Connor Williams
Jordan Katz 2018 NFL Mock Draft 4.0: Final Mock Draft (Three Rounds)
The day of reckoning is upon us, the three day spectacle that is the NFL Draft. This means it is time for one final Mock Draft from yours truly. #MockDraftSZN may be coming to an end, but the #MockDraftLyfe never stops (credit to Joe Romano for that poetic tagline).
This is my final personal mock draft. As always, this is what I would do at each selection. For my prediction mock draft, aka what I think will happen on draft days one and two, click the link here: https://draftstock.net/2018/04/23/jordan-katz-2018-nfl-prediction-mock-draft-2-0-final/
Some things changed from my most recent mock draft, the biggest of which is the teams that are moving around in this draft. There’s multiple teams without the leverage to trade out of spots in this draft, including one in the top five that has traded in every draft I’ve done thus far.
There’s also slightly less analysis in this mock draft. If you’ve kept up with my mock drafts, you’re well aware of the players I like versus the players I do not.
Thank you to everyone who kept up with my content this year. Enjoy the draft!
ROUND ONE
1) Cleveland Browns: Sam Darnold, QB USC- I still believe Darnold should be selected first because he can sit the first year. Baker Mayfield is my top quarterback, but he’s ready to play now and he also has less upside. If the Browns are going to start Tyrod Taylor in 2018, they should pick Darnold.
2) New York Giants: Saquon Barkley, RB Penn State- I mentioned in my predictions mock draft that the Giants no longer have any trade leverage at this selection. David Gettleman didn’t do a good enough job convincing the masses that they would select a quarterback not named Sam Darnold. Therefor the Giants are stuck at this pick, but Saquon Barkley is a nice consolation prize.
3) New York Jets via Indianapolis Colts: Baker Mayfield, QB Oklahoma- Broadway Baker, nothing changes here.
4) *Buffalo Bills from Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Josh Rosen, QB UCLA- The Browns reap the benefits of the Giants inability to trade the second pick. They get multiple first and second round picks to slide down the draft.
The Bills are rewarded as well. They pay less of a price in order to land their franchise quarterback.
5) Denver Broncos: Quenton Nelson, OG Notre Dame- After much debate, I’ve decided that the Broncos have to take Quenton Nelson if they are unable to trade this pick. Not only is he the best player in the draft, but he’s a legitimate can’t miss prospect.
6) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Bradley Chubb, EDGE NC State- If Chubb and Barkley are off the board on draft day, look for the Colts to trade out. With Chubb on the board, this pick is easy.
7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB/FS/SS Alabama- Fitzpatrick’s versatility in the secondary makes him the selection over Derwin James, who’s a more traditional safety.
8) Chicago Bears: Roquan Smith, OLB/ILB Georgia- Smith can be the anchor in the middle of the Bears 3-4 defense from day one.
9) San Francisco 49ers: Tremaine Edmunds, EDGE/OLB Virginia Tech- Edmunds would give an immediate jolt to the Niners linebacking core, as well as their pass rush.
10) Oakland Raiders: Connor Williams, OT/OG Texas- Oakland is best served to take the best available offensive tackle with their first selection. One of the differences between their playoff team from two years ago and last year’s underachieving squad was the regression of their offensive line.
11) Miami Dolphins: Da’Ron Payne, DT Alabama- Payne’s massive rise up my draft board is largely due to their inability to trade this pick. He’s a better fit for their 4-3 defense than Vita Vea, so Miami takes Payne a little higher than expected.
12) *Cleveland Browns from Buffalo Bills via Cincinnati Bengals: Carlton Davis, CB Auburn- After trading down from the fourth pick, the Browns use their second of three first round picks on a true number one cornerback.
13) Washington Redskins: Vita Vea, DT/NT Washington- Vea still can’t find his way into the top ten where he belongs, but I doubt Washington is complaining.
14) Green Bay Packers: Derwin James, FS/SS Florida State- To compare this selection to the NBA Draft, Derwin James should not make it out of the lottery this year. He’s a perfect fit next to HaHa Clinton-Dix.
15) Arizona Cardinals: Anthony Miller, WR Memphis- Arizona needs a playmaker to alleviate pressure from the ageless wonder Larry Fitzgerald. Miller is worthy of this selection for me, he’s my only receiver with a first round grade.
16) Baltimore Ravens: Leighton Vander Esch, ILB Boise State- This remains my favorite selection of the draft. Baltimore’s defense becomes even more elite with Vander Esch and CJ Mosley commanding the middle.
17) Los Angeles Chargers: Mike McGlinchey, OT Notre Dame- McGlinchey is a reach here on my board, but the Chargers desperately need help at the offensive tackle positions.
18) *Carolina Panthers via Seattle Seahawks: Denzel Ward, CB Ohio State- With only one selection in the first 100 picks, Seattle is desperate to trade out of this selection. This allows Carolina to trade up for a number one cornerback.
19) *Minnesota Vikings via Dallas Cowboys: Braden Smith, OT/OG Auburn- Minnesota trades up to bolster its offensive line, which is exactly what I had them do in my predictions mock.
20) Detroit Lions: Rasheem Green, DE USC- Green continuously rose up my board throughout the draft process, and this is now the peak. His athleticism and length make him the second edge rusher taken.
21) Cincinnati Bengals via Buffalo Bills: Billy Price, OG/C Ohio State- I think Price is easily the best center in this draft and very worthy of the 21st selection.
22) *Cleveland Browns via Buffalo Bills: Derrius Guice, RB LSU- The Browns did sign Carlos Hyde this offseason, but I doubt that deters them from selecting a running back in this draft.
23) New England Patriots via Los Angeles Rams: Jaire Alexander, CB Louisville- This is a scary good selection for New England. Alexander’s ability in man coverage would be a big time weapon for Bill Belichick’s defense.
24) *Seattle Seahawks via Carolina Panthers: Will Hernandez, OG UTEP- Seattle has a number of needs, which is why trading down from 18 is imperative. Hernandez is a mauler in the run game and a perfect fit for the Seahawks.
25) Tennessee Titans: Isaiah Wynn, OG Georgia- The Titans also need help at guard, so the run on interior linemen concludes with Wynn to Tennessee.
Editor’s note: In case Vikings fans were curious as to why they would move up, this is why. First round offensive linemen will fly off the board late.
26) Atlanta Falcons: Taven Bryan, DT Florida- Bryan’s athleticism and effort will make him beloved by the Atlanta coaching staff very quickly.
27) New Orleans Saints: Dallas Goedert, TE South Dakota State- Goedert would become one of Drew Brees’ favorite targets very quickly.
Editor’s Note: New Orleans tried to trade down here to acquire an extra pick in the first three rounds, but they were unsuccessful.
28) *Oakland Raiders via Pittsburgh Steelers: Isaiah Oliver, CB Colorado- Oakland trades back into round one to land a starting cornerback.
29) Jacksonville Jaguars: Christian Kirk, WR Texas A&M- My personal feeling is that Jacksonville’s receiving core needs a lot of work. Kirk would be a perfect fit because he would help Jacksonville as a chains mover on third down.
30) *Dallas Cowboys via Minnesota Vikings: DeShon Elliott, FS Texas- With Byron Jones moving back to corner, a hole has been created at free safety. Chidobe Awuzie played some safety last year, but I think the Cowboys are better off trying to select a ball hawk like Elliott or Justin Reid in this draft.
31) New England Patriots: Marcus Davenport, EDGE UTSA- I know the Patriots would like to trade back with one of their two first rounders, but they can’t pass on Davenport at 31.
32) *Cincinnati Bengals via Philadelphia Eagles: Ronnie Harrison, SS Alabama- Cincinnati needs to reload at safety and this is the perfect draft to do it. They trade up to land Harrison, a true throwback strong safety.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Buffalo Bills trade the #12, #22, #53 and a 2019 2nd round pick to the Cleveland Browns for the #4.
2) Carolina Panthers trade the #24 and #88 to the Seattle Seahawks for the #18.
3) Minnesota Vikings trade the #30 and #62 to the Dallas Cowboys for the #19 and #171.
4) Oakland Raiders trade the #41 and #75 to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the #28, #148 and a 2019 5th round pick.
5) Cincinnati Bengals trade the #46 and #77 to the Philadelphia Eagles for the #42 and #130.
ROUND TWO
33) Cleveland Browns: Sam Hubbard, EDGE Ohio State: Hubbard is the perfect player to go opposite Myles Garrett. He’s a disciplined edge rusher with an underrated move-set.
34) New York Giants: Joshua Jackson, CB Iowa- I know the Giants need offensive line, but they can’t pass on Jackson here. They need a true number two cornerback opposite Janoris Jenkins.
35) *Los Angeles Chargers from Cleveland Browns via Indianapolis Colts: Justin Reid, FS Stanford- Cleveland doesn’t have an immediate need at this spot, so they trade down once again for assets to use later. Los Angeles moves up to land a ball hawking free safety.
36) Indianapolis Colts: Sony Michel, RB Georgia- If the Colts aren’t sold on Marlon Mack being a “bell cow,” then a running back in the second round should be a lock.
37) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Mike Hughes, CB UCF- This is an easy pick as well. The Colts have to find a cornerback in this draft class to play opposite Quincy Wilson.
38) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gerard Avery, OLB Memphis- Avery was another late riser for me. I love his move-set and motor from the strong side. Tampa Bay takes a strong side linebacker here, adding another dimension to their much improved front seven from a year ago.
39) Chicago Bears: Frank Ragnow, OG/C Arkansas- Ragnow is exactly the kind of player the Bears should target if they miss Quenton Nelson in round one. His versatility allows the Bears to judge whether he or current center Cody Whitehair is better off transitioning to guard.
40) Denver Broncos: Ronald Jones II, RB USC- Much like my predictions mock draft, Denver takes a starting running back at the top of round two.
41) *Pittsburgh Steelers via Oakland Raiders: Rashaan Evans, OLB/ILB Alabama- Pittsburgh trades down, acquires assets in this draft, and selects a guy they would’ve reached for at 28.
42) Miami Dolphins: Kerryon Johnson, RB Auburn- The signing of Frank Gore combined with the emergence of Kenyan Drake is still not deterring me from giving the Dolphins a true “bell cow,” in the backfield
43) New England Patriots via San Francisco 49ers: Mike Gesicki, TE Penn State- Gesicki to New England is still my layup of round two. He gives the Patriots insurance if they opt to deal Rob Gronkowski, or he is just another big body pass catcher that safeties will be unable to defend one-on-one.
44) Washington Redskins: Mason Cole, OL Michigan- I like the idea of Washington taking a center to replace Spencer Long, but I go with Cole instead of James Daniels. I value Cole’s intelligence and versatility over the athleticism of Daniels.
45) Green Bay Packers: Holton Hill, CB Texas- Green Bay is a team that can take someone like Hill and get the best out of him. If Hill stays out of trouble, he could be the steal of this draft.
46) *Philadelphia Eagles via Cincinnati Bengals: Chukwuma Okorafor, OT/OG Western Michigan- Philadelphia needs a tackle of the future in this draft. Okorafor is my favorite developmental pick this year.
47) Arizona Cardinals: Jessie Bates III, FS Wake Forest- Bates is not the best tackler, but he has ridiculous range and ball skills from the free safety position.
48) *Cleveland Browns via Los Angeles Chargers: Harrison Phillips, DT Stanford- The Browns need consistency at the defensive tackle position. While some feel that their roster is deep enough at that spot, I think they need a starter next to Larry Ogunjobi.
49) Indianapolis Colts from New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Dante Pettis, WR Washington- Pettis has the ability to be a number two wide receiver out of the gate. He would take pressure off of T.Y Hilton as well.
50) Dallas Cowboys: DJ Moore, WR Maryland- Moore’s athleticism is off the charts. He would be a perfect number one target for Dak Prescott.
51) Detroit Lions: Austin Corbett, OG/C Nevada- Corbett can start at left guard from day one for Detroit and he can kick inside to center in the future if Graham Glasgow doesn’t perform.
52) Baltimore Ravens: James Daniels, OC Iowa- Baltimore needs to replace Ryan Jensen and Daniels slid down the draft right into their lap. Easy pick.
53) *Cleveland Browns via Buffalo Bills: Michael Gallup, WR Colorado State– The run on wide receivers caps off with Gallup to Cleveland. I don’t trust Josh Gordon to stay on the field, nor do I trust Corey Coleman to stay healthy.
54) Kansas City Chiefs: Martinas Rankin, OL Mississippi State- Slight reach pick, but the Chiefs need to find offensive line depth and potential starters up front in this draft.
55) Carolina Panthers: Terrell Edmunds, SS Virginia Tech- Edmunds is a steal here for Carolina. He can be a traditional in the box strong safety and he’s also a decent safety from a cover two spot.
56) Buffalo Bills via Los Angeles Rams: Brian O’Neill, OT Pittsburgh- Buffalo is so desperate for offensive line that they have to reach, albeit slightly, for a starting tackle late in round two.
57) Tennessee Titans: Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, OLB Oklahoma- Tennessee needs to get younger and quicker on the edge. Okoronkwo plays downhill with poise and he’s got a solid move-set off the edge.
58) *New York Jets via Atlanta Falcons: Josh Sweat, EDGE Florida State- If you can’t tell by now, I’m all in on Baker Mayfield and trading up for Josh Sweat as the Jets draft strategy.
59) San Francisco 49ers via New Orleans Saints: Mark Andrews, TE Oklahoma- Getting Jimmy Garoppolo a middle of the field target is more important than selecting a wide receiver at this spot.
60) Pittsburgh Steelers: Josh Allen, QB Wyoming- The most ideal fit for Josh Allen is Pittsburgh. Allen would get to sit and learn behind a hall of fame quarterback like Roethlisberger (who one could argue Allen resembles with his size and “escapability”) while he perfects the finer points of his game like footwork and clearing his hip when throwing to a target.
61) Jacksonville Jaguars: Fred Warner, OLB/ILB BYU- I think Warner would be a terrific replacement for Paul Posluszny. He’s terrific in off ball coverage, just like the rest of the Jaguars linebacking core.
62) *Dallas Cowboys via Minnesota Vikings: Breeland Speaks, DT Ole Miss- Speaks is one of the most underrated players in this draft. He may not have the strengths of the other tackles, but he’s a complete player. Speaks can start right away for any team that drafts him.
63) *Arizona Cardinals via New England Patriots: Lamar Jackson, QB Louisville- Arizona has to find a quarterback for the future in this draft. With Allen going a few picks earlier, they trade up to ensure they land Jackson.
64) Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles: Kolton Miller, OT UCLA- The tackle class is not great, but if the team picking Miller is right, they could have a starting left tackle on their hands.
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) Los Angeles Chargers trade the #48, #84 and #155 to the Cleveland Browns for the #35 and #114.
2) New York Jets trade the #72, #107 and #179 to the Atlanta Falcons for the #58 and #200.
3) Arizona Cardinals trade the #79 and #97 to the New England Patriots for the #62 and a 2019 4th round pick.
ROUND THREE
65) Buffalo Bills via Cleveland Browns: Wyatt Teller, OG Virginia Tech
66) New York Giants: Orlando Brown, OT Oklahoma
67) Indianapolis Colts: Uchenna Nwosu, OLB USC
68) Houston Texans: Derrick Nnadi, DT/NT Florida State
69) New York Giants via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Tegray Scales, OLB/ILB Indiana
70) San Francisco 49ers via Chicago Bears: Dorance Armstrong Jr., EDGE Kansas
71) Denver Broncos: MJ Stewart, CB North Carolina
72) *Atlanta Falcons via New York Jets: Colby Gossett, OG Appalachian State
73) Miami Dolphins: Harold Landry, EDGE Boston College
74) San Francisco 49ers: DaeSean Hamilton, WR Penn State
75) *Pittsburgh Steelers via Oakland Raiders: Arden Key, EDGE LSU
76) Green Bay Packers: Calvin Ridley, WR Alabama
77) *Philadelphia Eagles via Cincinnati Bengals: Rashaad Penny, RB San Diego State
78) Kansas City Chiefs via Washington Redskins: Quenton Meeks, CB Stanford
79) *New England Patriots via Arizona Cardinals: Tyrell Crosby, OT/OG Oregon
80) Houston Texans via Seattle Seahawks: Hayden Hurst, TE South Carolina
81) Dallas Cowboys: Darius Leonard, OLB South Carolina State
82) Detroit Lions: Nathan Shepard, DT Fort Hays State
83) Baltimore Ravens: Ian Thomas, TE Indiana
84) *Cleveland Browns via Los Angeles Chargers: Godwin Igwebuike, FS/SS Northwestern
85) Carolina Panthers via Buffalo Bills: Nick Chubb, RB Georgia
86) Kansas City Chiefs: BJ Hill, DT/NT NC State
87) Los Angeles Rams: Hercules Mata’Afa, EDGE Washington State
88) *Seattle Seahawks via Carolina Panthers: Duke Ejiofor, DE Wake Forest
89) Tennessee Titans: Equanimeous St. Brown, WR Notre Dame
90) Atlanta Falcons: Tre’Quan Smith, WR UCF
91) New Orleans Saints: PJ Hall, DT Sam Houston State
92) Pittsburgh Steelers: Gereon Christian, OL Louisville
93) *Green Bay Packers via Jacksonville Jaguars: Josey Jewell, ILB Iowa
94) Minnesota Vikings: JC Jackson, CB Maryland
95) New England Patriots: Foley Fatukasi, DT UCONN
96) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers from Buffalo Bills via Philadelphia Eagles: Kalen Ballage, RB Arizona State
97) *New England Patriots via Arizona Cardinals (compensatory): Kyle Lauletta, QB Richmond
98) Houston Texans (compensatory): Alex Cappa, OL Humboldt State
99) Denver Broncos (compensatory): Courtland Sutton, WR SMU
100) Cincinnati Bengals (compensatory): Shaquem Griffin, LB UCF
TRADES IN ROUND THREE
1) Green Bay Packers trade the #101 and #138 to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #93
2) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #102 and #144 to the Buffalo Bills for the #96
This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2018 NFL Draft, 2018 NFL Mock Draft, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baker Mayfield, Baltimore Ravens, Bradley Chubb, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Connor Williams, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Derrius Guice, Derwin James, Detroit Lions, DJ Moore, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Josh Allen, Josh Rosen, Kansas City Chiefs, Lamar Jackson, Leighton Vander Esch, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Oakland Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Roquan Smith, Sam Darnold, San Francisco 49ers, Saquon Barkley, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Tremaine Edmunds, Washington Redskins.
Jordan Katz: NFL Mock Draft 3.0- Post Free Agency and Three Rounds
We’ve hit the final stretch of #MockDraftSZN. This has been one of the most eventful offseasons that I can remember. There have been so many big trades, as well as plenty of moving parts in free agency. Now we’re less than 20 days away from the biggest spectacle of the offseason. The ultimate sense of hope and renewal for every team; the NFL Draft.
My rankings and player evaluations have changed a bit since my most recent mock draft. There are some new players that have entered round one for me, as well as some players that have dropped in value. I’ve also expanded this mock draft to three rounds, giving you, the fans, a better insight into what I think each team should do at each selection.
ROUND ONE
1) Cleveland Browns: Sam Darnold, QB USC- For the record, Darnold is not my top quarterback according to my grades. However, with the acquisition of Tyrod Taylor, the Browns no longer have to select a starting quarterback for 2018 in this draft. Darnold has the most upside of any quarterback in this draft. He also gets to sit for as long as he needs. Hopefully Darnold can finally be the quarterback to guide the Browns back to NFL notoriety.
2) Buffalo Bills via New York Giants: Josh Rosen, QB UCLA- As you all know by now, I only execute trades when it’s in the best interest of both teams involved. And as you all know by now, I think the Giants should trade down with this pick.
Here’s why Buffalo should trade up though, even if it costs them three first round picks. I only have three quarterbacks with a first round grade, and the Bills have to get one of them. They still have a competitive roster and a good, young defense. Buffalo gives the farm to come up and grab their franchise quarterback.
3) New York Jets via Indianapolis Colts: Baker Mayfield, QB Oklahoma- Not only is Mayfield my top passer based on his collegiate tape, but he is built for the bright lights of New York City. He will embrace the challenge of playing in front of such a demanding fan base. “Broadway Baker,” is the ideal future quarterback of the Jets.
4) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Saquon Barkley, RB Penn State- As I said in Mock Draft 2.0, grabbing a quarterback and Barkley at the top of this draft gives the Browns a legitimate offense for next year and beyond.
5) Denver Broncos: Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB/FS/SS Alabama- With the three first round quarterbacks off the board, Denver turns to its next primary need. Fitzpatrick has the ability to be a “joker,” on defense, a weapon Denver could use after losing Aqib Talib and moving Bradley Roby to the outside.
6) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Bradley Chubb, EDGE NC State– I don’t believe the “Chubb is a better prospect than Myles Garrett,” thing that’s going around in the media. What I do believe is that Chubb has been underrated for a large portion of the draft process. Yes, this isn’t a good edge rushing class, but Chubb is an excellent one and worthy of a top ten selection.
7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Derwin James, FS/SS Florida State- James tested off the charts at the combine, which reassured my belief that the toxic environment in Tallahassee this past fall was the reason for a diminished year on tape. Tampa needs secondary help, so the fit and value make sense.
8) Chicago Bears: Quenton Nelson, OG Notre Dame- For anyone in the business of predicting the draft, Nelson to the Bears makes so much sense. Chicago needs to continue to sure up their offensive line and Nelson is going to fall a little bit because he’s a guard. It’s a steal in terms of value, one the Bears should not pass on if given the chance.
9) Los Angeles Chargers via San Francisco 49ers: Connor Williams, OT Texas- The Chargers tackle situation is not good. Joe Barksdale needs to be replaced as soon as possible and Russell Okung is a cap cut option in 2019. Williams has the athleticism and technique to be worthy of a top ten selection this year. Los Angeles jumps the Raiders to snag their left tackle of the future.
10) Oakland Raiders: Carlton Davis, CB Auburn- To me, Davis is being vastly underrated by the mock draft community. He’s physical at the line, he has a great feel for his space and where to lead receivers, and his technique is being wrongfully criticized. He’s not the best at trailing, but it’s not a concern to me because he’s the best press cover corner in this draft. With some NFL coaching, Davis could be a top tier corner.
11) Miami Dolphins: Tremaine Edmunds, EDGE/OLB Virginia Tech- Miami seems to think they will be better this year than they were last year.
I think they have one of the worst teams in football and should quickly attempt a full blown rebuild.
So for this pick, I compromised. I gave them an athletic do-it-all linebacker that is only 19 years old. A pick that is both for now, and for the future.
12) New York Giants from Buffalo Bills via Cincinnati Bengals: Roquan Smith, ILB/OLB Georgia- I know, the Giants haven’t drafted a linebacker in round one in over 30 years. Fortunately for me, I run the show in this mock draft. Smith has the ability to play anywhere in a 4-3, and if the Giants go to a 3-4, he can play inside next to Alec Ogletree. Smith is a perfect scheme fit for Big Blue.
13) Washington Redskins: Vita Vea, NT Washington- Eventually I will get Vea into the top ten where he belongs. For now, the Redskins can just continue to reap the benefits of their good fortunes.
14) Green Bay Packers: Braden Smith, OG Auburn- Green Bay needs help on the interior of their offensive line. Keeping Aaron Rodgers healthy and upright is priority number one for a team looking to bounce back in 2018. Smith is a beast in the run game and more athletic than people think.
15) Arizona Cardinals: Anthony Miller, WR Memphis- Miller remains the only wideout with a first round grade on my board. Frankly, I’m confused as to how the mainstream media hasn’t picked up on his talents in a weak wide receiver class. Miller is a terrific route runner with great hands and the ability to beat defensive backs in the air despite his size.
16) Baltimore Ravens: Leighton Vander Esch, ILB Boise State- I love this pick. Vander Esch gives the Ravens two do-it-all linebackers in the middle of their 3-4 defense (CJ Mosley being the other). Vander Esch is terrific in off-ball coverage and his ability to play downhill versus the run is also very good. Baltimore addressed their wide receiver need during free agency, making them free to address whatever need they desire at the 16th selection.
17) San Francisco 49ers via Los Angeles Chargers: Christian Kirk, WR Texas A&M- Very simple analysis here; the 49ers need pass catchers. Call me crazy, but a receiving core of Pierre Garcon and Marquise Goodwin doesn’t seem like the way to build up Jimmy Garoppolo.
18) Cleveland Browns via Seattle Seahawks: Denzel Ward, CB Ohio State- Yes. this is a heavy price to pay to trade back into round one. However, I have less than a full round of first round grades, or “NFL Starter Grades,” depending on what grading system you choose to use. In fact, if you exclude the running back class, I only have 21 first round grades this year. So for Cleveland to come out of this draft with three impact NFL starters would be terrific.
Ward gives the Browns a true number one cornerback. He does a great job finding the football in the air, his technique is strong, and he’s the best athlete at the cornerback position.
Editor’s Note: This makes sense for Seattle as well because this draft does have a lot of potential starters in rounds 2-4. Seattle needs depth, so they acquire two picks in the top 35.
19) Dallas Cowboys: Da’Ron Payne, DT Alabama- Cowboys fans would throw a party if they could sneak Payne in at 19. His athleticism and strength at the point of attack is something Dallas desperately needs in the middle of their defense.
20) Detroit Lions: Marcus Davenport, EDGE UTSA- Detroit must come away with a pass rusher on day one because they might not be able to on day two. Davenport followed up a terrific senior bowl week with a very impressive combine. Some question how technical he is and if he has a NFL level move set, but his athleticism alone is worthy of a first round call on draft day.
21) Cincinnati Bengals via Buffalo Bills: Billy Price, C/OG Ohio State- Price can provide immediate help to a diminished offensive line on the interior. I like his tape at center more than his tape at guard, but there’s no question that he can do both at the next level.
22) New York Giants via Buffalo Bills: Jaire Alexander, CB Louisville- I can’t imagine that any Giant fan wants to go into the season starting Eli Apple at the second cornerback slot. Alexander can play the outside or nickel spot, a versatility the Giants currently lack in their secondary. He’s the best man cover corner in the draft and he would provide an immediate impact to a defense looking to return to form in 2018.
23) New England Patriots via Los Angeles Rams (LA Rams Trade for Brandin Cooks): Isaiah Oliver, CB Colorado- When I had the rough draft of this mock draft complete last week, I had the exact trade that went down last Tuesday afternoon. Unfortunately, not only did I have Rob Gronkowski in instead of Cooks, and the Patriots and Rams also beat me to it. I’m not bitter, I’m fine… I’m fine…
Now to the trade itself. First off, the Patriots can survive without Cooks. The Patriot Way is to be willing to part with superstars a year early rather than a year late. Brandin Cooks was never going to re-up with New England. So to get a first round pick for someone you were never keeping is impressive.
From the Rams perspective, Los Angeles has gone all in this season. They traded for Marcus Peters and Aqib Talib to anchor their secondary. They added Ndamukong Suh on a one year deal to pair with Aaron Donald up front (good luck blocking that duo). Acquiring Brandin Cooks replaces the loss of Sammy Watkins and make them the favorite to win the championship next year. It’s a gamble, but it’s calculated.
In terms of the pick itself, Oliver is a long, athletic cover corner with the ability to excel out of multiple coverages. New England did trade for Jason McCourty, but he’s a quick fix at best. Oliver gives them a true number two cornerback for next year and beyond.
24) Carolina Panthers: Isaiah Wynn, OG Georgia- Carolina is in a very good position in this draft. They need secondary and interior offensive line play, two things that this draft class has in abundance. Wynn is a terrific scheme fit for the Panthers. He’s athletic, he’s a terrific pulling guard in the run game, and he’s got a quick and powerful first punch off the ball. This is a great pick here.
25) Tennessee Titans: Rasheem Green, DE/EDGE USC- Green was incredibly productive at USC, posting 10 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss in his junior year. What made him jump up my draft board was the athleticism he showed throughout the draft process. In a year where edge rushers are in short supply, Green’s tape and versatility could get him to jump into the back end of round one.
26) Atlanta Falcons: Taven Bryan, DT Florida- Bryan’s athleticism makes him attractive to many scouts and GM’s. Putting him in a system where he can be a rotational rusher while he refines his technique, like I did here, is ideal for him.
27) New York Giants via New Orleans Saints: Derrius Guice, RB LSU- Trading down and then trading up in the first two rounds is incredibly rare for a team to do. However, the Giants draft is a home-run if they were to come out of this draft with three first round caliber players and a future first round pick.
Guice is one of the best pure runners in the draft. In terms of running between the tackles, he’s just as good as Saquon Barkley.
This draft scenario is why trading down from number two is what makes the most sense for the Giants.
Editor’s Note: New Orleans doesn’t have an immediate need at this spot and they can get a future asset or two if they trade down.
28) Pittsburgh Steelers: Rashaan Evans, ILB Alabama- This is a second selection that doesn’t necessarily fit with my draft grades, but team needs dictate a different direction. If Ryan Shazier cannot go next season, the Steelers would be starting Jon Bostic and Vince Williams on the interior of their 3-4 defense. Yuck.
29) Jacksonville Jaguars: Genard Avery, OLB/ILB Memphis- I watched Avery late in the draft process and I was blown away by his athleticism. He’s technical as well; he plays downhill off the edge and can drop from a more traditional off ball position. Not to mention that he’s a strong rusher off the edge, showing NFL caliber moves. Jacksonville lost Paul Posluzney this offseason, so they kick Myles Jack inside and play Avery at strong side linebacker.
30) Minnesota Vikings: Will Hernandez, OG UTEP- The Vikings offensive line still needs improvement on the interior. Hernandez is a mauler in the run game, and his footwork is much better than he gets credit for. Easy pick here.
31) New England Patriots: Mike McGlinchey, OT Notre Dame- “Mr. Plug and Play Right Tackle,” could start from day one if the Patriots needed him to, or he can develop his footwork under the tutelage of offensive line guru Dante Scarnecchia. This is a perfect match.
32) Philadelphia Eagles: Ronnie Harrison, SS Alabama- Philadelphia is going to have some tough cuts to make in the next few years. One of them could be Rodney McLeod, who’s in the middle of a five year, 35 million dollar deal. Harrison is more of a traditional in the box safety, but he’s incredibly talented. Taking “BPA,” in Harrison, as well as insurance for McLeod, seems like a win-win for Philly.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Buffalo Bills trade the #12, #22, #96, a 2019 1st and a 2019 2nd to the New York Giants for the #2 and a 2019 6th.
2) Los Angeles Chargers trade the #17 and the #48 to the San Francisco 49ers for the #9 and #184.
3) Cleveland Browns trade the #33 and #35 to the Seattle Seahawks for the #18, a 2019 3rd and #146
4* (*trade happened on 4/3)) New England Patriots trade Brandin Cooks and #136 to the Los Angeles Rams for the #23 and #198.
5) New York Giants trade the #34 and the #96 acquired from Buffalo to the New Orleans Saints for the #27.
ROUND TWO
33) Seattle Seahawks via Cleveland Browns: Joshua Jackson, CB Iowa- Seattle continues to revamp their defense by taking a corner that’s perfect for their cover three defense.
34) New Orleans Saints via New York Giants: Harrison Phillips, DT Stanford- The Saints are in a situation to draft the best player available whether they stay at 27 or trade down. In this scenario, Phillips gives them another run stopper on the interior.
35) Seattle Seahawks from Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Ronald Jones II, RB USC: Russell Wilson was the entire Seahawks offense last year. They need a “bell cow,” in the backfield to open up their offense again.
36) Indianapolis Colts: Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, OLB/ILB Oklahoma- Even though he didn’t test well at the combine, I still love Okoronkwo’s game tape. He can give the Colts a pass rusher from the LEO position.
37) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Holton Hill, CB Texas- Hill has some off the field baggage, but he’s a solid press man corner with good trail technique. If a team gets his mind focused on football, the sky is the limit.
38) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sony Michel, RB Georgia- Despite splitting carries at Georgia, Michel can be a three down back at the next level with ease. He would bring another dimension to the Buccaneers offense from day one.
39) Chicago Bears: Orlando Brown, OT Oklahoma- The Bears go back to back on offensive lineman to help create a strong unit to protect the franchise, Mitchell Trubisky.
40) Baltimore Ravens via Denver Broncos: Dallas Goedert, TE South Dakota State- The Ravens addressed their weak receiving core in free agency, but they still lack a tight end that can open up the middle of the field. Goedert had a massive pro day, leaving all who attended with the consensus that he is the top tight end this year. Baltimore jumps up a few spots to get a game changer in the middle of the field.
41) Oakland Raiders: Chukwuma Okorafor, OT Western Michigan- Oakland’s offensive line has gone from a strength to a weakness in a little over a year and a half. Okorafor can be a right tackle for years if his technique continues to improve.
42) Miami Dolphins: Kerryon Johnson, RB Auburn- I’m not sure Kenyan Drake is a guy that can carry the ball 250 times in a season, despite how solid he looked at the end of this past year.
I know that Kerryon Johnson can be that guy. Johnson and Drake would be a strong 1-2 punch for Miami.
43) New England Patriots via San Francisco 49ers: Mike Gesicki, WR/TE Penn State- Having dealt Brandin Cooks a short while ago, New England is in the market for a pass catcher.
However, it doesn’t have to be a traditional receiver. Gesicki can line up anywhere on the field adding a second big, athletic target to Tom Brady’s arsenal.
44) Washington Redskins: Austin Corbett, OG/C Nevada- Corbett’s versatility is something Washington’s offensive line desperately needs. I think he’s a day two guard because of how quick his power step is.
45) Green Bay Packers: Terrell Edmunds, SS Virginia Tech- Edmunds can line up in the box, as well as in double high. His versatility would compliment HaHa Clinton-Dix very well in the secondary.
46) Cincinnati Bengals: Derrick Nnadi, DT/NT Florida State- Nnadi is a perfect scheme fit for the Bengals. He can play the zero tech next to Geno Atkins, and he’s also athletic enough to go to a three tech in a more traditional 4-3 look.
47) Arizona Cardinals: DeShon Elliott, FS Texas- Elliot’s single high, ball hawking nature would be a phenomenal compliment to Budda Baker, who will be playing the “joker role,” of the Cardinals defense this year.
48) San Francisco 49ers via Los Angeles Chargers: Mike Hughes, CB Central Florida- The Niners adding a traditional nickel corner might seem a bit out of the box this early in the draft, but it’s worth it. Hughes is so good in man coverage from the slot, a weapon every corner needs to have in their arsenal in the modern day NFL.
49) Indianapolis Colts from New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Dante Pettis, WR Washington- The Colts receiving core lacks a true number two receiver. Pettis is a home run threat with the ability to win jump balls in red zone situations. He’s also a better route runner than people think.
50) Dallas Cowboys: Fred Warner, OLB/ILB BYU- By adding Payne in round one and a do-it-all linebacker like Warner in round two, the Cowboys front seven would be one of the most underrated units in the NFL next season.
51) New England Patriots via Detroit Lions: Sam Hubbard, EDGE Ohio State- Hubbard has a solid move set and he has a great sense of gap control. That’s got Patriots edge rusher written all over it. New England trades up to land an edge rusher that they desperately need.
52) Denver Broncos via Baltimore Ravens: Josh Allen, QB Wyoming- This is a little early for Allen on my board, but because Denver is desperate for a quarterback of the future, they reach for the man who can see eye to eye with the heavens above.
53) Buffalo Bills: Mason Cole, OL Michigan- I don’t love the interior line situation of the Bills as it currently stands. Adding someone with versatility like Cole (started at every line position in college) makes a lot of sense to me.
54) Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Reid, FS Stanford- To get back to the defense they had a few years ago, the Chiefs need to revamp what was once an elite secondary. Reid is technically sound and he’s an underrated athlete. Pairing him with Eric Berry could be a fantastic duo as early as next season.
55) Carolina Panthers: Jessie Bates III, FS/SS Wake Forest- The run on safeties closes out with Bates to Carolina. Bates isn’t the best tackler, but tackling is easy to teach. Something not as easily taught is his nose for the ball and his recognition of plays from the back.
56) Buffalo Bills via Los Angeles Rams: Tegray Scales, OLB/ILB Indiana- All Scales did in college was produce, and I see no reason to expect anything less in the NFL. He plays downhill, but with poise, and he can drop in coverage as well.
57) Tennessee Titans: Michael Gallup, WR Colorado State- Tennessee is still searching for a true number two receiver to compliment Corey Davis. Gallup is a good fit, he wins 50/50 balls and he’s an underrated playmaker when he has the ball in his hands.
58) Atlanta Falcons: Wyatt Teller, OG Virginia Tech- Andy Levitre took a step backward last year, meaning he will most likely be let go at the end of the year. Teller gets to sit for a year and then learn next to Alex Mack and Jake Matthews. This is a perfect developmental fit.
59) San Francisco 49ers via New Orleans Saints: Mark Andrews, TE Oklahoma- Getting Jimmy Garoppolo a true receiving threat in the middle of the field should be priority number one for the Niners at this selection. The tight end class isn’t great, but the top guys, like Andrews and Goedert, can play.
60) Pittsburgh Steelers: Lamar Jackson, QB Louisville- Pittsburgh needs to find an heir to Ben Roethlisberger’s throne sooner rather than later. Taking a guy with the upside of being an actual starter, like Jackson, could allow them to re-sign Le’Veon Bell if they wanted to.
61) Jacksonville Jaguars: DJ Moore, WR Maryland- I doubt Jacksonville goes receiver in this draft, but they really should. Donte Moncrief has never had a year that’s matched his talent, DeDe Westbrook is a headcase, and Keelan Cole is better off as a number three target.
Moore was the standout of the draft process, showing some elite athleticism at every turn. He’s got good hands as well, and that combination has made him a favorite of many mock draft experts.
62) New York Jets via Minnesota Vikings: Josh Sweat, EDGE Florida State- Sweat is another incredibly talented FSU defender that had a down 2017 on tape. Like Derwin James, he also answered a lot of questions about him by having a strong draft process. He’s one of the few edge rushers in this class that has the ability to dip and bend past tackles on command. The Jets trade up out of desperation for a true pass rusher.
63) Detroit Lions via New England Patriots: James Daniels, C/OG Iowa- Daniels can be used at either spot because of his athleticism and quick feet. Detroit still needs a starting left guard, so they either move Daniels or current center Graham Glasnow into that position.
64) Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles: Martinas Rankin, OT Mississippi State- Having lost Joe Thomas this offseason, Cleveland is desperate for a left tackle. Rankin can start as a right tackle and transition to the left side.
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) Baltimore Ravens trade the #52, #83 and #154 to the Denver Broncos for the #40 and #106.
2) New England Patriots trade the #63, #95 and #198 to the Detroit Lions for the #51.
3) New York Jets trade the #72, #179 and a 2019 4th to the Minnesota Vikings for the #62 and #204.
ROUND THREE
65) Buffalo Bills via Cleveland Browns: DaeSean Hamilton, WR Penn State
66) New York Giants: Frank Ragnow, OG/C Arkansas
67) Indianapolis Colts: Brian O’Neill, OT Pittsburgh
68) Houston Texans: Hayden Hurst, TE South Carolina
69) New York Giants via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kolton Miller, OT UCLA
70) San Francisco 49ers via Chicago Bears: Colby Gossett, OG Appalachian State
71) Denver Broncos: Calvin Ridley, WR Alabama
72) Minnesota Vikings via New York Jets: Darius Leonard, OLB South Carolina State
73) Miami Dolphins: Breeland Speaks, DT Ole Miss
74) San Francisco 49ers: Nick Chubb, RB Georgia
75) Oakland Raiders: Arden Key, EDGE LSU
76) Green Bay Packers: Harold Landry, EDGE Boston College
77) Cincinnati Bengals: Jeremy Reaves, FS/SS South Alabama
78) Kansas City Chiefs via Washington Redskins: Quenton Meeks, CB Stanford
79) Arizona Cardinals: Nathan Shepherd, DL Fort Wayne State
80) Houston Texans via Seattle Seahawks: Alex Cappa, OL Humboldt State
81) Dallas Cowboys: James Washington, WR Oklahoma State
82) Detroit Lions: MJ Stewart, CB North Carolina
83) Detroit Lions via Baltimore Ravens: Rashaad Penny, RB San Diego State
84) Los Angeles Chargers: Jack Cichy, ILB Wisconsin
85) Carolina Panthers via Buffalo Bills: Donte Jackson, CB LSU
86) Kansas City Chiefs: BJ Hill, DT/NT NC State
87) Los Angeles Rams: Lorenzo Carter, OLB/ILB Georgia
88) Carolina Panthers: Duke Ejiofor, DE Wake Forest
89) Tennessee Titans: Desmond Harrison, OL West Georgia
90) Atlanta Falcons: Equanimeous St. Brown, WR Notre Dame
91) New Orleans Saints: Kyle Lauletta, QB Richmond
92) Pittsburgh Steelers: Duke Dawson, CB Florida
93) Jacksonville Jaguars: Joseph Noteboom, OT/OG TCU
94) Minnesota Vikings: Poona Ford, DT Texas
95) Detroit Lions via New England Patriots: Dorance Armstrong Jr., EDGE Kansas
96) New Orleans Saints via New York Giants from Buffalo Bills via Philadelphia Eagles: Uchenna Nwosu, OLB USC
97) Arizona Cardinals (compensatory): Mikey White, QB Western Kentucky
98) Houston Texans (compensatory): Trenton Thompson, NT Georgia
99) Denver Broncos (compensatory): Kalen Ballage, RB Arizona State
100) Cincinnati Bengals (compensatory): Tyrell Crosby, OT/OG Oregon
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Jordan Katz: Prediction Mock Draft 1.0
Welcome to the first prediction mock draft of 2018. This is the more conventional mock draft where I attempt to get every selection correct. In other words, this is the mock draft where I bash my head against a wall while trying to figure out which rumors have merit and which ones are smoke screens. There will be some massive changes here before the actual draft in late April, but this is what I think each team would do if the draft was tomorrow.
ROUND ONE
1) Cleveland Browns: Sam Darnold, QB USC- The number one overall pick from five months ago is back in his rightful spot. Having acquired Tyrod Taylor just a few weeks ago, the Browns are no longer forced to start the quarterback they select in this draft. Darnold has the highest upside of any quarterback in the draft, which makes him the ideal choice.
2) Buffalo Bills via New York Giants: Josh Allen, QB Wyoming- It’s going to be a tough sell to Giants fans if the new regime does not select Saquon Barkley at two, but I think it’s the right decision. The opportunity to haul three first round picks doesn’t come around often.
Buffalo comes up to select their quarterback of the future, and the present.
3) New York Jets via Indianapolis Colts: Baker Mayfield, QB Oklahoma- Speaking of quarterbacks of the future, the Jets gave three second round picks plus their sixth overall selection to get theirs. Gang Green has already met with Mayfield four times, including a private workout. If he’s on the board, the Jets are taking Baker Mayfield.
4) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Saquon Barkley, RB Penn State- Many felt that Saquon Barkley was going to go first overall, and the logic behind that was sound. However, this is the reason it was never going to happen. By taking a quarterback at one, the Browns force the other quarterback needy teams to trade up if they want their guy. This lets Barkley fall to four, and right into the lap of General Manager John Dorsey.
5) Denver Broncos: Josh Rosen, QB UCLA- I think the reason the Jets made the move up to the third selection was to jump the Broncos. The Jets are ensured to land a QB they want, and Denver has to stay put at five and take whatever QB falls. In this case, that quarterback is Rosen.
6) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Bradley Chubb, EDGE NC State- The Colts did a phenomenal job getting the Jets to overpay for the value of the third selection. With four picks in the top 64, the Colts have a ton of draft flexibility. Chubb is not only the best player available, but he’s the best player available at a position of need. Easy pick.
7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB/FS/SS Alabama- The Buccaneers need impact defensive players and they’ve met with Fitzpatrick on a number of occasions. This seems like another easy selection.
8) Chicago Bears: Quenton Nelson, OG Notre Dame- Nelson hasn’t been linked to the Bears, but this is too much value to pass on. The Bears offensive line becomes one of the best units in the league with this pick.
9) San Francisco 49ers: Connor Williams, OT/OG Texas- The Niners still need some help along their offensive line. Williams has the athleticism to translate to multiple positions, giving the Niners the versatility to place him wherever they need him.
10) Oakland Raiders: Denzel Ward, CB Ohio State- The Raiders have a lot of options at this pick. Ideally, Connor Williams is on the board to help them rebuild their offensive line. If he’s not, addressing defensive needs is a good way to go.
11) Miami Dolphins: Vita Vea, DT/NT Washington- I’m not sure how Vea and Jordan Phillips are going to line up next to each other in a 4-3, but the Dolphins don’t appear to be concerned. They met with Vea at the combine and, according to reports, came away impressed. Vea is one of the top five players in the class and incredibly athletic for his size. If Vea goes here and it works, the Dolphins front four becomes one of the best in football.
12) New York Giants from Buffalo Bills via Cincinnati Bengals: Tremaine Edmunds, EDGE/OLB Virginia Tech- By trading down, the Giants are able to acquire three first round picks and select a player that helps them complete their schematic change to a 3-4 under new defensive coordinator James Bettcher. Edmunds has the versatility to line up at multiple spots, he has tremendous athleticism, and he still doesn’t turn 20 years old until after the draft!
13) Washington Redskins: Roquan Smith, ILB Georgia- Smith would be a perfect fit in the middle of Washington’s 3-4 defense. Even though Washington hasn’t met with Smith yet, that doesn’t mean that they won’t. Nor does it stop them from taking him if he were to fall into their lap.
14) Green Bay Packers: Derwin James, FS/SS Florida State- The Packers have met with very few prospects thus far, so this is more of an educated guess on my part. Green Bay actually has more roster holes than people may realize, and a big one is in the secondary. After losing Morgan Burnett and Damarious Randall, the Packers have to get some secondary pieces from a strong defensive back class.
15) Arizona Cardinals: Calvin Ridley, WR Alabama- The Cardinals receiving core is a mess. Calvin Ridley is number one on many scouts board at the receiver position, and the gap between him and the next person is considered to be very big.
16) Detroit Lions via Baltimore Ravens: Marcus Davenport, EDGE UTSA- Detroit has met with Davenport multiple times thus far; he appears to be the guy they trust the most off the edge in this draft.
I think Ozzie Newsome has one more trade down in store for his final draft as general manager. Baltimore is in a good spot to go down a few spots if Ridley goes in front of them.
17) Los Angeles Chargers: Kolton Miller, OT UCLA- Miller is someone who hasn’t been in either of my personal mock drafts (I have a third round grade on him), but he is someone the media and scouts seem to like very much. It wouldn’t shock me if Miller cracked the top ten come April. Los Angeles needs a tackle, so they take advantage of Miller sliding a bit.
18) Pittsburgh Steelers via Seattle Seahawks: Derrius Guice, RB LSU- The Steelers met with Guice at the combine which has led to speculation of Pittsburgh selecting him in round one. Despite using the franchise tag on Le’Veon Bell, it’s no secret that the Steelers are struggling to lock him up long term.
Seattle needs to acquire assets in this draft during this rebuild their attempting to execute. They can use the idea of taking Guice at 18 to tempt the Steelers to come up in order to get their running back of the future.
19) Dallas Cowboys: Isaiah Wynn, OG Georgia- After a phenomenal senior season and a strong last few months, Wynn is going to be a top 20 pick come April. Dallas lost a lot of offensive line depth and still need a starter at left guard. They also met with Wynn at the combine. This seems like a good match at 19.
20) Baltimore Ravens via Detroit Lions: James Daniels, G/C Iowa- Baltimore lost Ryan Jensen in free agency, so they have to find a starting center in this draft. Fortunately for them, this is an incredibly talented interior offensive line group. Baltimore adds a third round pick and takes the center they would have selected at 16.
21) Cincinnati Bengals via Buffalo Bills: Da’Ron Payne, DT Alabama- I know the Bengals like a zero tech playing next to Geno Atkins in their 4-3, but Da’Ron Payne is worth a schematic change. Two athletic defensive tackles would be a matchup problem for opponents. If the Bengals are going to address defensive tackle, maybe a schematic tweak to incorporate the talented Payne is where they should go.
22) New York Giants via Buffalo Bills: Jaire Alexander, CB Louisville- Alexander is considered to be one of the top cover corners from a terrific draft class. After cutting Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, the Giants are either going to the season starting Eli Apple and without a nickel cornerback, or addressing both issues with one selection. I know what I would do.
Editor’s Note: The Giants seem content to address their offensive line issues through free agency, that’s why this pick wasn’t a guard or tackle.
23) Los Angeles Rams: Courtland Sutton, WR SMU- The Rams lost two key players this offseason, Robert Quinn and Sammy Watkins. They only have one pick in the first two rounds, so this selection is either a trade or one of those two positions.
Sutton jumped up draft boards after a strong combine, so even though he’s not high on my personal board, this is a logical spot for him.
24) Carolina Panthers: Isaiah Oliver, CB Colorado- After trading Daryl Worley, and Bashaud Breeland failing his physical, the Panthers must get a corner in the first two rounds. Oliver is another strong cover corner that tested well at the combine.
25) Tennessee Titans: Leighton Vander Esch, ILB Boise State- Vander Esch is a multi-dimensional linebacker that can contribute to an NFL team from day one. Having lost Avery Williamson to the Jets, the Titans need a middle linebacker next to Wesley Woodyard in their 3-4 base defense.
26) Atlanta Falcons: Taven Bryan, DT Florida- Despite the emergence of Grady Jarrett on the interior, the Falcons defensive line still needs some help. Atlanta loves athletes throughout their front seven, and Bryan is one of the best pound for pound athletes in the class. He may not be technically polished yet, but I bet teams will fall in love with his athleticism and draft him highly on draft day.
27) New Orleans Saints: Lamar Jackson, QB Louisville- The Saints signed Drew Brees to a two year extension, but they are still looking for their quarterback of the future. Jackson has a big arm and his strengths as a passer could be very attractive to an offensive minded coach like Sean Payton.
Editor’s Note: The reason the Saints don’t trade out and take Jackson in round two is to get the potential fifth year option on him. If Drew Brees were to retire and Jackson were to inherit the keys to the franchise, they get three years out of Lamar before needing an extension.
28) Seattle Seahawks via Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike McGlinchey, OT Notre Dame- Let’s see how simple I can make this analysis; the Seattle Seahawks need offensive line help.
29) Jacksonville Jaguars: Rashaan Evans, ILB Alabama- I’m not sure about Evans’ fit in a 4-3 defense, but many scouts appear to think he’s a three down linebacker. If that’s the case, he should make the transition to a 4-3 easily. The Jaguars could also kick Telvin Smith inside and play Evans at 4-3 outside linebacker, so this pick gives them some versatility as well.
30) Minnesota Vikings: Will Hernandez, OG UTEP- Minnesota’s offensive line was much improved in 2017, yet it still needs some fine tuning on the interior. Hernandez is a beast in the run game, something the Vikings offense will still lean on even with the addition of Kirk Cousins.
31) New England Patriots: Brian O’Neill, OT Pittsburgh- The Patriots are in an interesting draft position with this first selection. They have a number of team needs, but predicting which one Bill Belichick will value the most is just an impossible task. I think the lack of depth at offensive tackle as well as the loss of Nate Solder means that the Patriots will try to select a tackle at the backend of round one.
O’Neill’s athleticism would be attractive to the Patriots because lineman coach Dante Scarnecchia can teach offensive line technique to the tackling dummies.
32) Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Philadelphia Eagles: Ronald Jones II, RB USC- Philly only has one selection during the first two days of this draft, so they have to trade down here to acquire some assets.
Having missed out on Jerick McKinnon in free agency, the Bucs trade up for Ronald Jones to jump the Giants and Colts, who both need running backs.
Trades In Round One
1) Buffalo Bills trade the #12, #22, #53, a 2019 1st and a 2019 3rd to the New York Giants for the #2 overall pick.
2) Detroit Lions trade the #20 and the #82 to the Baltimore Ravens for the #16 overall pick.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers trade the #28 and the #60 to the Seattle Seahawks for the #18 overall pick.
4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #38 and the #108 to the Philadelphia Eagles for the #32 overall pick.
Round Two
33) Cleveland Browns: Carlton Davis, CB Auburn
34) New York Giants: Sony Michel, RB Georgia
35) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Tyrell Crosby, OT/OG Oregon
36) Indianapolis Colts: DJ Moore, WR Maryland
37) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Mike Hughes, CB Central Florida
38) Philadelphia Eagles via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Christian Kirk, WR Texas A&M
39) Chicago Bears: Harold Landry, EDGE Boston College
40) Denver Broncos: Mo Hurst, DE/DT Michigan
41) Oakland Raiders: Martinas Rankin, OT Mississippi State
42) Miami Dolphins: Kerryon Johnson, RB Auburn
43) New England Patriots via San Francisco 49ers: Josh Jackson, CB Iowa
44) Washington Redskins: Billy Price, OG/OC Ohio State
45) Green Bay Packers: Braden Smith, OG Auburn
46) Cincinnati Bengals: Austin Corbett, OL Nevada
47) Arizona Cardinals: Arden Key, EDGE LSU
48) Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Reid, FS Stanford
49) Indianapolis Colts from New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Ronnie Harrison, SS Alabama
50) Dallas Cowboys: Dante Pettis, WR Washington
51) Detroit Lions: Donte Jackson, CB LSU
52) Baltimore Ravens: Dallas Goedert, TE South Dakota State
53) New York Giants via Buffalo Bills: Orlando Brown, OT Oklahoma
54) Kansas City Chiefs: MJ Stewart, CB North Carolina
55) Carolina Panthers: Jessie Bates, FS/SS Wake Forest
56) Buffalo Bills via Los Angeles Rams: Malik Jefferson, ILB Texas
57) Tennessee Titans: Genard Avery, LB Memphis
58) Atlanta Falcons: DJ Chark, WR LSU
59) San Francisco 49ers via New Orleans Saints: Josh Sweat, EDGE Florida State
60) Seattle Seahawks via Pittsburgh Steelers: Sam Hubbard, EDGE Ohio State
61) Jacksonville Jaguars: Joseph Noteboom, OT TCU
62) Minnesota Vikings: Harrison Phillips, DL Stanford
63) New England Patriots: Mark Andrews, TE Oklahoma
64) Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles: Nathan Shepard, DT Fort Wayne State
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Jordan Katz 2018 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Pre-Combine
It’s time for round two of #MockDraftSZN! With free agency and the NFL Combine right around the corner, plenty will change from now until the draft. However, that doesn’t stop mock draft aficionados like myself from trying to see how close our value of players are from the start of the draft process to the end of the draft process.
For this draft, I made three key free agent assumptions. I assumed Kirk Cousins signed with the Jets (no this is not a homer move, this is just my observation on where things are at right now), which means the Jets do not need a quarterback. I also assumed the Vikings netted AJ McCarron, which takes them out of the running for a quarterback in 2018. Lastly, I assumed Le’Veon Bell stayed in Pittsburgh, which may appear unlikely right now, but I think it would be a mistake for Bell to go elsewhere.
As always, I made trades when it made sense for both teams, and all selections are based on my evaluation of team needs (I will put out a predictions mock draft after most major free agents have signed).
ROUND ONE
1) Cleveland Browns: Baker Mayfield, QB Oklahoma- The first change from my original mock draft is at QB1. Mayfield tore up Senior Bowl week, excelling during each of the practices throughout the week. His leadership skills were also on full display. The culture needs to change in Cleveland and I believe Mayfield can be the franchise QB they desperately need.
2) Denver Broncos via New York Giants: Josh Rosen, QB UCLA- Whichever one of the Broncos or New York Jets do not land Kirk Cousins should proceed to pay whatever the Giants ask for to move up and draft their franchise quarterback. As of right now, I believe the Jets are the favorites to land Cousins, so the Broncos move up and select Rosen, the next best QB on my board.
3) Indianapolis Colts: Bradley Chubb, EDGE NC State- The Colts need defense. That’s all the analysis needed on this selection.
Editor’s Note: Look for Chubb to impress at the combine. He’s got all the tools to shine in the drills and the athleticism to shine in the workout portion of the combine.
4) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Saquon Barkley, RB Penn State- As I said in my initial mock draft, the goal for the Browns on day one should be to walk away with a franchise quarterback and the best player in the draft.
5) New York Giants via Denver Broncos: Connor Williams, OT Texas- I know this isn’t the “sexy draft,” Giants fans may want with the second overall selection, but I think it’s the best way to build this team for the present and the future. Trade down, acquire assets, and select from a loaded offensive line class.
Editor’s Note: The reason the Giants select Williams instead of Quenton Nelson is because Nelson can’t play tackle and the Giants desperately need a left tackle to protect Eli Manning’s blindside.
6) Arizona Cardinals via New York Jets: Sam Darnold, QB USC- Assuming the Jets land Kirk Cousins, I feel it is in their best interest to trade down and acquire more assets in this draft class.
Arizona is desperate for a franchise quarterback. They were 8-8 last year without any semblance of an offense.
This is an ideal landing spot for Darnold because he can go through “growing pains,” in terms of turnovers and not cost Arizona wins because of its stout defense.
7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB/FS/SS Alabama- The Bucs need a dominant pass rusher, but they also need help in their secondary as well. Fitzpatrick’s versatility should fit nicely on a defense that has to find their identity in 2018.
8) Chicago Bears: Quenton Nelson, OG Notre Dame- The Bears have a number of different needs, but best player available isn’t a bad strategy when the number one thing you need is talent. Nelson would quietly give the Bears one of the best offensive lines in the NFL.
9) San Francisco 49ers (currently tied with Oakland): Carlton Davis, CB Auburn- I still don’t think a receiver has established themselves as a top ten selection. Therefore the Niners go for an impact corner that can lock down receivers with an in your face style similar to Marshon Lattimore.
10) Oakland Raiders (currently tied with San Francisco): Roquan Smith, ILB Georgia- If you’re looking for my draft strategy for the Oakland Raiders, here it is; Eat. Sleep. Roquan Smith. Repeat.
11) Miami Dolphins: Braden Smith, OT/OG Auburn- Even though they suffered from injuries up front, the Dolphins need to bolster their offensive line this offseason. Smith’s nastiness in the run game would be a big asset to the Dolphins offensive attack.
12) Cincinnati Bengals: Mike McGlinchey, OT Notre Dame- I still like the idea of the Bengals going with an offensive tackle early in this draft. They need to bolster the right side of their offensive line.
13) Washington Redskins: Vita Vea, NT Washington- Vea is an elite nose tackle prospect. His ability to eat blockers as well as his ability to use his hands will be an immediate asset to any team’s defense. Washington needs a stop gap in the middle, so this match works perfectly.
14) Green Bay Packers: Derwin James, FS/SS Florida State- Among the players to watch at the Combine in Indy is Derwin James. He struggled this year, but so did everyone at Florida State. He’s still a freak athlete with impressive ball skills and range. If he shows strength in the drills and tests where he should athletically, he can become a top ten pick again.
15) New York Jets via Arizona Cardinals: Tremaine Edmunds, EDGE/OLB Virginia Tech- I think the obsession over Tremaine Edmunds may be a little premature at this moment, but he’s easily a top 15 selection in this draft. He’s a do-it-all linebacker with elite athleticism.
16) Baltimore Ravens: Anthony Miller, WR Memphis- Miller does have a foot injury, but he is still my top receiver. His tape is terrific, he’s strong in every aspect of his route running and he’s got the best hands in the draft class. If his athleticism tests well at the Combine, there’s no way he should be one the board after day one.
17) Los Angeles Chargers: Orlando Brown, OT Oklahoma- After completing Brown’s tape, he’s risen very high on my personal board. This is still about the range I would expect him to go, but it wouldn’t shock me if he wound up in the top 10-15 picks.
18) Seattle Seahawks: Derrius Guice, RB LSU- Guice would be the top running back in any normal draft year, but this isn’t a normal year. He can do everything Saquon Barkley can, just on a little lesser scale. The Seahawks have missed the running game in their offense the last few years, which has resulted in them taking a step backwards in the NFC. Add Guice, and that changes.
19) Dallas Cowboys: Dante Pettis, WR Washington- I feel like the draft community has cooled on Dante Pettis, but I still like him a lot. He’s a deep threat that high points the ball well. If he runs a strong 40 time and measures well, he should rise back up the draft boards. If he doesn’t, I may have to drop him on my board.
20) Detroit Lions: Marcus Davenport, EDGE UTSA- Davenport really shined throughout senior week. His hands and speed were mismatches for offensive linemen all week. If he’s on the board for Detroit at 20, they should take their gift and run away.
21) Buffalo Bills: Christian Kirk, WR Texas A&M- Kirk is a dynamic route runner who should shine in Indianapolis. He’s expected to run a strong 40 and he should thrive in the gauntlet drill (which I think is kind of useless, but I digress). Kirk would give the Bills a chains mover, something they haven’t had since Peerless Price and Lee Evans were balling…. well maybe not that long ago.
22) Cleveland Browns from Buffalo Bills via Kansas City Chiefs: Denzel Ward, CB Ohio State- Denzel Ward is a ridiculous athlete with big time man coverage ability. He could fly up draft boards if he measures well in Indy. Cleveland mortgages some picks to move up and add a number one cornerback.
23) Los Angeles Rams: Arden Key, EDGE LSU- This pick is a scary thought, but it might be the best possible fit for Key in the draft. Despite falling on some draft boards, he’s still a tremendous pass rushing talent. Imagine lining him up opposite Robert Quinn with Aaron Donald in the middle? #Sheeeesh.
24) Carolina Panthers: Billy Price, OG/OC Ohio State- Price has gone under the radar so far in this draft season, but don’t be fooled by that. He’s athletic, intelligent, and he dictates defenders at the point of attack. If Carolina loses Andrew Norwell to free agency, they will need to add a lineman in the first few rounds of the draft.
25) Tennessee Titans: Ogbonnio Okoronkwo, OLB Oklahoma- I know some question his size and the fact that he has a tendency to over-run the play, but I love Okoronkwo’s athleticism and range. He’s able to bend and dip around the edge very well, which makes him an ideal and complete 3-4 outside linebacker. I’ll take a guy with a motor over one that’s a step slow any day of the week.
26) Atlanta Falcons: Da’Ron Payne, DT Alabama- Payne is going to be the value pick of this draft. He’s quick off the ball, he’s got a strong lower base when engaged in blocks and his hands are lighting fast with a big punch behind them.
27) New Orleans Saints: Ronnie Harrison, SS Alabama- New Orleans doesn’t have many needs this offseason, but one of them is replacing Kenny Vaccaro. Harrison is a hard hitting safety with good range and a nose for the football. He’s got some ability as a double high safety as well, making him an ideal fit for the Saints.
28) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jaire Alexander, CB Louisville- Alexander is another talented man cover corner in a ridiculously good cornerback class. Pittsburgh needs to continue to turn over their defense, particularly in the secondary. Artie Burns and Sean Davis is a good start, and adding Alexander would help complete a secondary that could thrive as early as next season.
29) Jacksonville Jaguars: Will Hernandez, OG UTEP- If you’re looking for an intense, nasty offensive lineman to maul you off the ball in the run game, Will Hernandez is for you. This guy plays with an edge and an intensity that you cannot teach. He’s a perfect fit for Jacksonville’s offensive mentality.
30) Minnesota Vikings: Leighton Vander Esch, ILB Boise State- Vander Esch’s tape is very impressive. He’s one of the best off ball linebackers in the draft. What sticks out to me is that he was used incorrectly on blitz packages, yet he was still a stand out on film. Get ready to see Vander Esch in most first rounds after the Combine.
31) New England Patriots: Joshua Jackson, CB Iowa- The Patriots lack of secondary depth was on full display at the Super Bowl a month ago. Malcolm Butler will be elsewhere in 2018, and Eric Rowe is an impending free agent next year. The Patriots must come away with a corner in their first few picks of this draft.
32) Philadelphia Eagles: Chukwuma Okorafor, OT Western Michigan- The Eagles don’t need much to return to the promised land in 2018, but one of the things to keep an eye on is their offensive line, particularly the tackle position. Jason Peters is on his way out soon, and Halapoulivaati Vaitai was only okay in his role of replacing Peters. Okorafor needs some polishing, but he has a very high upside, in my opinion.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1- Denver Broncos trade the #5, #40 a 2019 1st and a 2019 3rd to the New York Giants for the #2 overall pick.
2- Arizona Cardinals trade the #15, #47 and a 2019 2nd round pick to the New York Jets for the #6 overall pick
3- Cleveland Browns trade the #33 and the #65 to the Buffalo Bills for the #22 overall pick.
ROUND TWO
33) Buffalo Bills via Cleveland Browns: Taven Bryan, DT Florida- Taven Bryan is athletic and a bull in the trenches. His game needs to be polished a bit but he’s got a terrific motor.
34) New York Giants: Sony Michel, RB Georgia- Michel is the do-it-all running back the Giants are so desperate to add this offseason.
35) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: DeShon Elliott, FS Texas- The Browns need secondary members that will force turnovers. After grabbing Ward in round one, they take a rangy safety with single high ability in DeShon Elliott.
36) Indianapolis Colts: Martinas Rankin, OT Mississippi State- The Colts need offensive line. The Colts need offensive line. The Colts need offensive line.
37) New York Jets: Isaiah Oliver, CB Colorado- Oliver doesn’t deserve to miss out on being a first round pick, but one of these corners is going to fall. Jets get a steal in round two.
38) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sam Hubbard, DE Ohio State- Hubbard is disciplined in his gap assignments, and he has a very good moveset. The Bucs have to get to the passer in 2018 if they want to be a playoff team.
39) Chicago Bears: Michael Gallup, WR Colorado State- Gallup has the upside to be the best receiver in this draft class. He ran a solid route tree in college and catches almost everything thrown in his area code.
40) New York Giants via Denver Broncos: Isaiah Wynn, OG Georgia- Wynn is rising up draft boards, but he needs to improve in pass protection before I give him a first round grade.
41) Oakland Raiders: Holton Hill, CB Texas- The run of talented cover corners continues. Hill is a ballhawk, and the Raiders are in desperate need of turnovers from their secondary.
42) Miami Dolphins: Ronald Jones II, RB USC- I don’t think the Dolphins see Kenyan Drake as the running back of the future, so they capitalize on value at take RoJo in round two.
43) New England Patriots via San Francisco 49ers: Dallas Goedert, TE South Dakota State- Rob Gronkowski may be returning in 2018, but he has a history of injuries and may be walking away from the game soon. Patriots get a tight end of the future and the present.
44) Washington Redskins: Rashaan Evans, ILB Alabama- Evans has good sideline to sideline ability and he’s a strong tackler. He will be a big time run stopper in the middle of any team’s defense at the next level.
45) Green Bay Packers: Alex Cappa, OT/OG Humboldt State- The Packers are desperate for offensive line depth this offseason. Cappa’s footwork and intelligence will allow him to be successful at the next level.
46) Cincinnati Bengals: Justin Reid, FS Stanford- If Reid tests well in Indy, he could fly up draft boards. He’s a ballhawk with intelligence and range. The Bengals need a game changer at the safety position this offseason.
47) New York Jets via Arizona Cardinals: Harrison Phillips, DL Stanford- With the lack of true edge rushers in this draft, the Jets are better off signing an edge rusher and replacing Mo Wilkerson through the draft, rather than re-signing Kony Ealy and drafting an edge guy.
48) Los Angeles Chargers: Tegray Scales, OLB/ILB Indiana- Scales will be a big riser if he tests well in Indianapolis. He’s very similar to Haason Redick in terms of his athleticism, but it’s his all-around game that has him at this spot.
49) New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Kerryon Johnson, RB Auburn- Johnson is probably the most underrated running back in this class. He’s a beast between the tackles and he explodes through holes created by his linemen.
50) Dallas Cowboys: Derrick Nnadi, DT Florida State- Nnadi struggled this past season, but he’s still a mismatch when he goes one-on-one with interior linemen.
51) Detroit Lions: Raashan Penny, RB San Diego State- The San Diego State standout will have to test well at the combine. Assuming he does, he has the tape to go in round two.
52) Baltimore Ravens: Mark Andrews, TE Oklahoma- The Ravens need pass catchers. The Ravens need pass catchers. The Ravens need pass catchers.
53) Buffalo Bills: Frank Ragnow, OG/OC Arkansas- Ragnow can be a starter at three different spots on the line in the NFL. As I’ve stated before, I value intelligence more than athleticism for offensive linemen.
54) Kansas City Chiefs: Wyatt Teller, OG Virginia Tech- Despite trading Marcus Peters and appearing to be in need of cornerback depth, I have a feeling the Chiefs like the state of their secondary. They may choose to go elsewhere come draft day, and something that makes sense is grabbing a starting guard with their first pick.
55) Carolina Panthers: Terrell Edmunds, SS Virginia Tech- Edmunds is a multi-dimensional safety that would fit perfectly in the Panthers double high defense.
56) Buffalo Bills via Los Angeles Rams: Mike Hughes, CB Central Florida- Nickel cornerbacks are more valuable than ever, and Mike Hughes has the potential to be an exceptional nickel cornerback.
57) Tennessee Titans: Mason Cole, OL Michigan- Much like Ragnow a few picks ago, Cole has the intelligence to make it in the NFL. He played almost everywhere during his career at Michigan.
58) Atlanta Falcons: Calvin Ridley, WR Alabama- I’m not as high on Ridley as many, but this is a terrific fit for the former Alabama standout.
59) San Francisco 49ers via New Orleans Saints: Hercules Mata’Afa, EDGE Washington State- Mata’Afa is incredibly quick off the edge and he shows the ability to dip and bend past tackles on tape. The Niners need to get more pass rushers this offseason.
60) Pittsburgh Steelers: Fred Warner, OLB/ILB BYU- Warner had an unbelievable senior week and remains one of the best off ball linebackers in the draft. He would be a huge addition to the Steelers 3-4 defense.
61) Jacksonville Jaguars: Mike Gesicki, TE Penn State- Gesicki may not be a blocker…at all… but he goes to a team where he would only catch passes, and that’s something he does unbelievably well.
62) Minnesota Vikings: Breeland Speaks, DT Ole Miss- Speaks replaces Sharrif Floyd and adds more versatility to a ridiculously talented defensive line.
63) New England Patriots: Rasheem Green, DE USC- Green actually deserved to go higher than this. He’s disciplined and very quick off the ball, two qualities the Patriots love to have in their defensive linemen.
64) Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles: DaeSean Hamilton, WR Penn State- Hamilton is a phenomenal route runner. Assuming he shows better hands than his tape, he could be a day two selection.
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Jordan Katz- 2018 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Two Rounds
Finally… Jordan Katz HAS COME BACK to the land of Mock Drafts! Now that the regular season has finished, it’s officially the offseason for 20 NFL teams. This year’s offseason packs more of a punch than normal years because of the amount of quarterbacks on the market. Not only will guys like Kirk Cousins and Alex Smith most likely be free agents, but there’s a ton of quarterbacks worthy of high selections. Quarterback play dictates the success of each team and this year will be full of quarterback changes.
This year’s draft has a ton of talent elsewhere too. Offensive line is loaded, the playmakers on offense and defense are better than people think, and there are some explosive edge rushers.
As always with my mock drafts, this is my personal opinion of what each team should do at each selection. Unlike other mock drafts you may see online, I like to include potential trades. Mock Drafts should be your own evaluation of the players and team needs. If that’s the case, why not throw in a trade if it makes sense?
A few notes before getting started. For the sake of the mock draft, I assumed Kirk Cousins returned to Washington. The entire offseason will change the minute Cousins signs somewhere. However, without any information as to where he could wind up, I had him re-sign.
The second note of importance is that Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are not in my first two rounds (I currently have a 3rd round grade on both). While some in the mock draft community love these two, I think they both have a lot of technical work that they need to improve on. Neither are particularly accurate either.
The best time of the year is upon us: Mock Draft season. Let’s get to it!
ROUND ONE
1) Cleveland Browns: Josh Rosen, QB UCLA- In my opinion, Rosen is the top quarterback in the draft right now. Rosen, Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield are very close on my personal board, but what separates Rosen from the other two is his physical attributes. He’s got NFL size and mobility, he’s the best pure passer in the draft, and he did it all with very little talent around him. If the Browns don’t grab a quarterback this year, I think Roger Goodell has to make them fold as a franchise.
2) Denver Broncos via New York Giants: Sam Darnold, QB USC- The Giants are in the same position the Dallas Cowboys were in a few years ago. They’re a talented team that underachieved, and now they sit with a top five pick. Just like Dallas, that gives you two options; take the best player available or trade down. While the Cowboys wound up with their quarterback of the future in that draft, many people forget the plan was for Tony Romo to play a few more seasons, not for Dak Prescott to start day one.
That year I suggested it was in the Cowboys best interest to trade down. It’s very rare that you get a free opportunity to acquire draft assets. So, with the Giants content on playing Eli for a few more seasons, I would have the Giants trade down.
With plenty of offers to choose from, the Giants trade down to the Broncos pick. This keeps them in the top five, and gets the Broncos their franchise quarterback on a cheap contract.
Editor’s Note: Despite his down year, Darnold still translates well for the NFL. He’s got an NFL arm, good size, mobility and he can make any throw. I believe the kinks will get worked out and he will become a quality NFL quarterback.
3) New York Jets via Indianapolis Colts: Baker Mayfield, QB Oklahoma- Once again, the Jets enter a draft not having a franchise quarterback. Mayfield is tailor-made for a west coast system. He’s got a bigger arm than people think, he’s incredibly accurate, and most importantly for the Jets, he’s a true leader. The Heisman Trophy winner would thrive under the bright lights of the “Big Apple.”
Editor’s Note: Regardless of how much their owner wants Saquon Barkley, the Colts need so much that they have to trade down and acquire assets.
4) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Saquon Barkley, RB Penn State- Let’s make this simple; Saquon Barkley is the best prospect in this draft. He’s the best running back prospect since Adrian Peterson. He’s a better pro prospect than Ezekiel Elliott, Leonard Fournette, and Christian McCaffrey. If the Browns can land him at four, that could go a long way towards expediting their rebuild that’s been going on since 1999.
5) New York Giants via Denver Broncos: Quenton Nelson, OG Notre Dame- The Giants have to find an offensive line this year if they want any chance of competing next season. Nelson is the top offensive lineman in the draft. His game is complete and he’s a team captain, something the Giants organization loves.
6) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Connor Williams, OT Texas- Hey Indy, quick thought on the future of your franchise. If you want Andrew Luck to succeed, then maybe it’s time to GET HIM AN OFFENSIVE LINE!
7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bradley Chubb, DE NC State- The Buccaneers need a number of things this offseason, and at the top of that list is an edge rusher. Chubb is a fluid athlete with the ability to dip and bend effortlessly around the edge. His instincts and ability to win at the point of attack make him a three down player, something the Bucs desperately need up front.
8) Chicago Bears: Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB/FS/SS Alabama- Jamal Adams 2.0 this year will be Minkah Fitzpatrick. He’s got the talent to go higher, but because of needs he may fall into some team’s lap. Fitzpatrick has the ball skills to play safety and the press cover ability to line up at corner. Easy pick for a team that needs a game changer in their secondary.
9) San Francisco 49ers: Arden Key, EDGE LSU- Arden Key came out of the gate slow this year. However, when he got back to his normal playing weight, scouts were able to see the athleticism and move-set that made Key a top pick preseason.
The Niners have to get Jimmy Garoppolo some targets this offseason, but in my opinion, there are no top ten caliber receivers in this class just yet. Having failed to trade down, the Niners take the best player at a position of need.
10) Oakland Raiders: Roquan Smith, ILB Georgia- Smith plays downhill with aggression, he’s a terrific tackler, and he’s a rangy linebacker. The Raiders need an anchor in the middle of their defense. Smith would have an immediate impact on a team that allowed the second most yards per game on the ground.
11) Miami Dolphins: Tremaine Edmunds, OLB/EDGE Virginia Tech- Edmunds is an athletic freak with the ability to play in off coverage as well as rush the passer. His tape is impressive for someone that is still developing. Edmunds could dominate as a LEO linebacker at the next level.
12) Cincinnati Bengals: Mike McGlinchey, OT Notre Dame- The Bengals offensive line struggled during the 2017 season. McGlinchey is a plug and play right tackle from day one. He is great at attacking defensive lineman on running downs, getting his hands on quickly and gaining leverage to dictate where the lineman goes.
13) Green Bay Packers: Braden Smith, OT/OG Auburn- Just like the Colts, the Packers are desperate for a solid offensive line. Yes, some of the Packers issues are more about injuries than a lack of talent, but there’s still work to be done. Smith is a terrific run blocker, and his athleticism will make him a successful guard at the next level.
14) Washington Redskins: Derwin James, FS/SS Florida State- James might be the enigma of the first round. He has got a ton of talent, but his effort was nowhere to be found in 2017. If that’s a concern for GM’s, he could fall out of round one with a bad combine. If he has a good combine, it should put the effort rumors to bed, seeing as half of Florida State’s squad was injured this year.
15) Arizona Cardinals: Orlando Brown, OT Oklahoma- Brown had a really strong 2017 campaign where he showed all the traits of a pro bowl left tackle. He’s more athletic after cutting weight, which has improved his footwork drastically. The Cardinals are desperate for a quarterback of the future, but with the big three off the board (and me not being a fan of Josh Allen) it’s better to take talent at a different position than reaching for a quarterback.
16) Baltimore Ravens: Anthony Miller, WR Memphis- Allow me to introduce you to the best receiver in this draft and the one no one is talking about. Miller runs picturesque routes; he is one of the quickest receivers in the draft. He makes catches with his hands first, he can high point the ball extremely well, and he makes a ton of contested catches. The All American from Memphis would give Joe Flacco a legitimate target, something the Ravens desperately need.
17) Atlanta Falcons via Los Angeles Chargers: Christian Wilkins, DT Clemson- It’s a crime shame that Wilkins fell this far. His hands are incredibly fast, he’s terrific at gaining leverage and controlling gaps, and in case you thought his game had weaknesses, he’s got the move-set and athleticism to dominate as an interior pass rusher. Atlanta will be in need of a defensive tackle after Dontari Poe leaves, so they trade up to land a game changer in the middle.
18) Seattle Seahawks: Derrius Guice, RB LSU- I know the Seahawks need offensive line, but one of the reasons their offense stalled at times this year was a lack of a true running game. Guice is an incredibly talented back with the ability to change the dynamic of the Seahawks offense.
19) Dallas Cowboys: Dante Pettis, WR Washington- With the rapid decline of Dez Bryant, pass catcher has become priority number one for the ‘Boys. Pettis’ deep threat ability could provide a true home run threat to the Cowboys passing game. It would also help alleviate coverage from 88, which could help him bounce back in 2018.
20) Detroit Lions: Marcus Davenport, EDGE UTSA- Credit to former Draftstock contributor Mike Reynolds for this call. Back in late October, Mike told me to look out for Davenport as a first rounder, and boy was he right. Davenport is long and athletic with the move-set to match. He dips and bends around the edge with ease as well. He would be an immediate upgrade to a team that has to rush the passer better in 2018.
21) Buffalo Bills: Christian Kirk, WR Texas A&M- What a tremendous job Sean McDermott and his staff did this year in Buffalo. Despite an offense that doesn’t scare you on paper and a young defensive unit, McDermott has the Bills back in the playoffs for the first time in 18 years. If the Bills want to make it back to back appearances in 2018, then they will need to get more weapons for Tyrod Taylor.
Kirk is an explosive route runner with good hands and a quick release. His presence would give the Bills a chain mover on the outside.
22) Los Angeles Chargers via Atlanta Falcons- Chukwuma Okorafor, OT Western Michigan- Priority number one for the Chargers this offseason is upgrading the offensive tackle position. In a year with plenty of offensive line prospects to go around, this puts them in an excellent position to trade down, acquire assets, and still select a quality lineman.
Okorafor “checks all the boxes,” in terms of his measurements and athletic ability, but he’s still fairly raw in terms of his technique. What makes him an attractive prospect, in my opinion, is the fact that he’s already played both tackle positions despite picking up the game of football at a later age. That shows a knowledge and passion for the game that you can’t teach.
23) Tennessee Titans: Clelin Ferrell, EDGE Clemson- Tennessee needs to get younger and more athletic up front in 2018. Derrick Morgan and Brian Orakpo are both free agents after next season, and the Titans need to start saving money to re-sign Marcus Mariota. Ferrell has a quick first step and terrific athletic ability off the edge. I like him better in a 4-3, but he’s got the versatility to play both systems in the NFL at a high level.
24) Carolina Panthers: Denzel Ward, CB Ohio State- Do not sleep on this cornerback class. As a group, they may not have the size and athleticism of years past, but there are plenty of guys with the technique to succeed at the next level. Ward has good ball skills and he is terrific when trailing receivers. He’s one of the best athletes in the entire draft class as well. Pairing him with James Bradberry would make for an underrated secondary tandem in Carolina.
25) Buffalo Bills via Kansas City Chiefs: Vita Vea, NT Washington- The Bills were 29th in the NFL in rushing defense. They have to clean that up if they want to take the next step defensively in 2018. Vea is a space eating monster with the athleticism to rush the passer if left isolated. He would have an immediate impact on the middle of the Bills defense.
26) New Orleans Saints: Ronnie Harrison, SS Alabama- It’s hard for Alabama defenders to be “under the radar,” during draft season, yet this year they all are going unnoticed. Harrison is a hard hitting safety with freaky athleticism. He also shows enough knowledge and ball skills in coverage to be a multi-dimensional safety at the next level. Kenny Vaccaro is a free agent this year, so finding a cheap option to replace him makes sense for a team that needs to re-sign Drew Brees.
27) Jacksonville Jaguars: Billy Price, OG/OC Ohio State- Price translates well at guard and center at the next level. He’s intelligent, good at the point of attack, and he sees the second level well in the running game. Price would add more stability to an improving offensive line in Jacksonville.
28) Los Angeles Rams: Jaire Alexander, CB Louisville- Even if the Rams sign Trumaine Johnson to an extension, they still need a number two corner in the offseason. Alexander is my top cover corner in the draft, but his size (he will most likely measure in at 5’10) and his health concerns put him below Davis and Ward on my big board. Despite these concerns, if Alexander opts to enter the 2018 NFL Draft, his ball skills and technique should make him a top 40 selection with ease.
29) Pittsburgh Steelers: Rashaan Evans, ILB Alabama- This is a bit of a reach for me, but the Steelers are so desperate for an inside linebacker. With the uncertainty of whether Ryan Shazier will ever play in the NFL again, the Steelers need a run stopping signal caller in the middle of their defense. Evans can be just that.
30) Minnesota Vikings: Da’Ron Payne, DT Alabama- Payne’s athleticism and quickness off the ball would allow him to thrive next to a space eater like Linval Joseph. After the loss of Sharrif Floyd, the Vikings need to find someone to play next to Joseph in order to keep their defense “tip top,” in 2018.
31) Philadelphia Eagles: Martinas Rankin, OT Mississippi State- Philadelphia needs to bolster their offensive line this offseason. Jason Peters is an aging veteran coming off of an injury and Halapoulivaati Vaitai didn’t show the ability to be his replacement.
I’m a big fan of offensive lineman that possess good technique and have played multiple positions because it shows the knowledge needed to play the game at the next level. That is Martinas Rankin.
32) New England Patriots: Josh Jackson, CB Iowa- Whatever we collectively thought New England’s secondary was going to be this year, it surely was not. Now the Patriots are set to lose Malcolm Butler to free agency, with Eric Rowe and Jonathan Jones set to be free agents the year after. Jackson is a lengthy corner with great ball skills and a really good understanding of technique in tight coverage as well as off coverage. He’s a perfect fit in New England.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Denver Broncos trade the #5, #37 a 2019 1st and a 2019 3rd to the New York Giants for the #2 overall pick.
2) New York Jets trade the #6, #50 and a 2019 1st round pick to the Indianapolis Colts for the #3 and a 2019 3rd round pick.
3) Atlanta Falcons trade the #22, #86 and a 2019 3rd round pick to the Los Angeles Chargers for the #17 and the #161
ROUND TWO
33) Cleveland Browns: Isaiah Oliver, CB Colorado
34) New York Giants: Brian O’Neill, OT Pittsburgh
35) Indianapolis Colts: Hercules Mata’Afa, EDGE Washington State
36) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: DeShon Elliott, FS Texas
37) New York Giants via Denver Broncos: Ronald Jones II, RB USC
38) New York Jets: Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, OLB Oklahoma
39) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Justin Reid, FS Stanford
40) Chicago Bears: Calvin Ridley, WR Alabama
41) New England Patriots via San Francisco 49ers: Ryan Finley, QB NC State
42) Oakland Raiders: Holton Hill, CB Texas
43) Miami Dolphins: Will Hernandez, OG UTEP
44) Cincinnati Bengals: Mike Edwards, FS/SS Kentucky
45) Green Bay Packers: Frank Ragnow, OG/OC Arkansas
46) Washington Redskins: Tegray Scales, OLB/ILB Indiana
47) Arizona Cardinals: Jarrett Stidham, QB Auburn
48) Baltimore Ravens: Dallas Goedert, TE South Dakota State
49) Los Angeles Chargers: Malik Jefferson, ILB Texas
50) Indianapolis Colts from New York Giants via Seattle Seahawks: Kendall Joseph, ILB Clemson
51) Dallas Cowboys: Josh Allen, OLB Kentucky
52) Detroit Lions: Wyatt Teller, OG Virginia Tech
53) Buffalo Bills: Mitch Hyatt, OT Clemson
54) Atlanta Falcons: Michael Gallup, WR Colorado State
55) Tennessee Titans: Harrison Phillips, DL Stanford
56) Carolina Panthers: Sam Hubbard, EDGE Ohio State
57) Kansas City Chiefs: Mason Cole, OL Michigan
58) San Francisco 49ers via New Orleans Saints: Quenton Meeks, CB Stanford
59) Jacksonville Jaguars: Mark Andrews, TE Oklahoma
60) Buffalo Bills via Los Angeles Rams: Jamarco Jones, OT Ohio State
61) Pittsburgh Steelers: Bryce Love, RB Stanford
62) Minnesota Vikings: Uchenna Nwosu, OLB USC
63) Cleveland Browns via Philadelphia Eagles: DJ Moore, WR Maryland
64) New England Patriots: Dorance Armstrong Jr., EDGE Kansas
This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2018 NFL Mock Draft, Arden Key, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baker Mayfield, Baltimore Ravens, Bradley Chubb, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Connor Williams, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Josh Allen, Josh Rosen, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Oakland Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Quenton Nelson, Roquan Smith, Sam Darnold, San Francisco 49ers, Saquon Barkley, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Redskins.
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