New York Jets

Jordan Katz 2025 NFL Mock Draft 3.0: Post FA

Posted on March 31, 2025 Updated on April 8, 2025

It may be April Fools, but this is no laughing matter folks! We are less than a month away from the NFL Draft!

A lot has changed since Mock Draft 2.0. The Titans appear to be locked into Cam Ward, the Giants may not be selecting a quarterback at three after signing Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, and the NFL Combine has led to the rise and fall of many prospects.

There also remain so many question marks at the top. Will the Browns actually pick a quarterback at two? Do the Patriots try and trade back if the Browns and Giants both pass on a quarterback? Will there be any teams looking to move into the top 10 for a premier talent? This draft is truly a mystery, and we do not have much time left before it is upon us!

So, where do we stand heading down the home stretch of Draft SZN? Let’s get into it!

ROUND ONE

1) Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB Miami- The Titans opted to pass on the available quarterbacks in free agency, which means they have likely been bluffing this entire time and are selecting Cam Ward first overall. While Ward has his detractors, his ability to read from a clean pocket and anticipate throwing windows makes him the runaway top quarterback of this group.

2) Cleveland Browns: Abdul Carter, EDGE Penn State- Carter is a lock to be the first non-quarterback selected next month. He has elite dip-and-bend ability off the edge, and he runs the arch to the quarterback incredibly well. Carter’s get-off is also tremendous, which is vital if you are a slightly undersized pass rusher. In a normal draft, Carter would be a top 10 pick anyway, but the lack of top-end talent in this one makes him a shoo-in to be selected highly.

Editor’s Note: I still don’t believe the Browns are taking a quarterback here, but I do think they will look into trading back into round one should a quarterback fall farther than expected.

3) New York Giants: Travis Hunter, WR/CB Colorado- After the acquisitions of Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, the Giants will likely take “BPA,” here at three. A quarterback is still in play for them later in round one via trade (hint hint, wink wink, nudge nudge), but it won’t be at this spot.

Should this selection be Hunter, I expect the Giants to use him as a receiver. Hunter can take pressure off Malik Nabers, and he makes people miss with the ball in his hands.

4) New England Patriots: Jalon Walker, EDGE/LB Georgia- Mike Vrabel’s defense is going to get after the passer in 2025. The Pats have already added Harold Landry and Milton Williams to beef up the pass rush. A chess piece like Walker, who can play all over the defense, would be a great pick here. He gets home from multiple spots on the defensive front, which is something Vrabel would love to have in his defense.

5) Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, IDL Michigan- Jacksonville could go several different directions here. Their offensive line needs a lot of help, so that is definitely in play here. However, the middle of the Jaguars’ defense was a disaster last year. Mason Graham adds a pass-rushing punch from the interior, and his gap control is strong as well.

6) Las Vegas Raiders: Tetairoa McMillian, WR Arizona—Tet McMillian is an interesting evaluation in terms of his draft stock. He is not the “slam-dunk top receiver” many perceive him to be. In fact, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah does not have him as his top receiver right now. This could mean he falls further than people expect on draft day.

The thing he has going for him is the number of teams at the top that need playmakers. The Raiders, Jets, Panthers, and Saints could all use to add a pass catcher. If McMillian checks enough boxes in NFL circles, he will land in the top 10.

7) New York Jets: Armand Membou, OL Missouri- The Jets will have an interesting debate if Membou makes it to them at seven. Tyler Warren is a perfect fit and a massive need as well. Having said that, this team is going to run the ball and play defense next year, and you need a mauler at right tackle to do that.

Membou is that mauler. His tape screams elite run blocker, and his combine screams elite athleticism. Ultimately, the Jets will solidify their offensive line if Membou makes it here rather than selecting a top-tier tight end.

8) Carolina Panthers: Tyler Warren, TE Penn State- Warren is regarded as one of the best players in the draft. He’s an elite blocker, a matchup nightmare in the red zone, and he uses his body well in his routes. Having Warren in the middle of the field would be a massive aid to the development of Bryce Young, and it would bolster the Panthers’ receiving corps.

9) New Orleans Saints: Will Campbell, OL LSU- The Saints need… everything. Campbell’s a day one starter at tackle or guard in the NFL, making him the selection.

However, keep an eye on New Orleans attempting to move down and acquire assets in this draft. This team has a lot of holes and a lot of aging players. They need depth ASAP.

10) Chicago Bears: Ashton Jeanty, RB Boise State- A sneaky fit for Jeanty in this draft is the Bears at 10. Not only did Chicago use a top 30 visit on him, but D’Andre Swift ran for an appalling 3.8 yards per carry last season. The Bears must run the ball better in 2025 to alleviate pressure from Caleb Williams. This could be a surprising pick that goes down next month.

11) San Francisco 49ers: Will Johnson, CB Michigan- The 49ers are experiencing the cap issues surrounding the necessity of paying a franchise quarterback. This team has been forced to move a lot of talent over the last two years. One area they are lacking in is their defensive backfield.

Will Johnson is a perfect cover-three corner. He’s long, he has good technique out of his backpedal, and he trails with success.

12) Dallas Cowboys: Omarion Hampton, RB North Carolina- Two running backs in the top 12 would be bizarre, but it has happened recently with Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs in 2023. This draft has a few elite running back prospects, including Omarion Hampton. He showed home run speed at the combine, and he can make defenders miss in the open field. This is Hampton’s ceiling if Jeanty goes before the Cowboys at 12.

13) Miami Dolphins: Josh Simmons, OT Ohio State- Terron Armstead’s best football is behind him, making the Dolphins an ideal landing spot for Simmons. Simmons is a day one left tackle if he’s healthy. His footwork is the best of the tackles in pass protection, and he’s able to wall off defenders with accurate strikes.

However, because he’s recovering from a knee injury, he could benefit from sitting a year. That makes the 34-year-old Armstead a great mentor for Simmons.

14) Indianapolis Colts: Colston Loveland, TE Michigan- I still think we get some chaos at the top and Loveland falls. However, the Colts need the tight end position so badly, they have to aggressively pursue Warren and Loveland in this draft.

In a normal year, Loveland would be the unequivocal top tight end. He’s a threat to win routes from multiple spots on the field, he’s a red zone mismatch, and Loveland can also block with the best of them.

15) Atlanta Falcons: Mike Green, EDGE Marshall- We are once again going to give Atlanta a pass rusher in Mock Draft 3.0! Mike Green was the big winner of Senior Bowl week, and while he did not test at the Combine, it shouldn’t affect his stock. He converts speed to power well on the edge, and his move-set is strong.

16) Arizona Cardinals: Shemar Stewart, EDGE Texas A&M- Stewart was another massive winner from the combine in Indianapolis, which only elevated his stock further. While his raw statistics were not outstanding at Texas A&M, many scouts love his pressure numbers and his ability to collapse the pocket. He would immediately bolster the Cardinals’ defensive front.

17) Cincinnati Bengals: Mykel Williams, EDGE Georgia- I’m still watching the Mykel Williams draft stock as we head down the home stretch of draft season. He put on a strong pro day at Georgia, and he’s probably the best athlete of the top edge rushers in this draft. If a team falls in love with his athleticism and thinks they can coach up the talent that underwhelmed in his final year at Georgia, I think Williams could sneak into the top 15.

18) *TRADE* New York Giants (from Seahawks): Shedeur Sanders, QB Colorado- Something very few are on is the idea of Shedeur Sanders’ sliding in this draft. Sanders’s interview struggles at the combine have led some to become concerned about his ability to lead at the next level. On top of that, the teams at the top chose to answer their quarterback questions with veterans.

Therefore, while Sanders is still a lock for the first round, his guaranteed top 10 selection is in question. If he slides outside the top 10, a lot of teams at the top of round two will try to trade back into round one to get a fifth-year option out of Sanders.

Keep an eye on the Giants, Browns, and Raiders in a scenario where Sanders does slide. All three would still want Sanders as their quarterback of the future, but maybe not at the expense of filling out the rest of the roster. In this mock, it’s the Giants that make the move.

The Trade: The New York Giants trade the #34, a 2026 2nd-round pick, and a 2027 2nd-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks for the 18th overall selection.

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jihaad Campbell, LB Alabama- Campbell is an elite playmaker at the second level of the defense. He fills the right gaps against the run, and Campbell is also strong in coverage; he shows a good sense of reading the quarterback’s eyes in the middle. Todd Bowles can turn Campbell into an elite playmaker at the second level.

20) *TRADE* Philadelphia Eagles (from Broncos): Matthew Golden, WR Texas- With the rumors surrounding a trade of both AJ Brown and Dallas Goedert, expect the Eagles to pursue a pass catcher in this draft.

Some think Golden is the best receiver in this draft. He had a great combine, showing home-run speed with a 4.29 40 time. Golden also led the FBS in 20+ yard receptions, meaning the combine matches the tape. That’s when a player can rise up draft boards.

The Trade: The Eagles trade the #32 and #64 to the Denver Broncos for the #20 and #197.

21) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jaxson Dart, QB Ole Miss- Even if the Steelers land Aaron Rodgers, as many think will happen, they still could add a quarterback of the future in this draft. The Steelers have met with Dart, and there is a lot of buzz around them selecting Dart regardless of what happens.

Sitting Jaxson Dart gives him the best chance of success. He flashes some elite arm talent, and he can make some insane throws. However, the mental mistakes and issues reading the defense are also evident on tape. Allowing him to learn behind Aaron Rodgers is beneficial for all parties involved.

22) Los Angeles Chargers: Jahdae Barron, CB Texas- Many have Jahdae Barron in the 10-20 range, which is definitely in play for him. He’s a swiss army knife in the back end, winning reps at nickel and on the boundary. However, one of the positions that does have depth at the top in this draft is cornerback. Therefore, don’t be shocked if Barron goes lower than expected in a few weeks.

23) Green Bay Packers: Donovan, Ezeiruaku, EDGE Boston College- The Packers will likely address the trenches on both sides of the ball early in this draft. Ezeiruaku is a bit undersized, but he uses his length well, which will be attractive to a lot of General Managers.

24) Minnesota Vikings: Nick Emmanwori, S South Carolina- Emmanwori put up a ridiculous showing at the Combine last month, catapulting him into the conversation for top safety in this draft. Minnesota needs a hard-hitting safety that can cover in the back end and come up and play the run, which describes Emmanwori to a tee. Vikings fans, here is your eventual Harrison Smith replacement.

25) Houston Texans: Josh Conerly Jr., OT Oregon- The Texans’ offensive line is amidst an overhaul, making this their primary need in this draft. Conerly is an interesting prospect. His athleticism in pass protection jumps off the page, but his technique in the little fundamentals of offensive line play needs a lot of work. Having said that, any reader of my mocks knows that the NFL will overdraft high-quality athletes; it happens every year. A team will take a chance on Conerly’s potential early in this draft.

26) Los Angeles Rams: Grey Zabel, IOL North Dakota State- Zabel’s senior bowl week catapulted him safely into the top 40 of this draft. The Rams could be a team that moves up for a need in this draft, but if they stay put, getting Zabel to start along the interior would be ideal.

27) Baltimore Ravens: Derrick Harmon, IDL Oregon- With a few needs on the defensive side of the ball, Baltimore is an interesting team to watch in the back end of this draft. Harmon is a quality run-stopper with the ability to collapse the pocket as a pass rusher. This is a sneaky great fit in the back end of this draft.

28) Detroit Lions: Tyler Booker, IOL Alabama- Another great fit in the back end of this draft is Booker to the Detroit Lions. He’s a run game mauler; Booker plays with excellent leverage when he attacks the defender in the run game. Yes, the pass rush technique needs work, but the Lions’ offensive line is so good that they can hide him upfront while he improves in this area.

29) Washington Commanders: Malaki Starks, S Georgia- The floor for Malaki Starks in this draft feels like the Commanders at 29. They need a safety badly, and Starks is the best single high safety in the draft. He will be a turnover machine at the next level.

30) Buffalo Bills: Trey Amos, CB Ole Miss- A lot of the mock draft experts love Trey Amos in this draft. He showed elite athleticism at the combine, and he’s a fun watch on tape. Amos is competitive in man coverage, showing the willingness to be physical with receivers. He also uses his length very nicely. This is a perfect fit for the Bills’ defense.

31) Kansas City Chiefs: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT Texas- Banks has fallen down draft boards a bit after a subpar combine, but the tape is still one of the best in this draft as a tackle. Many of the offensive linemen in this draft are better suited to move inside. Banks is a true tackle, and that should keep him safely in round one.

32) *TRADE* Denver Broncos (from Eagles): TreyVeyon Henderson, RB Ohio State- Three running backs in the top 40 feels like a lock in this draft. It’s a weaker draft class, and the running backs are truly elite. Denver needs a true home-run threat in the backfield to unlock the rest of this offense, and Henderson is exactly that kind of runner. They move back, acquire assets, and select a difference maker.

The Trade: See pick #20.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2025 NFL Combine, 2025 NFL Draft, 2025 NFL Mock Draft, Abdul Carter, Ashton Jeanty, Cam Ward, Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL Combine, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Shedeur Sanders, Tennessee Titans, Tet McMillian, Travis Hunter.

Jordan Katz 2025 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Post Super Bowl

Posted on February 20, 2025

We are on to the second edition of Mock Draft SZN for 2025! There have been a lot of rumors circulating since Mock Draft 1.0, so this mock has a lot of changes. There have been a lot of risers and fallers since the Senior Bowl, and there will be even more after the NFL Combine in a few weeks. This draft season is going to be wild, so there’s a good chance this mock looks very different than my eventual final version in a few months.

Having said that, there are definitely some trends I feel I am ahead on (Jaxson Dart round one), and that’s why we play the game!

Let’s Mock!

ROUND ONE

1) Tennessee Titans: Abdul Carter, EDGE Penn State- Recently the Titans brass was quoted as saying they will not pass on a generational talent just to select a quarterback first overall. Whether that’s a bluff to up trade value or their actual plan remains to be seen; but if it is true, this selection is either Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter.

Many are leaning toward Carter because his upside as a pass rusher is generational. He has elite athleticism around the edge and multiple moves in his arsenal when rushing the passer.

2) *TRADE* New York Giants (from Browns): Shedeur Sanders, QB Colorado- Giants fans reading this, I can sense your displeasure with this prediction. However, I think it’s time to embrace reality. Brian Daboll has sung Sanders’s praise at every turn during this draft process so far. Sanders was also seen throwing with Malik Nabers on the streets of NYC. I think Sanders will do everything in his power to land in New York or Vegas, and right now, the Giants seem more interested in Sanders than the Raiders…

…unless Matthew Stafford winds up in New York.

The Trade: The New York Giants trade the #3, #34, and a 2026 3rd-round pick to the Cleveland Browns for the #2 overall selection.

3) *TRADE* Cleveland Browns (from Giants): Travis Hunter, WR/DB Colorado- The Browns are a logistical nightmare when it comes to predicting this draft. They might trade Myles Garrett and do a complete rebuild, they might select a QB and figure it out later, or they might try to reload and take the best player available to help them win.

With the issues surrounding their cap, I think it’s unwise to select a rookie QB and “throw him to the wolves,” with a lesser roster. That’s why Hunter is the selection, for now.

The Trade: See pick #2.

4) New England Patriots: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT Texas– Will Campbell is the top offensive lineman according to most, but many also see him as a guard at the next level, which could hurt his draft stock. Banks is viewed by many as a left tackle, which separates him from the majority of this class in terms of upside. If Banks tests well at the combine, he can be a top-five pick.

5) Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, IDL Michigan- This feels like the easiest pick of the first round. Jacksonville needs help along the interior of their defensive line, and Graham is one of the elite prospects in this draft.

6) Las Vegas Raiders: Cam Ward, QB Miami- The Raiders are the most likely team in this draft to select a quarterback in round one. Whether Ward or Sanders is the target remains to be seen, but expect Vegas to make a big play for a quarterback in this draft.

Editor’s note: Keep an eye on Vegas and Cam Ward moving forward. The rumors have cooled on them and Sanders, and if Vegas gets aggressive and trades up in the draft, I think it’s for Ward.

7) New York Jets: Will Johnson, CB Michigan- This pick stays the same from Mock Draft 1.0, and will continue to stay the same until the Jets offseason plays out in free agency. Having two shutdown corners is such a weapon for a team’s defense. Johnson across from Sauce Gardner makes up for the impending loss of DJ Reed.

8) Carolina Panthers: Jalon Walker, EDGE/LB Georgia- Carolina needs a chess piece on the defensive side of the ball to elevate their defense. Walker can be just that. He lines up everywhere, he makes plays at the second level of the defense, and he can get to the passer.

9) New Orleans Saints: Tetairoa McMillian, WR Arizona- Chris Olave’s injuries have decimated the Saints’ offense in recent years because their receiving core lacks depth. McMillian is the top receiver in the draft, and his “YAC,” ability will make him a very productive pro in today’s NFL.

10) Chicago Bears: Will Campbell, OL LSU- As long as you give the Bears an offensive lineman, you stand a chance in whatever mock draft you are doing. Chicago has to protect Caleb Williams better moving forward. Campbell is the best offensive lineman in the draft (by far, in my opinion), but his draft stock will be determined at the NFL combine because his measurables may put him at guard in the NFL.

11) San Francisco 49ers: Walter Nolan, IDL Ole Miss- If Will Johnson goes before the Niners select, look for them to pivot to interior defensive line. What was once a vaunted front four has come back down to earth after the departure of Arik Armstead. Nolan’s quick twitch nature and ability to get to the passer would be explosive alongside Nick Bosa.

12) Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Booker, IOL Alabama- The Cowboys need to continue to revamp their offensive line during this offseason. It’s not the “sexy pick,” so Jerry Jones likely won’t make it, but Booker is so obviously the selection because of his intensity at the point of attack. Plus, Jerry has to do something logical eventually, right?

13) Miami Dolphins: Kenneth Grant, IDL Michigan- The interior of the Dolphins defense was awful in 2024. Grant would change that on day one. He’s a space eater against the run, and he’s athletic enough to shed blocks and make plays.

14) Indianapolis Colts: Grey Zabel, OL North Dakota State- The interior of the Colts line is losing two starters this year, including starting center Ryan Kelly. Zabel had a phenomenal senior bowl week which has catapulted him into the round one conversation. He’s started in a number of spots along the offensive line, and looked very comfortable at center during the Senior Bowl week. If he tests well at the combine, he should be a lock in the middle of round one.

15) Atlanta Falcons: Mike Green, EDGE Marshall- The biggest senior bowl week winner was Mike Green, who dominated reps left and right throughout the week. On tape, he shows elite ability to dip and bend around the edge, but the ability to play with power at the point of attack during senior bowl week elevated him up draft boards.

Even though Atlanta hasn’t taken a first-round edge rusher since Vic Beasley, which was a massive whiff for both them and myself, one of these years they will address the pass rusher position.

16) Arizona Cardinals: Mykal Williams, EDGE Georgia- Speaking of teams that need an elite pass rusher, Arizona is in a perfect position to take one here in the middle of round one. While this is a weaker draft class on tape, there are some players with elite upside because of their immeasurable athleticism.

Mykal Williams is one of those players. His tape was up and down in 2024, but because of his ability to convert speed into power and get around the edge, he can be elite.

17) Cincinnati Bengals: Tyler Warren, TE Penn State- Pass catcher is the top issue for the Bengals this offseason. Should they sign Tee Higgins, that resolves everything.

However, because of the Ja’Marr Chase contract, it makes more sense for them to go in a cheaper direction.

Warren solves two needs at once for the Bengals. He creates a pass-catching threat in the middle of the field, and he adds a threat in the red zone to take coverage away from Chase.

18) Seattle Seahawks: Armand Membou, IOL Missouri- Membou is another offensive tackle prospect in this draft who projects better at guard. He’s at his best when he gets his hands on defenders quickly and uses the power in his strikes and his base to wall off defenders. Seattle needs help along the interior, so the fit makes sense here as well.

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Emeka Egbuka, WR Ohio State- The Bucs have some hard decisions to make this offseason, and one of those is the contract of Chris Godwin. Godwin’s injury history outweighs the talent he has on the field, which is one of the reasons the Bucs could go in a different direction.

Even after the emergence of Jalen McMillian, a quality route runner like Egbuka still makes sense for the Bucs at this selection.

20) Denver Broncos: Colston Loveland, TE Michigan- Denver needs to continue to add pass-catching weapons to help elevate Bo Nix moving forward. Courtland Sutton emerged as a borderline number-one wide receiver this year, but the Broncos still need a threat in the middle of the field.

Enter Loveland. He understands how to use his size at the top of the route to create separation. His skills in the middle of the field from the slot would be an excellent fit in Head Coach Sean Payton’s offense.

21) *TRADE* New York Jets (from Steelers): Jaxson Dart, QB Ole Miss- There is a lot of buzz at the moment around the Steelers picking Dart at this selection. In my opinion, that’s to spark a trade-down. The Steelers are still in win-now mode, making them a much better fit for a veteran quarterback than a rookie, particularly one who regularly appears on the Pat McAfee Show.

Meanwhile, the Jets, who are moving on from “he who shall not be named” (IYKYK), are still searching for their quarterback savior, making them a logical team to trade up for a quarterback.

Dart has fascinating traits. He makes off-platform throws look easy, he’s a threat with his legs, and he answered the questions about his arm strength during a quality senior bowl week. Dart should be the third quarterback off the board, and look for multiple teams to attempt to move up for him in a few months.

The Trade: The New York Jets trade the #42, a 2026 2nd round pick, and a 2027 3rd round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 21st overall selection and a 2027 4th round pick.

22) Los Angeles Chargers: Ashton Jeanty, RB Boise State- Running backs are abundant in this draft, and they will likely go higher than we are used to seeing. Jeanty had an all-world final campaign at Boise State, breaking records left and right. His feel for finding the lanes to run through and being patient as a runner makes him an elite prospect. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh loves to use the run to set up play-action pass, so having a difference-maker like Jeanty makes perfect sense for the team moving forward.

23) Green Bay Packers: Josh Simmons, OT Ohio State- Simmons is someone I’m keeping an eye on during the draft process. There are not many true left tackle prospects in this draft. Before his knee injury, Simmons was having a phenomenal season at THE Ohio State. His balance and poise when he’s in the vertical set is his best trait, and he has quality power in his strikes as well. Do not be shocked if he goes higher than expected in April.

24) Minnesota Vikings: Jahdae Barron, CB Texas- Even if the Vikings bring back Byron Murphy, they still need help in the secondary. Barron lined up in a number of spots at Texas, but in my opinion, his most impressive work was in the slot. He can blitz, and he can mirror receivers in the short-yardage windows. The fit here makes a ton of sense for the Vikings.

25) Houston Texans: Derrick Harmon, IDL Oregon- Harmon is a similar player to Barron in the sense that he’s solid in a lot of areas but doesn’t have one standout trait. His ability to play the run and control his gap is where he excels the most. Houston needs help along the interior, which will likely be this selection if they are unable to trade down.

26) Los Angeles Rams: Matthew Golden, WR Texas- The amount of question marks around the Rams offseason makes this an impossible selection to call at the moment. However, if we operate under the assumption that they move on from Cooper Kupp, they will need a number two target to go alongside Puka Nacua.

Golden is a darling of many in this draft because of his skills and knowledge as a route runner. He does not possess elite physical traits, but his skill set is perfect for Head Coach Sean McVay.

27) Baltimore Ravens: Shemar Stewart, EDGE/DL Texas A&M- Somehow, Baltimore winds up stealing talented players in the back end of round one every year. Stewart’s production wasn’t spectacular in terms of raw statistics, but he generated a ton of pressures during his final year at A&M. This is a perfect fit.

28) Detroit Lions: Donovan Jackson, IOL Ohio State- Kevin Zietler is likely to leave in free agency, which creates an opening on the Lions’ offensive line unit that they would love to fill with a rookie contract. Jackson’s ability to gain leverage on defenders would make him an excellent fit in the running scheme of Detroit.

29) Washington Commanders: Luther Burden III, WR Missouri- Playmakers are a necessity for the Commanders in the offseason on both sides of the ball. Burden is a “YAC,” monster that fits well opposite Terry McLaurin.

30) Buffalo Bills: Malaki Starks, S Georgia- Damar Hamlin is due for a payday, which likely happens elsewhere. Malaki Starks is a day-one starting safety that can do it all. His willingness to come up and tackle combined with the angles he takes to the football in the secondary should help him at the next level.

31) Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Conerly Jr., OT Oregon- The Chiefs lost the Super Bowl because they allowed too much pressure on Patrick Mahomes. It’s probably time to address that issue that somehow only haunted them once in three seasons.

32) Philadelphia Eagles: TreyVeon Henderson, RB Ohio State- The most controversial pick of round one comes in here at the final first-round selection. Giving the Eagles a running back after Saquon Barkley’s MVP-worthy season seems like lunacy, but let me make my pitch.

Elite organizations have backup plans in place before they need them. For example, the Eagles selected Cam Jurgens well before Jason Kelce was going to retire, and then groomed him for the position. This year Jurgens played at an exceptional level and helped stabilize the interior of the offensive line.

Saquon Barkley is 28 years old with a lot of mileage on his tires, so to speak. He also has two years left on his contract, and running backs rarely get a top-tier third contract even if they are exceptional. In an elite running back class, the idea of the Eagles taking Barkley’s eventual successor makes a ton of sense.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2025 NFL Combine, 2025 NFL Draft, 2025 NFL Mock Draft, Abdul Carter, Ashton Jeanty, Cam Ward, Cleveland Browns, Jaxson Dart, Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Combine, NFL Draft, Shedeur Sanders, Tennessee Titans, Travis Hunter.

Jordan Katz Prediction Style NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Pre-Free Agency

Posted on March 11, 2020 Updated on March 11, 2020

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.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2020 NFL Draft, 2020 NFL Mock Draft, Andrew Thomas, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Austin Jackson, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, CeeDee Lamb, Chase Young, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, CJ Henderson, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Denzel Mims, Detroit Lions, Grant Delpit, Green Bay Packers, Henry Ruggs III, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Isaiah Simmons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jacob Eason, Javon Kinlaw, Jedrick Wills, Jeffrey Okudah, Jeremy Chinn, Jerry Jeudy, Joe Burrow, Jonathan Taylor, Jordan Love, Josh Jones, Justin Herbert, K'Lavon Chaisson, Kansas City Chiefs, Kenneth Murray, Kristian Fulton, Kyle Dugger, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Lucas Niang, Mekhi Becton, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Combine, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Oakland Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Tristan Wirfs, Tua Tagovailoa, Washington Redskins, Xavier McKinney.

Jordan Katz 2020 NFL Mock Draft 4.0: Post Combine

Posted on March 1, 2020 Updated on March 2, 2020

The most pivotal weekend in the draft process has come and gone, which means it is time for an updated mock draft. We had some extremely impressive athletic performances during the weekend’s proceedings in Indianapolis. Henry Ruggs and Isaiah Simmons dominated the show, but there were plenty of other players that raised their draft stocks significantly at the Combine.

A few things to keep in mind about my personal style mock drafts. This is strictly what I would do if I were in charge of all 32 teams. If a trade is made, it is because it makes sense for both teams. The selections are based off of my own rankings, as well as my evaluation of team needs. There is also a hidden twist in this mock draft, which you will see early on (Big J tease right there).

Mock Lyfe Never Sleeps, and we’re grinding our gears once again. Let’s get to it.

ROUND ONE

1) *Miami Dolphins via Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU- Part of doing mock drafts is playing out different scenarios, even in a personal style mock draft like this one. So let’s shake things up and assume that Burrow pulls an Eli Manning, and says he does not want to play in Cincinnati. What do the Bengals do?

I think the easy answer is to trade out. Even if Cincinnati has to take “less value,” they would easily pull at least two first round picks from Miami in a trade. In short, Cincinnati can still pull enough value to create a roster that’s ready to insert a QB in 2021. Miami uses their assets to land a franchise QB, while Cincinnati gets their roster ready for Trevor Lawrence next year.

2) Washington Redskins: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State- In my previous mock, I gave Washington Andrew Thomas, a franchise left tackle to protect their franchise QB. This time, I’ll give them a franchise changing defensive talent.

By now you know that Young is an elite player that changes games as a pass rusher. For those that want to argue “he disappeared late in the season,” the dude had 10 QB pressures and four QB hits against Clemson alone. That narrative is ridiculous, and it’s generated by people looking for clicks. Young is a player that changes your franchise, plain and simple.

3) *Indianapolis Colts via Detroit Lions: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon- In my previous mock, I had the Colts make the jump up for Herbert around pick seven. He’s an ideal guy for Head Coach Frank Reich; a big guy that can make all the throws and moves around with plus athleticism. In this scenario where Joe Burrow chooses to not go to Cincy, the Bengals could still trade out and select a QB at five like Herbert. Therefore, the Colts have to move a little higher up the board to get their guy.

4) New York Giants: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia- While everyone is all over Mekhi Becton and Tristan Wirfs after this weekend, my top Dawg (if you know, you know) is still Andrew Thomas. His tape is just simply miles better than anyone I have ever scouted. Thomas is smart in pass protection, he throws a wicked first punch, and his hands are always ready for counters. With him “slipping,” to four, the Giants land their left tackle of the future.

5) *Cincinnati Bengals via Miami Dolphins: Jedrick Wills Jr., OT Alabama- If the Bengals do trade out because Joe Burrow refuses to play for them, it makes the most sense for them to build out a roster that can be competitive without elite QB play. Wills would sure up Cincinnati’s offensive line and give them the foundation to select Lawrence in 2021, as I mentioned above.

Editor’s Note: As you know by now from reading my personal style mock drafts, I am lower on Tua Tagovailoa than others. So while Tua is an option for the Bengals if Burrow opts to play elsewhere, for me, he is not.

6) Los Angeles Chargers: Tristan Wirfs, OT (TACKLE, Not Guard) Iowa- I mean, what else does this dude have to do to convince the masses that he is a franchise left tackle? He ran the 40 yard dash in 4.86 seconds, his 10 yard split was sub 1.7 seconds (a freakish time), and he showed elite power in his legs during vertical and broad jumps. We know his game matches his athleticism, so why move him to guard? Wirfs deserves the chance to start a tackle right away.

7) Carolina Panthers: Jeffrey Okudah, CB Ohio State- I thought about mocking a scenario where the Panthers re-sign James Bradbury, but I just can’t see them putting 15+ million into a corner with amount of needs they have. Instead, they use that money to rebuild their roster, and select the best cover corner in the draft like they did last time.

8) Arizona Cardinals: Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn- Arizona has a number of needs in the trenches, one of which is continuing to revamp their front seven. Brown did not have a good weekend, struggling during the athletic portion of the Combine. However, he still has phenomenal tape. His ability to win one-on-one matchups with quickness and power will make him a hot commodity early in the draft.

9) Jacksonville Jaguars: Isaiah Simmons, OLB/ILB Clemson- With all the talent at the top this year, someone has to fall once the Quarterbacks get mixed in. This time, that someone was the Unicorn. Jacksonville is in a prime position to capitalize on players that fall, and they do so here.

10) Cleveland Browns: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville- Think about how good of an athlete you have to be to run a 5.11 in the 40 at 364 pounds. Now imagine that player was a mauler up front with legit first round technique. That’s who Mekhi Becton is, and that’s the player the Browns are getting at 10.

11) New York Jets: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama- Okay, so in a world where the Jets have to go receiver, CeeDee Lamb should still be the choice. His game is the most complete of any receiver in the class. However, Ruggs proved why he’s my WR2 this weekend, so let’s make the case for him to be WR1.

If you believe Ruggs is a better route runner than the draft media is giving him credit for, which I do, then you have an elite player on your hands. Ruggs can win contested catches with strong hands and a big time vertical. In fact, he had the highest recorded vertical of any player to run a sub 4.3 in the history of the Combine (shout out to Nick Depinho for this stat). This is an elite playmaker, and in an era where you have to make YAC plays to be successful, maybe Ruggs deserves to be WR1.

12) Las Vegas Raiders: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma- Allow me to take this opportunity to explain why Lamb is still my WR1. Lamb is a threat to score in so many ways. He can take the top off of the defense, he’s a nightmare with the ball in his hands, and he’s ridiculously quick in and out of cuts. Lamb’s 10 yard split at the combine was 1.46, which is just .03 seconds slower than Henry Ruggs! His game is complete, and that’s why he is still WR1 on my board.

13) *Detroit Lions via Indianapolis Colts: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU- I prefer when the prospects work out at the combine because it’s a free chance to compete against your fellow draft prospects. However, I recognize that this is a business, and Chaisson made a good business decision. The edge rushers that did work out did not have a good weekend, making Chaisson a top 20 lock. His dip and bend ability would be a terrific fit in Matt Patricia’s aggressive defense.

14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU- Tampa Bay’s defense was number one against the run last year. However, they were third to last against the pass. Something tells me that the Bucs could use defensive backs this offseason. Todd Bowles plays man to man defense a lot, and Fulton shows good technique when mirroring and trailing receivers. This is a very good fit.

15) *Philadelphia Eagles via Denver Broncos: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama- Philadelphia getting aggressive for one of the big three wide receivers makes a lot of sense. They do need a corner, but they also need a real threat on the outside for Carson Wentz. If I were running the show, I would look to move up a few spots into the teens for whichever of the big three slides down the board a bit.

Editor’s Note: Jeudy had a really nice weekend. He showed some elite speed that people did not think he had. His strength is still as a route runner, but showing the top end speed was a plus for him.

16) Atlanta Falcons: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU- Gladney continues to rise up my personal mock drafts. His ability to mirror receivers from the boundary as well as the slot makes him a weapon at the next level. For a team that requires their corners to do a lot, Gladney’s footwork and technique make him a great fit in Atlanta.

17) Dallas Cowboys: Javon Kinlaw, DT South Carolina- In my previous mock, I assumed the Cowboys brought back Dak Prescott, but let Amari Cooper walk. This time, I assumed that both re-upped, which puts defense at the top of their draft needs.

Much like Chaisson, Kinlaw not working out this weekend definitely helped his draft stock. He was less productive than Derrick Brown on tape, but after the weekend, there is little doubt that he is significantly more athletic. Kinlaw may not have put the QB down a lot during college, but he won a lot of reps on tape with multiple moves and good quickness for his size. I think he would flourish with a team like Dallas.

18) *Cincinnati Bengals from Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU- Cincinnati needs playmakers on their roster, and Delpit is just that. He may have struggled during his final year at LSU, but Delpit is still an elite playmaker in the secondary with the ability to change games at the line of scrimmage. He’s an impact player, and the Bengals need those.

19) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Patrick Queen, ILB LSU- This pick stays the same from the last mock, largely because it’s just so obvious to me. Queen is a three down linebacker with the ability to cover tight ends and running backs out of the backfield. I think he’s a plug and play guy from day one in the middle of the front seven for any NFL team.

20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: CJ Henderson, CB Florida- “Mr. 4.39,” balled out this weekend in Indianapolis, and catapulted his draft stock even further. As someone who loved his footwork and knew the kind of athlete he was before the weekend started, this was the Combine I thought he would have. He can excel in both man and zone coverage, making him a really good fit in Jacksonville’s defense.

21) *Denver Broncos via Philadelphia Eagles: AJ Epenesa, DL Iowa- Epenesa did not have great times for a player on the edge. Having said that, he did test incredibly well for an interior defensive lineman. If you have been paying attention to my mock drafts, you know that I view him as a 3-4 defensive end. He’s a 3 tech and a 5 tech player, not a dip and bend guy. Use his strengths to his advantage. Denver is losing a few starters up front, which makes them a good landing spot for Epenesa.

22) Buffalo Bills: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU- Jefferson had a great weekend, and put himself into the round one conversation by showing top tier athleticism to match his quality route tree at LSU. Fortunately for me, I had a round one grade on him all along. Buffalo needs a true number one receiver, which is what I expect them to select in round one.

23) *Kansas City Chiefs via New England Patriots: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State- I loved this move by the Chiefs in my previous mock draft, so it stays in this one too. Dobbins has home run ability every time he touches it. He has elite vision as a one cut back, and makes plays in the passing game too. Kansas City trades up for the only weapon their offense is missing.

24) New Orleans Saints: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama- Another pick that stays the same from my previous mock, and it’s largely because of the medical reports about Tua. While he passed everything he had to, there are rumblings that teams may want him to sit for 2020. If that’s the case, when you combine that with where I evaluated his tape (I have questions about his ability to make progressions, as well as his ability to anticipate receivers out of their break), it makes more sense for teams to take him in the back end of round one.

25) Minnesota Vikings: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State- Arnette has first round tape. He’s physical with receivers, his footwork in trail coverage is clean, and he breaks quickly out of his backpedal. His 40 time was a bit concerning for someone that is not super long, but his tape is so good that if he answers the character concerns teams will have about him, I would take him in the top 40.

26) Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL LSU- I wanted to go a different direction with this pick, but if Miami lands Burrow because Burrow plays the “Eli Manning,” card with the Bengals, getting Burrow his Center from LSU feels like a layup.

27) Seattle Seahawks: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State- Gross-Matos did not participate in the athletic testing of the Combine, but he did choose to do the drills. And during the drills, he showed why he is the top guy in the second tier of edge rushers. He has a bevy of moves as a rusher, and he showed solid ability to run the edge and flatten towards the QB during the drills. Seattle needs pass rushers, making them a likely landing spot for Gross-Matos, both on my board and in real life.

28) Baltimore Ravens: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma- This is a little bit of an overdraft based on the tape grade I gave him, but Murray looked good this weekend. He showed elite athleticism for the linebacker position, and a quick twitch ability during the drills. Baltimore is losing a lot of positions along the front seven, so they reach a bit for the last three down linebacker in the 2020 class.

29) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Tennessee Titans: Jacob Eason, QB Washington- Eason went much higher in my previous mock draft, but the Bucs decided to play this one differently. Instead of taking a QB early, I played this mock draft like they landed a veteran free agent QB. If they do that, trading back into round one and having Eason sit for a year would make the most sense.

Editor’s Note: Eason is ahead of Tua on my personal board, but I think Tua is a better fit for Sean Payton than Eason is. Conversely, Eason is a better fit for Bruce Arians than Tua is.

30) Green Bay Packers: Denzel Mims, WR Baylor- The good news is that I was very high on Mims before the combine. He’s a big body receiver that excels down the field, separating with size and speed. He is what people thought Tee Higgins was, a Brandon Marshall-like receiver.

The bad news is, I did not have Mims high enough. He crushed his workout, running a strong 40 and the best three cone of the group. Let me say that again for the people in the back. At almost 6’3, he ran the best three cone of a loaded receiver group. Aaron Rodgers would love throwing to this kid.

31) San Francisco 49ers: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama- McKinney’s ball hawking ability in the Niners aggressive cover three defense is a match made in heaven. He can also roam from the single high spot in cover one. San Francisco does not have many needs, but one of them is a safety to control the last line of defense. This is a good fit for the player and the team.

32) *New England Patriots via Kansas City Chiefs: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan- Ruiz is one of my favorite prospects in this draft because he’s a smart offensive lineman with good athleticism. I love OL players that have the intelligence to play multiple positions up front, or to start for an extended period of time in college. The NFL looks for elite athletes and thinks they can teach them the technique necessary. I’ll take a smart player over the elite athlete along the OL any day of the week.

TRADES IN ROUND ONE

1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #18, #39, a 2021 2nd Round Pick, and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Cincinnati Bengals for the #1 Overall Selection.

2) Indianapolis Colts trade the #13, #34, #119, a 2021 1st Round Pick and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the Detroit Lions for the #3 Overall Selection.

3) Philadelphia Eagles trade the #21, #53 and #168 to the Denver Broncos for the #15 and #115.

4) Kansas City Chiefs trade the #32, #63 and a 2021 3rd Round Pick to the New England Patriots for the #23 and #195.

5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #45, #161 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Tennessee Titans for the #29 Overall Selection.

ROUND TWO

33) Cincinnati Bengals: Neville Gallimore, DT Oklahoma- Gallimore is an athletic pass rusher that would compliment Geno Atkins extremely well.

34) *Detroit Lions from Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson- Detroit is going to trade Darius Slay this offseason (see the latter portions of this mock draft for that prediction), which puts corner atop their needs this offseason.

35) Detroit Lions: Justin Madubuike, IDL Texas A&M- The depth in the defensive line group did not impress me much this weekend, which is why Madubuike’s athleticism as a pass rusher allows him to fly up the draft board this time.

36) New York Giants: Antoine Winfield Jr., DB Minnesota- Winfield answered the athletic questions people had about him, which should make him a top 40 lock. He mans up in the slot, and he can cover as a safety from cover one or cover two.

37) Los Angeles Chargers: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia- I don’t think Austin Eckeler and Justin Jackson can produce enough to replace Melvin Gordon, which is why I would select one of the talented running backs in this draft if I were the Chargers.

38) Carolina Panthers: Ross Blacklock, IDL TCU- Blacklock would be my number three IDL if he did not miss 2018 with an injury. He’s a better version of Gallimore and Madubuike on tape. Carolina gets a heck of a player here.

39) *Cincinnati Bengals via Miami Dolphins: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia- Hall had an ankle injury this year, which means has to test well at his pro day. If he does, and you combine that with his intelligence as well as his technique in off coverage, Hall will be a top 50 lock.

Editor’s Note: Look at the way Cincinnati has rebuilt their roster in this draft. That is why you build the roster before selecting the QB.

40) Arizona Cardinals: Austin Jackson, OT USC- Austin Jackson goes against everything I stand for with regards to OL prospects. However, I think his ability to knock players off the arch and his athleticism are too good. One team will take a swing on being able to teach him the finer points of OL play.

41) Cleveland Browns: Josh Uche, EDGE/OLB Michigan- The Browns need playmakers on their defense, and Uche is a playmaker as a pass rusher. He fits right in as a LEO linebacker on the Browns.

42) Jacksonville Jaguars: Van Jefferson, WR Florida- Jacksonville does not have enough weapons on offense to compete for the playoffs in 2020. Van Jefferson’s route running ability makes him a playmaker at the next level.

43) Chicago Bears via Las Vegas Raiders: Matthew Peart, OT UCONN- Peart showed up in a big way this weekend, and I like his technique in pass protection on tape too. He’s a good fit for Matt Nagy and the Bears.

44) Indianapolis Colts: Ashtyn Davis, SS California- Davis is a thumper with legit ability in cover two. He’s a perfect fit to play alongside Malik Hooker in the back end of the Colts defense.

45) *Tennessee Titans via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Lucas Niang, OT TCU- Jack Conklin is likely walking in free agency, and one of the reasons why is because this OT group is very strong. Niang’s power up front makes him a perfect fit on the right side of any NFL offensive line.

46) Denver Broncos: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn- The converted wide receiver turned corner has come a long way very quickly. Give him to a defensive guru like Vic Fangio, and he could turn into a star.

47) Atlanta Falcons: Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame- Okwara does not play the run particularly well, but this dude is a dog as a pass rusher. He dips and bends really well, and uses the cross chop and rip moves to win reps against opposing tackles.

48) New York Jets: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan- Bredeson does not have elite length, but he makes up for that with his intelligence. I really like this fit for Adam Gase and the Jets.

49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Ben Bartch, OT St. John’s- OL continues to fly off the board. The Steelers need a right tackle, which is what Bartch projects as at the next level because of his strength and ability in jump sets.

50) Chicago Bears: Kyle Dugger, FS/SS Lenoir-Rhyne- When I heard that Dugger was going to shine this weekend, I made sure to watch him before the proceedings. He jumps off the page as an athlete, which was obvious during the Combine. What I liked about his tape was his range, especially because he’s not particularly great at anticipating just yet. If he were younger (6th year senior), he would be a potential first round selection.

51) Dallas Cowboys: Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah- Dallas will add to their secondary with one of their first two selections in 2020. Johnson is a smart corner that mirrors well, and will fit nicely in the Cowboys secondary.

52) Los Angeles Rams: Jabari Zuniga, EDGE Florida- Zuniga showed the elite athleticism that I saw on tape throughout this weekend. He’s a quality dip and bend player off the edge. Zuniga replaces Dante Fowler, who should walk in free agency.

53) *Denver Broncos via Philadelphia Eagles: Tyler Biadasz, IOL Wisconsin- The enigma of the draft year is what happened to Tyler Biadasz. If a team can unlock his 2018 tape once again, they will have a starting center on their hands for 10+ years.

54) Buffalo Bills: Jonah Jackson, IOL Ohio State- Jackson is a good athlete with a high IQ at the LOS as well as at the second level. He’s a nice day two selection for a team needing a starting interior offensive linemen.

55) Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU- Devonta Freeman getting cut is a dead giveaway that the Falcons are selecting a running back from this ridiculously talented group.

56) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Cam Akers, RB Florida State- Speaking of needing a running back, Miami does not have a bell cow on the roster. Cam Akers is in fact that.

57) *Detroit Lions via Houston Texans: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU- Detroit trades Darius Slay to Houston and selects another target for Matt Stafford to groom into a productive receiver.

58) Minnesota Vikings: Saahdiq Charles, OT LSU- Charles struggles to pick up extra rushers, and does lose his technique at times. However, he’s an elite athlete who has the ability to slide with edge rushers. He could be a nice fit for a team on day two.

59) Seattle Seahawks: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn- Wanogho is a big time player in the run game. He moves edge players backwards and creates holes for running backs. He checks the boxes as an athlete as well.

60) Baltimore Ravens: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah- Baltimore is most likely going to tag Matthew Judon, but they need a plan in place if he walks the following year.

61) Tennessee Titans: Darnay Holmes, CB UCLA- Holmes makes an appearance in my second round because he showed ball skills I did not think he had during the drills at the Combine. Tennessee needs a nickel corner, which is exactly what Holmes is at the next level.

62) *New York Jets via Green Bay Packers: Matt Hennessy, IOL Temple- Temple tough produces yet another day two talent that should start in the NFL for years to come. The Jets trade up to land their starting center.

63) *New England Patriots via Kansas City Chiefs via San Francisco 49ers: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado- If New England is becoming more playmaker oriented with guys similar to N’Keal Harry, there are not many guys that make plays with the ball in their hands like Laviska Shenault.

64) Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State- Dantzler did not run well in Indianapolis, but he possesses quality footwork, and the necessary size and length that Seattle looks for in their corners.

TRADES IN ROUND TWO

1) Detroit Lions trade CB Darius Slay to the Houston Texans for the #57 Overall Selection.

2) New York Jets trade the #68, #117 and a 2020 4th Round Pick to the Green Bay Packers for the #62 and a 2020 5th Round Pick.

ROUND THREE

65) Cincinnati Bengals: Zack Baun, EDGE Wisconsin
66) Washington Redskins: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
67) Detroit Lions: Marlon Davidson, IDL Auburn
68) *Green Bay Packers from New York Jets via New York Giants: Troy Dye, ILB Oregon
69) Carolina Panthers: Jeremy Chinn, FS Southern Illinois
70) Miami Dolphins: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
71) Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Love, QB Utah State
72) Arizona Cardinals: Bryan Edwards, WR South Carolina
73) Jacksonville Jaguars: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
74) Cleveland Browns: Alohi Gilman, FS Notre Dame
75) Indianapolis Colts: Michael Pittman Jr., WR USC
76) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jack Driscoll, OL Auburn
77) Denver Broncos: Tee Higgins, WR Clemson
78) Atlanta Falcons: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
79) New York Jets: Troy Pride Jr., CB Notre Dame
80) Las Vegas Raiders: Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama
81) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Brandon Jones, SS Texas
82) Dallas Cowboys: Alton Robinson, EDGE Syracuse
83) Denver Broncos via Pittsburgh Steelers: Leki Fotu, IDL Utah
84) Los Angeles Rams: Malik Harrison, ILB Ohio State
85) Philadelphia Eagles: Akeem Davis-Gaither, ILB Appalachian State
86) Buffalo Bills: Michael Ojemudia, CB Iowa
87) New England Patriots: Davon Hamilton, IDL Ohio State
88) New Orleans Saints: Devin Duvernay, WR Texas
89) Minnesota Vikings: Curtis Weaver, EDGE Boise State
90) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers from Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans: Eno Benjamin, RB Arizona State
91) Las Vegas Raiders from Houston Texans via Seattle Seahawks: KJ Hamler, WR Penn State
92) Baltimore Ravens: Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama
93) Tennessee Titans: Tyler Johnson, WR Minnesota
94) Green Bay Packers: Hakeem Adeniji, OL Kansas
95) *Washington Redskins from Denver Broncos via San Francisco 49ers: Zack Moss, RB Utah
96) Kansas City Chiefs: Shane Lemieux, IOL Oregon

TRADES IN ROUND THREE

1) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #107 and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Cleveland Browns for the #90 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.

2) Washington Redskins trade the #98 and a 2021 5th Round Pick to the Denver Broncos for the #95 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2020 NFL Draft, 2020 NFL Mock Draft, AJ Epenesa, Andrew Thomas, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, CeeDee Lamb, Cesar Ruiz, Chase Young, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, CJ Henderson, Cleveland Browns, D'Andre Swift, Dallas Cowboys, Damon Arnette, Denver Broncos, Denzel Mims, Derrick Brown, Detroit Lions, Grant Delpit, Green Bay Packers, Henry Ruggs III, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Isaiah Simmons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jacob Eason, Javon Kinlaw, Jedrick Wills, Jeff Gladney, Jeffrey Okudah, Jerry Jeudy, JK Dobbins, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Justin Jefferson, K'Lavon Chaisson, Kansas City Chiefs, Kenneth Murray, Kristian Fulton, Kyle Dugger, Las Vegas Raiders, Lloyd Cushenberry, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Mekhi Becton, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Combine, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Patrick Queen, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Tristan Wirfs, Tua Tagovailoa, Washington Redskins, Xavier McKinney, Yetur Gross-Matos.

Jordan Katz 2020 NFL Mock Draft 3.0: Post Super Bowl

Posted on February 13, 2020 Updated on February 17, 2020

Mock Draft SZN is now in full swing, which means it’s time for round three of my Mock Drafts! A few things to keep in mind about my personal style mock drafts (here’s the link to my prediction style mock draft if you’re interesting in that; https://draftstock.net/2020/01/28/jordan-katz-2020-nfl-prediction-mock-draft-1-0/). In this mock draft, I take control of all 32 teams. This is what I think each team should do on draft day. I go off of my rankings and my draft evaluations, along with what I feel are the biggest needs for every team. As always, if I make a trade, it means that it made sense for both teams to make the deal (and as always, they are denoted with an asterisk). So if you disagree with all my selections, just remember, I don’t care. Let’s ride.

ROUND ONE

1) Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB LSU- Okay Cincinnati, here’s the deal; I’m giving you the franchise QB. It is now on you to build him an offensive line through this year’s free agency class. If you do not do this, please do not draft a quarterback before your roster is ready.

2) Washington Redskins: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia- This is a bit of a curveball, but it makes the most sense for the Redskins to grab their left tackle of the future considering they just picked Dwayne Haskins.

The media is much lower on Thomas than I am, and for the life of me, I cannot figure out why. In my opinion, this is a can’t miss prospect. He’s a mauler in the run game, he’s got a powerful punch in pass protection, and his slide allows him to stay with the quality dip and bend edge rushers. Washington beefs up their OL with Thomas at two.

3) *Atlanta Falcons via Detroit Lions: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State- Thomas Dimitroff recently said the Falcons are looking for game wreckers this offseason. They have already announced that Vic Beasley is walking in free agency, putting pass rush at the top of their wish list for the offseason. It’s a bold maneuver for the Falcons, but if Chase Young makes it past two, this could be the trade that gives them one more shot at a championship in the Matt Ryan era.

Editor’s Note: Detroit will look to trade out of the third selection because they need to rebuild this roster through the draft in order to compete in the coming years. Even if Chase Young is there, they need more than just Young to be a competitive team in 2020.

4) New York Giants: Isaiah Simmons, OLB/ILB Clemson- Simmons is by far the most interesting player in the draft. How many 6’4 linebackers have the capability of running a 4.35 in the 40, setting combine records in the vertical leap and broad jump, and can play up to five different positions on the defensive side of the ball? The Giants have plenty of needs, but Simmons can play three of those defensive needs throughout the course of one game, making him a natural fit.

5) Miami Dolphins: Jedrick Wills, OT Alabama- In my last mock draft I wrote about how one of Miami or Cincinnati should pursue Trevor Lawrence in 2021 because of the state their rosters are in. Assuming Cincinnati takes Burrow, that puts Miami in position to build their roster through free agency and the draft before selecting their franchise QB in next year’s draft.

Wills is widely regarded as the top tackle in this draft. He gains leverage at the point of attack with really sound technique. Even though his footwork in the vertical set can lag behind at times, he’s a day one left tackle in the NFL.

6) Los Angeles Chargers: Tristan Wirfs, OT Iowa- The tackles continue to fly off the board. Wirfs is being talked about as a guard at the next level, but I’m not sure why. He’s an elite athlete in space, he handles stunts and extra rushers well, and he strikes with power and precision. He’s an ideal right tackle at the next level.

Editor’s Note: Until the bevy of free agent quarterbacks sign their next contracts, I will assume the Chargers land a QB in free agency, and proceed to address their next biggest need here at six.

7) Carolina Panthers: Jeff Okudah, CB Ohio State- Okudah falling to seven is the dream scenario for the Panthers. He’s the best man cover corner I have seen in quite some time. Okudah can lock down a side of the field from day one, and be the chess piece in the secondary that Carolina is missing.

8) *Indianapolis Colts via Arizona Cardinals: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon- There is zero chance the Colts walk into 2020 with Jacoby Brissett as their only potential starting quarterback. Now this could mean a number of different things. The Colts could try to land a veteran backup in free agency. They could also knock on Andrew Luck’s door and see if the former Pro Bowler will come back to football.

A third option is trading up for a quarterback in this draft. Head Coach Frank Reich turned Carson Wentz into a star during his tenure in Philadelphia; perhaps he could do the same with Herbert, who emulates a fair amount of Wentz’s game. He can make all the throws, but he struggles with seeing NFL open windows. Herbert is smart with the ball, rarely forcing throws, but he also does not always give his playmaker a chance to go make a play. These are two things that Reich can help him with right away.

9) Jacksonville Jaguars: Derrick Brown, IDL- The once vaunted Jacksonville Jaguars defensive front was in the bottom 10 in sacks last year. Part of the reason is because they lack the elite athletes to get home from the middle of the field. Derrick Brown is that kind of guy.

10) Cleveland Browns: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville- Cleveland is yet another team near the top of this draft that will look to address the offensive line early on. Power is the name of the game for Mekhi Becton, he punches with precision and he’s able to bully opposing defensive linemen as if they were members of the secondary. Don’t sleep on his athleticism either. Even though he’s built like a brick house, Becton is very adept at getting to the second level and sealing off his target. He can be a successful pro at left or right tackle in the NFL.

11) New York Jets: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma- This is the nightmare scenario for the Jets, which may seem weird to some. Lamb is explosive with the ball in his hands and he separates well at the top of the stem; but his vertical ability is what makes him an elite prospect. The Jets land the top wideout in the draft and a dynamic target for Sam Darnold, so how is this bad?

Here’s why this is the nightmare scenario. The Jets need to come out of this offseason with a revamped, quality offensive line to help Sam Darnold progress. Adam Gase needs the OL to be good as well. A lot of his route combinations take time to develop, which you cannot execute without a quality OL. As good as the receivers at the top of the draft are, the wide receiver position is so loaded that you can get a playmaker in rounds two or three. The top tackles in this draft are head and shoulders better than the other linemen this year.

So while Lamb is a quality selection, it is not an ideal one for the Green and White.

12) Las Vegas Raiders: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama- Unlike the Jets, a playmaker is the Raiders top need. This team might have made the playoffs last year if Derek Carr had a legit number one target.

Ruggs is a speed demon. He’s a 4.2 guy, and he plays like it every time he touches the ball. Despite being only 6’0, he has an impressive catch radius as well. If Ruggs improves as a route runner, he goes from “Tyreek Hill esque,” to a better version of Hill.

13) *Arizona Cardinals via Indianapolis Colts: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU- Despite another phenomenal season from Chandler Jones, Arizona was middle of the pack in team sacks. Chaisson’s ability off the edge would have this defense set up to take a massive leap forward in 2020.

14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jacob Eason, QB Washington- Eason may not be beloved by the mock draft community, but I’m standing by him as a top 40 player that warrants a first round selection (you know, because he’s a quarterback….).

Eason has a cannon for an arm, and in a clean pocket, he can make all the throws. Touch passes are a bit of an issue, as is his decision making and technique when the pocket collapses. However, I really like the way he anticipates receivers out of their break. That’s what makes me believe that a good offensive mind can teach Eason how to keep his feet quiet in a chaotic pocket and deliver the ball with precision. In short, give Bruce Arians a guy like Eason, and magic will happen.

15) Denver Broncos: Javon Kinlaw, IDL South Carolina- Derek Wolfe, Shelby Harris and Adam Gotsis are all free agents during this offseason. Even if they bring back one or two, the front three needs to be addressed.

Kinlaw does not have the production on paper to warrant a top 15 selection, but his game does. Kinlaw loves the rip move and the club move (hand over hand as it’s more commonly referred to) to win one-on-one reps against opposing guards. He succeeded as a one tech and a three tech in college, and he will do the same at the next level because of his athleticism. Frankly, I’d give him some reps as a 5 tech because of how fluid his hips and ankles are. If he gets better at putting the Quarterback down, Kinlaw can be a star.

16) *Detroit Lions via Atlanta Falcons: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU- Detroit could have picked Okudah or Young at three, but they have a lot of needs. The only thing keeping them together every year is Matt Stafford, and I’m not sure 6-10 every year counts as “keeping them together.” Trading down, acquiring future assets, and still selecting a talented corner like Fulton, is a better method. That’s the perks of having a strong draft class at the top.

17) Dallas Cowboys: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama- I think everyone is assuming Amari Cooper returns to Dallas, and they’re probably right. With the threat of Tom Brady as an option making its way around the media, Dak Prescott probably accepts a little bit lower than he wants to. This means that Cooper can get the franchise tag, and the Dallas Cowboys offense can remain the same.

But what if Prescott is the one that gets the tag? What if Dallas opts to see more of him before committing to him long term? If that happened, does Amari Cooper warrant top dollar?

Based on the quality of the draft class, I would let Cooper walk. I don’t think he’s the game changing wide receiver that deserves top money at the position. I especially would not pay him when his clone is sitting in this draft class, and could be an option for the Cowboys at 17 (or a little higher if they traded up).

Editor’s Note: Even though Jeudy is my WR3, I don’t dislike him by any means. He’s still a terrific prospect, and the best route runner in the class by far. My question with him is drops, he has a fair amount of them.

18) Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU- Gladney is one of my favorite players in this draft class. I love his technique in man coverage. He flips his hips with ease and he excels at mirroring receivers. Whether he’s in the slot or on the boundary, Gladney is an elite man cover corner. He would be a fun chess piece for Head Coach Brian Flores.

19) Las Vegas Raiders via Chicago Bears: Patrick Queen, ILB LSU- Queen is the prototypical modern day linebacker. He’s a terrific athlete in space, he shoots the correct gaps against the run, and he can play man coverage against running backs and tight ends. Las Vegas (that’s really weird to say) needs a signal caller in the middle of their defense, so this pick kind of writes itself.

20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: CJ Henderson, CB Florida- Henderson is a “mini me,” of LSU corner Kristian Fulton. Both players are really good in man coverage. They excel at mirroring receivers with quality footwork and fluid hips. Both are able to trail receivers with elite top end speed. Jacksonville continues to revamp their defense with Henderson at 20.

21) Philadelphia Eagles: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU- Philadelphia has two big needs; wide receiver and corner. Fortunately, this draft is loaded with both. Jefferson is a terrific fit for Doug Pederson’s offense because he can run clean routes from anywhere on the field. His versatility and production in Joe Brady’s offense make him a very intriguing pro prospect.

22) *Kansas City Chiefs via Buffalo Bills: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State- Rarely would I advise a team to trade up for a running back. Most teams are not in the position to make such an aggressive move, and most running backs are not worthy of doing so.

Having said that, the Chiefs are not just any other team, and JK Dobbins is not just any other running back. His explosiveness and vision in the Chiefs one cut, zone blocking scheme would be a perfect compliment to the Chiefs passing attack. This is a move that puts them in the dynasty conversation.

23) New England Patriots: Grant Delpit, FS/SS LSU- In Mock 2.0 I wrote about how the NFL really needs to prevent Delpit from falling the way Derwin James did a few years ago. Delpit had a roller coaster final season on tape, just like James did, but Delpit is still a guy that can change games. He hunts the ball and creates big plays near the line of scrimmage. Letting him fall to a playoff team, or a potential playoff team, is not what the league wants to do.

Long story short, I failed, and here is Delpit going to the Patriots at 23. Devin McCourty had a subpar second half, and could be a cap cut this offseason. Duron Harmon can move to “centerfield,” and Delpit can be a chess piece in the back for Bill Belichick’s defense.

24) New Orleans Saints: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama- I’ll ignore the fact that I am lower on Tua’s tape than most, and go right to the crux of the issue; where to place him in the draft. There are so many conflicting medical reports of how long he can play in the NFL. Sure, he’s a top five lock in the real draft, seeing as how he did receive the clean bill of health for the immediate future. Yet, no one really knows what his future will look like five years from now on the football field.

Personally, I would only draft Tua if I was a team that was a quarterback away from competing for a championship. If Drew Brees retires, New Orleans becomes one of those teams. Plus, the idea of a healthy Tua Tagovailoa with Sean Payton is a scary thought.

25) Minnesota Vikings: Xavier McKinney, FS Alabama- Minnesota is losing a lot of players in the secondary to free agency this offseason. At 25, they should take the best defensive back on the board and move on. That guy in this scenario is McKinney because of his range as a single high safety.

26) Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Lloyd Cushenberry, IOL LSU- Miami continues to revamp their offensive line for their future QB. Cushenberry has the versatility and intelligence to play guard or center at the next level, but it’s his athleticism that has me excited about the player he could be at the next level.

27) Seattle Seahawks: AJ Epenesa, DL Iowa- Epenesa fell down my draft board a bit because I think his true upside is as a guy who bulks up and plays a three technique in the NFL. When you watch his tape, he jumps off the page when he lines up along the interior. As a straight edge guy, he does not have the dip and bend ability to be a versatile edge rusher. As a 3-4 DE, his game would look a lot like JJ Watt. His technique, the bevy of moves that he possesses, and his quickness would make him a nightmare. Epenesa is a great fit in Seattle to replace Jadeveon Clowney at a much cheaper price.

28) Baltimore Ravens: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State- For the first time in a while, the Baltimore Ravens enter a draft needing defense. Gross-Matos is a smart pass rusher with good instincts and enough moves to get home at the next level. His technique is what makes me really like this fit. I think his game and his knowledge of how to win reps against opposing tackles make this an intriguing option for Baltimore in the back end of round one.

29) Tennessee Titans: Austin Jackson, OT USC- Jackson’s length and athleticism are why I have him at the top of the “second tier,” of offensive tackles in this draft. It’s also why he goes to Tennessee to replace Jack Conklin. Lastly, it’s why he gets drafted a little higher than his draft grade may warrant.

30) Green Bay Packers: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU- It’s weird to think that the Packers, led by Aaron Rodgers, need to address their offensive unit. However, minus Davante Adams, the Packers receiving core is surprisingly lackluster. Reagor is the home run threat that this offense is missing.

31) *New York Jets via San Francisco 49ers: Cesar Ruiz, IOL Michigan- Remember earlier when I said the Jets were experiencing their nightmare scenario? This is why. The Jets have to, HAVE TO, come away with a day one starter along the offensive line in this draft, even if that means trading assets they do not want to give up. Ruiz is the last offensive lineman on my board that I believe can be a successful day one starter. Therefore, the Jets trade up to get him.

32) *Buffalo Bills via Kansas City Chiefs: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado- Buffalo did a nice job of manufacturing a solid receiving core from a bevy of misfits in 2019. To make it to the next level, they need a legit playmaker on the outside who can create big plays in space. That is Shenault in a nutshell.

TRADES IN ROUND ONE

1- Atlanta Falcons trade the #16, #47, #116, a 2021 1st Round Pick and a 2021 4th Round pick to the Detroit Lions for the #3 and #182.

2) Indianapolis Colts trade the #13, #44, a 2021 2nd Round Pick and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the Arizona Cardinals for the #8 and #202.

3) Kansas City Chiefs trade the #32, #63 and #177 to the Buffalo Bills for the #22 and #167.

4) New York Jets trade the #48, #68 and #191 to the San Francisco 49ers for the #31.

ROUND TWO
33) Cincinnati Bengals: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma
34) Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma
35) Detroit Lions: Ashtyn Davis, SS Iowa
36) New York Giants: Matthew Peart, OT UCONN
37) Los Angeles Chargers: Damon Arnette, CB Ohio State
38) Carolina Panthers: Ross Blacklock, IDL TCU
39) Miami Dolphins: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia
40) Arizona Cardinals: Lucas Niang, OT TCU
41) Cleveland Browns: Antoine Winfield Jr., FS/SS Minnesota
42) Jacksonville Jaguars: Van Jefferson, WR Florida
43) Chicago Bears via Las Vegas Raiders: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn
44) *Arizona Cardinals via Indianapolis Colts: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB LSU
45) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cam Akers, RB Florida State
46) Denver Broncos: Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn
47) *Detroit Lions via Atlanta Falcons: Joshua Uche, EDGE Michigan
48) *San Francisco 49ers via New York Jets: Denzel Mims, WR Baylor
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Bradlee Anae, EDGE Utah
50) Chicago Bears: Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame
51) Dallas Cowboys: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
52) Los Angeles Rams: Akeem Davis-Gaither, ILB Appalachian State
53) Philadelphia Eagles: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State
54) Buffalo Bills: Ben Bredeson, IOL Michigan
55) Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Cole Kmet, TE Notre Dame
56) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama
57) Houston Texans: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin
58) Minnesota Vikings: Trey Adams, OT Washington
59) Seattle Seahawks: Isaiah Wilson, OT Georgia
60) Baltimore Ravens: Leki Fotu, NT Utah
61) Tennessee Titans: Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah
62) Green Bay Packers: Josh Jones, OT Houston
63) *Buffalo Bills via Kansas City Chiefs from San Francisco 49ers: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia
64) Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Madubuike, IDL Texas A&M

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts and tagged 2020 NFL Draft, 2020 NFL Mock Draft, AJ Epenesa, Andrew Thomas, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, CeeDee Lamb, Chase Young, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Derrick Brown, Detroit Lions, Grant Delpit, Green Bay Packers, Henry Ruggs III, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Isaiah Simmons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jacob Eason, Javon Kinlaw, Jedrick Wills, Jeff Gladney, Jeffery Simmons, Jeffrey Okudah, Jerry Jeudy, JK Dobbins, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Justin Jefferson, K'Lavon Chaisson, Kansas City Chiefs, Kristian Fulton, Las Vegas Raiders, Mekhi Becton, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Patrick Queen, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Tristan Wirfs, Tua Tagovailoa, Washington Redskins, Xavier McKinney.

Jordan Katz 2020 Prediction Style NFL Mock Draft: 1.0

Posted on January 28, 2020 Updated on February 13, 2020

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.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2020 NFL Draft, 2020 NFL Mock Draft, AJ Epenesa, Andrew Thomas, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, CeeDee Lamb, Chase Young, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Derrick Brown, Detroit Lions, Grant Delpit, Green Bay Packers, Henry Ruggs III, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Isaiah Simmons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jacob Eason, Javon Kinlaw, Jedrick Wills, Jeff Gladney, Jeffrey Okudah, Jerry Jeudy, JK Dobbins, Joe Burrow, Jordan Love, Justin Herbert, Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, Laviska Shenault Jr, Mekhi Becton, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Patrick Queen, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tee Higgins, Tennessee Titans, Tristan Wirfs, Tua Tagovailoa, Washington Redskins.

Jordan Katz 2020 NFL Mock Draft 2.0

Posted on December 31, 2019 Updated on January 8, 2020

Happy New Year everyone! I hope every one had a terrific New Year’s Eve, and to paraphrase Chris Berman, let me be the first to wish you all a safe, happy, and healthy new year.

Today is more than just the beginning of the new year. With the NFL regular season wrapped up, it’s officially…. drum roll please….

MOCK DRAFT SEASON!

We have got a very interesting set of prospects this year. By now you probably know how good the running backs and receivers are, but this year also has a bevy of talent at the cornerback position as well. The first round projected players are also as good of a group as we have seen in a long time. If you need talent to expedite a rebuild, this group has got it.

For those who are just reading for the first time, this is my own personal mock draft where I take control of all 32 teams and play out the draft process. I try to make what I feel is the best possible move for the team at that point in the draft. For example, if a player is available for the Kansas City Chiefs, but he’s a slightly better fit for the New England Patriots, I do not take that into account. If the Los Angeles Chargers want to trade up but the right scenario is not there, no trade is made. In short, this is what I think each team should do if the draft were taking place tomorrow.

We do have trades in this mock draft, and all trades that took place in said mock are denoted by an asterisk next to the team. If there is no asterisk, then the trade was made prior to the making of the mock draft by the actual teams. Mock Draft SZN is off and running, let’s roll.

ROUND ONE

1) Cincinnati Bengals: Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State- NFL teams are often forced into selecting a Quarterback before they are ready to compete because QBs dominate the current NFL. You have to have one to succeed in any sort of fashion, and there is a lot of pressure on teams to find that guy. The problem with that is, you can wind up ruining your Quarterback before you ever learn what he can be by playing him behind a bad offensive line and with a poor supporting cast. This is why I believe teams should build a roster and then insert their QB of the future.

The Cincinnati Bengals have the easiest excuse in the world to do this. Not only is Chase Young the runaway best player in the country and a Heisman Trophy candidate, but he’s a hometown guy that will sell tickets. The problem NFL teams in a rebuild face when it comes to the QB vs Build the Roster debate is that football is a business, and you have to sell tickets. Nothing sells tickets in the NFL like a young Quarterback with promise.

Having said that, Young went to THE Ohio State. People will show up to see Chase Young ball out. Therefore, not only is Chase Young the right move from a team building standpoint, he’s also the right move from an owner’s perspective.

Editor’s Note: By no means would Joe Burrow be a “wrong selection.” I love Burrow, I think he’s the real deal. I just also think filling out a roster before inserting the QB is the better way to build a team.

2) *Miami Dolphins via Washington Redskins: Joe Burrow, QB LSU- In a weird turn of events, Miami wins too much, but still finds their way into selecting the Franchise QB they need. Burrow is incredibly accurate, and he does a terrific job of letting his playmakers go get 50/50 balls. That’s a skill set to be desired in the modern day NFL. Showing the knowledge of when to take the one-on-one opportunity and having the touch to make the throw is what many passing attacks are all about.

Now for the fans that are wondering why the Dolphins would not also follow the Bengals team building blueprint, Miami still has two other first round selections during the 2020 Draft. They have the capability to move all around the draft board and fill out their roster to the point where Burrow will not be thrown to the wolves. Cincinnati takes Young and waits for Trevor Lawrence next year, Miami takes Burrow to get better right now.

3) *Carolina Panthers via Detroit Lions: Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia- Andrew Thomas is legitimately the best offensive line prospect I have ever scouted. He’s an elite athlete with textbook footwork (I should mention he’s 6’5 320). Thomas has a powerful first punch, as well as an elite counter-punch when working against opposing rushers. To top it all off, the dude is a straight mauler in the run game. Carolina trades up for a franchise changing left tackle.

4) New York Giants: Tristian Wirfs, OT Iowa- There are some rumors around Wirfs going back to school, and this scenario here is why he should not. Too many teams at the top of the draft need offensive line. Even if Joe Burrow went first, Wirfs most likely goes in the top 10. If Young went first, and some panic set in, Wirfs can climb towards the very top of this board because he’s one of only two complete offensive tackles in this class. He’s got NFL size, he’s quick to get his hands on defenders, and much like Thomas, he can drive players backward in the run game with a powerful base and strong hands.

Editor’s Note- We have now hit the “what will David Gettleman do,” portion of the show, so buckle up Giants fan. Remember last year how I told you well in advance that Daniel Jones was going at six, even though everyone knew no one had him at a round one grade besides the Giants? Well here comes round two. Dave Gettleman has never… EEEEEVVVVEEEERRRR (Wrestling reference), selected an OL in round one during his tenure as a GM of the Panthers and the Giants. This pick will most likely be WR1 in the 2020 Draft. Consider this your warning.

5) *Washington Redskins via Miami Dolphins: CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma- As good as Terry McLaurin has looked, most teams need more than one quality receiver to succeed in the modern day NFL. Lamb is explosive with the ball in his hands and he stretches the field as good as anyone in the draft.

6) Los Angeles Chargers: Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama- This may be an out of the box idea, but I think it’s the one that has the best long term advantage for the Chargers. Philip Rivers is on the decline, and even if he does have some football left in him, it’s one year at most. That works perfectly for Tagovailoa, who will be recovering from hip surgery this offseason. If he beats out Rivers, that’s great. If not, he can sit a year and learn how to read coverage along with making secondary throws (which is definitely his weak spot); all of which will help him come into the starting role in 2021. I think this is an ideal scenario for both the team and the player.

7) *Detroit Lions via Carolina Panthers: Jeffrey Okudah, CB Ohio State- If Detroit does move on from Darius Slay this offseason, then corner becomes the primary, secondary and tertiary need for them at the top of the draft board. Okudah headlines what has become a very quality cornerback class at the top. He has NFL size and length, and he looks extremely comfortable in multiple looks (although he does excel in man-to-man). This is a natural fit, assuming Matt Patricia returns as head coach.

8) Arizona Cardinals: Derrick Brown, IDL Auburn- You simply cannot teach Derrick Brown’s elite athleticism. He’s lightning quick off the snap of the ball, and can win against opposing offensive linemen with quickness or with power. Putting him up front with Chandler Jones would make an elite combo in Arizona.

9) Jacksonville Jaguars: Isaiah Simmons, LB Clemson- Simmons is the most underrated and underappreciated player in this draft. He is the modern day linebacker; an elite athlete with freakish range from sideline to sideline and the ability to cover tight ends with no help. Oh, and he runs a 4.35 and can do anything you ask of him in the box. This is a player you can build a defense around in the modern game.

10) Cleveland Browns: Jedrick Wills, OT Alabama- Offensive line has to be the primary focus for the Browns during the offseason, particularly on the right side. Fortunately for Cleveland, Jedrick Wills is a natural fit at RT. He’s not an elite athlete, but he’s able to get his hands on opponents quickly and use his power to alter the course of opposing rushers.

11) New York Jets: Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama- I know what you’re thinking Jets fans, “how are you picking Ruggs over Jerry Jeudy? Isn’t Jeudy the consensus top receiver?”

Look, Jerry Jeudy is a stud, no arguments here. However, even though Jeudy is a phenomenal route runner, he does have his fair share of drops. The difference to me between Lamb and Ruggs versus Jeudy is the two others are the definition of playmakers. They make something on a play with the ball in their hands. And because both are quality route runners in their own right (Ruggs is a better route runner and a more complete receiver than he is given credit for), they both get the nod over Jerry Jeudy on my personal board right now.

12) Oakland Raiders: Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama- Oakland put together a nice season considering their lack of weapons offensively. To make the jump they want to in 2020, they need to grab a WR1 in round one.

13) Indianapolis Colts: Jacob Eason, QB Washington- 2019 will be highlighted as a season that could have been for the Colts. What could the season have looked like if their offensive weapons stayed healthy? Most importantly, what could the season have looked like if Andrew Luck, not Jacoby Brissett, was the captain of the ship?

Jacob Eason is an ideal fit for how the Colts want to play. They want to run the ball, play action off of the run, and take their chances down the field to TY Hilton when it’s there. Eason is a good play action QB, he has a cannon for an arm, and when the pocket is clean, he can make just about any throw in the book. Much like Tua earlier, this feels like a natural fit for the team and the player.

14) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Grant Delpit, SS LSU- Delpit had a “Derwin James esque,” final season at LSU. His play was inconsistent and his effort was up and down. Having said that, he is still a big time playmaker in the back end. Delpit is best when he’s closer to the line of scrimmage, although he is quick to process the play that’s happening when deeper in the secondary. Hopefully teams learn from the Derwin James fiasco and still take Delpit towards the top of the draft.

15) Denver Broncos: AJ Epenesa, DL Iowa- I think the most natural fit for Epenesa at the next level is playing 3-4 DE. At 6’6 280, Epenesa already shows the ability to beat interior linemen with a bevy of moves and a quick first step. He’s a disciplined player against the run as well. Therefore, seeing as how he’s not a natural “dip and bend,” edge rusher, it might make the most sense to kick him inside at the next level. Denver selects the Iowa standout here as their replacement for Derek Wolfe.

16) Atlanta Falcons: Kristian Fulton, CB LSU- Fulton is a really interesting study. He has the ability to shine in man-to-man as well as off coverage because of elite footwork, impressive athleticism, and really good ball skills. The negative is, he lacks physicality. Fulton is not strong in press coverage and he’s not a great tackler either. I think the positives in his game outweigh the negatives, but it will be interesting to see if the NFL agrees come April.

17) Dallas Cowboys: Paulson Adebo, CB Stanford- Adebo could be my favorite player in this draft, because his upside is so high. As a former wide receiver, Adebo shows aggressiveness in jump ball situations, and already has a great feel for when to break on the football. His footwork does need to improve, particularly his technique with his lower body when mirroring receivers in man coverage. Having said that, what makes him so interesting is that he already shows a terrific understanding of defensive alignments despite only a few years of experience at the cornerback position. Give Adebo some time and he could become a star.

18) Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyler Biadasz, IOL, Wisconsin- If the Dolphins are going to take a Quarterback at the top of the draft, then it makes sense to bolster his offensive line with one of their other first round selections. Biadasz may lack the ideal NFL length, but his technique is flawless. He shows the smarts to pick up blitzes and stunts, and the power to wall off said pass rushers.

19) Oakland Raiders via Chicago Bears: Javon Kinlaw, IDL South Carolina- The Raiders were dead last in sacks during the 2019 campaign. One of the reasons for that is they lack a three technique with the athleticism to change the game. Kinlaw is that dude.

20) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: Bryce Hall, CB Virginia- This is a little high for the “tier 2,” of corners, aka the ones after Paulson Adebo, but Jacksonville desperately needs CB help. Hall is a smart corner with good ball skills and shows quality technique in off coverage, but durability and quickness are a concern.

21) Philadelphia Eagles: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado- Carson Wentz balled out down the stretch of the regular season. You know how I know that? I was called and asked to suit up at receiver because of all their injuries (okay, bad joke, but you get the point).

This offense desperately needs a legitimate playmaker on the outside to compliment Zach Ertz and Dallas Goedert. Enter the YAC legend himself, Laviska Shenault.

22) Tennessee Titans: Xavier McKinney, FS/SS Alabama- McKinney may not wow with athleticism the way Grant Delpit does, but he shows NFL level instincts in the back end. He is also very comfortable in cover one, which is a big plus for the Titans defense should he wind up in Nashville.

23) Buffalo Bills: Jalen Reagor, WR TCU- Even with Buffalo’s improved receiver core, the Bills could still benefit from a legitimate threat along the outside. Reagor is a perfect fit in a Josh Allen led offense. He’s a quality route runner, a home run threat, and he can make plays with the ball in space. Drops are a bit of an issue, but Reagor’s future is bright at the next level.

24) Minnesota Vikings: Jeff Gladney, CB TCU- Gladney is one of my favorite cornerbacks in this draft class. He has the ability to mirror receivers from the slot or the boundary position. His hips flip effortlessly and he stays attached really well. If he learns to be more physical and reroute runners with his hands, he could easily earn this spot. Minnesota has a lot of expiring contracts in the secondary, so the fit makes sense.

25) *Washington Redskins from Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Creed Humphrey, IOL Oklahoma- Humphrey is a very similar prospect to Tyler Biadasz. He’s not as technically sound, but he does have the ideal NFL size and length that Biadasz. Much like Miami with their second first round selections, Washington selects offensive line to help the development of their young QB.

26) Seattle Seahawks: K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU- Chaisson returned from injury and dominated off the edge in 2019. He showed more than just the dip and bend ability, getting to the passer with power and multiple moves as well. His versatility to do just about anything as a rusher will make him a hot commodity come April.

27) *Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: JK Dobbins, RB Ohio State- The first of what is a world class running back group comes off the board here. Dobbins can do it all, much like just about all the running backs near the top. His vision along with his ability in open space make him an elite level playmaker from day one. Atlanta uses their assets they got from New England to come up and jump the Chiefs for RB1.

28) New Orleans Saints: CJ Henderson, CB Florida- Very high for Henderson here, but New Orleans needs a cornerback opposite Marshon Lattimore. Henderson has elite athleticism and shows solid mirror skills. His physicality is lacking, which means he will have to show improved technique at the combine in Indianapolis to warrant a top 50 selection.

Editor’s Note: Really aggressive move by me here putting Henderson in round one, but in my defense, this was a trade up by Alex Leatherwood until he went back to school.

29) Kansas City Chiefs: Travis Etienne, RB Clemson- I speak for every member of Draft Twitter when I say that this is the selection we need in April. Etienne’s 4.3 speed in the Chiefs offense would be unstoppable. He’s a perfect scheme fit behind their zone blocking scheme up front as well. This would be the greatest show on turf reincarnated.

30) Green Bay Packers: Justin Jefferson, WR LSU- The once vaunted Packers receiving core has become Davante Adams and nothing else. Priority one, two and three this offseason is getting Aaron Rodgers more weapons.

Jefferson wins one-on-ones from the boundary and slot position, but it’s his ability to separate at the top of the stem that makes him a really quality receiver.

31) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via San Francisco 49ers: Justin Herbert, QB Oregon- The most ideal scenario for the Bucs this offseason is to franchise tag Jameis Winston and look to trade back into round one for a QB, similar to what Baltimore did a few years ago with Lamar Jackson. If they can execute that plan, the best target for them is Justin Herbert.

Justin Herbert is another really interesting study. His 2019 tape was so vanilla that it’s hard for anyone to change their opinion on him from what he was in 2018. Oregon asked him to play conservative, so he did. His receivers really struggled to separate as well. The one thing you could say with certainty is that he has the ability to make all the throws, but he has a tendency to force a few. I think Herbert would excel with Bruce Arians because Arians would help his decision making from day one.

32) Baltimore Ravens: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State- With Matthew Judon most likely departing in free agency, EDGE rusher becomes the top need for the Ravens. I’m a big fan of Gross-Matos. He plays with a high motor, he has multiple moves and can line up at multiple spots along the defensive front, but still be effective as a rusher. This is a really good fit for him.

TRADES IN ROUND ONE

1) Miami Dolphins trade the #5, #25, #70 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Washington Redskins for the #2 and the #130.

2) Carolina Panthers trade the #7, #38 and a 2021 2nd Round Pick to the Detroit Lions for the #3 and a 2021 6th Round Pick.

3) Atlanta Falcons trade the #47 and the #59 to the New England Patriots for the #27 and #115.

4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers trade the #45, a 2021 2nd Round Pick and a 2021 4th Round Pick to the San Francisco 49ers for the #31 and #190.

ROUND TWO

33) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Cincinnati Bengals: Curtis Weaver, EDGE Boise State

34) Indianapolis Colts via Washington Redskins: Raekwon Davis, IDL Alabama

35) Detroit Lions: Julian Okwara, EDGE Notre Dame

36) New York Giants: Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma

37) Los Angeles Chargers: Mekhi Becton, OT Louisville

38) *Detroit Lions via Carolina Panthers: Hamsah Nasirildeen, FS/SS Florida State

39) Miami Dolphins: D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia

40) Arizona Cardinals: Lucas Niang, OT TCU

41) Cleveland Browns: Alton Robinson, EDGE Syracuse

42) *Cincinnati Bengals via Jacksonville Jaguars: Tee Higgins, WR Clemson

43) Chicago Bears via Oakland Raiders: Brycen Hopkins, TE Purdue

44) Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Johnson, WR Minnesota

45) *San Francisco 49ers via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn

46) Denver Broncos: KJ Hamler, WR Penn State

47) *New England Patriots via Atlanta Falcons: Jared Pinkey, TE Vanderbilt

48) New York Jets: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson

49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jordan Love, QB Utah State

50) Chicago Bears: Austin Jackson, OT USC

51) Dallas Cowboys: Jabari Zuniga, EDGE Florida

52) Los Angeles Rams: Leki Fotu, IDL Utah

53) Tennessee Titans: Trey Adams, OT Washington

54) Philadelphia Eagles: Cameron Dantzler, CB Mississippi State

55) Minnesota Vikings: Neville Gallimore, IDL Oklahoma

56) Buffalo Bills: Terrell Lewis, EDGE Alabama

57) Houston Texans: Cam Akers, RB Florida State

58) Seattle Seahawks: Nick Harris, IOL Washington

59) *New England Patriots from Atlanta Falcons via New England Patriots: Brandon Jones, FS/SS Texas

60) Miami Dolphins via New Orleans Saints: Devin Duvernay, WR Texas

61) *New York Jets from Seattle Seahawks via San Francisco 49ers: Trey Smith, IOL Tennessee

Editor’s Note: This is pending his medical evaluations coming back clean.

62) *Los Angeles Chargers via Green Bay Packers: Jonathan Taylor, RB Wisconsin

63) Kansas City Chiefs: Jaylon Johnson, CB Utah

64) Baltimore Ravens: Darryl Williams, IOL Mississippi State

TRADES IN ROUND TWO

1) Jacksonville Jaguars trade the #41, #106 and a 2020 4th Round Pick to the Cincinnati Bengals for the #33.

2) New York Jets trade the #68, #110 and a 2021 5th Round Pick to the Seattle Seahawks for #61 and a 2021 6th Round Pick

3) Los Angeles Chargers trade the #71 and the #102 to the Green Bay Packers for the #62 and #223.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2020 NFL Draft, 2020 NFL Mock Draft, Andrew Thomas, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Bryce Hall, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, CeeDee Lamb, Chase Young, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Creed Humphrey, D'Andre Swift, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Derrick Brown, Detroit Lions, Grant Delpit, Green Bay Packers, Henry Ruggs III, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Isaiah Simmons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jacob Eason, Jedrick Wills, Jeffrey Okudah, Jerry Jeudy, JK Dobbins, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Justin Jefferson, K'Lavon Chaisson, Kansas City Chiefs, Kristian Fulton, Laviska Shenault Jr, Miami Dolphins, 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, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Travis Etienne, Tristan Wirfs, Tua Tagovailoa, Tyler Biadasz, Washington Redskins.

Jordan Katz Way Too Early 2020 NFL Mock Draft

Posted on October 2, 2019 Updated on October 2, 2019

WE ARE BAAAAAACCCCCKKKKKKKKK! Even though we are only a quarter of the way into the NFL season, it’s never too early to start looking towards the 2020 draft (and believe me, some teams are already doing that).

The rules for this mock were simple; no trades (because it’s way too early), and the draft order was projected by yours truly. So if you have a complaint on your favorite teams overall record, just know that my prediction will probably go haywire in every possible way.

Keep in mind, this is a very early look into the 2020 draft class. Right now, the quarterback class looks loaded, the skill position group is the most dominant I’ve seen in quite some time, and Chase Young looks better than Nick Bosa. It’s important to remember, there’s still a ton of time left in the collegiate season, and plenty of tape to digest. Plus, there’s the chaos that is Draft SZN. In short, a lot will change from now until April.

With all that being said, Mock Draft Lyfe never sleeps. So let’s get to it.

ROUND ONE

1) Miami Dolphins (Projected Record: 1-15): Tua Tagovailoa, QB Alabama- Miami is in the most obvious tank mode that has ever existed in the NFL. That’s why this pick is based on what they’re likely to do rather than my plans for this rebuild.

Tagovailoa has a big time arm and NFL level athleticism. He still struggles a bit with timing NFL open windows, but we’ve got a long way to go with this season. Right now, he’s the top QB for 2020.

2) Cincinnati Bengals (Projected Record: 2-14): Jacob Eason, QB Washington- Here’s where we shake things up. Many people would have the Bengals take Justin Herbert assuming they go quarterback.

However, Eason has had a much better start to his 2020 campaign. I’ve been impressed with the touch he’s developed on his throws, and he still has a cannon for an arm. Eason still needs to improve his footwork and force fewer throws, but the strides he’s taken so far make me think he has potential to be a big time NFL talent.

3) Washington Redskins (Projected Record: 2-14): Chase Young, EDGE Ohio State- Even though Washington took Montez Sweat last year, you need more than one pass rusher in the modern day NFL. Young is an elite talent and the best overall player in the draft right now. His get off is ridiculous, he has insane athleticism around the edge, and he can beat an opposing tackle with just about any move you could teach. Easy pick here for Washington.

4) Denver Broncos (Projected Record: 4-12): Grant Delpit, S LSU- The Broncos secondary is in shambles, and it will only be worse once they inevitably move Chris Harris. Delpit is easily the best secondary play in the draft. He can play close to the line of scrimmage, his coverage abilities are better than the traditional in-the-box safety, and his ball skills are NFL caliber. Delpit and Justin Simmons would make a lethal combination moving forward.

5) Arizona Cardinals (Projected Record: 4-11-1): Andrew Thomas, OT Georgia- Personally, I don’t understand how Thomas does not have more hype at this point. His tape is incredibly complete. He’s a mauler in the run game, with the athleticism to get to the second level. Thomas has incredible power in the pass game as well. The minute he gets his hands on an edge player, it’s game-set-match. He gains leverage with ease, and when he kicks out in pass protection, his first punch is powerful. This is the type of player the Cardinals need on their offensive line.

6) Atlanta Falcons (Projected Record: 5-11): AJ Epenesa, EDGE Iowa- Atlanta has struggled getting to the passer this year, and it’s been the downfall of their defense. Vic Beasley is not worthy of a contract extension, and Takk McKinley has just half a sack in four games. Epenesa is a complete defensive end. He can set the edge against the run, and then come off the blocks to make plays in the backfield. Epenesa has a quality set of moves, which allows him to be a presence in the passing game. If he becomes a more fluid dip and bend guy, Epenesa could go top five in April.

7) Oakland Raiders (Projected Record: 5-11): Jerry Jeudy, WR Alabama- I don’t know if you’ve heard, but Oakland made a move for a receiver this offseason and it didn’t quite work out. That’s right…. I’m talking about JJ Nelson.

JJ Nelson’s elite route running has been sorely missed in this passing attack. Fortunately, this draft is loaded at receiver, and at the top of the class is the best route runner I’ve seen at the collegiate level in a long time. Jeudy cuts on a dime and his explosiveness adds to his abilities as a route runner. So to replace…. JJ Nelson…. Oakland adds Jeudy.

8) New York Giants (Projected Record: 6-10): Tristan Wirfs, OT Iowa- The Giants offense looks a lot better through two weeks with Danny Dimes at the helm, but there’s still work to be done. Nate Solder looks a step slow against athletic edge rushers, and Mike Remmers is, well, Mike Remmers.

Wirfs has really quick feet, plus NFL level length. He’s consistent with his footwork in pass protection, and he has a strong counter-punch against an opposing pass rusher. He’s 1A to Andrew Thomas in this draft.

9) New York Jets (Projected Record: 6-10): Henry Ruggs III, WR Alabama- With the top two tackles off the board, the Jets move to their next big need on offense. Ruggs is ridiculously fast and a big time playmaker with the ball in his hands. What has surprised many so far this year is the development in his precision as a route runner. He still has room for improvement in that area, but if he can combine separating at the line of scrimmage with his 4.2 speed, this kid could dominate NFL corners for years to come.

10) Indianapolis Colts (Projected Record: 6-10): Justin Herbert, QB Oregon- Indianapolis is trying to navigate this season with Jacoby Brissett at the helm, and while they did opt to extend him, a short term extension does not show a great deal of faith. The golden situation for a quarterback heading into the NFL is being selected by a team with a really strong offensive line. The Colts have that now, but not having one for a long time might have costed them Andrew Luck’s career. It will not cost them the career of Justin Herbert.

11) Carolina Panthers (Projected Record: 6-10): Isaiah Simmons, LB Clemson- Simmons has elite level athleticism. Don’t believe me? He outran Travis Etienne in a 40 yard dash this summer.

Let me say that again. A linebacker, outran a running back with 4.4 speed, in a 40 yard dash. He’s that kind of athlete.

Having said that, athleticism is not the only facet of his game. Simmons has experience at safety, which helps his ability in coverage as a linebacker. He’s a sure tackler with elite sideline to sideline speed. Most importantly, he’s the new age linebacker defenses are looking for. Putting him next to Luke Keuchly is most certainly what you want if you’re a Panthers fan.

12) Miami Dolphins via Pittsburgh Steelers (Projected Record: 7-9): Tyler Biadasz, OG/C Wisconsin- “Offensive Line University,” is back with the nation’s top interior offensive linemen for 2020. Biadasz could’ve been a first round pick if he came out last year, but going back to school is going to catapult him into the top 15. His game is clean with very little weaknesses. Biadasz can win one-on-one reps in the pass game, and he moves with athleticism and power in both the pass and run game. Miami gets a future Pro Bowl Center with this pick.

13) Jacksonville Jaguars (Projected Record: 7-9): Jeffrey Okudah, CB Ohio State- My belief is that the Jaguars will trade Jalen Ramsey instead of paying him, which puts cornerback atop their wish list in 2020. The top corners in 2020 can all play big time man coverage, but the best of the bunch is Okudah. I’m a sucker for corners that can excel in cover one and cover three, and that is Okudah in a nutshell.

14) Detroit Lions (Projected Record: 7-8-1): Bryce Hall, CB Virginia- Speaking of man cover corners, Hall has big time skills in cover one and cover three along with quality ball skills. I think the one thing that still needs to improve for Hall is his footwork in off coverage. Having said that, putting him opposite Darius Slay would create an elite secondary in Detroit.

15) Minnesota Vikings (Projected Record: 8-8): Derrick Brown, DL Auburn- Brown is a menace along the interior. He wins with power in both the run and pass game, showing a strong lower base and the ability to stack and shed. He’s got powerful strikes and really quality rip move as a rusher. Brown should be a quality pro.

16) Tennessee Titans (Projected Record: 8-8): Joe Burrow, QB LSU- I think Marcus Mariota still has the ability to be a modern day game manager in the NFL. The problem is, I don’t know if you can pay that person 11-13 percent of the cap in the modern day NFL. Even if the Titans choose to franchise tag Mariota, that could put the Titans in the market for a quarterback in 2020.

Burrow has took the 2019 collegiate season by storm, dominating as the signal caller for LSU’s new look, high octane offense. He does not have the biggest arm, but he can read the defense well and he gets rid of the ball quickly. Right now, Burrow is easily the biggest riser during the early portion of the 2019 campaign (he’s also what people think Jake Fromm can be in the NFL, but that’s a different story for a later mock draft).

17) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Projected Record: 8-8): Creed Humphrey, OG Oklahoma- This might be a little high for Humphrey when we look back on this mock a few months from now, but OL is also the biggest need for Tampa Bay. Humphrey is terrific at gaining leverage at the point of attack. He mauls opponents in the run game. Now his pass protection needs some polishing, he can get off balance at points in time. Still, Humphrey is a quality prospect.

18) San Francisco 49ers (Projected Record: 9-7): Kristian Fulton, CB LSU- Fulton is another elite level man cover corner in the 2020 NFL Draft. Unlike Okudah and Hall, Fulton has a ton of reps as a press cover corner. He’s physical at the line of scrimmage, and he has the athleticism to trail receivers in man coverage. The Niners really need a number one corner, Richard Sherman is not that guy anymore. Fulton can be that guy.

19) Baltimore Ravens (Projected Record: 9-7): CeeDee Lamb, WR Oklahoma- Baltimore’s new look offense is scoring in bunches right now, but they still need a playmaker to complete this offense. Having just picked Hollywood Brown, why not go back to the well and pick his counterpart from Oklahoma?

Lamb is explosive, he’s dynamic with the ball, and he can make just about any play you can ask with the ball in the air. Deep ball ability? Check. High point ability? Check.

Hollywood-CeeDee-Mark Andrews would make for an elite level offensive unit in Baltimore.

20) Philadelphia Eagles (Projected Record: 10-6): Paulson Adebo, CB Stanford- Adebo rounds out the big four corners in this draft. He shows a higher IQ than the other three, particularly with his ability in off coverage. His technique out of his backpedal is much better than the other three. After the rest of the season, Adebo could jump the other corners in this draft.

21) Buffalo Bills (Projected Record: 10-6): Laviska Shenault Jr., WR Colorado- Buffalo’s offense still needs a number one wide receiver. Shenault has big play ability, he’s the best deep threat in this draft class. And for a team with Josh Allen at the helm, the deep play ability is crucial.

22) Oakland Raiders via Chicago Bears (Bears Projected Record: 10-6): Dylan Moses, ILB Alabama- Okay, here’s the deal. Yes, Dylan Moses blew out his knee. Yes, there are other defensive options here for the Oakland Raiders.

However, the Raiders need a captain of the defense, and a healthy Dylan Moses is a top ten player in this class. He will have plenty of time to heal from the injury, and could make a day one impact for any NFL team.

23) Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans (Texans Projected Record: 10-6): K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE LSU- In the spirit of “Miami needs just about everything,” they simply take the best player on the board, who also happens to have the most upside of anyone left.

Chaisson has elite dip and bend ability, and he’s shown the ability to long arm opposing tackles. Had Chaisson not been hurt last year, his buzz would be much higher right now.

24) Los Angeles Rams (Projected Record: 11-5): Raekwon Davis, DL Alabama- The Rams defensive line has not looked the same in 2019. Davis is quick off the snap and he has elite size and length for an interior defensive linemen.

My big concern with him moving forward is consistency. He flashes a quality club move, he stacks and sheds, and he can long arm opposing offensive linemen. The problem is, he’s just not consistent. He does not have elite pass rushing moves and he doesn’t dissect plays as well as his counterpart from 2018, Quinnen Williams. If he becomes more consistent during the rest of this season, Davis can move up the draft board.

25) Cleveland Browns (Projected Record: 10-6): Prince Tega Wanogho, OT Auburn- Here’s the problem with every offensive tackle in this class not named Thomas or Wirfs; the rest of the tackles have NFL size and length, but they lack the technique to excel in the NFL. Prince Tega Wanogho (ELIte level name) has big time length and quickness, but that technique is what will determine if he’s a first round talent, or a day two selection.

26) Los Angeles Chargers (Projected Record: 11-5): Travis Etienne, RB Clemson- The Chargers will be in the market for a running back after they opt to not pay Melvin Gordon this offseason. Etienne is my top running back among what is a loaded running back class. He’s an elite one cut runner with top end speed as good as anyone in the NFL right now. D’Andre Swift may be shiftier, but I’ll take Etienne’s home run ability and quality vision.

27) Green Bay Packers (Projected Record: 11-5): Tee Higgins, WR Clemson- Davante Adams is an elite wide receiver, no question about it. Opposite Davante Adams, however, is… well… nothing. Higgins is a big, physical receiver that high points the ball well and dominates in the red zone. He’s a perfect match for Aaron Rodgers.

28) Dallas Cowboys (Projected Record: 12-4): Xavier McKinney, S Alabama- Dallas does not have many weaknesses, but one of them is Xavier Woods constantly being injured. McKinney is a quality cover safety in the back end, and he’s also able to come up into the slot and play man coverage. I think his versatility is perfect for Dallas.

29) New Orleans Saints (Projected Record: 12-4): Trevon Diggs, CB Alabama- Diggs is physical in press coverage, using his length and strength to throw opposing receivers off their routes. Technically he still needs refinement, and he can get over aggressive in man-to-man situations. Despite this, his skill set matches the Saints aggressive defense, which could make this a perfect match in the back end of round one.

30) Kansas City Chiefs (Projected Record: 13-3): D’Andre Swift, RB Georgia- Imagine this; the “O Show,” which is what the Chiefs offense calls themselves (it’s also the best nickname I’ve heard this year), adds a game changing running back with elite quickness and sharp cuts. Some say the best defense is a good offense. This offense would be unreal.

31) Seattle Seahawks (Projected Record: 12-4): Lucas Niang, OT TCU- Much like Prince Tega Wanogho, Niang has elite size, length and quick feet. He also needs to clean up his technique. At times he plays high, and I think he can also play down to his competition in terms of his physicality. When he wants to, he’s got the raw power to dominate on the right side of an NFL offensive line.

32) New England Patriots (Projected Record: 14-2): Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE Penn State- I just give up on the Patriots. At this point, their dynasty will never die. After going a, projected, 14-2, and winning another, projected, Super Bowl, they luck themselves into an elite edge athlete in Gross-Matos. The rich get richer, yada yada yada.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2020 NFL Mock Draft, AJ Epenesa, Andrew Thomas, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Bryce Hall, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, CeeDee Lamb, Chase Young, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, D'Andre Swift, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Derrick Brown, Detroit Lions, Dylan Moses, Grant Delpit, Green Bay Packers, Henry Ruggs III, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Isaiah Simmons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jacob Eason, Jeffrey Okudah, Jerry Jeudy, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, K'Lavon Chaisson, Kansas City Chiefs, Kristian Fulton, Laviska Shenault Jr, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Oakland Raiders, Paulson Adebo, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Travis Etienne, Tristan Wirfs, Tua Tagovailoa, Tyler Biadasz, Washington Redskins, Yetur Gross-Matos.

Jordan Katz 2019 NFL Mock Draft 6.0: Final

Posted on April 25, 2019

The culmination of the Draft Process is finally upon us.. THE NFL DRAFT IS HERE! With this being my final personal mock draft for 2019, I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for reading my draft coverage and interacting with me throughout the draft season. It means a lot to me that you all enjoy my draft coverage and continue to read it each and every year.

At this point, y’all know how this works by now. This mock draft is strictly what I would do if I was in charge of all 32 teams. If you’re looking for my prediction mock draft, aka how I think the draft will actually, play out, you can find that here (https://draftstock.net/2019/04/18/jordan-katz-2019-nfl-prediction-mock-draft-3-0-final/). All trades made in this mock are denoted with an asterisk next to the team name. The only difference from my other personal mocks is that there is a little less analysis in this one. By now, you all know the players I like and do not like. You all know who I think possesses NFL traits and who does not. So while this mock definitely has in depth analysis, it’s not as in depth as my other personal mock draft.

Thank you all once again for your support throughout the year. #MockLyfe rolls into town one final time. Let’s get to it.

ROUND ONE

1) Arizona Cardinals: Nick Bosa, EDGE Ohio State- Bosa is still my number one overall player, and he’s still a position of need for the Cardinals. Terrell Suggs is a one year fix at best. Truth be told, he’s a rotational rusher at this stage in his career. Bosa can make an impact and take this defense to the next level.

….and no, this still should not be Kyler Murray.

2) San Francisco 49ers: Brian Burns, EDGE Florida State- Yet another change from my most recent personal mock draft. Truth be told, this is where I should have been all along. Burns is an elite pass rusher off the edge. His dip and bend ability is second to none in this draft, and that includes Mr. Bosa. The Niners move Arik Armstead inside to play Burns off the edge.

3) *Oakland Raiders via New York Jets: Quinnen Williams, DT Alabama- The obvious question here is why would the Jets not just select Quinnen Williams? The answer is simple. The Jets desperately need more assets in this draft. One player alone does not make this a 10-6 roster, but assets and depth might.

Oakland has four picks in the first 35 selections, which means they can get creative and move up a spot to land a game changer, even if they pay a little extra.

4) *New York Jets via Oakland Raiders: Jonah Williams, OT/OG/Ten Year All Pro Wherever You Want To Play Him, Alabama- Williams should still be a tackle in the NFL because his footwork and technique are elite. Despite sometimes being thrown by a first punch, Williams, is agile enough to handle it, stay on balance and redirect an oncoming rusher. He does this time and time again on tape. That is the making of an elite left tackle in the NFL.

5) *Washington Redskins via Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kyler Murray, QB Oklahoma- If there’s a team that should trade into the top ten for Murray in this draft, it’s Washington. Assuming it works and Murray is the dynamic playmaker we saw at Oklahoma, Washington will get exponentially better over the next two years and solve their need for a franchise QB.

On the other hand, should it flop and not work out, Washington will be in a very good position in two years to take Trevor Lawrence. Their competition is the Giants, who seem committed to a quarterback this year, the Dolphins, who seem like they will be bad enough for the top pick next year, and the Raiders, who will either stick with Derek Carr or take a QB in this draft.

6) New York Giants: Montez Sweat, EDGE Mississippi State- Since I am running all 32 teams in this mock, guess what I refuse to do Giants fans? SELECT A QUARTERBACK WHEN THE ROSTER HAS SO MANY HOLES! Sweat is a dynamic pass rusher, possessing the ability to win with power and technique. He showed the ability to dip and bend at the combine as well. If a team teaches him how to become a multifaceted pass rusher (Sweat doesn’t run the arch a lot on tape), Sweat could be an All-Pro in the future.

7) Jacksonville Jaguars: DK Metcalf, WR Ole Miss- I know the Jaguars need to fix the right side of their offensive line, but I’m higher on DK Metcalf than I am the remaining offensive linemen. And because the Jaguars also need playmakers in order for Nick Foles to truly open up the offense and make it multidimensional, “Superman,” lands in Jacksonville.

8) Detroit Lions: Rashan Gary, DL Michigan- If you remember from the “Fans Only Mock Draft,” I gave the Lions Gary because of his versatility. Gary can rush from a five tech, using his power to collapse the pocket. I think he can also slide inside and use his quickness to beat interior offensive lineman. Head Coach Matt Patricia comes from New England, where versatility is king. That’s why this pick is the perfect fit.

9) Buffalo Bills: Jawaan Taylor, OT Florida- The Bills signed an entire new offense this offseason. The only problem is, they really didn’t make a move that should lead to significant contribution besides Mitch Morse. Taylor can start at right tackle from day one, and he will bring toughness and intensity to the Bills front line. Even though this is a reach on my personal board, the fit, coupled with no one wanting to trade up, makes too much sense.

10) Denver Broncos: Chris Lindstrom, OG Boston College- Hey Broncos fans, guess what position I’m also not going to give you in round one? A QUARTERBACK! Just be smart, take the best player on your board at a position of need, and move on. For me, that’s Lindstrom, who is as complete a prospect along the interior since Zack Martin (and Martin is technically cheating cause he was a tackle at Notre Dame).

11) Cincinnati Bengals: Devin White, ILB LSU- The Bengals linebacking core is a mess right now. White would not only provide stability to the group, but he would also be the only true three down linebacker they would have. Easy selection here.

12) Green Bay Packers: Ed Oliver, DL Houston- Oliver falls right into the Packers lap, which is exactly the scenario the Packers could wind up with on draft day. Oliver is an ideal three technique at the next level, but a 3-4 scheme would allow him to use his quickness and power at multiple spots along the defensive line like JJ Watt or Aaron Donald do. I’m not saying Oliver is as good as those players, but his game is molded after Donald, which makes his ideal fit the exact same as those players.

13) Miami Dolphins: Jeffery Simmons, DT Mississippi State- Full disclosure, Miami tried to trade out here but was unsuccessful. Simmons is unlikely to play a lot this year, but that’s not a huge concern to the Dolphins because they aren’t looking to win in 2019. This makes them the perfect team to select the dynamic interior pass rusher who to tore his ACL back in February.

14) Atlanta Falcons: Christian Wilkins, DT Clemson- Atlanta has a decision to make this upcoming offseason. Do they pay Vic Beasley or do they pay Grady Jarrett? Jarrett looks like the much better player at the moment, but Beasley still has the upside to return to the dominant pass rusher he once was.

Regardless of their decision, the smart play would be selecting Wilkins and figuring it out later. If Jarrett stays, the Falcons have a terrific interior pass rush. If Jarrett walks, the Falcons have his replacement.

15) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Washington Redskins: Anthony Nelson, EDGE Iowa- Call me crazy, but Carl Nassib and an aging Jason Pierre-Paul do not seem like the answer to generating a dominant pass rush.

Nelson is a technically sound player, showing good discipline in his gap assignments, and the power to collapse the pocket on passing downs. Nelson shows solid ability to run the arch as well. At 6’7, Nelson has the game and athleticism to be a quality edge player at the next level.

16) *New England Patriots via Carolina Panthers: Noah Fant, TE Iowa- The Patriots have the ammo to move all around this draft for players they covet. After the retirement of Rob Gronkowski, you best believe that Bill Belichick is looking to come up this draft board for one of the Iowa tight ends.

Carolina is unlikely to trade out of 16, but based on the way the board fell and the needs they have in this draft, it makes a lot of sense for them to do so in this particular mock. Plus, I’m running the show here, so if you ain’t down with that, I’ve got two words for ya.

17) New York Giants via Cleveland Browns: Byron Murphy, CB Washington- The Giants continue to rebuild their defense with this selection. Murphy is elite in off coverage, his footwork is outstanding and his ability to mirror receivers is very impressive. There’s not many defensive backs in this draft class with big time upside, but Murphy is one of them.

18) Minnesota Vikings: Erik McCoy, C/OG Texas A&M- The difference between other mocks and my board for this selection is that McCoy, not Garrett Bradbury, is my top center this year. Both players are very close on my board, and both players are very similar. McCoy, like Bradbury, does an excellent job of finishing blocks in the run game, and both possess quality footwork. I like McCoy’s ability in pass protection slightly better than Bradbury, which is why he’s my top Center.

Despite having Pat Elflein, the Vikings take McCoy because he can slide over to guard and succeed. Just like Bradbury, both players are athletic enough to become pulling guards at the next level.

19) Tennessee Titans: N’Keal Harry, WR Arizona State- N’Keal Harry is a perfect fit for Tennessee. He’s explosive with the ball in his hands, he runs clean routes from the slot, and he wins one-on-ones along the sideline with his size and the ability to high point the football. Whether it’s Harry, a tight end like TJ Hockenson, or a different pass catcher all together, Tennessee needs a weapon early in this draft.

20) Pittsburgh Steelers: Devin Bush, ILB Michigan- Pittsburgh needs a signal caller in the middle of their defense, as well as a three down linebacker. Bush is a big time athlete, he shoots gaps, and he flips his hips effortlessly. If the Steelers can find a way to land him, it’s a massive win.

21) Seattle Seahawks: TJ Hockenson, TE Iowa- Hockenson is an elite player in this draft. He’s a phenomenal blocker, a red zone threat, and he wins down the field with size. Russell Wilson operates better when he has a tight end as an option, and there is no better option for the Seattle Seahawks offense in this draft than TJ Hockenson.

22) Baltimore Ravens: Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, WR Oklahoma- I still love this fit for the Ravens. Hollywood Brown is a playmaker down the field, and he’s a playmaker with the ball in his hands. What makes him an ideal pick for the Ravens is that Brown is a sneaky good route runner. “Desean Jackson 2.0,” becomes Lamar Jackson’s newest offensive weapon.

23) Houston Texans: Andre Dillard, OT Washington State- Insert offensive lineman here remains the selection for the Texans. Dillard steps in from day one and protects Deshaun Watson’s blindside.

24) Oakland Raiders via Chicago Bears: Rock Ya-Sin, CB Temple- The Raiders secondary was very inconsistent in 2018. One of these two backend first round selections should be used on addressing that issue. Ya-Sin mirrors receivers well and has the ability to excel in multiple coverage schemes at the next level. While he may not go round one during the actual draft, I think he is well deserving of a first round selection.

25) Philadelphia Eagles: Deionte Thompson, FS Alabama- This is a bit of a reach, but as I mentioned in my prediction mock draft, safety appears to be the Eagles biggest need. Malcolm Jenkins and Rodney McLeod are taking up a fair amount of cap room for a team that will need to pay Carson Wentz soon.

Thompson is my top safety this year because of his ball skills and range from the single high position. He does need to improve on his angles to the football, but every one of the safeties in this class has flaws.

Editor’s Note: I know many have Johnathan Abram or Chauncey Gardner-Johnson as their top safety. While I don’t agree, I can’t really argue if you have one of about six different safeties as your top guy.

26) Indianapolis Colts: AJ Brown, WR Ole Miss- The Colts primary need has shifted with the acquisition of Justin Houston. I think defensive line is still in play in round two, but a receiver will be one of the first two selections.

Brown is a perfect scheme fit for the Colts, as I have said on a number of occasions. I think Andrew Luck would look his way a lot on third downs.

27) Oakland Raiders via Dallas Cowboys: Josh Jacobs, RB Alabama-Jacobs isa smart runner between the tackles, he contributes in the pass game and he makes defenders miss in open space. The late retirement of Marshawn Lynch has the Raiders in desperate need of a running back, so they take Jacobs a little higher than he should go.

28) Los Angeles Chargers: Greedy Williams, CB LSU- Just like the prediction mock draft, Greedy Williams goes to the Chargers at 28. I still like the idea of them selecting a player along the defensive front at some point, but a boundary corner is definitely the more pressing need.

Now it is true that Williams remains the most polarizing player in the draft. However, I’m trusting my analysis of his tape on this one. He showed terrific ability to mirror and trail in cover one and cover three, and strong ball skills. If he cleans up his backpedal (pretty much his footwork in general), Williams can be one of the better players in this draft.

29) Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: Clelin Ferrell, EDGE Clemson- I’m standing by Ferrell despite his rough showing this past month. He’s a power rusher with a good sense of gap assignments and he’s able to gain leverage against opposing tackles on a consistent basis.. Ferrell may never be a double digit sack player, but I think he can be a quality pro for a long time.

30) Green Bay Packers via New Orleans Saints: Irv Smith Jr., TE Alabama- While one could argue this is a reach because the tight end class is incredibly strong top to bottom, the big three of Smith, Noah Fant and TJ Hockenson are all worthy of round one selections. All three are very good blockers, each one of them runs terrific routes for the tight end position, and they all have good hands. That’s why even though the class is talented, Irv Smith is the pick here for Green Bay.

31) *Denver Broncos via Los Angeles Rams: Dwayne Haskins, QB Ohio State- Even though I’m not as high on Haskins as many seem to be, I still think he’s one of two quarterbacks worthy of a first round selection. He has a great knowledge of the game and explosive arm talent. Assuming he refines his technique, and sits for a year (I cannot overstate how important that is for Haskins), I think he possesses enough value for a QB needy team to trade back into round one and get the fifth year option on him.

32) *Carolina Panthers via New England Patriots: Josh Allen, EDGE Kentucky- Assuming the Panthers are true to their word and wish to give more 3-4 looks in 2019, Allen would be a great selection. His dip and bend ability has been well documented, but he can also drop into coverage and react out of a zone defense. The versatility he provides would mesh nicely with Ron Rivera’s schemes.

Editor’s Note: Obviously Allen is not falling to this spot. I have him lower on my personal board than most, which is why he is picked later in this mock.

TRADES IN ROUND ONE

1- Oakland Raiders trade the #4 #35, #140 and to the New York Jets for #4 and #105.

2- Washington Redskins trade the #15, #46, a 2020 1st Round Pick and a 2020 4th Round Pick to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the #3 Overall Selection.

3- New England Patriots trade the #32, #56, and #134 to the Carolina Panthers for the #16 Overall Selection.

4- Denver Broncos trade #41, #125 and #148 to the Los Angeles Rams for the #31 and #251.

ROUND TWO

33) *Houston Texans via Arizona Cardinals: Garrett Bradbury, C NC State- The Texans offensive line needs a massive makeover during this draft. Bradbury is one of two very talented, all around centers in this draft. He has the athleticism and power to be a quality starter for years to come. Houston trades up to land a second day one starter on the offensive line.

34) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Khalen Saunders, DT/NT Western Illinois- Saunders is an elite athlete with the ability to play anywhere from a zero tech to a three tech. Something the Colts lack along their defensive front is explosive athleticism, hence why they signed Justin Houston. Saunders is a perfect fit along the Colts defensive line.

35) *New York Jets via Oakland Raiders: Jachai Polite, EDGE Florida- Unfortunately, I am not privy to the information that scouts have on Polite’s horrific interviews. Obviously he struggled during the draft process, that is well documented. What is unknown is if his interviews were so bad that his quality tape should be thrown out the window.

Assuming it was not, I think a team could look to snag him in round two. He’s still a quality rusher on tape and an impact player if his off the field issues checked out.

36) San Francisco 49ers: Deebo Samuel, WR South Carolina- The lock of round two seems to be the Niners selecting the best available pass catcher. Samuel’s route running ability will match up nicely with the Niners west coast offense.

37) New York Giants: Dalton Risner, OT/OG Kansas State- Risner has the versatility to play guard or tackle at the next level. His toughness, leadership and physicality in the run game are three qualities the Giants will love to have in their locker room and on their offensive line.

38) Jacksonville Jaguars: Cody Ford, OG Oklahoma- Ford is a much better prospect at guard than at tackle. Despite not being the most agile guy, Ford is a physical player. He keeps his shoulder pads square at the second level, and he’s also able to get his hands on defenders quickly. Jacksonville’s offensive line needs work so this is an easy fit.

39) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Nasir Adderley, FS Delaware- The Buccaneers secondary was beyond subpar in 2018. Adderley’s ability to play single high, as well as his willingness to come into the box and make tackles, should help the Bucs defense immediately.

40) Buffalo Bills: Kelvin Harmon, WR NC State- Harmon would be a nice compliment to the rest of the Bills receiving core. He’s an excellent route runner and he high points the ball well. Harmon may not have tested as well as some of the other receivers during the draft process, but his tape is very strong. He is still worthy of a high selection in this draft.

41) *Los Angeles Rams via Denver Broncos: Dexter Lawrence, DT/NT Clemson- Lawrence is a beast in the middle of a 3-4. One could argue that, pound for pound, he is a top five athlete in the class. He eats space, stacks and sheds blockers when put in one-on-one situations, and he can collapse the pocket as a pass rusher. The Rams need a nose tackle in the middle of their 3-4, making Lawrence a perfect fit.

42) Cincinnati Bengals: Yodny Cajuste, OT West Virginia- Hey Cincinnati, DO NOT START BOBBY HART! Back to you, Jim.

43) Detroit Lions: Amani Oruwariye, CB Penn State- I like Oruwariye’s ability to mirror receivers and make plays on the football. Detroit uses a lot of different coverages and defensive sets, something I think Oruwariye can do from the boundary position. I like this fit.

44) Green Bay Packers: Mack Wilson, ILB Alabama- The Packers have a glaring hole in the middle of their linebacking core. Wilson may come with some athletic concerns, but his tape is very good and he’s arguably the best cover linebacker in the draft. I still think he’s a day one starter in the right scheme.

45) Atlanta Falcons: Tytus Howard, OT Alabama State- Howard has the potential to be one of the top offensive lineman in this draft class. He’s smart, he has ideal size and length, and his technique continues to improve. A perfect fit for him would be going to a team that would not have to start him right away unless he earned it.

46) *Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Washington Redskins: Justin Layne, CB Michigan State- Layne’s man cover skills get the bulk of the conversation, but I like his footwork in off coverage equally as much. I think Layne is one of the more underrated players in this draft because his upside is significantly higher than the middle of round two.

47) Carolina Panthers: Amani Hooker, FS Iowa- Hooker has an interesting skill set for a free safety, mainly because his best attribute might be his ability to play nickel corner. Having said that, he still shows good range and reaction time in cover two and cover three. His versatility should fit nicely in the Panthers secondary.

48) Miami Dolphins: Hakeem Butler, WR Iowa State- It’s been quite some time since the Dolphins had a legitimate deep threat. Butler is 6’5 and runs a sub 4.5. If that’s not a mismatch down the field, I’m not quite sure what is. Whoever the QB of the future is for the Dolphins, they do not stand much of a chance with the receiving core as it is currently constructed. Butler gives them a legitimate target.

49) Cleveland Browns: Joejuan Williams, CB Vanderbilt- Joejuan Williams corrected the athletic questions surrounding him after the combine with a very strong pro day. That went a long way towards reassuring me my tape evaluation of his make up speed was correct. His press skills are very good, but as a press corner you need to be able to make up ground if you are beat. Since he showed he can, he’s a top 50 target in this draft.

50) Minnesota Vikings: Charles Omenihu, DL Texas- Omenihu is a very good pass rusher and he’s quick off the ball. The athletic three tech was a perfect fit last year next to Linval Joseph. I’m not saying Omenihu is the next Sheldon Richardson, but my guess is that the Vikings defensive formula should remain the same up front.

51) Tennessee Titans: Renell Wren, DT/NT Arizona State- The Titans need depth along their defensive front; I’ve said that for the past few mock drafts. Just like the past few mock drafts, I once again have given them the athletic run stuffer that is Renell Wren.

52) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jordan Brown, CB South Dakota State- Brown is another underrated corner in this draft class. He flips his hips effortlessly, and he’s able to drive off his back foot well in zone coverage to make up ground. I like his ball skills as well, he locates the ball well when put in one-on-one situations. This is an ideal pick for the Steelers in round two, should they land Devin Bush in round one.

53) Philadelphia Eagles via Baltimore Ravens: Parris Campbell, WR Ohio State- Campbell’s ability at the next level will be dependent on his route running. He’s so explosive with the ball in his hands that if he can separate at all and sink his hips into his route combinations, he could be a matchup nightmare in the slot. He did show the quickness at the combine to be a good route runner, but his route tree was simple at Ohio State. Only time will tell just how good he can truly be.

54) *Arizona Cardinals from Houston Texans via Seattle Seahawks: David Edwards, OT Wisconsin- Much like Campbell, Edwards has an obvious key to his NFL success as well. Despite being very intelligent, his footwork needs to improve to be effective on the right side at the next level. Arizona is desperate for offensive line talent, so they select Edwards in hopes that his technique will continue to improve.

Editor’s Note: This could be one player that falls flat on my “intelligence over sheer athleticism,” theory for offensive line. Edwards really struggled with his pad level and his technique in pass protection last year. I’ll roll the dice though and say Edwards can contribute at the next level.

55) *Arizona Cardinals via Houston Texans: Emanuel Hall, WR Missouri- Hall is a big time deep threat. He wins with speed at the top of his route, and he can beat DB’s on 50/50 balls with size and athleticism. Hall would be a terrific compliment to Christian Kirk in the present and the future.

56) *Carolina Panthers from New England Patriots via Chicago Bears: Nate Davis, OG Charlotte- Nate Davis is one of my favorite players in this draft because he finishes blocks with power and intensity. He’s consistently competing and it shows in the run game. I like his athleticism as well, I think his footwork is good and he pops out of his stance with his pad level on plane. This may be a little high for him, but Carolina needs a starting guard and that can definitely be Davis.

57) Philadelphia Eagles: Damien Harris, RB Alabama- Another player who may be a little too high, but the Eagles need of a running back demands it. Howard is a two down running back at best, and I honestly question if he’s even that anymore. I have not seen a player take this much of a nose dive in a long time.

Harris is essentially insurance for everyone currently on the Eagles roster. He has good vision between the tackles, he can block, and despite Josh Jacobs being the primary pass catcher at ‘Bama, Harris can catch the ball out of the backfield as well.

58) Dallas Cowboys: Trysten Hill, DT UCF- Dallas is a tough team to gauge because they have two glaring needs on day two; defensive tackle and safety. The order in which you give them those players depends on who is on the board. With most of the safeties still available and defensive line flying off the board, the Cowboys jump on Trysten Hill.

59) Indianapolis Colts: Johnathan Abram, SS Mississippi State- Abram is a quality in-the-box safety. He shoots gaps and makes tackles around the line of scrimmage. Putting him in the same secondary with Malik Hooker is a perfect match.

60) Los Angeles Chargers: Jerry Tillery, DL Notre Dame- Much like Tennessee a few spots ago, the idea of giving the Chargers more talent along their defensive front remains the same as my previous mocks. Tillery would wreak havoc with all the one-on-ones he would see playing opposite Joey Bosa and next to Melvin Ingram.

61) Kansas City Chiefs: Trayvon Mullen, CB Clemson- Mullen is a tough guy to grade because he excels in mirroring receivers in man-to-man coverage, but he’s not great in press, nor is he stellar in off coverage. Having said that, he is my best available corner at this point, and the Chiefs need secondary.

62) New Orleans Saints: Blake Cashman, ILB Minnesota- With only one pick in the first three rounds, the Saints will have to decide on trading backwards or selecting their best player available at this spot.

Cashman is clearly the next best off ball linebacker, and it’s by a sizable amount. Therefore, the Saints just select him and worry about the rest of their needs on day three.

63) Kansas City Chiefs via Los Angeles Rams: Elgton Jenkins, C Mississippi State- Jenkins is a really good option for the Chiefs as a starting center on day two. Should they pass and go elsewhere, look for the Chiefs to try and convince a veteran like John Sullivan to sign a one year deal in hopes of winning a championship after the draft.

64) New England Patriots: Andy Isabella, WR UMASS- The ideal Patriots wideout once again finds his way to New England at the end of round two. The buzz on Isabella has grown, but his athleticism and ability to run routes out of the slot still make his ideal fit the New England Patriots.

TRADES IN ROUND TWO

1- Houston Texans trade the #54 and #55 to the Arizona Cardinals for #33 and #103.

ROUND THREE

65) Arizona Cardinals: Dennis Daley, OT South Carolina

66) *Green Bay Packers from Pittsburgh Steelers via Oakland Raiders: Chase Winovich, EDGE Michigan

67) San Francisco 49ers: Darnell Savage, FS Maryland

68) New York Jets: Corey Ballentine, CB Washburn

69) Jacksonville Jaguars: Christian Miller, EDGE Alabama

70) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, CB/FS Florida

X) New York Giants- Forfeit Due to the Selection of Sam Beal in the Supplemental Draft

71) Denver Broncos: Jace Sternberger, TE Texas A&M

72) Cincinnati Bengals: Daniel Jones, QB Duke

73) New England Patriots via Detroit Lions: Zach Allen, DL Boston College

74) Buffalo Bills: Rodney Anderson, RB Oklahoma

75) *Pittsburgh Steelers via Green Bay Packers: Max Scharping, OT Northern Illinois

76) Washington Redskins: Riley Ridley, WR Georgia

77) Carolina Panthers: Tyree Jackson, QB Buffalo

78) Miami Dolphins: Connor McGovern, OG/C Penn State

79) Atlanta Falcons: Oshane Ximines, EDGE Old Dominion

80) Cleveland Browns: Juan Thornhill, SS Virginia

81) Minnesota Vikings: Kaleb McGary, OT Washington

82) Tennessee Titans: Dru Samia, OG Oklahoma

83) Pittsburgh Steelers: Damarkus Lodge, WR Ole Miss

84) Kansas City Chiefs via Seattle Seahawks: Miles Sanders, RB Penn State

85) Baltimore Ravens: Maxx Crosby, EDGE Eastern Michigan

86) Houston Texans: David Long, CB Michigan

87) Chicago Bears: Sean Bunting, CB Central Michigan

88) Detroit Lions via Philadelphia Eagles: Dawson Knox, TE Ole Miss

89) Indianapolis Colts: DeAndre Baker, CB Georgia

90) Dallas Cowboys: Sheldrick Redwine, FS/SS Miami

91) Los Angeles Chargers: Bobby Evans, OL Oklahoma

92) Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: BJ Autry, OG Jacksonville State

93) New York Jets via New Orleans Saints: JJ Arcega-Whiteside, WR Stanford

94) Los Angeles Rams: Kahale Warring, TE San Diego State

95) Cleveland Browns via New England Patriots: Ben Banogu, EDGE TCU

96) Washington Redskins: Shareef Miller, EDGE Penn State

97) New England Patriots: Isaiah Buggs, DT Alabama

98) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: Karan Higdon, RB Michigan

99) Los Angeles Rams: Julian Love, CB Notre Dame

100) *Baltimore Ravens via Carolina Panthers: Mecole Hardman, WR Georgia

101) New England Patriots: Vosean Joseph, ILB Florida

102) Baltimore Ravens: Germaine Pratt, ILB NC State

TRADES IN ROUND THREE

1- Green Bay Packers trade the #75 and #114 to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the #66 and #192.

2- Baltimore Ravens trade the #113 and a 2020 4th Round Pick to the Carolina Panthers for the #100 and a 2020 6th Round Pick.

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2019 NFL Draft, 2019 NFL Mock Draft, AJ Brown, Andre Dillard, Anthony Nelson, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Brian Burns, Buffalo Bills, Byron Murphy, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Chris Lindstrom, Christian Wilkins, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Cody Ford, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Devin Bush, Devin White, DK Metcalf, Dwayne Haskins, Ed Oliver, Greedy Williams, Green Bay Packers, Hollywood Brown, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jawaan Taylor, Jeffery Simmons, Jonah Williams, Josh Jacobs, Kansas City Chiefs, Kyler Murray, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, Montez Sweat, N'Keal Harry, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Nick Bosa, Noah Fant, Oakland Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Quinnen Williams, Rashan Gary, Rock Ya-Sin, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, TJ Hockenson, Washington Redskins.

Jordan Katz 2019 NFL Prediction Mock Draft 3.0: Final

Posted on April 18, 2019 Updated on April 24, 2019

Ladies and Gentleman, the spectacle that is the NFL Draft has arrived. Even though this draft class is not one of the stronger ones, this has still proven to be an incredibly interesting draft season. We still have no idea who the first overall pick will be, we still have no idea which teams are actually going to take quarterbacks, and we still have no idea how the New England Patriots will find enough talent in this draft to make it back to another Super Bowl next year.

Based on things I have read as well as pre-draft visits and workouts, this is my prediction for how I expect the NFL Draft will shake down next week. There’s some predictions in this mock draft that are to be expected, there are some curveballs, and as I alluded to earlier, the rest of the league just lets the Patriots clean up once again.

This is not one of my personal mock drafts where I assume the GM role for all 32 teams. This is strictly me trying to get every selection right, which is an exercise in futility, but it should help give you an idea of who your favorite team likes and what positions they are looking to target on draft day. As always, there are trades, and trades made in this mock draft are denoted with an asterisk next to the team.

Final Prediction Edition of #MockLyfeNeverSleeps. We are in the Endgame now.

ROUND ONE

1) *Oakland Raiders via Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray, QB Oklahoma– There’s too much smoke here, right? Arizona has not only talked Murray up for weeks, they now appear to openly be fielding offers for Josh Rosen.

However, what if this truly is a smokescreen? The Cardinals still need multiple pieces in order to compete in 2019, and one way to accomplish that is to trade down and acquire some assets.

On the other hand, Oakland is definitely convinced they can win now. The one thing they do not seem to be convinced of is Derek Carr. The Raiders have met with both Murray and Dwayne Haskins a few times and appear to like both a lot. Now this would definitely be an out of the box move, but what if Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock use their assets in a weak draft to get a game changer at the QB position? Arizona and Oakland shock the world to start the Draft.

Editor’s Note: I have to give my brother Danny the credit for this prediction. For months he’s been telling me how bad the Raiders brass is at playing “the game,” that is the NFL Draft, and how Arizona and Oakland make sense as trade partners. He was first on this prediction and I’m now jumping on board.

2) San Francisco 49ers: Quinnen Williams, DT Alabama- Some may call this a curveball here, but I don’t think that’s apropos. Williams has dominated the athletic testing portion of the draft process, and many think he was equally as dominant as Nick Bosa was in college. I think more teams have Williams atop their board than the media realizes at this moment.

3) New York Jets: Nick Bosa, EDGE Ohio State- In just about every scenario, Mike Maccagnan will trade out of this pick. There should be enough buzz around Dwayne Haskins at this point for teams like Denver, Cincinnati or Washington to leapfrog the Raiders and Giants in order to land their QB of the future. If Kyler Murray is also available, the Jets could get a king’s ransom here.

However, this isn’t your normal scenario. If I’m right and the Niners take Quinnen Williams over Bosa, the Jets will have a massive dilemma on their hands. Is their roster good enough to compete if they do not trade down and pick Bosa? Do they still trade down even with Bosa on the board? It’s not a bad problem to have, but it will be very interesting to see how Maccagnan and company handle it.

4) *Arizona Cardinals via Oakland Raiders: Jawaan Taylor, OT Florida- Assuming Bosa and Quinnen Williams are both off of the board by this selection, which I’m not sure is a lock, Arizona would just move to their biggest need. Many think Taylor is the runaway best tackle in this draft and can slide over to the left slide while maintaining production. Arizona chooses to sure up their offensive line after narrowly missing the heist of the century in Bosa at the 4th overall pick.

5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Devin White, ILB LSU- White to the Buccaneers has been rumored for a while now. They lost Kwon Alexander in free agency, and they need a three down linebacker that can do it all to replace him.

6) New York Giants: Daniel Jones, QB Duke- Okay Giants fans, I am so sorry to continue to obliterate your front office in these prediction mocks, but here we go again. David Gettleman can praise Eli Manning all he wants, but he’s still looking for a QB of the future in this draft. By not taking one last year in the best QB draft we’ve seen since 2004, and thinking his team was in a win now position, Gettleman backed himself into a corner. He had to settle for a lesser offer in order to get Odell Beckham out of the locker room and start a rebuild, and now he will have to settle for one of the QBs in this draft.

I know what you’re thinking though. “Okay Jordan, that explains them going quarterback. But why on earth would they pass on Dwayne Haskins for Daniel Jones?” Ladies and Gettleman (pun intended), allow me to introduce you to how David Gettleman will mess this up even further.

Jones has the “ideal size and build,” just like Haskins, but it’s his connection to David Cutcliffe that will have NFL teams ready to pick him much higher than he should go. Cutcliffe is most well known for his work with both Peyton and Eli Manning, and his relationship with David Gettleman is very strong as a result of working with Eli Manning. I think the Giants QB target in this draft is Daniel Jones, and they will either take him at 6 or 17 depending on how the board falls.

7) *Cincinnati Bengals via Jacksonville Jaguars: Dwayne Haskins, QB Ohio State- I think Cincinnati is going to go all out for a QB in this draft. With Andy Dalton on the latter stages of his career, the Bengals need to find their quarterback of the future sooner rather than later. Having dodged a bullet with the Giants, the Bengals give the Jaguars a little extra to come up and get their guy.

8) Detroit Lions: Josh Allen, EDGE Kentucky- Allen has had multiple visits with the Lions during this draft process, including a private workout. Detroit needs a pass rusher opposite Trey Flowers to generate the havoc that Head Coach Matt Patricia would like. If Allen is on the board here, this is as far as he goes because Detroit is seemingly in love with him.
Editor’s Note: Assuming Allen is off the board before this spot, Detroit could be a candidate to trade down. I don’t think they are as enamored with Brian Burns and Montez Sweat as they are with Allen. Not to mention, a team looking to pick DK Metcalf will have to jump Buffalo to do so.

9) Buffalo Bills: DK Metcalf, WR Ole Miss- Speaking of Metcalf to Buffalo, allow me to introduce the layup of the Top 10. The Bills still need a game changer in their receiving core, and Metcalf is just that. He’s phenomenal off the line and he showed his deep ball ability with a freakish 40 time at the Combine. John Brown and Cole Beasley were nice additions in free agency, but Metcalf is the big playmaker they need.

10) Denver Broncos: Drew Lock, QB Missouri- Four QBs in the Top Ten of this draft class is absolutely abominable, but we’re trending that way. The Broncos have had multiple visits with Drew Lock, and it appears they are… Locked…. in to him should Dwayne Haskins land elsewhere on draft day.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve read my personal mock drafts, you know I’m not a fan of the QB class. Outside of Kyler Murray, I do not have a quarterback on my board with a round one or a round two grade. Having said that, this is a Quarterback driven league, and QBs will always be overdrafted because of the value they bring.

11) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Cincinnati Bengals: Rashan Gary, EDGE/DL Michigan- Jacksonville’s draft strategy is anyone’s guess at this point. They have a few obvious needs (OL, Pass Catchers, FS, DL), but the order in which they address them is a mystery.

Should the Jaguars trade down, a guy like Gary could be in play for them. He has the versatility to move all along the defensive front, and the athleticism to be productive at the next level.

12) Green Bay Packers: Ed Oliver, DL Houston- Green Bay has been very aggressive in attempting to improve their defense during the 2019 offseason. I expect that to continue during the first round of this draft.

Oliver would go right to 3-4 defensive end and solidify a new look front seven that should be much more productive than years past.

13) *Houston Texans via Miami Dolphins: Andre Dillard, OT Washington State- The Texans are desperate for offensive line talent early in this draft. They had a ton of money this offseason and chose not to spend it. With extra assets in a weak draft (and Miami’s willingness to trade down), the Texans come up for Dillard, who many people think is the top left tackle in the draft.

14) Atlanta Falcons: Christian Wilkins, DT Clemson- Ed Oliver would be the ideal pick for Atlanta at 14, but Wilkins is a nice consolation prize. He possesses a quick first step like Oliver, he’s very technically sound in the little things (pad level, gap assignments, exc), and he has a high motor. All three of these will be very appealing to Head Coach Dan Quinn.

15) *Pittsburgh Steelers via Washington Redskins: Devin Bush, ILB Michigan- Bush has put together a phenomenal pre-draft process. He was a combine warrior, posting terrific numbers in the 40, vertical jump and 3-Cone drill. Then he went to his pro day and showed the ability to flip his hips like a defensive back. Pittsburgh trades up to land a necessary three down linebacker in the middle of their defense.

16) Carolina Panthers: Brian Burns, EDGE Florida State- Carolina loves the bigger, more physical edge players like Rashan Gary, and Brian Burns isn’t necessarily that. While he possesses good strength for his skill set, his biggest “strength,” is his ability to dip and bend around the edge.

Having said that, I think Carolina could go a different route here and take a player like Burns. Carolina has hinted at wanting to run more 3-4 sets and show multiple looks this season. They signed Bruce Irvin as well, making me think that the idea to go 3-4 could become more of a reality.

Whatever the decision winds up being, the selection at 16 will tell you all you need to know about their defensive game plan for the upcoming season.

17) New York Giants via Cleveland Browns: Montez Sweat, EDGE Mississippi State- Here’s why I sense the Giants going with a Quarterback at 6 instead of 17. There are so little quarterbacks this year and so many edge rushers, there is a much better chance to grab a talented pass rusher at 17 than a talented quarterback. Sweat had a terrific pre-draft process and should be a top 20 lock in a week’s time.

18) Minnesota Vikings: Jonah Williams, OT/OG/C/OL/Please Play Him at Tackle, Alabama- The fact that Jonah Williams will not be the top offensive lineman taken this year is an absolute disgrace. This is Zack Martin all over again. At some point, NFL teams will learn that technique and intelligence are what matters along the offensive line, and not just length and athleticism. Williams will be an All-Pro talent.

19) Tennessee Titans: Noah Fant, TE Iowa- Fant hs been my TE1 all year because of his athleticism and quickness when running routes. He’s an excellent blocker and a weapon in the middle of the field. Fant is an ideal fit in Tennessee’s offense and the heir to Delanie Walker’s throne at the TE position.

20) *Washington Redskins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Parris Campbell, WR Ohio State- Campbell is flying up draft boards after a very impressive combine. He displayed quickness in and out of cuts as well, something that we didn’t always get to see during his time at Ohio State. I think NFL teams view Campbell as a better version of Curtis Samuel, who went top 40 in his own right. Washington needs weapons for whoever their quarterback is, making Campbell a solid selection.

Editor’s Note: Obviously Washington is a great candidate to trade up for a quarterback, but a second option is them pursuing a QB already in the NFL like Josh Rosen or Derek Carr (hint hint, wink wink). If they choose the latter, they can trade backward, get some assets to further their pursuit of Rosen or Carr.

21) Seattle Seahawks: Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, CB/FS Florida– CGJ is a definitive ball hawk, but it’s his versatility to man up in the slot and contribute from a single high position that will have him as the first safety off the board. Seattle is a tough team to predict, but a selection of Gardner-Johnson would help further advance the recreation of LOB 2.0.

22) Baltimore Ravens: N’Keal Harry, WR Arizona State- Baltimore has to find weapons for Lamar Jackson during this draft. Harry can move all around the field, winning route combinations from the boundary as well as the slot. His tape during the season combined with quality testing in Indianapolis should help him be a first round selection.

23) *Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Jeffery Simmons, DT Mississippi State- It’s not much of a secret that Miami is looking to rebuild over the next few seasons. This makes them a perfect team to draft a player like Jeffery Simmons.

Simmons is viewed by many as a top talent in this draft, but he tore his ACL during a workout in February. The Dolphins do not need him to contribute right away in year one, so why not trade backward and take an elite talent for the future?

24) *Arizona Cardinals from Oakland Raiders via Chicago Bears: Hakeem Butler, WR Iowa State- Regardless of whether the Cardinals stay with Josh Rosen or select Murray first overall, they will need to find weapons for whoever their QB is. Butler has freakish athleticism for someone of his size. His potential is off the charts if he can fix the drops that plagued him in college.

25) Philadelphia Eagles: Nasir Adderley, FS Delaware- Philly is a tough team to judge for prediction purposes because they have the ammo to move up high in this draft and land a big fish. However, I think it’s more likely that they stay put in round one, and look to trade up into the early portions of round two.

If they do stay here, a safety is a very likely selection. Malcolm Jenkins and Rodney McLeod are two sizable contracts for a team that will need to save money over the next two years in preparation to pay Carson Wentz.

26) Indianapolis Colts: AJ Brown, WR Ole Miss- In my personal mock drafts, I have been talking about this potential fit for months. Brown’s quickness in the short to intermediate windows out of the slot would be a huge boost to the Colts offense. It would allow T.Y. Hilton to see less double teams. I expect wide receiver to be the target for the Colts at 26, and Brown makes the most sense to me.

27) Oakland Raiders via Dallas Cowboys: Byron Murphy, CB Washington- Murphy’s size was a question heading into the combine. However, when scouts saw his footwork and technique during the on-field drills, the concerns went away. His versatility to do a number of different things and excel in multiple coverage schemes will have many teams jumping at the chance to take him in the backend of round one.

28) Los Angeles Chargers: Greedy Williams, CB LSU- Williams may be the most polarizing player in the draft, but I’m not sure that stops him from being selected in round one. He still has phenomenal collegiate production and very good ball skills. The Chargers secondary took a hit this offseason, particularly at corner. Assuming Desmond King goes back to being a full time nickel player/third safety, LAC needs a second boundary corner to play opposite Casey Hayward.

29) Seattle Seahawks via Kansas City Chiefs: Clelin Ferrell, EDGE Clemson- Ferrell has had a lackluster performance during the draft season, but I don’t think his draft stock will be too hampered by it. His tape is too good and his game is too complete for him to drop past the first 40 picks or so.

30) Green Bay Packers via New Orleans Saints: Chase Winovich, EDGE Michigan- Winovich has put together two terrific pre-draft workouts, both at the combine as well as the Michigan pro day. Throughout his tape he is constantly in the backfield, which shows in his tackles for loss totals during his final two years at Michigan. Now that he has answered some athletic questions, Winovich is most likely the surprise of the first round.

31) *New York Giants via Los Angeles Rams: Dexter Lawrence, DT/NT Clemson- The Giants appear to be in love with Lawrence’s skill set, but I don’t think he will make it to their selection at the top end of round two. To ensure they get their man, the Giants mortgage a few draft assets in a weaker draft class to come up and take a player they covet.

32) New England Patriots: TJ Hockenson, TE Iowa- Rob Gronkowski’s retirement puts offensive weapons at the top of the Patriots wish list for the 2019 draft. The Patriots will definitely attempt to move up for Noah Fant, but I think Bill Belichick is also very comfortable with staying put and seeing if he can land Hockenson or Irv Smith Jr. If he can somehow pull Hockenson, the rest of the NFL should be embarrassed and thoroughly terrified.

TRADES IN ROUND ONE

1- Oakland Raiders trade the #4, #24 and a 2020 1st Round Pick (from Chicago) to the Arizona Cardinals for the #1 and a 2020 3rd Round Pick.

2- Cincinnati Bengals trade the #11, #72 and a 2020 2nd Round Pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #7 and a 2020 5th Round Pick.

3- Houston Texans trade the #23, #54 and #55 to the Miami Dolphins for the #13 and #78.

4- Pittsburgh Steelers trade the #20, #83 and #122 to the Washington Redskins for the #15 and #206.

5- New York Giants trade the #37, #108 and #180 to the Los Angeles Rams for the #31.

ROUND TWO

33) Arizona Cardinals: Rock Ya-Sin, CB Temple- Arizona needs cornerback depth in the worst way. Outside of Patrick Peterson, it’s a giant question mark. Ya-Sin is a competitor and a ball hawk, two things that should compliment Peterson nicely considering all the targets Ya-Sin will see.

34) Indianapolis Colts via New York Jets: Anthony Nelson, EDGE/DE Iowa- I know Nelson is much higher on my personal board than he is being mocked by draft experts. Normally in this spot you would see a player like Jaylon Ferguson instead of my man Nelson.

However, I think NFL teams will agree with my analysis of Nelson. He’s just as technically sound as Clelin Ferrell, and despite the fact his first step isn’t quite as good on tape, he’s more adept at bending around the edge and running the arch.

Therefore, Nelson is the pick here and not Jaylon Ferguson.

35) Oakland Raiders: Josh Jacobs, RB Alabama- Oakland is now the frontrunner to land Jacobs after Marshawn Lynch decided to step away from football again. Whether they make that selection in round one or at the top or round two, it would take a miracle for one of the few three down runningbacks in this draft class to wind up elsewhere on draft day.

36) San Francisco 49ers: Deebo Samuel, WR South Carolina- The Niners need to find more weapons for Jimmy Garoppolo during this draft. Samuel has had a terrific draft process, shining ever since the Senior Bowl week back in January. He’s one of many quality pass catchers that will be selected on day two.

37) *Los Angeles Rams via New York Giants: Jachai Polite, EDGE Florida- Polite’s only saving grace to go in the first two rounds right now is the Rams. While Polite has had one of the worst Combine and Pro Day performances that I can remember, the one team he interviewed well with was the Rams. I still believe Polite stands a chance to be a good pro because his ability to come off the edge and generate pressure is so prevalent throughout his collegiate tape. This is why the Rams trade backwards and take him in round two.

Editor’s Note: An alternative move for the Rams could be to trade up in round three and try to snag him at the top of that round. If they believe he is truly off of many teams draft boards, they could look to do the same strategy with Polite that the Raiders did with Arden Key.

38) Jacksonville Jaguars: Darnell Savage, FS Maryland- A sneaky need for the Jaguars that they will most likely address early in this draft is a single high safety to keep their defense at the elite level it should be. Savage is that kind of player.

39) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, WR Oklahoma- The Bucs used a pre-draft visit on Hollywood Brown, which makes sense seeing as they need a deep threat to replace Desean Jackson. I’m not sure I would spend a top 40 selection on a third wideout in their offense, but that appears to be the direction they are headed.

40) Buffalo Bills: Kaleb McGary, OT/OG Washington- McGary is nowhere near this evaluation on my personal board, but his athleticism and supposed versatility is what has a lot of teams chomping at the bit for him in round two.

41) Denver Broncos: Garrett Bradbury, C NC State- Matt Paradis was a big loss for the Broncos, but he’s replaceable in the front end of the draft. Even though Bradbury is likely to go higher than this, players fall to round two that should have gone in round one all the time. In this draft, that player is Bradbury.

42) Cincinnati Bengals: Cody Ford, OT/OG Oklahoma- Cincinnati signed Bobby Hart to… uhh… let up sacks? It surely wasn’t to protect the passer. One can only hope they’re wise enough to just draft offensive line anyway and act as if the Bobby Hart signing never happened.

43) *Kansas City Chiefs via Detroit Lions: Erik McCoy, C/OG Texas A&M- McCoy is a very similar player to Garrett Bradbury, showing good athleticism in short areas, as well as the technique necessary to excel in pass protection. Much like the Broncos a few picks earlier with replacing Matt Paradis, Kansas City needs to replace Mitch Morse. They trade up a few spots to land McCoy.

44) Green Bay Packers: Irv Smith Jr., TE Alabama- Aaron Rodgers loves throwing to tight ends. The problem is, Rodgers has not had one that is truly a matchup problem in a long time. Irv Smith can block and he’s improved as a route runner. He’s a much better fit for the Packers current offense than Jimmy Graham.

45) *Philadelphia Eagles via Atlanta Falcons: Chris Lindstrom, OG Boston College- Atlanta has teased that they could trade down in this draft. If that truly is the draft strategy, it might make more sense to happen in round two rather than round one. Philadelphia could also trade in this draft, but their goal is to trade up not backward. Both teams could be perfect trade partners at some point in this draft.

Editor’s Note: Lindstrom is a good fit for either of these teams, but based on pre-draft workouts I think he’s more of a target for Philly than Atlanta. Hence the trade.

46) *Oakland Raiders via Washington Redskins: Jaylon Ferguson, EDGE Louisiana Tech- For some reason Ferguson’s three cone shuttle, which was north of eight seconds, has not scared NFL teams from talking about him on day two. Oakland acquires this selection by sending Derek Carr to Washington and takes Ferguson to double up on pass rushers in day two.

47) Carolina Panthers: Greg Little, OT Ole Miss- I really don’t like Little as a selection before day three, but Carolina has visited with him a lot throughout the draft process. He is most likely going to be picked on day two, and Carolina is a very likely destination for the former 5-Star recruit.

48) Miami Dolphins: Dalton Risner, OT/OG Kansas State- The Dolphins need to improve in the trenches on both sides of the ball. Risner can start on the right side of their offensive line from day one.

49) Cleveland Browns: Juan Thornhill, SS Virginia- Thornhill’s athleticism and ability to play downhill has teams very interested in him early in this draft. Many teams think he can be a chess piece in the backend of their defense. Thornhill makes sense as a target for the Browns because he can move around the field like Julius Peppers did.

50) Minnesota Vikings: Jerry Tillery, DT Notre Dame- Tillery is extremely athletic and a quality pass rusher along the interior. Minnesota needs an athletic starter next to Linval Joseph, making Saunders a perfect fit for them at 50.

51) Tennessee Titans: Khalen Saunders, DL Western Illinois- One of the best pound for pound athletes in this draft is Khalen Saunders. He’s a perfect fit in a 3-4 because he’s successful from multiple positions along the defensive front.

52) Pittsburgh Steelers: Justin Layne, CB Michigan State- Layne has emerged as a day two lock during the pre-draft process. He’s long, he’s athletic, and he shows big time potential in man-to-man situations. The Steelers still need a number two corner, making Layne a very likely selection in the second round if he is available.

53) *Atlanta Falcons from Philadelphia Eagles via Baltimore Ravens: Tytus Howard, OT Alabama State- Howard has ideal size and length for a right tackle, but he needs to continue to refine his technique in order to become a quality starter. This makes Atlanta an ideal destination because he would not have to start day one, unless he earned it.

54) *Miami Dolphins from Houston Texans via Seattle Seahawks: Emanuel Hall, WR Missouri- The Dolphins have lacked an explosive deep threat for a long time. Hall is a definitive burner that separates with speed and athleticism down the field. He’s a good target for Miami at some point during this draft.

55) *Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans: Jamel Dean, CB Auburn- Here’s a classic reach on day two because of a good combine. Dean showed enough on tape to make teams covet his sheer athleticism over some more technical corners.

56) New England Patriots via Chicago Bears: Andy Isabella, WR Massachusetts- I know Patriots fans would rather see Isabella later in the draft, but I think he tested too well at the Combine for the Pats to do that. Isabella’s route running, athleticism and solid hands make him a perfect fit for the Patriots offense.

57) Philadelphia Eagles: Mack Wilson, ILB Alabama- The buzz around Wilson has cooled during the latter portions of the draft process. Having said that, the off ball linebacker class is so weak that his tape and collegiate production should still have him as the third player off the board in this position group.

58) Dallas Cowboys: Deionte Thompson, FS Alabama- The Cowboys have visited with a ton of safeties during this offseason, making a selection of one at 58 very likely. Thompson is easily the best cover safety still on the board, so he is the pick here.

59) Indianapolis Colts: Iman Marshall, CB/FS/SS USC- Marshall is going to go much higher than he should on draft day, and I still have not figured out why. Many teams think he possesses the versatility to play nickel corner or a cover two safety position. When I figure out what they are basing this off of, I will let you all know.

60) Los Angeles Chargers: Yodny Cajuste, OT West Virginia- Offensive tackle is a sneaky need for the Chargers during this draft. Okung has been up and down during the last few years, and Sam Tevi is better served as a backup. Cajuste steps in and competes for a starting job from day one.

61) *Detroit Lions via Kansas City Chiefs: Lonnie Johnson Jr., CB Kentucky- Teez Tabor has not stepped up and grabbed the number two cornerback slot like the Lions had hoped. Johnson’s length and athleticism combined with his (presumed) ability in press coverage are the two aspects of his game that NFL teams find attractive.

62) New Orleans Saints: Joejuan Williams, CB Vanderbilt- Williams had a tough combine, but redeemed himself during the athletic testing portion of his pro day. He’s a long, physical corner with the ability to press and solid ball skills. His traits on tape combined with his improved athletic testing should have him as a day two selection.

63) *Detroit Lions from Kansas City Chiefs via Los Angeles Rams: Amani Hooker, FS Iowa- Detroit continues to revamp their secondary by selecting the best cover safety left on the board. While this could be a thumper like Taylor Rapp or Johnathan Abram, I’m going to take a chance on Hooker because of his versatility in coverage.

64) New England Patriots: Blake Cashman, ILB Minnesota- New England does have a few defensive needs in this draft, one of which is addressing their linebacking core. Outside of Kyle Van Noy, it’s a weak unit. Cashman is an athletic three down linebacker who shows a great understanding for gap assignments on tape.

TRADES IN ROUND TWO

1- Kansas City Chiefs trade the #61 and #63 to the Detroit Lions for the #43, #111 and #224.

2- Philadelphia Eagles trade the #53, #127 and #163 to the Atlanta Falcons for the #45 and #230.

3- Washington Redskins acquire Derek Carr and a 2020 3rd Round Pick from the Oakland Raiders in exchange for the #46 and 2020 Conditional 5th Round Pick.

ROUND THREE

65) Arizona Cardinals: Dawson Knox, TE Ole Miss

66) Pittsburgh Steelers via Oakland Raiders: Dennis Daley, OT South Carolina

67) San Francisco 49ers: Jimmy Moreland, CB James Madison

68) New York Jets: Elgton Jenkins, C Mississippi State

69) Jacksonville Jaguars: Terry McLaurin, WR Ohio State

70) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Johnathan Abram, SS Mississippi State

X) New York Giants- Forfeit Due to the Selection of Sam Beal in the Supplemental Draft

71) Denver Broncos: Isaiah Johnson, CB Houston

72) *Jacksonville Jaguars via Cincinnati Bengals: Jace Sternberger, TE Texas A&M

73) New England Patriots via Detroit Lions: Charles Omenihu, DL Texas

74) Buffalo Bills: Maxx Crosby, EDGE Eastern Michigan

75) Green Bay Packers: Michael Dieter, OL Wisconsin

76) Washington Redskins: Amani Oruwariye, CB Penn State

77) Carolina Panthers: Taylor Rapp, SS Washington

78) *Houston Texans via Miami Dolphins: Trysten Hill, DT/NT UCF

79) Atlanta Falcons: DeAndre Baker, CB Georgia

80) Cleveland Browns: Trayvon Mullen, CB Clemson

81) Minnesota Vikings: Michael Jordan, OG/C Ohio State

82) Tennessee Titans: JJ Arcega-Whiteside, WR Stanford

83) *Washington Redskins via Pittsburgh Steelers: Kelvin Harmon, WR NC State

84) Seattle Seahawks: LJ Collier, DL TCU

85) Baltimore Ravens: Ben Banogu, EDGE TCU

86) Houston Texans: Connor McGovern, OG/C Penn State

87) Chicago Bears: David Long, CB Michigan

88) Detroit Lions via Philadelphia Eagles: Dru Samia, OG Oklahoma

89) Indianapolis Colts: Renell Wren, DT Arizona State

90) Dallas Cowboys: Zach Allen, DL Boston College

91) Los Angeles Chargers: Kingsley Keke, DL Texas A&M

92) Kansas City Chiefs: Christian Miller, EDGE Alabama

93) New York Jets via New Orleans Saints: Sean Bunting, CB Central Michigan

94) Los Angeles Rams: Bobby Evans, OT/OG Oklahoma

95) New York Giants from Cleveland Browns via New England Patriots: David Edwards, OT Wisconsin

96) Washington Redskins: Nate Davis, OL Charlotte

97) New England Patriots: Tyree Jackson, QB Buffalo

98) Jacksonville Jaguars via Los Angeles Rams: David Montgomery, RB Iowa State

99) Los Angeles Rams: Sheldrick Redwine, FS/SS Miami

100) Carolina Panthers: Damien Harris, RB Alabama

101) New England Patriots: Riley Ridley, WR Georgia

102) Baltimore Ravens: Germaine Pratt, ILB NC State

This entry was posted in Mock Drafts, NFL Draft Articles and tagged 2019 NFL Draft, 2019 NFL Mock Draft, Andre Dillard, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Brian Burns, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, Chicago Bears, Christian Wilkins, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Daniel Jones, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Devin Bush, Devin White, DK Metcalf, Drew Lock, Dwayne Haskins, Ed Oliver, Green Bay Packers, Hakeem Butler, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jawaan Taylor, Jeffery Simmons, Jonah Williams, Josh Allen, Kansas City Chiefs, Kyler Murray, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, Montez Sweat, N'Keal Harry, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL, NFL Draft, NFL Mock Draft, Nick Bosa, Noah Fant, Oakland Raiders, Parris Campbell, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Quinnen Williams, Rashan Gary, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, TJ Hockenson, Washington Redskins.

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