need a corner, but they also need a real threat on the outside for Carson Wentz. If I were running the show, I would look to move up a few spots into the teens for whichever of the big three slides down the board a bit.
Editor’s Note: Jeudy had a really nice weekend. He showed some elite speed that people did not think he had. His strength is still as a route runner, but showing the top end speed was a plus for him.
16) Atlanta Falcons: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU- Gladney continues to rise up my personal mock drafts. His ability to mirror receivers from the boundary as well as the slot makes him a weapon at the next level. For a team that requires their corners to do a lot, Gladney’s footwork and technique make him a great fit in Atlanta.
17) Dallas Cowboys: Javon Kinlaw, DT South Carolina- In my previous mock, I assumed the Cowboys brought back Dak Prescott, but let Amari Cooper walk. This time, I assumed that both re-upped, which puts defense at the top of their draft needs.
Much like Chaisson, Kinlaw not working out this weekend definitely helped his draft stock. He was less productive than Derrick Brown on tape, but after the weekend, there is little doubt that he is significantly more athletic. Kinlaw may not have put the QB down a lot during college, but he won a lot of reps on tape with multiple moves and good quickness for his size. I think he would flourish with a team like Dallas.
18) *Cincinnati Bengals from Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU- Cincinnati needs playmakers on their roster, and Delpit is just that. He may have struggled during his final year at LSU, but Delpit is still an elite playmaker in the secondary with the ability to change games at the line of scrimmage. He’s an impact player, and the Bengals need those.
19) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Patrick Queen, ILB LSU- This pick stays the same from the last mock, largely because it’s just so obvious to me. Queen is a three down linebacker with the ability to cover tight ends and running backs out of the backfield. I think he’s a plug and play guy from day one in the middle of the front seven for any NFL team.
20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: CJ Henderson, CB Florida- “Mr. 4.39,” balled out this weekend in Indianapolis, and catapulted his draft stock even further. As someone who loved his footwork and knew the kind of athlete he was before the weekend started, this was the Combine I thought he would have. He can excel in both man and zone coverage, making him a really good fit in Jacksonville’s defense.
21) *Denver Broncos via Philadelphia Eagles: AJ Epenesa, DL Iowa- Epenesa did not have great times for a player on the edge. Having said that, he did test incredibly well for an interior defensive lineman. If you have been paying attention to my mock drafts, you know that I view him as a 3-4 defensive end. He’s a 3 tech and a 5 tech player, not a dip and bend guy. Use his strengths to his advantage. Denver is losing a few starters up front, which makes them a good landing spot for Epenesa.
22) Buffalo Bills: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU- Jefferson had a great weekend, and put himself into the round one conversation by showing top tier athleticism to match his quality route tree at LSU. Fortunately for me, I had a round one grade on him all along. Buffalo needs a true number one receiver, which is what I expect them to select in round one.
23) *Kansas City Chiefs via New England Patriots: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State- I loved this move by the Chiefs in my previous mock draft, so it stays in this one too. Dobbins has home run ability every time he touches it. He has elite vision as a one cut back, and makes plays in the passing game too. Kansas City trades up for the only weapon their offense is missing.
24) New Orleans Saints: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama- Another pick that stays the same from my previous mock, and it’s largely because of the medical reports about Tua. While he passed everything he had to, there are rumblings that teams may want him to sit for 2020. If that’s the case, when you combine that with where I evaluated his tape (I have questions about his ability to make progressions, as well as his ability to anticipate receivers out of their break), it makes more sense for teams to take him in the back end of round one.
25) Minnesota Vikings: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State- Arnette has first round tape. He’s physical with receivers, his footwork in trail coverage is clean, and he breaks quickly out of his backpedal. His 40 time was a bit concerning for someone that is not super long, but his tape is so good that if he answers the character concerns teams will have about him, I would take him in the top 40.
26) Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL LSU- I wanted to go a different direction with this pick, but if Miami lands Burrow because Burrow plays the “Eli Manning,” card with the Bengals, getting Burrow his Center from LSU feels like a layup.
27) Seattle Seahawks: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State- Gross-Matos did not participate in the athletic testing of the Combine, but he did choose to do the drills. And during the drills, he showed why he is the top guy in the second tier of edge rushers. He has a bevy of moves as a rusher, and he showed solid ability to run the edge and flatten towards the QB during the drills. Seattle needs pass rushers, making them a likely landing spot for Gross-Matos, both on my board and in real life.
28) Baltimore Ravens: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma- This is a little bit of an overdraft based on the tape grade I gave him, but Murray looked good this weekend. He showed elite athleticism for the linebacker position, and a quick twitch ability during the drills. Baltimore is losing a lot of positions along the front seven, so they reach a bit for the last three down linebacker in the 2020 class.
29) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Tennessee Titans: Jacob Eason, QB Washington- Eason went much higher in my previous mock draft, but the Bucs decided to play this one differently. Instead of taking a QB early, I played this mock draft like they landed a veteran free agent QB. If they do that, trading back into round one and having Eason sit for a year would make the most sense.
Editor’s Note: Eason is ahead of Tua on my personal board, but I think Tua is a better fit for Sean Payton than Eason is. Conversely, Eason is a better fit for Bruce Arians than Tua is.
30) Green Bay Packers: Denzel Mims, WR Baylor- The good news is that I was very high on Mims before the combine. He’s a big body receiver that excels down the field, separating with size and speed. He is what people thought Tee Higgins was, a Brandon Marshall-like receiver.
The bad news is, I did not have Mims high enough. He crushed his workout, running a strong 40 and the best three cone of the group. Let me say that again for the people in the back. At almost 6’3, he ran the best three cone of a loaded receiver group. Aaron Rodgers would love throwing to this kid.
31) San Francisco 49ers: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama- McKinney’s ball hawking ability in the Niners aggressive cover three defense is a match made in heaven. He can also roam from the single high spot in cover one. San Francisco does not have many needs, but one of them is a safety to control the last line of defense. This is a good fit for the player and the team.
32) *New England Patriots via Kansas City Chiefs: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan- Ruiz is one of my favorite prospects in this draft because he’s a smart offensive lineman with good athleticism. I love OL players that have the intelligence to play multiple positions up front, or to start for an extended period of time in college. The NFL looks for elite athletes and thinks they can teach them the technique necessary. I’ll take a smart player over the elite athlete along the OL any day of the week.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #18, #39, a 2021 2nd Round Pick, and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Cincinnati Bengals for the #1 Overall Selection.
2) Indianapolis Colts trade the #13, #34, #119, a 2021 1st Round Pick and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Detroit Lions for the #3 Overall Selection.
3) Philadelphia Eagles trade the #21, #53 and #168 to the Denver Broncos for the #15 and #115.
4) Kansas City Chiefs trade the #32, #63 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the New England Patriots for the #23 and #195.
5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #45, #161 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Tennessee Titans for the #29 Overall Selection.
ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: Neville Gallimore, DT Oklahoma- Gallimore is an athletic pass rusher that would compliment Geno Atkins extremely well.
34) *Detroit Lions from Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson- Detroit is going to trade Darius Slay this offseason (see the latter portions of this mock draft for that prediction), which puts corner atop their needs this offseason.
35) Detroit Lions: Justin Madubuike, IDL Texas A&M- The depth in the defensive line group did not impress me much this weekend, which is why Madubuike’s athleticism as a pass rusher allows him to fly up the draft board this time.
36) New York Giants: Antoine Winfield Jr., DB Minnesota- Winfield answered the athletic questions people had about him, which should make him a top 40 lock. He mans up in the slot, and he can cover as a safety from cover one or cover two.
37) Los Angeles Chargers: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia- I don’t think Austin Eckeler and Justin Jackson can produce enough to replace Melvin Gordon, which is why I would select one of the talented running backs in this draft if I were the Chargers.
38) Carolina Panthers: Ross Blacklock, IDL TCU- Blacklock would be my number three IDL if he did not miss 2018 with an injury. He’s a better version of Gallimore and Madubuike on tape. Carolina gets a heck of a player here.
39) *Cincinnati Bengals via Miami Dolphins: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia- Hall had an ankle injury this year, which means has to test well at his pro day. If he does, and you combine that with his intelligence as well as his technique in off coverage, Hall will be a top 50 lock.
Editor’s Note: Look at the way Cincinnati has rebuilt their roster in this draft. That is why you build the roster before selecting the QB.
40) Arizona Cardinals: Austin Jackson, OT USC- Austin Jackson goes against everything I stand for with regards to OL prospects. However, I think his ability to knock players off the arch and his athleticism are too good. One team will take a swing on being able to teach him the finer points of OL play.
41) Cleveland Browns: Josh Uche, EDGE/OLB Michigan- The Browns need playmakers on their defense, and Uche is a playmaker as a pass rusher. He fits right in as a LEO linebacker on the Browns.
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: Van Jefferson, WR Florida- Jacksonville does not have enough weapons on offense to compete for the playoffs in 2020. Van Jefferson’s route running ability makes him a playmaker at the next level.
43) Chicago Bears via Las Vegas Raiders: Matthew Peart, OT UCONN- Peart showed up in a big way this weekend, and I like his technique in pass protection on tape too. He’s a good fit for Matt Nagy and the Bears.
44) Indianapolis Colts: Ashtyn Davis, SS California- Davis is a thumper with legit ability in cover two. He’s a perfect fit to play alongside Malik Hooker in the back end of the Colts defense.
45) *Tennessee Titans via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Lucas Niang, OT TCU- Jack Conklin is likely walking in free agency, and one of the reasons why is because this OT group is very strong. Niang’s power up front makes him a perfect fit on the right side of any NFL offensive line.
46) Denver Broncos: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn- The converted wide receiver turned corner has come a long way very quickly. Give him to a defensive guru like Vic Fangio, and he could turn into a star.
47) Atlanta Falcons: Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame- Okwara does not play the run particularly well, but this dude is a dog as a pass rusher. He dips and bends really well, and uses the cross chop and rip moves to win reps against opposing tackles.
48) New York Jets: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan- Bredeson does not have elite length, but he makes up for that with his intelligence. I really like this fit for Adam Gase and the Jets.
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Ben Bartch, OT St. John’s- OL continues to fly off the board. The Steelers need a right tackle, which is what Bartch projects as at the next level because of his strength and ability in jump sets.
50) Chicago Bears: Kyle Dugger, FS/SS Lenoir-Rhyne- When I heard that Dugger was going to shine this weekend, I made sure to watch him before the proceedings. He jumps off the page as an athlete, which was obvious during the Combine. What I liked about his tape was his range, especially because he’s not particularly great at anticipating just yet. If he were younger (6th year senior), he would be a potential first round selection.
51) Dallas Cowboys: Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah- Dallas will add to their secondary with one of their first two selections in 2020. Johnson is a smart corner that mirrors well, and will fit nicely in the Cowboys secondary.
52) Los Angeles Rams: Jabari Zuniga, EDGE Florida- Zuniga showed the elite athleticism that I saw on tape throughout this weekend. He’s a quality dip and bend player off the edge. Zuniga replaces Dante Fowler, who should walk in free agency.
53) *Denver Broncos via Philadelphia Eagles: Tyler Biadasz, IOL Wisconsin- The enigma of the draft year is what happened to Tyler Biadasz. If a team can unlock his 2018 tape once again, they will have a starting center on their hands for 10+ years.
54) Buffalo Bills: Jonah Jackson, IOL Ohio State- Jackson is a good athlete with a high IQ at the LOS as well as at the second level. He’s a nice day two selection for a team needing a starting interior offensive linemen.
55) Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU- Devonta Freeman getting cut is a dead giveaway that the Falcons are selecting a running back from this ridiculously talented group.
56) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Cam Akers, RB Florida State- Speaking of needing a running back, Miami does not have a bell cow on the roster. Cam Akers is in fact that.
57) *Detroit Lions via Houston Texans: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU- Detroit trades Darius Slay to Houston and selects another target for Matt Stafford to groom into a productive receiver.
58) Minnesota Vikings: Saahdiq Charles, OT LSU- Charles struggles to pick up extra rushers, and does lose his technique at times. However, he’s an elite athlete who has the ability to slide with edge rushers. He could be a nice fit for a team on day two.
59) Seattle Seahawks: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn- Wanogho is a big time player in the run game. He moves edge players backwards and creates holes for running backs. He checks the boxes as an athlete as well.
60) Baltimore Ravens: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah- Baltimore is most likely going to tag Matthew Judon, but they need a plan in place if he walks the following year.
61) Tennessee Titans: Darnay Holmes, CB UCLA- Holmes makes an appearance in my second round because he showed ball skills I did not think he had during the drills at the Combine. Tennessee needs a nickel corner, which is exactly what Holmes is at the next level.
62) *New York Jets via Green Bay Packers: Matt Hennessy, IOL Temple- Temple tough produces yet another day two talent that should start in the NFL for years to come. The Jets trade up to land their starting center.
63) *New England Patriots via Kansas City Chiefs via San Francisco 49ers: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado- If New England is becoming more playmaker oriented with guys similar to N’Keal Harry, there are not many guys that make plays with the ball in their hands like Laviska Shenault.
64) Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State- Dantzler did not run well in Indianapolis, but he possesses quality footwork, and the necessary size and length that Seattle looks for in their corners.
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) Detroit Lions trade CB Darius Slay to the Houston Texans for the #57 Overall Selection.
2) New York Jets trade the #68, #117 and a 2020 4th Round Pick to the Green Bay Packers for the #62 and a 2020 5th Round Pick.
ROUND THREE
65) Cincinnati Bengals: Zack Baun, EDGE Wisconsin
66) Washington Redskins: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
67) Detroit Lions: Marlon Davidson, IDL Auburn
68) *Green Bay Packers from New York Jets via New York Giants: Troy Dye, ILB Oregon
69) Carolina Panthers: Jeremy Chinn, FS Southern Illinois
70) Miami Dolphins: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
71) Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Love, QB Utah State
72) Arizona Cardinals: Bryan Edwards, WR South Carolina
73) Jacksonville Jaguars: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
74) Cleveland Browns: Alohi Gilman, FS Notre Dame
75) Indianapolis Colts: Michael Pittman Jr., WR USC
76) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jack Driscoll, OL Auburn
77) Denver Broncos: Tee Higgins, WR Clemson
78) Atlanta Falcons: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
79) New York Jets: Troy Pride Jr., CB Notre Dame
80) Las Vegas Raiders: Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama
81) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Brandon Jones, SS Texas
82) Dallas Cowboys: Alton Robinson, EDGE Syracuse
83) Denver Broncos via Pittsburgh Steelers: Leki Fotu, IDL Utah
84) Los Angeles Rams: Malik Harrison, ILB Ohio State
85) Philadelphia Eagles: Akeem Davis-Gaither, ILB Appalachian State
86) Buffalo Bills: Michael Ojemudia, CB Iowa
87) New England Patriots: Davon Hamilton, IDL Ohio State
88) New Orleans Saints: Devin Duvernay, WR Texas
89) Minnesota Vikings: Curtis Weaver, EDGE Boise State
90) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers from Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Eno Benjamin, RB Arizona State
91) Las Vegas Raiders from Houston Texans via Seattle Seahawks: KJ Hamler, WR Penn State
92) Baltimore Ravens: Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama
93) Tennessee Titans: Tyler Johnson, WR Minnesota
94) Green Bay Packers: Hakeem Adeniji, OL Kansas
95) *Washington Redskins from Denver Broncos via San Francisco 49ers: Zack Moss, RB Utah
96) Kansas City Chiefs: Shane Lemieux, IOL Oregon
TRADES IN ROUND THREE
1) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #107 and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Cleveland Browns for the #90 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
2) Washington Redskins trade the #98 and a 2021 5th Round Pick to the Denver Broncos for the #95 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
Jordan Katz 2020 NFL Mock Draft 3.0: Post Super Bowl
Mock Draft SZN is now in full swing, which means it’s time for round three of my Mock Drafts! A few things to keep in mind about my personal style mock drafts (here’s the link to my prediction style mock draft if you’re interesting in that; https://draftstock.net/2020/01/28/jordan-katz-2020-nfl-prediction-mock-draft-1-0/). In this mock draft, I take control of all 32 teams. This is what I think each team should do on draft day. I go off of my rankings and my draft evaluations, along with what I feel are the biggest needs for every team. As always, if I make a trade, it means that it made sense for both teams to make the deal (and as always, they are denoted with an asterisk). So if you disagree with all my selections, just remember, I don’t care. Let’s ride.
ROUND ONE
1) Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU- Okay Cincinnati, here’s the deal; I’m giving you the franchise QB. It is now on you to build him an offensive line through this year’s free agency class. If you do not do this, please do not draft a quarterback before your roster is ready.
2) Washington Redskins: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia- This is a bit of a curveball, but it makes the most sense for the Redskins to grab their left tackle of the future considering they just picked Dwayne Haskins.
The media is much lower on Thomas than I am, and for the life of me, I cannot figure out why. In my opinion, this is a can’t miss prospect. He’s a mauler in the run game, he’s got a powerful punch in pass protection, and his slide allows him to stay with the quality dip and bend edge rushers. Washington beefs up their OL with Thomas at two.
3) *Atlanta Falcons via Detroit Lions: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State- Thomas Dimitroff recently said the Falcons are looking for game wreckers this offseason. They have already announced that Vic Beasley is walking in free agency, putting pass rush at the top of their wish list for the offseason. It’s a bold maneuver for the Falcons, but if Chase Young makes it past two, this could be the trade that gives them one more shot at a championship in the Matt Ryan era.
Editor’s Note: Detroit will look to trade out of the third selection because they need to rebuild this roster through the draft in order to compete in the coming years. Even if Chase Young is there, they need more than just Young to be a competitive team in 2020.
4) New York Giants: Isaiah Simmons, OLB/ILB Clemson- Simmons is by far the most interesting player in the draft. How many 6’4 linebackers have the capability of running a 4.35 in the 40, setting combine records in the vertical leap and broad jump, and can play up to five different positions on the defensive side of the ball? The Giants have plenty of needs, but Simmons can play three of those defensive needs throughout the course of one game, making him a natural fit.
5) Miami Dolphins: Jedrick Wills, OT Alabama- In my last mock draft I wrote about how one of Miami or Cincinnati should pursue Trevor Lawrence in 2021 because of the state their rosters are in. Assuming Cincinnati takes Burrow, that puts Miami in position to build their roster through free agency and the draft before selecting their franchise QB in next year’s draft.
Wills is widely regarded as the top tackle in this draft. He gains leverage at the point of attack with really sound technique. Even though his footwork in the vertical set can lag behind at times, he’s a day one left tackle in the NFL.
6) Los Angeles Chargers: Tristan Wirfs, OT Iowa- The tackles continue to fly off the board. Wirfs is being talked about as a guard at the next level, but I’m not sure why. He’s an elite athlete in space, he handles stunts and extra rushers well, and he strikes with power and precision. He’s an ideal right tackle at the next level.
Editor’s Note: Until the bevy of free agent quarterbacks sign their next contracts, I will assume the Chargers land a QB in free agency, and proceed to address their next biggest need here at six.
7) Carolina Panthers: Jeff Okudah, CB Ohio State- Okudah falling to seven is the dream scenario for the Panthers. He’s the best man cover corner I have seen in quite some time. Okudah can lock down a side of the field from day one, and be the chess piece in the secondary that Carolina is missing.
8) *Indianapolis Colts via Arizona Cardinals: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon- There is zero chance the Colts walk into 2020 with Jacoby Brissett as their only potential starting quarterback. Now this could mean a number of different things. The Colts could try to land a veteran backup in free agency. They could also knock on Andrew Luck’s door and see if the former Pro Bowler will come back to football.
A third option is trading up for a quarterback in this draft. Head Coach Frank Reich turned Carson Wentz into a star during his tenure in Philadelphia; perhaps he could do the same with Herbert, who emulates a fair amount of Wentz’s game. He can make all the throws, but he struggles with seeing NFL open windows. Herbert is smart with the ball, rarely forcing throws, but he also does not always give his playmaker a chance to go make a play. These are two things that Reich can help him with right away.
9) Jacksonville Jaguars: Derrick Brown, IDL- The once vaunted Jacksonville Jaguars defensive front was in the bottom 10 in sacks last year. Part of the reason is because they lack the elite athletes to get home from the middle of the field. Derrick Brown is that kind of guy.
10) Cleveland Browns: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville- Cleveland is yet another team near the top of this draft that will look to address the offensive line early on. Power is the name of the game for Mekhi Becton, he punches with precision and he’s able to bully opposing defensive linemen as if they were members of the secondary. Don’t sleep on his athleticism either. Even though he’s built like a brick house, Becton is very adept at getting to the second level and sealing off his target. He can be a successful pro at left or right tackle in the NFL.
11) New York Jets: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma- This is the nightmare scenario for the Jets, which may seem weird to some. Lamb is explosive with the ball in his hands and he separates well at the top of the stem; but his vertical ability is what makes him an elite prospect. The Jets land the top wideout in the draft and a dynamic target for Sam Darnold, so how is this bad?
Here’s why this is the nightmare scenario. The Jets need to come out of this offseason with a revamped, quality offensive line to help Sam Darnold progress. Adam Gase needs the OL to be good as well. A lot of his route combinations take time to develop, which you cannot execute without a quality OL. As good as the receivers at the top of the draft are, the wide receiver position is so loaded that you can get a playmaker in rounds two or three. The top tackles in this draft are head and shoulders better than the other linemen this year.
So while Lamb is a quality selection, it is not an ideal one for the Green and White.
12) Las Vegas Raiders: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama- Unlike the Jets, a playmaker is the Raiders top need. This team might have made the playoffs last year if Derek Carr had a legit number one target.
Ruggs is a speed demon. He’s a 4.2 guy, and he plays like it every time he touches the ball. Despite being only 6’0, he has an impressive catch radius as well. If Ruggs improves as a route runner, he goes from “Tyreek Hill esque,” to a better version of Hill.
13) *Arizona Cardinals via Indianapolis Colts: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU- Despite another phenomenal season from Chandler Jones, Arizona was middle of the pack in team sacks. Chaisson’s ability off the edge would have this defense set up to take a massive leap forward in 2020.
14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jacob Eason, QB Washington- Eason may not be beloved by the mock draft community, but I’m standing by him as a top 40 player that warrants a first round selection (you know, because he’s a quarterback….).
Eason has a cannon for an arm, and in a clean pocket, he can make all the throws. Touch passes are a bit of an issue, as is his decision making and technique when the pocket collapses. However, I really like the way he anticipates receivers out of their break. That’s what makes me believe that a good offensive mind can teach Eason how to keep his feet quiet in a chaotic pocket and deliver the ball with precision. In short, give Bruce Arians a guy like Eason, and magic will happen.
15) Denver Broncos: Javon Kinlaw, IDL South Carolina- Derek Wolfe, Shelby Harris and Adam Gotsis are all free agents during this offseason. Even if they bring back one or two, the front three needs to be addressed.
Kinlaw does not have the production on paper to warrant a top 15 selection, but his game does. Kinlaw loves the rip move and the club move (hand over hand as it’s more commonly referred to) to win one-on-one reps against opposing guards. He succeeded as a one tech and a three tech in college, and he will do the same at the next level because of his athleticism. Frankly, I’d give him some reps as a 5 tech because of how fluid his hips and ankles are. If he gets better at putting the Quarterback down, Kinlaw can be a star.
16) *Detroit Lions via Atlanta Falcons: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU- Detroit could have picked Okudah or Young at three, but they have a lot of needs. The only thing keeping them together every year is Matt Stafford, and I’m not sure 6-10 every year counts as “keeping them together.” Trading down, acquiring future assets, and still selecting a talented corner like Fulton, is a better method. That’s the perks of having a strong draft class at the top.
17) Dallas Cowboys: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama- I think everyone is assuming Amari Cooper returns to Dallas, and they’re probably right. With the threat of Tom Brady as an option making its way around the media, Dak Prescott probably accepts a little bit lower than he wants to. This means that Cooper can get the franchise tag, and the Dallas Cowboys offense can remain the same.
But what if Prescott is the one that gets the tag? What if Dallas opts to see more of him before committing to him long term? If that happened, does Amari Cooper warrant top dollar?
Based on the quality of the draft class, I would let Cooper walk. I don’t think he’s the game changing wide receiver that deserves top money at the position. I especially would not pay him when his clone is sitting in this draft class, and could be an option for the Cowboys at 17 (or a little higher if they traded up).
Editor’s Note: Even though Jeudy is my WR3, I don’t dislike him by any means. He’s still a terrific prospect, and the best route runner in the class by far. My question with him is drops, he has a fair amount of them.
18) Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU- Gladney is one of my favorite players in this draft class. I love his technique in man coverage. He flips his hips with ease and he excels at mirroring receivers. Whether he’s in the slot or on the boundary, Gladney is an elite man cover corner. He would be a fun chess piece for Head Coach Brian Flores.
19) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Patrick Queen, ILB LSU- Queen is the prototypical modern day linebacker. He’s a terrific athlete in space, he shoots the correct gaps against the run, and he can play man coverage against running backs and tight ends. Las Vegas (that’s really weird to say) needs a signal caller in the middle of their defense, so this pick kind of writes itself.
20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: CJ Henderson, CB Florida- Henderson is a “mini me,” of LSU corner Kristian Fulton. Both players are really good in man coverage. They excel at mirroring receivers with quality footwork and fluid hips. Both are able to trail receivers with elite top end speed. Jacksonville continues to revamp their defense with Henderson at 20.
21) Philadelphia Eagles: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU- Philadelphia has two big needs; wide receiver and corner. Fortunately, this draft is loaded with both. Jefferson is a terrific fit for Doug Pederson’s offense because he can run clean routes from anywhere on the field. His versatility and production in Joe Brady’s offense make him a very intriguing pro prospect.
22) *Kansas City Chiefs via Buffalo Bills: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State- Rarely would I advise a team to trade up for a running back. Most teams are not in the position to make such an aggressive move, and most running backs are not worthy of doing so.
Having said that, the Chiefs are not just any other team, and JK Dobbins is not just any other running back. His explosiveness and vision in the Chiefs one cut, zone blocking scheme would be a perfect compliment to the Chiefs passing attack. This is a move that puts them in the dynasty conversation.
23) New England Patriots: Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU- In Mock 2.0 I wrote about how the NFL really needs to prevent Delpit from falling the way Derwin James did a few years ago. Delpit had a roller coaster final season on tape, just like James did, but Delpit is still a guy that can change games. He hunts the ball and creates big plays near the line of scrimmage. Letting him fall to a playoff team, or a potential playoff team, is not what the league wants to do.
Long story short, I failed, and here is Delpit going to the Patriots at 23. Devin McCourty had a subpar second half, and could be a cap cut this offseason. Duron Harmon can move to “centerfield,” and Delpit can be a chess piece in the back for Bill Belichick’s defense.
24) New Orleans Saints: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama- I’ll ignore the fact that I am lower on Tua’s tape than most, and go right to the crux of the issue; where to place him in the draft. There are so many conflicting medical reports of how long he can play in the NFL. Sure, he’s a top five lock in the real draft, seeing as how he did receive the clean bill of health for the immediate future. Yet, no one really knows what his future will look like five years from now on the football field.
Personally, I would only draft Tua if I was a team that was a quarterback away from competing for a championship. If Drew Brees retires, New Orleans becomes one of those teams. Plus, the idea of a healthy Tua Tagovailoa with Sean Payton is a scary thought.
25) Minnesota Vikings: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama- Minnesota is losing a lot of players in the secondary to free agency this offseason. At 25, they should take the best defensive back on the board and move on. That guy in this scenario is McKinney because of his range as a single high safety.
26) Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Lloyd Cushenberry, IOL LSU- Miami continues to revamp their offensive line for their future QB. Cushenberry has the versatility and intelligence to play guard or center at the next level, but it’s his athleticism that has me excited about the player he could be at the next level.
27) Seattle Seahawks: AJ Epenesa, DL Iowa- Epenesa fell down my draft board a bit because I think his true upside is as a guy who bulks up and plays a three technique in the NFL. When you watch his tape, he jumps off the page when he lines up along the interior. As a straight edge guy, he does not have the dip and bend ability to be a versatile edge rusher. As a 3-4 DE, his game would look a lot like JJ Watt. His technique, the bevy of moves that he possesses, and his quickness would make him a nightmare. Epenesa is a great fit in Seattle to replace Jadeveon Clowney at a much cheaper price.
28) Baltimore Ravens: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State- For the first time in a while, the Baltimore Ravens enter a draft needing defense. Gross-Matos is a smart pass rusher with good instincts and enough moves to get home at the next level. His technique is what makes me really like this fit. I think his game and his knowledge of how to win reps against opposing tackles make this an intriguing option for Baltimore in the back end of round one.
29) Tennessee Titans: Austin Jackson, OT USC- Jackson’s length and athleticism are why I have him at the top of the “second tier,” of offensive tackles in this draft. It’s also why he goes to Tennessee to replace Jack Conklin. Lastly, it’s why he gets drafted a little higher than his draft grade may warrant.
30) Green Bay Packers: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU- It’s weird to think that the Packers, led by Aaron Rodgers, need to address their offensive unit. However, minus Davante Adams, the Packers receiving core is surprisingly lackluster. Reagor is the home run threat that this offense is missing.
31) *New York Jets via San Francisco 49ers: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan- Remember earlier when I said the Jets were experiencing their nightmare scenario? This is why. The Jets have to, HAVE TO, come away with a day one starter along the offensive line in this draft, even if that means trading assets they do not want to give up. Ruiz is the last offensive lineman on my board that I believe can be a successful day one starter. Therefore, the Jets trade up to get him.
32) *Buffalo Bills via Kansas City Chiefs: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado- Buffalo did a nice job of manufacturing a solid receiving core from a bevy of misfits in 2019. To make it to the next level, they need a legit playmaker on the outside who can create big plays in space. That is Shenault in a nutshell.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1- Atlanta Falcons trade the #16, #47, #116, a 2021 1st Round Pick and a 2021 4th Round pick to the Detroit Lions for the #3 and #182.
2) Indianapolis Colts trade the #13, #44, a 2021 2nd Round Pick and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Arizona Cardinals for the #8 and #202.
3) Kansas City Chiefs trade the #32, #63 and #177 to the Buffalo Bills for the #22 and #167.
4) New York Jets trade the #48, #68 and #191 to the San Francisco 49ers for the #31.
ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma
34) Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma
35) Detroit Lions: Ashtyn Davis, SS Iowa
36) New York Giants: Matthew Peart, OT UCONN
37) Los Angeles Chargers: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State
38) Carolina Panthers: Ross Blacklock, IDL TCU
39) Miami Dolphins: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia
40) Arizona Cardinals: Lucas Niang, OT TCU
41) Cleveland Browns: Antoine Winfield Jr., FS/SS Minnesota
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: Van Jefferson, WR Florida
43) Chicago Bears via Las Vegas Raiders: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn
44) *Arizona Cardinals via Indianapolis Colts: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU
45) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cam Akers, RB Florida State
46) Denver Broncos: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn
47) *Detroit Lions via Atlanta Falcons: Joshua Uche, EDGE Michigan
48) *San Francisco 49ers via New York Jets: Denzel Mims, WR Baylor
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah
50) Chicago Bears: Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame
51) Dallas Cowboys: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
52) Los Angeles Rams: Akeem Davis-Gaither, ILB Appalachian State
53) Philadelphia Eagles: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State
54) Buffalo Bills: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan
55) Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
56) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
57) Houston Texans: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
58) Minnesota Vikings: Trey Adams, OT Washington
59) Seattle Seahawks: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
60) Baltimore Ravens: Leki Fotu, NT Utah
61) Tennessee Titans: Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah
62) Green Bay Packers: Josh Jones, OT Houston
63) *Buffalo Bills via Kansas City Chiefs from San Francisco 49ers: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia
64) Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Madubuike, IDL Texas A&M
Jordan Katz 2020 Prediction Style NFL Mock Draft: 1.0
Welcome to the first installment of my prediction style Mock Draft. For those that might be reading for the first time, I do two kinds of Mock Drafts. The ones I post more regularly are what I would do if I were in charge of all 32 teams. In those mocks you see more of what I think of individual players, as well as what I think each team should prioritize.
In my prediction mocks, they are exactly what they sound like; predictions. I’m going based off of what I have seen rumored, As we get closer to the draft, I will use Combine meetings, who went to what pro day, and the rumor mill to make my predictions.
As far as trades go, any trade you see in this Mock Draft is a prediction on which teams could be in the trade market come draft time. Obviously there are more teams that will look to trade than the select ones I chose, and that’s where the breakdown of the board can have influence on the predictions I choose to make. As always, trades that were made in this mock are indicated via an asterisk.
Let’s cook.
ROUND ONE
1) Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU- I still think Cincinnati is in a great position to build a roster before selecting their QB of the future, but let’s call a spade a spade; this will be Joe Burrow in three months.
2) Washington Redskins: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State- Don’t sleep on Washington trading down here. Chase Young is a phenomenal player, but Washington has a lot of needs. They could leverage this pick to a QB needy team if the buzz around the Quarterbacks were to get high enough. For now, Washington just stays here and picks Young.
3) *Miami Dolphins via Detroit Lions: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama- During the early stages of the college football season, there was a lot of buzz that Dolphins Owner Stephen Ross was going to force the front office to take Tua at the presumed first overall selection. Now they have a chance to trade up and land the guy that Ross supposedly coveted. Something tells me because of all the teams that need QBs near the top, Miami will be tempted to use their assets in this draft to go get their franchise QB.
4) New York Giants: Isaiah Simmons, OLB/ILB/Slot Corner/FS/NFL Version of the Hulk, Clemson- Okay, so the position thing is clearly a joke, but Simmons is the definition of a chess piece for any NFL defense. The Giants rarely take a linebacker in round one, but Simmons is no ordinary linebacker. He changes games, and the Giants need game changers on defense.
5) *Detroit Lions via Miami Dolphins: Jeffrey Okudah, CB Ohio State- Detroit trading down feels like the layup trade of this draft. Trading down to still select Okudah, who they probably would take at three anyway, is the dream scenario. Darius Slay has one more year left on his contract, and because of where the Lions are at, he would likely walk in free agency. Assuming they trade Slay to expedite their rebuild, cornerback tops their wish list in the 2020 draft.
6) Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon- Herbert put on a clinic throughout the week of the Senior Bowl. He looked like the best player on the field at all times, which is exactly how he should have looked if in fact he was a top 10 lock. While Jordan Love is an option here, Herbert being further along mentally and physically is what pushes the Chargers in his direction.
7) *Indianapolis Colts via Carolina Panthers: Jordan Love, QB Utah State- Four QBs in the top 10 is a lot, but that appears to be where we are headed. Love has NFL size, NFL arm strength, and he can stretch the play with his legs. While I don’t view him that highly, many think he can resemble Patrick Mahomes. Indianapolis trades up for Love, but they won’t rush him if he’s not ready because of Jacoby Brissett, which also makes this a quality fit for the former Utah State star.
8) Arizona Cardinals: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia- I know there is a ton of buzz around Mekhi Becton right now, however something tells me Thomas regains his momentum at the combine in a month. I think he’s been out of the spotlight for so long, people forgot just how dominant he was on tape. When he reminds them that he’s got the athleticism to match his game tape next month, Thomas should ascend back to the top offensive linemen on many people’s draft board.
9) *Atlanta Falcons via Jacksonville Jaguars: Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn- General Manager Thomas Demitrioff recently said he is looking for “game wreckers,” during this offseason. Let me tell you someone that embodies the words “game wrecker.” A Six foot five, 318 pound behemoth, who has quickness of a linebacker, the strength to beat double teams like they’re paper mache, and the ability to help others make plays because he draws so much attention. That is a guy TD would love to have on his roster.
10) Cleveland Browns: Jedrick Wills, OT Alabama- This was a real coin flip between Wills and Becton. I went with Wills because he’s built more like a prototypical offensive tackle. Becton is a mauler, built like a brick house, but his size could leave him susceptible to elite athletes on the edge. Wills is better served to deal with those kind of players.
11) New York Jets: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville- Despite what’s written above, it’s not like Becton is a bad athlete. For someone of his size, he’s quite nimble. He gets to the second level with ease. He strikes with such force, he bodies other human beings in a way I have never seen on a football field. Becton would be a huge jolt to the Jets up front.
12) Las Vegas Raiders: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama- I think the wide receivers will fall throughout the 2020 NFL Draft, just because there are so many talented players at the position. This is the first example of that, as WR1 goes off the board outside the top ten. The Raiders feel like a lock to take a receiver with one of their two first round selections. Which selection they opt to do that at will depend on the way the board falls.
13) *Carolina Panthers via Indianapolis Colts: Tristan Wirfs, OL Iowa- Many seem to think Wirfs has all pro ability at guard, and that he will wind up along the interior of an offensive line at the next level. If that’s true, he probably falls outside the top 10 as well. The value placed on tackles is just greater than the value placed on guards or centers.
Fortunately for the Panthers, this can help them. They can generate enough buzz around themselves selecting the heir to Cam Newton, and trade down for a stud along the offensive line in Wirfs.
14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU- I know Delpit is very up and down on draft boards, but the one thing no one can deny is Delpit’s ability around the line of scrimmage. The Bucs secondary needs players that change games, and Delpit does just that. This feels like a natural fit that many might be sleeping on.
15) Denver Broncos: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma- Courtland Sutton was a breakout star in 2019, but in the modern day NFL, you need more than one playmaker offensively. This idea is why Denver is a prime candidate to grab another big time player to help Drew Lock turn into the franchise Quarterback that Denver needs him to be.
16) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Atlanta Falcons: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU- The Jaguars are turning over their defense and trying to retool it to resemble the defense they had a few years ago. Having traded Jalen Ramsey, and with AJ Bouye presumably on his way out the door soon, a logical scenario for them is trading back in this draft, acquiring assets, and selecting Fulton, who is expected to be CB2 in April behind Jeffrey Okudah.
17) Dallas Cowboys: Javon Kinlaw, IDL South Carolina- Dallas has multiple needs defensively to get themselves back to where they expect to be. Interior defensive line, corner or safety are all on the table with their first round selection. Based on the way this board fell, Javon Kinlaw makes the most sense here.
18) Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: AJ Epenesa, EDGE Iowa- Epenesa is a weird prospect for me to attempt to predict right now. I think the NFL scouts like the player he is, the way he wins up front with technique instead of just sheer athleticism, and the way he controls his gaps up front.
Having said that, I think they are afraid that he lacks the quickness and athleticism to truly dominate at the next level. I don’t think anyone doubts that he will be a productive pro, I think the question is about his ceiling.
These are the reasons he could go anywhere from 10-30 come April.
19) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Patrick Queen, ILB LSU- The Raiders will probably go defense with the other first round selection they have, and a candidate for said selection is Patrick Queen. Oakland’s linebacking core is less than impressive, and Queen’s stock is through the roof after an incredible college football playoff.
20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU- Chaisson will not be on the board long because of his elite ability off the edge. Jacksonville continues to revamp their defense by selecting Chaisson to replace pending free agent Yannick Ngakoue.
21) Philadelphia Eagles: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama- This is a realistic scenario that the rest of the NFL needs to make sure does not happen, for their own sake. Giving Doug Pederson a weapon like Ruggs would push the Eagles offense to the elite level they were at a few years ago. If the Eagles find a way to land the stud playmaker they are missing in a few months, lookout.
22) Buffalo Bills: Tee Higgins, WR Clemson- The Bills could go a number of different directions with their first round selection, and pass catcher is certainly one of them. While Josh Allen had a nice season with John Brown and Cole Beasley as his top targets, there is no question he could benefit from a big body receiver that can score in the red zone. If that’s what they are looking for, then Tee Higgins is their answer.
23) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via New England Patriots: Jacob Eason, QB Washington- If the rumors of Philip Rivers to Tampa Bay are true, then the Bucs are the easy pick to trade back into round one for Eason. Eason has a big arm, and he can make all the throws when the pocket is clean. When the pocket collapses, that’s when his mechanics go awry. Give him to Bruce Arians, and you might just see Eason blossom into a superstar after sitting for a year.
24) New Orleans Saints: Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama- One of the teams in the back end of round one is going to reach for Raekwon Davis. His athleticism will warrant it. I chose the Saints because recent reports are that they believe Taysom Hill is their guy for the future if Drew Brees does retire. That means the Saints turn to the defensive side of the ball, and give a boost to their pass rush along the interior.
25) Minnesota Vikings: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU- Minnesota’s secondary played subpar all year long. Not only that, but most of their secondary is up for contract. If there is a lock in the back half of round one, it’s Minnesota taking a secondary piece.
26) *Detroit Lions from Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado- Detroit needs a weapon opposite Kenny Golladay long term. Marvin Jones could be a cap cut considering he’s been hurt each of the last two years, opening up a spot for one of the young, talented receivers in this draft.
27) Seattle Seahawks: Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL LSU- Seattle is a really good trade down candidate to a team that needs a quarterback and did not select one in the top half of round one. If that team jumped up higher than Seattle, like they did in this draft, look for them to address their needs in the trenches during round one.
28) Baltimore Ravens: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State- While the Ravens defense did have a strong year despite losing a multitude of high profile players to free agency from the year before, they still could use some help in their front seven. Matthew Judon turned into a quality rusher, but he’s set to become a free agent and most likely will not be back. This puts EDGE rusher atop their needs.
29) Tennessee Titans: Austin Jackson, OT USC- If Jack Conklin does in fact depart via free agency, the Titans top priority becomes offensive tackle. Austin Jackson is widely regarded as the best of the tier below the elite guys in this draft, making him the obvious selection.
30) *Los Angeles Chargers via Green Bay Packers: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia- Predicting the top running back from this draft class is a debate that no one will solve until many years from now. If I were to guess which way the majority of teams are leaning, it would be Swift because of his vision and explosiveness. The Chargers jump the Chiefs to land their Melvin Gordon replacement.
31) San Francisco 49ers: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama- Every year a player falls farther than many expect them to, and it’s all based on how the board shakes out in front of them. McKinney was the victim of that in this particular mock draft, but it allowed the 49ers to reap the benefits.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State- Even if Swift does go before the Chiefs pick in round one, Dobbins is a very nice consolation prize. His ability in the open field combined with his vision between the tackles will make him a nightmare for opposing defense. In the Chiefs offense, it will be a never ending bad dream for those defenses.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #26 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Detroit Lions for the #3 overall pick.
2) Indianapolis Colts trade the #13, #34, #75 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Carolina Panthers for the #7 and #198.
3) Atlanta Falcons trade the #16, #47 and #109 to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #9 and the #186.
4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #45, #76, a 2021 2nd Round Pick and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the New England Patriots for the #23 and #185.
5) Los Angeles Chargers trade the #37, #102 and the #133 to the Green Bay Packers for the #30 and #220.
ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: CJ Henderson, CB Florida
34) *Carolina Panthers from Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
35) Detroit Lions: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
36) New York Giants: Josh Jones, OT Houston
37) *Green Bay Packers via Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU
38) Carolina Panthers: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma
39) Miami Dolphins: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
40) Arizona Cardinals: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan
41) Cleveland Browns: Ashtyn Davis, SS California
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma
43) Chicago Bears via Las Vegas Raiders: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
44) Indianapolis Colts: Ross Blacklock, IDL TCU
45) *New England Patriots via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
46) Denver Broncos: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn
47) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Aiyuk, WR Arizona State
48) New York Jets: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Josh Uche, EDGE Michigan
50) Chicago Bears: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah
51) Dallas Cowboys: Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama
52) Los Angeles Rams: Jonathan Greenard, EDGE Florida
53) Philadelphia Eagles: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU
54) Buffalo Bills: Zack Baun, EDGE Wisconsin
55) Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Thad Moss, TE LSU
56) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Lucas Niang, OT TCU
57) Houston Texans: Cam Akers, RB Florida State
58) Minnesota Vikings: Leki Fotu, IDL Utah
59) *New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State
60) *Las Vegas Raiders via Baltimore Ravens: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State
61) Tennessee Titans: Jason Strowbridge, DL North Carolina
62) *Philadelphia Eagles via Green Bay Packers: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn
64) Kansas City Chiefs via San Francisco 49ers: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia
64) Seattle Seahawks via San Francisco 49ers: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) New York Jets trade the #68 #79 and #140 to the Seattle Seahawks for the #59 and #123.
2) Las Vegas Raiders trade the #80, #91 and #203 to the Baltimore Ravens for the #60 and #187.
3) Philadelphia Eagles trade the #85, #117 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Green Bay Packers for #62 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick.
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