Jordan Love
Jordan Katz Prediction Style NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Pre-Free Agency
Editor’s Note: This article was written prior to announcement of Compensatory Picks.
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the mock draft y’all have been waiting for. This is my first real look at predicting the way the first two days of the draft could go. In 1.0, there was still a lot of guessing because the Combine had not occurred yet. Well, the proceedings in Indianapolis have come and gone, and we now have a more concise idea of the players that are being discussed as round one selections.
A few things to keep in mind about my prediction style mocks. This is NOT based on my own opinions of players, nor do I take into account my evaluation of team needs. This is strictly based on what I have heard and what I have read. It is based on Combine meetings and what the draft media believes each team could do.
Any trades that were made in this mock draft (which are denoted with an asterisk next to the team) are predictions based on the rumors going around the league, as well as what I think the teams could look to do based on the way the board falls.
Lastly, this is by no means a finished product. Some teams may address their needs via free agency in a few days. Having said that, this is the way I think the draft could go if it took place tomorrow.
ROUND ONE
1) Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU
Burrow met with the Bengals during the Combine, and it seems this selection is now a foregone conclusion. Having said that, sometimes during #MockDraftSZN, you have to play out different scenarios. So for the “analysis,” to this pick, let’s play out the scenario I did in my personal mock draft (https://draftstock.net/2020/03/01/jordan-katz-2020-nfl-mock-draft-4-0-post-combine/).
What if Joe Burrow pulls an Eli Manning and tells the Bengals he won’t play for them? Do the Bengals trade out of the first pick and select a QB later on? Do they stay where they are and select Tua Tagovailoa? Do they neglect the Quarterback position all together?
I think the most likely option is that the Bengals would just select Tua Tagovailoa. I do not see the Bengals coming away from this draft without a franchise QB. Either Tua or Burrow will be the top pick, and based on the meetings in Indianapolis, it seems like Joe Burrow is the lock.
2) *Miami Dolphins via Washington Redskins: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama
The Miami Dolphins love Tua Tagovailoa. Owner Stephen Ross has wanted him since early October. Miami spent the entire 2019 season acquiring assets for the opportunity to land a quarterback in this draft. Lastly, Tua received a clean bill of health, and some think he can be ready for training camp. Therefore, the only question appears to be, will Miami trade up to two or three to land the former Alabama star?
Washington has been pumping out rumors that they are interested in drafting Tua at two. This feels like their way of saying they would like to trade down, considering they just picked Dwayne Haskins last year.
3) Detroit Lions: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State
Detroit is in the best position of the 2020 NFL Draft. If Washington trades out to a team needing a QB, they get arguably the best player in the draft in Chase Young. If Washington takes Young, Detroit now becomes the team to trade backwards and acquire assets. A win-win situation for Detroit in Round One.
4) New York Giants: Isaiah Simmons, ILB/OLB Clemson
I’ll admit, I have some doubts right now about this selection. Dave Gettleman is publicly enamored with the offensive line class, which makes me think he might do the smart thing and take a tackle in round one.
However, I go back to Gettleman’s comments earlier this offseason about needing defensive pieces (he actually said offense is easy, but I’m ignoring his stupidity for the sake of competent writing). The chess piece of the 2020 draft is Isaiah Simmons because he can do so much on the defensive side of the ball. I still think he is the selection at four for Big Blue.
5) *Indianapolis Colts from Washington Redskins via Miami Dolphins: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon
The infamous double trade down! By trading out of the second overall selection, Washington is admitting that even someone with Chase Young’s talent does not make them a playoff team in 2020. Therefore, why not continue to stockpile assets and trade down again? Plenty of teams need quarterbacks, and the beauty of a strong draft class is that you can select a star caliber player outside of the top 10. Washington continues to acquire assets, while Indianapolis trades up for their franchise QB.
6) Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Love, QB Utah State
The debate between Love and Herbert as QB3 may not be solved until draft day, largely because they have very different skill sets. Love makes plays by being aggressive with the football. He is willing to pull the trigger in any window, and against any coverage scheme.
On the other hand, Herbert is more conservative with the ball, but his arm still allows him to make big time throws.
I think the better fit for the Chargers offense is Jordan Love. This is why QB3 might be decided based on if the Chargers are the third, or fourth team to select a QB on draft night.
7) Carolina Panthers: Jeff Okudah, CB Ohio State
If a QB is on the board here, Carolina is another potential trade down candidate. In the scenario that all four QBs go ahead of them, they wind up selecting the top player on their board. Okudah replaces pending free agent James Bradberry, and changes the way the Panthers play defense because of his elite man coverage ability.
8) Arizona Cardinals: Tristan Wirfs, OT Iowa
The run of offensive tackles could begin with Arizona. Wirfs showed elite athleticism during the NFL Combine, which pairs perfectly with Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury’s offense. Since all four of the top tackles are viewed as day one starters, Arizona takes the best scheme fit for their up tempo, spread offense. That player is Wirfs.
9) Jacksonville Jaguars: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville
Becton makes the most sense for Jacksonville because of his ability in the run game. He is a mauler, with the athleticism to get out to the second level and the power to run over defenders. I love this fit because Jacksonville can run behind Becton whenever they want, and they can leave him on an island in pass protection.
10) Cleveland Browns: Jedrick Wills Jr., OT Alabama
OT3 in my prediction mock is the top offensive tackle according to many. The reason Wills fell is strictly because the Giants went with Isaiah Simmons at four. If the Giants take a tackle instead, they will select Wills because Wills is viewed as the most complete prospect of the offensive tackle group. If Arizona is the first team selecting a tackle, Wills could wind up going later than expected.
11) New York Jets: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia
I still have no idea how Thomas is the fourth guy among the top four tackles, but as a Jets fan, I’m not complaining. The run on tackles ends with the Jets scooping my second best player in the draft.
12) Las Vegas Raiders: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama
I know Jerry Jeudy is expected to be the first wide receiver selected next month. However, you can make a legitimate argument for each of the big three to be the top guy taken. Jeudy is the best route runner, Lamb’s game is the most complete, and Ruggs is the most explosive. It could depend on which team is selecting when the first receiver comes off the board. If that team is Vegas, don’t be surprised if Head Coach Jon Gruden bangs the drum for Ruggs because of how dynamic he is as a playmaker.
13) *Washington Redskins via Indianapolis Colts: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama
Washington hit a home run with the selection of Terry McLaurin last year. Adding Jerry Jeudy to their receiving core would give Dwayne Haskins all the tools he needs to succeed.
14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: CJ Henderson, CB Florida
Henderson had a phenomenal weekend in Indianapolis, catapulting his draft stock by demonstrating his elite athleticism. The Buccaneers were miserable against the pass last year, making Henderson an easy selection.
15) *Seattle Seahawks via Denver Broncos: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU
Seattle is most likely going to let Jadeveon Clowney walk in free agency, putting them back in the market for an edge rusher this offseason. Don’t be surprised if they look to get aggressive and move up the draft board for Chaisson. He has big time dip and bend ability, and excels as a rusher from both the stand up position as well as wtih his hand in the dirt.
Denver could be a trade down candidate if the offensive tackles are gone by the time they select. With the depth of the receiver class, and the measurable difference between Andrew Thomas and the next best tackle, Denver could acquire assets while still selecting a quality player later in round one.
16) *Philadelphia Eagles via Atlanta Falcons: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma
Should a receiver start to fall like Lamb did here, the Eagles will be one of the teams looking to come up to select them. With Atlanta missing out on Chaisson by one pick, the trade between the two teams writes itself.
Editor’s Note: One of the big three receivers is going to fall in round one. The draft class is too strong at receiver for this not to happen. It does not mean that teams think less of Lamb, assuming Lamb is the guy that falls.
17) Dallas Cowboys: Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn
Dallas is likely to select defense early in the 2020 draft. Brown struggled during the athletic portion of the Combine, but his tape is terrific. He is a do-it-all defensive tackle that can start from day one.
18) Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Austin Jackson, OT USC
Once Miami moves up for a QB, the rest of the draft is anyone’s best guess. Despite a surprisingly competitive season in 2019, this team has so many needs. Their offensive line is a mess, and you cannot run out a rookie QB out behind a bad offensive line. This makes O-Line my guess as to the selection at 18.
19) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Patrick Queen, ILB LSU
When you flip on the tape of the final few games, there were not many better players in college football than Patrick Queen. We know that General Manager Mike Mayock took a lot of stock in postseason play based on his first round selections from last year (Clelin Ferrell at four, Trayvon Mullen later on). Not only is Patrick Queen a player at a position of need, he also had a terrific postseason for the LSU Tigers.
20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU
Jacksonville taking a corner in round one feels like a layup after the AJ Bouye trade. Fulton’s footwork on tape will make him highly coveted in the back end of round one. Assuming the Jaguars pass on a cornerback at nine, don’t be shocked if they try to trade up higher than 20 to ensure they land the cornerback that they covet.
21) *Atlanta Falcons via Philadelphia Eagles: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
Here is my first real curveball of the draft. Atlanta taking a running back after cutting Devonta Freeman would not be surprising. Even if they chose to do so in round one, I don’t think anyone would call it a huge shock.
If the first running back off the board is not D’Andre Swift, that’s where many would be stunned. Jonathan Taylor had a superb career at Wisconsin, and he showed home run athleticism during his workout at the NFL Combine. He also interviewed extremely well, and one of the teams that informally interviewed him was the Falcons. This could be a move off of people’s radar that comes to fruition next month.
22) Buffalo Bills: Denzel Mims, WR Baylor
Mims tested off the charts athletically during the weekend in Indy. He’s a big body receiver that makes plays down the field with his size and his athleticism. That is the exact player Buffalo is looking for to round out their receiving core.
23) New England Patriots: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama
New England has plenty of needs heading into this draft, which is a rarity for the Patriots during this dynasty. Assuming they are able to re-sign Tom Brady (because that’s the only way you can begin to predict their offseason), look for the Patriots to replace Devin McCourty with one of the talented safeties in this draft.
McKinney is a ball hawk in the back end, best served in cover one or cover three. His game play on tape is actually very reminiscent of McCourty. This would be a smooth transition for the back end of Bill Belichick’s defense.
24) New Orleans Saints: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU
There may not be a better fit in the back end of round than Jeff Gladney to the New Orleans Saints. He excels in man coverage, and the Saints need a man cover corner to play opposite Marshon Lattimore. The Saints would be able to blitz more and create more turnover opportunities.
25) Minnesota Vikings: Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU
The Vikings are losing so many secondary pieces that a defensive back in round one should be a lock. Delpit had an up and down 2019 season at LSU, but he’s a playmaker near the line of scrimmage, and he has the ability to range from the single high safety position (even though he struggled to tackle at times last year).
26) *Washington Redskins from Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Josh Jones, OT Houston
Washington is going to need a replacement for Trent Williams once they trade him this offseason. Josh Jones is an elite athlete for a tackle. He has fluid hips and natural ability in pass protection. If he cleans up his footwork (much like Austin Jackson), Jones could be a quality starter for a long time.
27) *Denver Broncos via Seattle Seahawks: Javon Kinlaw, DT South Carolina
I have no idea how Denver pulled this off. They trade down and select a top 15 talent in Kinlaw while acquiring assets. It’s extremely unlikely that Kinlaw lasts this long on draft night, but this is the beauty of a quality draft. When there is a lot of talent, players will fall.
28) Baltimore Ravens: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma
Murray’s game is very reminiscent of Patrick Queen from a few picks ago. He is the modern day three down linebacker because of his range from sideline to sideline, as well as his ability to cover tight ends and linebackers. Baltimore enters this draft needing defense, a spot that they have rarely been in. More importantly, they are in desperate need of linebackers.
29) Tennessee Titans: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan
Tennessee will most likely select offensive line in round one. Ruiz has the intelligence and athleticism to smoothly transition to guard in the NFL, making him the selection over Lloyd Cushenberry.
30) Green Bay Packers: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU
Green Bay should be locked into a receiver at this spot, and based on the way the board fell, they would definitely scoop up Justin Jefferson.
Having said that, keep an eye on Kenneth Murray or Patrick Queen at this spot, should they be available. Blake Martinez is a pending free agent, and is likely to leave in free agency. With the depth of the receiver class, the Packers could take a middle linebacker in round one, and capitalize on what is a talented group of day two receivers.
31) San Francisco 49ers: Antoine Winfield Jr., FS Minnesota
Of the players that stood out at the Combine, there may have been none bigger than the 5’9 defensive back from Minnesota. Winfield has some Tyrann Mathieu in his game. He can range from the single high position, and he mirrors slot receivers very well. The one question scouts and draft experts had about him was if he possessed NFL level athleticism, which Winfield answered with his workout in Indianapolis. This is probably his ceiling in the draft, but San Francisco needs a replacement for Jimmie Ward, making it plausible for Winfield to sneak into round one.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia
Well, this is the scenario the league should fear. Kansas City winding up with one of the top three running backs makes their offense completely unstoppable in 2020. Swift is the one cut, home run hitter that this offense is missing out of the backfield.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #26, #70, and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Washington Redskins for the #2 Overall Selection.
2) Indianapolis Colts trade the #13, #75 and a 2021 1st Round Pick to the Washington Redskins for the #5 and #148.
3) Seattle Seahawks trade the #27, #59 and #64 to the Denver Broncos for the #15 and #95.
4) Philadelphia Eagles trade the #21, #53, #127 and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Atlanta Falcons for the #16, #70 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.
ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: Lucas Niang, OT TCU
Cincinnati just took their franchise QB. An offensive tackle catapults to the top of their draft wish list in order to properly protect Joe Burrow.
34) Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: Ross Blacklock, IDL TCU
Blacklock could sneak into round one after a terrific weekend in Indianapolis. If he did not have an injury history, his tape combined with his athleticism would make him a round one lock.
35) *Los Angeles Rams via Detroit Lions: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State
I doubt Gross-Matos makes it to round two, but that’s the way the board fell in this prediction mock. The Rams move up to address a need at edge rusher because they hate draft picks.
36) New York Giants: Matthew Peart, OT UCONN
If the Giants do select Isaiah Simmons in round one, addressing the offensive line in round two becomes a must.
37) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Los Angeles Chargers: Jacob Eason, QB Washington
I have said it for months in my personal mock drafts; the best scheme fit for any QB this year is Jacob Eason winding up in the hands of Bruce Arians.
38) Carolina Panthers: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma
Gallimore uses his quickness to his advantage as a pass rusher. He would be a good compliment along the interior for Kawann Short.
39) Miami Dolphins: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State
The Dolphins will come out of this draft with a starting running back. Dobbins is my top running back, but I think he’s RB3 when the draft rolls around in April.
40) *Dallas Cowboys via Arizona Cardinals: Jeremy Chinn, FS Southern Illinois-
The Cowboys need help all throughout their secondary. Chinn is a big time athlete with impressive range. He would fit nicely in the Cowboys defense.
41) Cleveland Browns: Ashtyn Davis, SS California
Davis is a thumper on tape, with solid ability in cover two. His versatility should make him a day two favorite of many teams.
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: AJ Epenesa, DL Iowa
This is not the best fit for Epenesa, but Jacksonville will need a pass rusher once they trade Yannick Ngakoue. They scoop up Epenesa after a poor showing from him at the Combine.
43) Chicago Bears via Las Vegas Raiders: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
AJ Terrell slides into the Bears second cornerback slot opposite Kyler Fuller.
44) Indianapolis Colts: Justin Madubuike, IDL Texas A&M
The Colts interior defense has been less than stellar for quite some time. Madubuike brings some toughness and physicality to the middle of the Colts defense.
45) *Los Angeles Chargers via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ezra Cleveland, OT Boise State
After trading back and acquiring a few assets, the Chargers select the tackle they would have picked at 37.
46) Denver Broncos: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado
Denver needs a playmaker opposite Courtland Sutton to help Drew Lock progress in 2020. Shenault’s ability after the catch is very reminiscent of a former Broncos wide receiver, Demariyus Thomas.
47) Atlanta Falcons: Josh Uche, EDGE/OLB Michigan
Uche is undersized for the straight edge position, but he would be a nice fit as a LEO linebacker in Dan Quinn’s defense (aka, where Vic Beasley should have played).
48) New York Jets: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU
Reagor’s play speed is much faster than his athletic testing showed at the Combine. He should still be a high selection on day two.
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
More offensive linemen being selected highly. Wilson is a mauler in the run game. His length and physicality will make him an attractive option for the Steelers.
50) Chicago Bears: Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL LSU
Chicago needs to address their offensive line in order to help Mitchell Trubisky (or whomever their QB is) succeed in 2020.
51) *Arizona Cardinals via Dallas Cowboys: Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama
Arizona needs to replace multiple starters along their defensive front. My guess is they will do that early on day two.
52) *Detroit Lions via Los Angeles Rams: Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama
The cornerback class is incredibly deep, which is why Detroit can trade back, acquire assets, and still select a starting caliber player.
53) *Atlanta Falcons via Philadelphia Eagles: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State
Desmond Trufant is looking like he will be a cap cut in a few days. Arnette’s footwork and ball skills make him a potential day one starter in the NFL.
54) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Buffalo Bills (Buffalo Acquires Yannick Ngakoue): Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR Michigan
Buffalo is one of the teams looking to acquire Yannick Ngakoue. I think they are the most likely team to give up a premium draft choice in order to land the talented pass rusher.
Jacksonville needs playmakers, which is why they select DPJ here.
55) *Cleveland Browns from Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Zack Baun, EDGE Wisconsin
Cleveland continues their aggressive offseason mentality they have developed. They trade up for an impact pass rusher in Baun.
56) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
Miami may choose to address pass rusher via free agency, but right now it’s near the top of their draft needs.
57) Houston Texans: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU
A monster postseason will have Edwards-Helaire highly coveted by teams with zone blocking schemes up front.
58) Minnesota Vikings: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia
Minnesota doubles up on secondary players because they need multiple starters in the back-end.
59) *Denver Broncos via Seattle Seahawks: Malik Harrison, ILB Ohio State
Harrison’s strength is in the run game, but Head Coach Vic Fangio likes defensive players that are physical. This is a natural fit.
60) Baltimore Ravens: Tee Higgins, WR Clemson
My guess is that the draft media is overreacting to Higgins not working out in Indianapolis. I think he will still be a day two selection because of his red zone ability and catch radius.
61) *New York Jets via Tennessee Titans: Matt Hennessy, IOL Temple
New General Manager Joe Douglas will aggressively pursue revamping the Jets offensive line this offseason. He trades up to land the Jets starting Center in 2020.
62) Green Bay Packers: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
Green Bay continues to add weapons for Aaron Rodgers with the top tight end in this draft class.
63) Kansas City Chiefs via San Francisco 49ers: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn
The Chiefs are being gutted at cornerback in terms of the players that will enter free agency. With the defensive back class as strong as ever, look for them to select one early in the draft.
64) *Denver Broncos from Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn
Denver does need to think about replacing Garrett Bolles, who has been awful since entering the league. With a quality tackle class that has some depth to it, this could be a move for them on day two.
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) Los Angeles Rams trade the #52, #84 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Detroit Lions for the #35 and a 2021 5th Round Pick.
2) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #45 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Los Angeles Chargers for the #37 and a 2021 4th Round Pick.
3) Dallas Cowboys trade the #51 and #82 to the Arizona Cardinals for the #40 Overall Selection.
4) Buffalo Bills trade the #54 Overall Selection to the Jacksonville Jaguars for Yannick Ngakoue.
5) Cleveland Browns trade the #74, #115, and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Atlanta Falcons for the #55 and #140.
6) New York Jets trade the #68 and #120 to the Tennessee Titans for the #61 Overall Selection.
ROUND THREE
65) Cincinnati Bengals: Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah
66) Washington Redskins: Troy Pride Jr., CB Notre Dame
67) Detroit Lions: Marlon Davidson, IDL Auburn
68) *Tennessee Titans from New York Jets via New York Giants: Ben Bartch, OT St. John’s
69) Carolina Panthers: Robert Hunt, IOL Louisiana
70) *Washington Redskins via Miami Dolphins: Brandon Aiyuk, WR Arizona State
71) Los Angeles Chargers: Cam Akers, RB Florida State
72) Arizona Cardinals: KJ Hamler, WR Penn State
73) Jacksonville Jaguars: Kyle Dugger, SS Lenoir-Rhyne
74) *Atlanta Falcons via Cleveland Browns: Adam Trautman, TE Dayton
75) *Washington Redskins via Indianapolis Colts: Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame
76) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah
77) Denver Broncos: Darnay Holmes, CB UCLA
78) Atlanta Falcons: Alohi Gilman, FS/SS Notre Dame
79) New York Jets: Michael Ojemudia, CB Iowa
80) Las Vegas Raiders: Davon Hamilton, IDL Ohio State
81) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Jalen Hurts, QB Oklahoma
82) *Arizona Cardinals via Dallas Cowboys: Curtis Weaver, EDGE Boise State
83) Denver Broncos via Pittsburgh Steelers: Nick Harris, IOL Washington
84) *Detroit Lions via Los Angeles Rams: Troy Dye, ILB Oregon
85) Philadelphia Eagles: Saahdiq Charles, OT LSU
86) *Cincinnati Bengals via Buffalo Bills: Van Jefferson, WR Florida
87) New England Patriots: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan
88) New Orleans Saints: Bryan Edwards, WR South Carolina
89) Minnesota Vikings: Damien Lewis, IOL LSU
90) Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Jordyn Brooks, ILB Texas Tech
91) Las Vegas Raiders from Houston Texans via Seattle Seahawks: Brandon Jones, SS Texas
92) Baltimore Ravens: Kenny Willekes, EDGE Michigan State
93) Tennessee Titans: Chase Claypool, WR Notre Dame
94) Green Bay Packers: Willie Gay Jr., ILB Mississippi State
95) *Seattle Seahawks from Denver Broncos via San Francisco 49ers: Netane Muti, IOL Fresno State
96) Kansas City Chiefs: Hakeem Adeniji, OL Kansas
TRADES IN ROUND THREE
1) Cincinnati Bengals trade the #107 and #147 to the Buffalo Bills for the #86 Overall Selection.
Jordan Katz 2020 Prediction Style NFL Mock Draft: 1.0
Welcome to the first installment of my prediction style Mock Draft. For those that might be reading for the first time, I do two kinds of Mock Drafts. The ones I post more regularly are what I would do if I were in charge of all 32 teams. In those mocks you see more of what I think of individual players, as well as what I think each team should prioritize.
In my prediction mocks, they are exactly what they sound like; predictions. I’m going based off of what I have seen rumored, As we get closer to the draft, I will use Combine meetings, who went to what pro day, and the rumor mill to make my predictions.
As far as trades go, any trade you see in this Mock Draft is a prediction on which teams could be in the trade market come draft time. Obviously there are more teams that will look to trade than the select ones I chose, and that’s where the breakdown of the board can have influence on the predictions I choose to make. As always, trades that were made in this mock are indicated via an asterisk.
Let’s cook.
ROUND ONE
1) Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU- I still think Cincinnati is in a great position to build a roster before selecting their QB of the future, but let’s call a spade a spade; this will be Joe Burrow in three months.
2) Washington Redskins: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State- Don’t sleep on Washington trading down here. Chase Young is a phenomenal player, but Washington has a lot of needs. They could leverage this pick to a QB needy team if the buzz around the Quarterbacks were to get high enough. For now, Washington just stays here and picks Young.
3) *Miami Dolphins via Detroit Lions: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama- During the early stages of the college football season, there was a lot of buzz that Dolphins Owner Stephen Ross was going to force the front office to take Tua at the presumed first overall selection. Now they have a chance to trade up and land the guy that Ross supposedly coveted. Something tells me because of all the teams that need QBs near the top, Miami will be tempted to use their assets in this draft to go get their franchise QB.
4) New York Giants: Isaiah Simmons, OLB/ILB/Slot Corner/FS/NFL Version of the Hulk, Clemson- Okay, so the position thing is clearly a joke, but Simmons is the definition of a chess piece for any NFL defense. The Giants rarely take a linebacker in round one, but Simmons is no ordinary linebacker. He changes games, and the Giants need game changers on defense.
5) *Detroit Lions via Miami Dolphins: Jeffrey Okudah, CB Ohio State- Detroit trading down feels like the layup trade of this draft. Trading down to still select Okudah, who they probably would take at three anyway, is the dream scenario. Darius Slay has one more year left on his contract, and because of where the Lions are at, he would likely walk in free agency. Assuming they trade Slay to expedite their rebuild, cornerback tops their wish list in the 2020 draft.
6) Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon- Herbert put on a clinic throughout the week of the Senior Bowl. He looked like the best player on the field at all times, which is exactly how he should have looked if in fact he was a top 10 lock. While Jordan Love is an option here, Herbert being further along mentally and physically is what pushes the Chargers in his direction.
7) *Indianapolis Colts via Carolina Panthers: Jordan Love, QB Utah State- Four QBs in the top 10 is a lot, but that appears to be where we are headed. Love has NFL size, NFL arm strength, and he can stretch the play with his legs. While I don’t view him that highly, many think he can resemble Patrick Mahomes. Indianapolis trades up for Love, but they won’t rush him if he’s not ready because of Jacoby Brissett, which also makes this a quality fit for the former Utah State star.
8) Arizona Cardinals: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia- I know there is a ton of buzz around Mekhi Becton right now, however something tells me Thomas regains his momentum at the combine in a month. I think he’s been out of the spotlight for so long, people forgot just how dominant he was on tape. When he reminds them that he’s got the athleticism to match his game tape next month, Thomas should ascend back to the top offensive linemen on many people’s draft board.
9) *Atlanta Falcons via Jacksonville Jaguars: Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn- General Manager Thomas Demitrioff recently said he is looking for “game wreckers,” during this offseason. Let me tell you someone that embodies the words “game wrecker.” A Six foot five, 318 pound behemoth, who has quickness of a linebacker, the strength to beat double teams like they’re paper mache, and the ability to help others make plays because he draws so much attention. That is a guy TD would love to have on his roster.
10) Cleveland Browns: Jedrick Wills, OT Alabama- This was a real coin flip between Wills and Becton. I went with Wills because he’s built more like a prototypical offensive tackle. Becton is a mauler, built like a brick house, but his size could leave him susceptible to elite athletes on the edge. Wills is better served to deal with those kind of players.
11) New York Jets: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville- Despite what’s written above, it’s not like Becton is a bad athlete. For someone of his size, he’s quite nimble. He gets to the second level with ease. He strikes with such force, he bodies other human beings in a way I have never seen on a football field. Becton would be a huge jolt to the Jets up front.
12) Las Vegas Raiders: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama- I think the wide receivers will fall throughout the 2020 NFL Draft, just because there are so many talented players at the position. This is the first example of that, as WR1 goes off the board outside the top ten. The Raiders feel like a lock to take a receiver with one of their two first round selections. Which selection they opt to do that at will depend on the way the board falls.
13) *Carolina Panthers via Indianapolis Colts: Tristan Wirfs, OL Iowa- Many seem to think Wirfs has all pro ability at guard, and that he will wind up along the interior of an offensive line at the next level. If that’s true, he probably falls outside the top 10 as well. The value placed on tackles is just greater than the value placed on guards or centers.
Fortunately for the Panthers, this can help them. They can generate enough buzz around themselves selecting the heir to Cam Newton, and trade down for a stud along the offensive line in Wirfs.
14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU- I know Delpit is very up and down on draft boards, but the one thing no one can deny is Delpit’s ability around the line of scrimmage. The Bucs secondary needs players that change games, and Delpit does just that. This feels like a natural fit that many might be sleeping on.
15) Denver Broncos: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma- Courtland Sutton was a breakout star in 2019, but in the modern day NFL, you need more than one playmaker offensively. This idea is why Denver is a prime candidate to grab another big time player to help Drew Lock turn into the franchise Quarterback that Denver needs him to be.
16) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Atlanta Falcons: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU- The Jaguars are turning over their defense and trying to retool it to resemble the defense they had a few years ago. Having traded Jalen Ramsey, and with AJ Bouye presumably on his way out the door soon, a logical scenario for them is trading back in this draft, acquiring assets, and selecting Fulton, who is expected to be CB2 in April behind Jeffrey Okudah.
17) Dallas Cowboys: Javon Kinlaw, IDL South Carolina- Dallas has multiple needs defensively to get themselves back to where they expect to be. Interior defensive line, corner or safety are all on the table with their first round selection. Based on the way this board fell, Javon Kinlaw makes the most sense here.
18) Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: AJ Epenesa, EDGE Iowa- Epenesa is a weird prospect for me to attempt to predict right now. I think the NFL scouts like the player he is, the way he wins up front with technique instead of just sheer athleticism, and the way he controls his gaps up front.
Having said that, I think they are afraid that he lacks the quickness and athleticism to truly dominate at the next level. I don’t think anyone doubts that he will be a productive pro, I think the question is about his ceiling.
These are the reasons he could go anywhere from 10-30 come April.
19) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Patrick Queen, ILB LSU- The Raiders will probably go defense with the other first round selection they have, and a candidate for said selection is Patrick Queen. Oakland’s linebacking core is less than impressive, and Queen’s stock is through the roof after an incredible college football playoff.
20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU- Chaisson will not be on the board long because of his elite ability off the edge. Jacksonville continues to revamp their defense by selecting Chaisson to replace pending free agent Yannick Ngakoue.
21) Philadelphia Eagles: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama- This is a realistic scenario that the rest of the NFL needs to make sure does not happen, for their own sake. Giving Doug Pederson a weapon like Ruggs would push the Eagles offense to the elite level they were at a few years ago. If the Eagles find a way to land the stud playmaker they are missing in a few months, lookout.
22) Buffalo Bills: Tee Higgins, WR Clemson- The Bills could go a number of different directions with their first round selection, and pass catcher is certainly one of them. While Josh Allen had a nice season with John Brown and Cole Beasley as his top targets, there is no question he could benefit from a big body receiver that can score in the red zone. If that’s what they are looking for, then Tee Higgins is their answer.
23) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via New England Patriots: Jacob Eason, QB Washington- If the rumors of Philip Rivers to Tampa Bay are true, then the Bucs are the easy pick to trade back into round one for Eason. Eason has a big arm, and he can make all the throws when the pocket is clean. When the pocket collapses, that’s when his mechanics go awry. Give him to Bruce Arians, and you might just see Eason blossom into a superstar after sitting for a year.
24) New Orleans Saints: Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama- One of the teams in the back end of round one is going to reach for Raekwon Davis. His athleticism will warrant it. I chose the Saints because recent reports are that they believe Taysom Hill is their guy for the future if Drew Brees does retire. That means the Saints turn to the defensive side of the ball, and give a boost to their pass rush along the interior.
25) Minnesota Vikings: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU- Minnesota’s secondary played subpar all year long. Not only that, but most of their secondary is up for contract. If there is a lock in the back half of round one, it’s Minnesota taking a secondary piece.
26) *Detroit Lions from Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado- Detroit needs a weapon opposite Kenny Golladay long term. Marvin Jones could be a cap cut considering he’s been hurt each of the last two years, opening up a spot for one of the young, talented receivers in this draft.
27) Seattle Seahawks: Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL LSU- Seattle is a really good trade down candidate to a team that needs a quarterback and did not select one in the top half of round one. If that team jumped up higher than Seattle, like they did in this draft, look for them to address their needs in the trenches during round one.
28) Baltimore Ravens: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State- While the Ravens defense did have a strong year despite losing a multitude of high profile players to free agency from the year before, they still could use some help in their front seven. Matthew Judon turned into a quality rusher, but he’s set to become a free agent and most likely will not be back. This puts EDGE rusher atop their needs.
29) Tennessee Titans: Austin Jackson, OT USC- If Jack Conklin does in fact depart via free agency, the Titans top priority becomes offensive tackle. Austin Jackson is widely regarded as the best of the tier below the elite guys in this draft, making him the obvious selection.
30) *Los Angeles Chargers via Green Bay Packers: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia- Predicting the top running back from this draft class is a debate that no one will solve until many years from now. If I were to guess which way the majority of teams are leaning, it would be Swift because of his vision and explosiveness. The Chargers jump the Chiefs to land their Melvin Gordon replacement.
31) San Francisco 49ers: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama- Every year a player falls farther than many expect them to, and it’s all based on how the board shakes out in front of them. McKinney was the victim of that in this particular mock draft, but it allowed the 49ers to reap the benefits.
32) Kansas City Chiefs: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State- Even if Swift does go before the Chiefs pick in round one, Dobbins is a very nice consolation prize. His ability in the open field combined with his vision between the tackles will make him a nightmare for opposing defense. In the Chiefs offense, it will be a never ending bad dream for those defenses.
TRADES IN ROUND ONE
1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #26 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Detroit Lions for the #3 overall pick.
2) Indianapolis Colts trade the #13, #34, #75 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Carolina Panthers for the #7 and #198.
3) Atlanta Falcons trade the #16, #47 and #109 to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #9 and the #186.
4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #45, #76, a 2021 2nd Round Pick and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the New England Patriots for the #23 and #185.
5) Los Angeles Chargers trade the #37, #102 and the #133 to the Green Bay Packers for the #30 and #220.
ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: CJ Henderson, CB Florida
34) *Carolina Panthers from Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
35) Detroit Lions: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
36) New York Giants: Josh Jones, OT Houston
37) *Green Bay Packers via Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU
38) Carolina Panthers: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma
39) Miami Dolphins: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
40) Arizona Cardinals: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan
41) Cleveland Browns: Ashtyn Davis, SS California
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma
43) Chicago Bears via Las Vegas Raiders: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
44) Indianapolis Colts: Ross Blacklock, IDL TCU
45) *New England Patriots via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
46) Denver Broncos: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn
47) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Aiyuk, WR Arizona State
48) New York Jets: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Josh Uche, EDGE Michigan
50) Chicago Bears: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah
51) Dallas Cowboys: Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama
52) Los Angeles Rams: Jonathan Greenard, EDGE Florida
53) Philadelphia Eagles: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU
54) Buffalo Bills: Zack Baun, EDGE Wisconsin
55) Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Thad Moss, TE LSU
56) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Lucas Niang, OT TCU
57) Houston Texans: Cam Akers, RB Florida State
58) Minnesota Vikings: Leki Fotu, IDL Utah
59) *New York Jets via Seattle Seahawks: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State
60) *Las Vegas Raiders via Baltimore Ravens: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State
61) Tennessee Titans: Jason Strowbridge, DL North Carolina
62) *Philadelphia Eagles via Green Bay Packers: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn
64) Kansas City Chiefs via San Francisco 49ers: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia
64) Seattle Seahawks via San Francisco 49ers: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan
TRADES IN ROUND TWO
1) New York Jets trade the #68 #79 and #140 to the Seattle Seahawks for the #59 and #123.
2) Las Vegas Raiders trade the #80, #91 and #203 to the Baltimore Ravens for the #60 and #187.
3) Philadelphia Eagles trade the #85, #117 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Green Bay Packers for #62 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick.
Best NFL Fits: 2020 Quarterbacks
We’ve reached the halfway point in both the NFL and College Football seasons, and right about now is when fans of teams start looking forward to the NFL Draft. By now, you are well aware of whether or not your favorite team is in the hunt, or onto 2020. You might even know who your favorite team is going to look to target come April.
For the teams near the top of the projected draft board, most of them are in need of the same thing; a franchise quarterback. This draft class has a ton of quarterbacks with high upside. The question then becomes, which one should you take? Which player is going to give your team the best chance of success?
Plenty can change from now until the NFL Draft (and you best believe that it will), but these are my thoughts on where the big name college quarterbacks would fit the best in the NFL.
Tua Tagovailoa: Miami Dolphins- It is hard to say that a quarterback’s best fit is a team without any long term pieces on it’s roster. Having said that, this is the exact reason why Tagovailoa’s best true fit is Miami. They can tailor an offense to him with all of their draft capital and cap space. In terms of the player’s fit to the NFL, Tagovailoa has a modern day skill set. He throws well on the move, he extends plays with his legs, and has the arm strength to put pressure on opposing defenses. Even though I am not sure he warrants the first overall selection, I think it is safe to say he will be that guy come April.
Justin Herbert: Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Herbert has had a very strange 2019 campaign. He has not progressed at all, but he also has not regressed either. He has made some good throws, but in no game has he made a throw that makes you think he is “the guy.” Herbert has kind of just existed in limbo as a draft prospect. His lack of ability to make players better has led me to believe that he may be a system guy in the NFL. Therefore, I decided the ideal fit for Herbert is the team with the most weapons and best overall offense among QB needy teams; the Buccaneers. Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Head Coach Bruce Arians will really help him blossom early.
Joe Burrow: Tennessee Titans- Burrow has come from out of nowhere like he is Randy Orton delivering an RKO during the 2019 collegiate season. He has shown the ability to deliver the ball on time and on target in the short and intermediate windows. The one concern is how much of his great year is due to his talented WRs Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, as well as the terrific offensive game plans Steve Ensminger and Ed Orgeron are dialing up each week? In short, if you ask me right now if Burrow is a franchise quarterback, or a modern day game manager (meaning he can throw for 300+ and win a game or two, but he’s not a 4,500 yards kind of player), I would lean towards a game manager. The kid is smart, and he is accurate. I’ll stick him in Tennessee with a good defense and running game.
Editor’s Note: This opinion on Burrow could drastically change once they play Alabama.
Jacob Eason: Minnesota Vikings- This is a weird one, because the recent play of Kirk Cousins may lead you to believe he can be the guy once again. However, that is the trap. Cousins is not the guy, and he has proved that in every big moment he’s been in.
Having said that, Jacob Eason could probably benefit from sitting a year and working on his footwork, along with his timing. So Cousins gets one more year, Eason sits and learns how to read NFL defenses, and then you insert the gunslinger into an offense that is actually loaded with weapons.
Jalen Hurts: Cincinnati Bengals- The Bengals have one of the worst rosters in football. They have no direction, and a super young Head Coach. There is a very real possibility that the Bengals are going for the two year tank and trying to get Trevor Lawrence in 2021.
That is why Jalen Hurts is the perfect QB for them in 2020. Hurts will not be a first round selection despite the monster year he is having statistically. He still does not have the biggest arm, and even though his anticipation has improved, he still has a ways to go in terms of seeing NFL open.
Now Hurts does make plays with his legs and he can improvise on the move, so if they hit on the pick, it could be a home run. I especially like the idea of pairing him with Head Coach Zac Taylor. I think they could create a very interesting, up-tempo offense that could be difficult to slow down.
Ultimately, this would be a low risk, high reward day two selection that is not only a good fit for Hurts, but a good fit for the Bengals.
Jake Fromm: STAY IN SCHOOL- If Jake Fromm opts to come out after this atrocious season, I would be stunned. He has regressed in every facet of the game. Fromm has neglected to put throws into NFL open windows and he has made some poor decisions with the ball because it is his first read. I already questioned his arm strength, and so far he has done nothing to answer those questions either. He will not be a first rounder if he comes out, which means he should just stay and try to improve his game next year.
Jordan Love: Los Angeles Chargers- You could insert a number of different teams that have an aging QB and need to find the heir to the throne. I chose the Chargers because Philip Rivers has shown some age this season, and they most likely will not be bad enough in either of the next two seasons to grab a “top tier,” guy in the draft. Love is a playmaker; he makes a ton of A+ throws outside the pocket. The area of his game that needs development is his ability to stay in the pocket and make throws from the pocket. A few years on the bench learning the finer points of Quarterback play could help Love become a starter in the NFL down the road.
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