By: Jake Rajala (Twitter: @rajala_jake)

The Lombardi trophy has been captured and the ageless Buccaneers quarterback that’s appeared in 10 Super Bowls out of his 21 seasons active comes out victorious with yet another Super Bowl ring. With the Super Bowl being in the books and the notorious commercials getting their airtime, the 2020-2021 NFL season is officially in the books.

As the offseason kicks off, the focus turns to free agency, dynasty fantasy football/fantasy research, and of course: NFL Draft. The NFL Draft is undoubtedly the most optimistic part of each team’s off-season checklist, along with each fan’s reason to hope for a better upcoming season of success.

The “common” fans don’t adore the NFL combine, but there’s something very attractive and outreaching to many football beginners about the NFL Draft. The anticipation of each draft selection, College Football stars getting their name called, and an event opening up to city crowd and culture creates nothing but football cultivation.

As the draft inches closer and closer, it’s time to untwine another projection of draft royalty. Mock Drafts are a relishing aspect of the off-season and there are many scenarios that can be unfolded. With that being exonerated, let’s untwine another piece of NFL mock draft speculation.

1. 1) Jacksonville Jaguars: QB Trevor Lawrence

The Jacksonville Jaguars had the most attractive head coaching location this off-season. Urban Meyer abruptly took notice of the Florida team holding onto the golden ticket and inked a contract with the Jaguars.

Urban Meyer recently brought over Darrell Bevell to be the offensive coordinator. The duo of Meyer-Bevell is ready to jumpstart the 6’6 signal-caller out of Clemson.

Trevor Lawrence, who posed career marks in passer rating, completion percentage, passing yards, and yards per completion will have a well-experienced crew to allow him to grow. Lawrence will have an opportunity to make an enormous transition of team success in a division with a decimating Texans and Colts team, while the threatening Titans failed to take forward last season.

2) New York Jets: OL Penei Sewell

The New York Jets are in a rebuilding process, but they’re building the house the right way — one brick at a time. Robert Saleh will be the right brutally honest, tough guy to build the culture, along with the structure of the team.

I believe that Fields could be a Pro Bowl QB in the right scheme, but I believe it’s not a great fit to put him in an offense with an atrocious offensive line, a RB spot with a huge question mark, along with a below-average WR/TE core. It also is crystal clear that Sewell is a “generational talent”.

The Bills are AFC prowlers, the Dolphins were the best team to not make the playoffs, and the Patriots may be a QB and reinforcements of talent from COVID to bounce back mightily. It makes sense for the Jets to get more physical and establish a sure competitive roster within the next couple of seasons by taking Sewell at a critical position that keeps a golden QB upright on the big stage.

3) Philadelphia Eagles (trade with Miami): QB Zach Wilson

The Philadelphia Eagles are expected to trade their John Dillinger of a QB in Carson Wentz. It seemed likely that Nick Sirianni was brought in to fix the once MVP candidate. However, that situation will not be unfolded.

As Wentz gets ready to pack his bags and go to a new location, many would suggest that Jalen Hurts is the answer. Despite the buzz surrounding Wentz’s dismisall, Hurts should be walking on thin ice himself. There’s been countless trade rumors surrounding the young stud, coach Sirianni hasn’t commited to Hurts, and the Eagles QB didn’t show enough to win the job.

The Eagles could make a splash trade an acquire a QB that’s closer to the skillset of the athletic big arm QB, once elite Wentz — who Sirianni once coached at a high level. Wilson could make the Eagles instant contenders in the pourous NFC East.

4) Denver Broncos (trade with Falcons): QB Justin Fields

Drew Lock does not appear to hold the potential of being a “very” high caliber QB. To be candid, Lock had a significant sophomore slump and it’s unclear if the Broncos QB will be a stout QB moving forward.

The Broncos are in a brute AFC West with 2020 rookie of the year Justin Herbert, Regular season and Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes, then the Raiders possess a high powered offense to give the Chiefs fits. It’s time for the Broncos to take a rare talent at a prime draft slot.

5) Cincinnati Bengals: TE Kyle Pitts

The Florida TE was PFF’s top player in College Football and he’s going to top Vernon Davis’s draft positon (sixth overall) and hear his name called in the Top 5.

Kyle Pitts would fit in nicely with Joe Burrow, along with WRs in Tee Higgins, potentially AJ Green, and Tyler Boyd alongside him. Pitts could be a red zone lethal weapon for Burrow, along with a mismatch machine against the stingy Steelers defense twice a year.

6) Miami Dolphins (trade with Philadelphia): WR Ja’Marr Chase

The Miami Dolphins need more firepower across from DeVante Parker in the Tua led offense. The highly touted, number one WR out of LSU can propel Miami back to the playoff gauntlet.

Chase was the best WR in the nation in 2019. Despite sitting out the 2020 season, Chase is a physical freak and should be held above the Alabama Heisman winner. Expect Tua to be seeing less of the game from the sidelines with Chase in the building.

7) Detroit Lions: WR DeVonta Smith

The Detroit Lions have an avalance of a defensive roster, but that’s not the sole reason to Matt Patricia getting axed. Lions need more explosion and juice to complement D’Andre Swift on offense.

The Lions crumbling roster should also strongly consider taking the best player on the board, so that leads me to them announcing DeVonta Smith on draft day. An offense fueled with Hockenson, Swift, and Smith could have Goff drooling about his revenge over his ex head coach in Los Angeles.

8) Carolina Panthers: LB Micah Parsons

It would seem very possible that Carolina targets a QB in this spot, but I believe the high-end talent (Micah Parsons) at a critical spot (LB) could overweigh a QB like Trey Lance taking over for Teddy Bridgewater at QB. The Penn State LB could be their true replacement for Luke Kuechly.

Parsons takes way in a division with Tampa Bay, a Saints offense with Alvin Kamara and Michael Thomas, and a motivated Falcons offense with high-caliber players in sync. The Panthers offense could take a big jump with CMAC returning as it is. It’s time for their defense to get a leader on their young front seven.

9) Atlanta Falcons (Trade with Denver): CB Caleb Farley

I firmly believe that trading back is the best route for Atlanta. And it helps the Falcons that decade like talents at QBs could very well still be on the board at fourth overall to allow them to slide back, collect draft picks, and still land a gifted player at a serious need.

The star dusted CB Farley at 6’2 210 could be a great CB to match the size of Mike Evans, Michael Thomas, DJ Moore, and help their lackluster of a pass rush get home to the QB. The Falcons look like a dominant team when their pass defense isn’t blowing fourth-quarter leads. The issue is that their secondary annually costs them big games.

10) Dallas : DE Gregory Rousseau

Gregory Rousseau is a dominant, high motor, and lengthy freak standing at 6’6. Aldon Smith had a resurgence to his career, especially given how he hasn’t been effective on the field in several years. Nonetheless, it doesn’t bode well for Smith to ink a massive contract on a long-term deal with the Cowboys.

Jerry Jones needs to find true, elite pass-rushing talent, so he could opt to take a player that will fit nicely in a front seven featuring Lander Esch and Jaylon Smith. Dak will be healthy and scoring points at will, but they need to complement their well-oiled machine offense with a ferocious edge rusher with Demarcus Lawrence and now Gregory Rousseau pinning their ears back.

The post 2021 NFL Mock Draft: Top 10 Selections appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Russell Jakubowski

Round 1

1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson

Trevor Lawrence is the meilleur joueur of this year’s draft. The Clemson quarterback has been touted as the best quarterback since Peyton Manning and has my highest quarterback draft grade ever. Lawrence has terrific arm talent, pinpoint accuracy and mobility. He led the #WeWantToPlay campaign. Trevor has both championship pedigree and amazing leadership qualities. Lawrence’s pro comparison is a lofty one, but I love the Aaron Rodgers comp. Lawrence will add stability at the quarterback position for a Jacksonville Jaguars team that has lacked that since inception. 

2. New York Jets: Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State

The New York Jets are looking to move on from Sam Darnold and bring in a new franchise signal-caller. Fields is built for the Big Apple. Justin Fields has a big-time arm and the mobility to win in the NFL. Fields plays with a chip-on-his-shoulder and is never satisfied. If Fields can fix his issues with his internal clock management and speed up his release, he will be a top-five quarterback in the NFL. The New York Jets are set at the quarterback position for a decade plus.

3. Miami Dolphins: Devonta Smith, WR, Alabama

Selecting Devonta Smith and recreating the duo of himself and Tua Tagovailoa is a must for the Miami Dolphins this season. Smith has a precedent for breaking the game and generating history. Devonta Smith became the fourth wide receiver in college football history to win the lofty Heisman Trophy last season. Smith has everything you want in a receiver. He has amazing hands, insane body control and has phenomenal route-running. The Crimson Tide superstar would contribute on day one for the Miami Dolphins. 

4. Atlanta Falcons: Zach Wilson, QB, BYU

The Matt Ryan era is coming to a conclusion in Atlanta and the Wilson era is being ushered in. It is very likely that we could see Matt Ryan dealt this offseason or used as a bridge-quarterback for Zach Wilson. The BYU prospect is college football’s highest riser and shot up draft boards throughout the fall. Wilson is the ideal quarterback mold for today’s era of the position. He has top-end arm talent and can make plays out of structure, both off his back foot and on the run. Zach Wilson is a perfect-mold for the Atlanta Falcons offense.

5. Cincinnati Bengals: Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon

Going into this offseason, few things are more apparent than the Cincinnati Bengals need to add protection around Joe Burrow. Joe Burrow will be coming off a major knee injury and will need to be safe-guarded now more than ever. Penei Sewell is the perfect player to revamp the offensive line. Sewell is both a physical-freak and as agile as a tackle can come. The Oregon star has few issues, the only prevalent one is Sewell needs to find work when not facing a blocker. By bringing in a body-guard and all-pro caliber talent, the franchise can begin to rest easier when it comes to their franchise quarterback’s health. 

6. Philadelphia Eagles: Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU

The Philadelphia Eagles came into this offseason with one primary goal, fix Carson Wentz, the best way to ensure his success is to put pieces around him. Ja’Marr Chase is one fantastic piece for Wentz. Chase had a prolific season with LSU in 2019 that ended with a championship and the Biletnikoff. Ja’Marr is a physical receiver who dominates opposing corners at the point-of-attack and wins battles with his college football’s best body control. The only significant knock on him is he lacks top-end speed, but that doesn’t pose a significant issue because of all his physical talent. Ja’Marr Chase will be the Philadelphia Eagles WR1 on Day One.

7. Detroit Lions: Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State

Matthew Stafford has requested a trade and Trey Lance becomes Detroit’s new franchise quarterback. Trey Lance was a one-year starter at North Dakota State and had the single greatest season in FCS history. Lance passed for 28 touchdowns to zero interceptions. In addition to his arm accolades, Trey Lance rushed for 1,100 yards and 14 touchdowns. Lance has amazing football IQ, top-end arm talent and would add a secondary dimension to Lions offense as a runner. He is hyper-competitive and would pair well with fiery new head coach Dan Campbell. The future is bright in Motown.

8. Carolina Panthers: Patrick Surtain II, CB, Alabama

The Carolina Panthers spent their entire 2020 draft class revamping their defense and will use the 8th pick on another defender. Patrick Surtain II is the marquis cornerback in this draft cycle. Surtain is athletically gifted, and uses his frame to erase receivers. He has adequate speed to be a starting corner, but his bread-and-butter is playing against larger, more physical receivers. Patrick Surtain’s physicality would pair well with Donte Jackson and his speed. Phil Snow just got a new weapon for his very young arsenal. My comparison for Patrick Surtain is Charles “Peanut” Tillman due to similar athletic profiles and Surtain’s use of the “Peanut Punch” to force fumbles.

9. Denver Broncos: Gregory Rousseau, DE, Miami (FL)

Von Miller has been a mix of injuries and headaches as of recently and the team could benefit to move on from him. The addition of pass rush specialist Gregory Rousseau would lessen the blow of losing Von Miller. Rousseau is a physical freak with a 6ft 7in, 265 lb frame. Rousseau has massive arms that once they lock onto you it over. He has great speed and agility for his size. His downside is a lack of pass rush moves. Rousseau with the right coaching will be a top-ten pass rusher in the NFL.

10.  Dallas Cowboys: Caleb Farley, CB, VT

The Dallas Cowboys need a lot of help on the defensive side of the ball and pairing Caleb Farley with Trevon Diggs is a great way to begin to provide that help. Caleb Farley is the most athletic cornerback in this draft. Farley excels in press-man and can follow receivers stride-for-stride down the field. However, he is scheme diverse and can succeed in a zone-heavy defense. Scouts are very high on Farley and I expect the Cowboys to be high on him too. 

11.  New York Giants: Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama

The New York Giants spent the 6th overall on Daniel Jones in 2019, and if they want their “franchise” quarterback to succeed they have to provide him with weapons. Jaylen Waddle is the highest ceiling player in this draft. It’s not a secret that Jaylen Waddle is explosive and is reportedly faster than Henry Ruggs 4.28 40 time. Waddle is physical and can climb the ladder to win jump balls despite being only 5ft 10in. The Crimson tide receiver is a complete package and would be Daniel Jones primary target on day one. 

12.  San Francisco 49ers: Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina

The 49ers secondary has the potential to be a disaster after this season and patching the holes now rather than later is the right move for John Lynch and company. Richard Sherman does not plan to return after next season, Jason Verrett is a free agent, and per source K’Waun Williams is “as good as gone.” By grabbing Horn, the Niners put themselves in position to slide him in Sherman departs. Jaycee Horn is a hyper-physical player who can best be described as a “eraser” when covering wide receivers. The South Carolina product can tend to get a little grabby at times, but other than that he is a surefire star cornerback. The San Francisco 49ers will be all over him in the draft cycle. 

13.  Los Angeles Chargers: Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern

The Los Angeles Chargers primary objective this offseason is to protect Justin Herbert and reestablish the run-game. Rashawn Slater is most noticeably known for his game in 2019 against Chase Young. Slater kept the best college football pass rusher in years in check and now he will keep AFC West pass rushers in check. Rashawn Slater is a solid run blocker and would allow both Austin Ekeler and Joshua Kelley to reach new heights. Slater would be another home run hit by Tom Telesco in the first round. 

14.  Minnesota Vikings: Kwity Paye, DE, Michigan

The Minnesota Vikings need to get better on defense this offseason and pairing Kwity Paye with All-Pro defensive end Danielle Hunter is a fantastic way to turn this defense around. Kwity Paye is a bigger, physical defensive end and that’s the kind Mike Zimmer covet. Coach Zimmer loves big guys who can play the run and rush the passer. Kwity Paye is a seamless fit in Minnesota and is just too logical of a pick for Rick Speilman. 

15: New England Patriots: Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State

The New England Patriots often take the best talent on their board when they pick and Micah Parsons is the best talent on the board. Parsons is a terrific linebacker who will fill a MIKE role in the NFL. Parsons can rush the pass, outside contain and erase tight ends in coverage. I say talent because the hazing issues will have him sliding come draft day and his character will be called into question. It is very Patriots-esch to draft a player with high upside, great skills and attempt to alter their questionable character. 

16. Arizona Cardinals: Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

Imagine Kliff Kingsburry’s offense with Kyler Murray, DeAndre Hopkins, Christian Kirk, Chase Edmonds and Kyle Pitts. Kliff’s offense will be practically uncoverable. Kyle Pitts can do anything asked of him. Pitts can block on the end, lineup inline and play the seam or play out wide at Y. He was the most versatile player in college football. Kyle Pitts has great hands and moves at roughly 4.45 40 times on a 6ft 6in, 240 lb frame. Kyle Pitts is a super-star and would break the league with the Arizona Cardinals. 

17. Las Vegas Raiders: Jaelan Phillps, DE, Miami (FL)

Mike Mayock and the Raiders love pass-rushers with extremely high ceilings, Jaelan Phillps is their type. Phillps was the #1 player in the 2016 High School class and an immediate play-maker in college. He suffered multiple college injuries transferred to Miami where he was healthy and then dominated college football. Jaelan has great first-step burst and is a perfect blend of power, speed and size. The Las Vegas Raiders are devoid of pass-rushers and if Phillips is healthy he will be a top-ten pass rusher in the league.

18. Miami Dolphins: Najee Harris, RB, Alabama

The Miami Dolphins are going to break traditional draft rules and take a running back high. Tua would be elated to land both Devonta Smith and Najee Harris in this cycle. Najee Harris is a complete back with his ability to operate in the power run game and run out into the flat, catch a pass and take it the distance.  Najee Harris has amazing contact balance, great hands and can cut upfield on a dime. The Alabama halfback will be a playmaker on day one for the Miami Dolphins and be in conversation for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

19. Washington Football Team: Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech

This is a best player on the board pick for Washington. Darrisaw can come in day one and protect whoever starts for WFT at quarterback. Darrisaw is an extremely athletic tackle who can hold his own against power rushers with his anchor and has the best reach block in this class. When in run protection, Darrisaw moves to the second level with ease and can crash down on unsuspecting linebackers. The Virginia Tech star would man the left tackle spot in Washington for a decade plus. 

20. Chicago Bears: Samuel Cosmi, OT, Bears

With the top-four quarterbacks gone the Bears hit their second-biggest area of need, offensive tackle. Samuel Comsi is very raw, but athletically gifted at 6ft 7in and 309 lbs with his movement skills. Samuel Cosmi is one of the better pass-protectors in this draft and would make an immediate impact on the Chicago Bears run game. Cosmi would pave the way for break-out running back David Montgomery and allow for whichever sub-par quarterback the Bears to operate in a clean pocket. 

21. Indianapolis Colts: Dillon Radunz, OT, North Dakota State

Anthony Castonzo retired this offseason and the Colts have a massive hole at left tackle that has to be filled. Radunz can fill Castonzo’s big shoes and impact the offense immediately. Radunz had the best week at the Senior Bowl and was voted the best practice player by the players. The selection of Radunz would be insane as he and Quenton Nelson would be the most physical offensive line duo in all of football. Dillon Radunz is a perfect fit for what the Indianapolis Colts want to do upfront.  

22. Tennessee Titans: Joseph Ossai, OLB, Texas

The Tennessee Titans had an abysmal pass-rush this season and if they want to be considered contenders, they need to reinforce their unit. The addition of Joseph Ossai is a great start to getting after the quarterback. Ossai has the best motor of any prospect in this class. He is motivated by journey to America and what his family had to give to get up here. Ossai has the speed to beat the tackle outside then bull-rush him and win the very next snap. He isn’t a coverage linebacker but rather a three-down pass-rusher. Ossai is one of my favorite pass-rushers and would be a great fit in Tennessee.

23. New York Jets: Kadarius Toney, WR, Florida

The New York Jets just drafted Justin Fields, now you need to put pieces around him to ensure his success. Kadarius Toney is a dynamic play-maker that has the potential to score everytime the ball is in his hands. I will say, I have never seen a player with his agility in all of my time watching football. Toney is a small build receiver who uses his speed and cuts to get open. He will be one of the NFL’s best route-runners by the end of his sophomore year. 

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jalen Mayfield, OT, Michigan

Per source, it is “extremely unlikely” that Pittsburgh Steelers will re-sign Alejandro Villanueva. That means the Steelers will kick Chukwuma Okorafor to left tackle and pursue a new right tackle this offseason. Jalen Mayfield is a perfect mold for the Pittsburgh Steelers, young, physical and has room to go once selected. Mayfield would start day one in the steel city and would be a homerun hit for the Steelers.

25. Jacksonville Jaguars: Eric Stokes, CB, Georgia

The Jacksonville Jaguars have their generational talent in Lawrence, they need to prioritize players who can take away the ball and get the ball in Trevor’s hands. Eric Stokes is a phenomenal corner who can win at the point-of-attack and take away the ball. Stokes intercepted four passes this season and ran two back for scores. Stokes has a perfect build for an outside corner who will follow the team’s fastest or most athletic wide receiver. Pairing Eric Stokes with C.J. Henderson would create a young dynamic duo on the outside for the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

26. Cleveland Browns: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame

The Cleveland Browns need a dynamic chess piece in the middle who can command a defense and do-it-all. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah will be that playmaker. JOK can do a little bit of everything, he can rush the passer, play the run, but his best attribute is in pass coverage. He erases tight ends and is a physical at the line of scrimmage. Joe Woods will be able to find work for the Butkus Award winner on every snap. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is a home-run hit pick for the Dawg Pound.

27. Baltimore Ravens: Azeez Ojulari, DE, Georgia

The Ravens are most likely letting Matt Judon depart in free agency this offseason and his production will need to be replicated and replaced. Azeez Oljuari is the most-pro ready pass rusher in this draft. Azeez has a multitude of pass rush moves including the cross-chop and the dip and rip. The Georgia product excels at pass-rushing outside and is the most explosive pass-rusher in this draft cycle. 

28. New Orleans: Aaron Robinson, CB, UCF

The Saints need cost effective players in expensive spots. The Saints are $100 million over the cap and will have to shed contracts. Marshon Lattimore has appeared in trade rumors and the Saints could save $7 million by moving on from veteran cornerback Janoris Jenkins. Aaron Robinson can start for the Saints on day one and would be able to stay competitive against physical receivers like Mike Evans. Aaron Robinson excels in press-man and is as physical as they come at the point-of-attack.

29. Green Bay Packers: Zaven Collins, LB, Tulsa

The Packers defense lacks a true playmaker in the middle of the defense and traditional linebacker Zaven Collins would fit in perfectly. The Green Bay Packers could save $5.6 million by moving on from Christian Kirksey. Collins is large for a modern linebacker at 6ft 3in, 260 lbs, but with his movement skills and vision he should be able to play MIKE or WILL in the NFL. The Bednarik award winner excels in coverage and has a knack for taking away the football. Zaven Collins would find available work readily available in the Packers 3-4 base defense.

30. Buffalo Bills: Asante Samuel Jr, CB, Florida State

The Buffalo Bills have few holes on this team, nevertheless defense. However, after giving up 325 yards and three touchdowns to Patrick Mahomes and company in the AFC Championship Game, it is time to bolster the secondary to stay competitive against the AFC’s top wideouts. Pairing Asante Samuel Jr. with Tre’Davious White would generate arguably the best cornerback duo in the AFC and put wide receiver rooms on notice. Asante Samuel Jr. is a ballhawk, an inherited trait from his father. Samuel is great in man coverage and has fluid hips. He is great in and out of breaks and can close in range on receivers with ease. 

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Christian Barmore, DT, Alabama

It is very likely that Ndamkoung Suh is not retained or retires after this season and his departure will leave a very big hole in the defensive line. The Buccaneers can draft Barmore to patch the hole and ramp up pass-rush production. Barmore is a natural-fit for Todd Bowles defense and can fill in for Suh at 3-tech. Christian Barmore elevated his stock after winning National Championship Defensive MVP last season. The Alabama defensive lineman has strong hands and can get past guards with his deep bag tricks when it comes to pass-rush moves or pure athleticism. 

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Wyatt Davis, OG, Ohio State

This pick almost isn’t fair as the NFL’s best team gets the draft’s best guard. When you put $500 million into your signal-caller it is important to keep him upright. Davis can be described as a “mauler’ and is arguably the most physical player in college football. Wyatt Davis’s best trait is his ability to move defensive tackles out of their gaps and create interior running lanes. He has a natural stance in pass-protection and would start immediately on Kansas City’s offensive line. 

Round 2:

33: Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevon Moehrig, S, TCU

Moehrig is the draft’s best safety and would be a splash player on Urban Meyer’s defense. 

34. New York Jets: Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB, Syracuse.

Melifonwu is an extremely athletic and lengthy corner. His pure physical upside will have him at the top of day two. His skills in man coverage will have him potentially sliding into round one. 

35. Miami Dolphins: Alex Leatherwood, OT,  Alabama

The Miami Dolphins could plug Leatherwood in at right tackle on day one. He would help keep his former college quarterback upright. 

36. Atlanta Falcons: Jayson Oweh, DE, Penn State

The Falcons yet again need more pass-rush help and Oweh is an amazing athletic talent that will get him drafted higher than expected. 

37: Cincinnati Bengals: Alijah Vera-Tucker, OG, USC

Vera-Tucker is a high upside guard who can plug in right next to Sewell on day one. Vera-Tucker’s athleticism and balance could push him into day one. 

38. Philadelphia Eagles: Greg Newsome II, CB, Northwestern

The Philadelphia Eagles always need help at corner and Newsome could end that hot-streak and provide a solid duo with Darius Slay. 

39. Detroit Lions: Rashod Bateman, WR, Minnesota

Both Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones Jr are free agents and both very likely could depart, Bateman can come in and start on day one for Detroit. Bateman is one of the best route runners in this draft. 

40. Carolina Panthers: Nick Bolton, LB, Missouri.

Since the retirement of Luke Kuechly, the Panthers have lacked a physical presence in the middle. Bolton is amazing against the run and would bring SEC physicality to Phil Snow’s defense.

41. Denver Broncos: Tyson Campbell, CB, Georgia

The Denver Broncos will save $13.2 million by moving on from A.J. Bouye this offseason. Pairing Tyson Campbell and Michael Ojemudia would provide Denver with a young duo of outside corners for the next three years. 

42. Dallas Cowboys: Liam Eichenberg, OT, Notre Dame

Liam Eichenberg will be groomed to take over Tyron Smith’s spot after he inevitably retires soon. 

43. New York Giants: Carlos Basham, DE, Wake Forest

Dave Gettlemen has a type, they’re big, physical trench guys and he calls them “hog mollies.” Carlos Basham is big and physical at 6ft 3in and 281 lbs. Basham is the definition of a “hog molly”

44. San Francisco 49ers: Landon Dickerson, C, Alabama

The San Francisco 49ers offense is predicated on a strong run game. Landon Dickerson is a force in the middle with his insane play strength and would open up running lanes for Raheem Mosert and company. 

45. Los Angeles Chargers: Creed Humphrey, C, Oklahoma

Mike Pouncey is getting old and a free agent, selecting Humphrey will save money and allow the future to take over. 

46. Jacksonville Jaguars: Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State.

This is another case of having a young, franchise quarterback and not allowing him to go to waste with a lack of protection. Tevin Jenkins is a mauler who can put the biggest defensive ends on their backs. 

47: New England Patriots: Terrace Marshall, WR, LSU

The New England Patriots had the worst skill position players in all of football and touchdown machine Terrace Marshall would add some much needed upside to the wide receiver room. 

48. Arizona Cardinals: Travis Ettiene, RB, Clemson

The Kenyan Drake experiment failed gloriously and the Cardinals select ACC star Travis Ettiene to help them establish the run-game in the air raid offense. 

49. Las Vegas Raiders: Deonte Brown, OG, Alabama

Deonte Brown is a perfect scheme fit for what the Las Vegas Raiders want to do upfront and he would inject some youth into one of the NFL’s oldest offensive line rooms. 

50. Miami Dolphins: Chazz Surratt, LB, North Carolina

Chazz Surratt does a little bit of everything and Brian Flores covets versatility. Surratt has only been playing linebacker for a few years and he gets better each year. 

51. Washington Football Team: D’Wayne Eskridge, WR, Western Michigan

Terry McLarin and D’Wayne Eskridge would give opposing defensive coordinators nightmares. D’Wayne Eskridge has top-end speed and burst. He has the best cuts of any wide receiver in college football.

52. Chicago Bears: Trey Smith, OG, Tennessee

Trey Smith is a mauler upfront and preserved from blood clots in his lungs. I would never bet against that level of physical toughness. 

53. Indianapolis Colts: Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue

Rondale Moore is a speed-demon who can score on every play. You can get him involved on screens, swing passes, or jet sweeps. Frank Reich loves players he can scheme explosive plays for. 

54. Tennessee Titans: Daviyon Nixon, DT, Iowa

Daviyon Nixon was the highest riser amongst defensive lineman this season in college football. Nixon is an explosive pass-rush on the interior. When combined with Jeffrey Simmons and Joseph Ossai, the Titans pass-rush issues appear to be cured. 

55. Seattle Seahawks: Spencer Brown, OT, Northern Iowa

Revamping the offensive line and establishing the run is priority number one for the Seattle Seahawks this offseason. Spencer Brown has starting caliber athleticism but is relatively raw, I would recommend him sitting behind Brandon Shell for his rookie season. 

56. Pittsburgh Steelers: Javonte Williams, RB, North Carolina

James Conner is both a free agent and the answer at running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Javonte Williams is a sturdy back who runs behind his pads and has amazing contact balance. He will be in Offensive Rookie of the Year conversation this season. 

57. Los Angeles Rams: Dayo Odeyingbo, DE, Vanderbilt

Selecting Dayo Odeyingbo could be a cost effective way to replace Leonard Flyod’s production without paying him. Dayo Odeyingbo is very talented, but he tore his achilles last week. The Los Angeles Rams however have shown they have no problem letting rookies sit rather than immediately thrusting them into roles. They will be willing to wait on a talent like him.

58. Cleveland Browns: Israel Mukumaru, CB, South Carolina

The Cleveland Browns need a cornerback to pair with star Denzel Ward. Israel Mukumaru is extremely young at 21, yet plays with NFL physicality and has the versatility to play safety. 

59. Baltimore Ravens: Josh Myers, C, Ohio State.

The center position has been a debacle for the Baltimore Ravens this season and Josh Myers can come in and stabilize the spot day one. 

60. New Orleans Saints: Elijah Moore, WR, Ole Miss

Elijah Moore is a versatile receiver who can line up all over the fields. Moore has extreme and the best hands in this class. The reason he is at 60 is because people question if he can play outside, I have no such worries and believe he can play at all X, Y or Z. 

61. Green Bay Packers: Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR, USC

Amon-Ra St. Brown comes to Green Bay to pair with his brother, Equanimeous. Amon-Ra is a twitchy receiver who can separate with his dynamic route running. He will pair well opposite of Devante Adams. 

62. Buffalo Bills: Jabril Cox, LB, LSU

The Buffalo Bills need a solid coverage linebacker and that is Jabril Cox. Cox has great football IQ and can read and react to the quarterback’s eyes. If Matt Milano is not re-signed, Jabril Cox could see substantial playing time year one.

63. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mac Jones, QB, Alabama

Mac Jones has Tom Brady smarts, Tom Brady athleticism and Tom Brady demeanor and will be Tom Brady’s successor in the Bay. The offense has been constructed to suit Tom Brady, so after he retires, why not grab a scheme fit and maintain the current offense. 

64. Kansas City Chiefs: Dyami Brown, WR, North Carolina.

Dyami Brown has the best release of any receiver in this class and possesses insane speed. The Kansas City Chiefs just got faster and the NFL is terrified.

Round 3

65: Jacksonville Jaguars: Pat Friermuth, TE, Penn State

Pat Friermuth will be a playmaker for Trevor Lawrence on day one. He has amazing hands and play strength. His nickname given to him by teammates, opponents and analysts is “Baby Gronk.”

66. New York Jets: Victor Dimukeje, DE, Duke

Dimukeje is a versatile defender who specializes in defending the run but is effective at rushing the passer. He possesses an insane motor that Saleh will love.

67. Houston Texans: David Moore, OG, Grambling State.

David Moore threw people around like ragdolls at the Senior Bowl and his stock has shot through the roof. 

68. Atlanta Falcons: Trey Sermon, RB, Ohio State

Todd Gurley was not the answer to fix the run game in Atlanta. Trey Sermon will add needed youth and explosive plays into a running back back room that lacked both last season.

69. Cincinnati Bengals: Amani Rodgers, WR, Clemson

Per source: A.J. Green “will not return” to Cincinnati and they add another star Clemson receiver after breaking big last year with Tee Higgins

70. Philadelphia Eagles: Baron Browning, LB, Ohio State

The Philadelphia Eagles have the worst linebacking core in football and adding Baron Browning is a great way to begin turning it around. 

71. Detroit Lions: Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford

The Detroit Lions can save $6.1 million if they move on from Desmond Trufant. Paulson Adebo gives them the flexibility to do so. Adebo is a great corner with a high football IQ and amazing ability to take away the football. 

72. Carolina Panthers: Brevin Jordan, TE, Miami (FL)

The Ian Thomas experiment has failed and they need to take a playmaking tight end. Brevin Jordan is a very skilled blocker and one of the best receiving tight ends in college football. 

73. Denver Broncos: Levi Onwuzurike, DT Washington.

If the Denver Broncos release Jurrell Casey, they can save $11.8 millon. Onwuzurike is one of the best interior pass-rushers in this draft and has a multitude of pass-rush moves readily available for Week one in the NFL.

74. Dallas Cowboys: Marlon Tuipulotu, DT, USC

The Dallas Cowboys need to get beefer upfront and Marlon Tuipulotu allows for them to generate pressure and contain the run in the interior more effectively. 

75. New York Giants: Ambry Thomas, CB, Michigan

Ambry Thomas and James Bradberry are a fearsome duo on the outside of the New York Giants defense. Patrick Graham will fall in love with Ambry Thomas.

76. Washington Football Team: Kyle Trask, QB, Florida

Kyle Trask can sit behind Alex Smith while he learns the ropes. Trask could potentially be the starting quarterback in 2022. 

77. Los Angeles Chargers: Quincy Roche, OLB, Miami (FL)

It seems very unlikely that Melvin Ingram is on the 2021 Chargers roster and Quincy Roche could be brought in to replace his production. 

78. Minnesota Vikings: Aaron Banks, OG, Notre Dame

The Minnesota Vikings have on the NFL’s worst interior offensive lines and he would add some pedigree to the Vikings offensive line. 

79. Arizona Cardinals: Elijah Molden, CB, Washington

Molden is a ballhawk who always seems to be in play when the football is thrown. Quarterbacks have to pay attention to which receiver he is lined up against. 

80. Las Vegas Raiders: Jay Tufele, DT, USC

The Las Vegas Raiders need a monster in the middle and Tufele fits the bill. He is a very balanced player who can thrive against the run and come crashing down on opposing quarterbacks with his swim move.

81. Miami Dolphins: Jevon Holland, S, Oregon

Holland is a dynamic player who excels in a robber role. Flores will be able to move him around defense. 

82. Washington Football Team: Hamsah Nasirildeen, S, Florida State

Hamsah is a physical safety who has tremendous body-control to get in front of receivers. Landon Collins and Hamsah Nasirildeen would be a killer duo on the backend of Washington’s defense. 

83. Chicago Bears: Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State

Allen Robinson is as good as gone and the Bears already their stretch the field guy in Darnell Mooney. Tylan Wallace comes in to replace Allen Robinson as the jump-ball, contested catch guy. 

84. Indianapolis Colts: Keith Taylor, CB, Washington

Kenny Moore has officially made it and blew up. Now, they need to get him some help on the back end as Xavier Rhodes continues to age. 

85. Tennessee Titans: Shi Smith, WR, South Carolina

Corey Davis will most likely depart and get paid elsewhere. The Tennessee Titans are bringing in Shi Smith to be WR2 besides A.J. Brown. 

86. New York Jets: Michael Carter, RB, North Carolina

The New York Jets lack an impact running back on the roster. Michael Carter can come in day one and take 15 touches per game and command a running back room. 

87. Pittsburgh Steelers: Robert Hainsey, OG, Notre Dame

The Pittsburgh Steelers want to get back into the power-run game and grabbing a developmental guard to sit behind David Decastro isn’t a bad idea.

88. Los Angeles Rams: Brady Christensen, OT, BYU

Andrew Whitworth is 39, sitting Christensen behind him this year and then making Brady the starter in 2022 makes a lot of sense. 

89. Cleveland Browns: Alim Mcneill, DT, N.C. State

Alim Mcneill is a very technical pass rusher that can line up all over the defensive line. Mcneill has a good power to speed combo and can mix it up to constantly keep his opponents on edge. Mcneill will be Larry Ogunjobi’s replacement. 

90. Minnesota Vikings: Tommy Togai, DT, Ohio State

Togai is going to be picked purely on his ability to plug A gap or B gap and significantly hinder opposing run games. The Minnesota Vikings need a big defensive tackle to help repair their ramshackled run defense. 

91. Cleveland Browns: Payton Turner, DE, Houston

Payton Turner is a developmental edge with a high ceiling. Cleveland has a lot of picks and can afford to go for boom players this cycle. 

92. Green Bay Packers: Jackson Carman, OT, Clemson.

Carman is a fairly technically put together prospect, there are two questions with him however? Is he big enough to play offensive tackle and can he clean up his penalty issue. If he can, he could replace Rick Wagner for RT in 2022.

93. Buffalo Bills: Hamlicar Rashed, DE, Oregon State

Hamilcar is another pure upside pick. He has amazing athleticism but needs a lot of coaching when it comes to the technical side of football. 

94. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Patrick Jones II, DE, Pittsburgh

Rumors are swirling that Shaquil Barrett won’t be re-signed by the Bucs and if so, they need an impact rookie who can make plays. Jones is a storied pass-rusher with the measurables and the production to indicate he could be a steal in the draft.

95. Kansas City Chiefs: Dylan Moses, LB, Alabama

Before his ACL injury, Dylan Moses was regarded as the top linebacker in college football. The Kansas City Chiefs can afford to swing at the fences because they’re already so good and his upside is too great to pass on. However, if he plays like he did this year, he will be out of the league soon.

96. New England Patriots: Hunter Long, TE, Boston College

The Patriots spent two thirds on tight ends last year and will swing again. It is clear Belichick would rather roll the dice on a high-upside tight end like Hunter Long rather than draft one high like Kyle Pitts. 

97. Los Angeles Chargers: Pete Werner, LB, Ohio State.

Werner is a prototypical SAM linebacker in the league and he would be a solid depth piece in Brandon Staley’s defense his first year as Chargers head coach.

98. New Orleans Saints: Cameron McGrone, LB, Michigan

McGrone is a physical, tough linebacker who will play through injury. The Michigan product is an effective blitzer.

99. Dallas Cowboys: Joe Tryon, DE, Washington

Tryon is the most mixed review player in this draft, some scouts love his burst and first step, while others believe he flares out and often disappears after impact plays. Jerry Jones will love the explosion and this will be a proto-typical selection from the Dallas Cowboys front office. 

100. Los Angeles Rams: Marquiss Spencer, DE, Mississippi State

If you haven’t gotten the theme, there has been a run on pass-rushers and the Los Angeles Rams are going to double dip at the position early on. Marquiss Spencer is a guy I have heard people talk up his character and bend, don’t break attitude. Spencer has an amazing athletic profile and could rise this draft cycle. 

101: Tennessee Titans: Tommy Tremble, TE, Notre Dame

It is very likely that the Tennessee Titans lose Jonnu Smith in free agency and they intend to replace him with a tight end for the ND pipeline. Tommy Tremble is a developmental tight end with upside as a receiver. 

102: San Francisco 49ers: Walker Little, OT, Stanford

Walker Little was another guy who was regarded as a likely first-round pick who plummeted at Stanford. He excels in space and has great movement skills. He can develop to take over for Trent Williams or soon-to-be free agent Mike McGlinchey. 

103: Los Angeles Rams: Charles Snowden, LB, Virginia

Charles Snowden is a prospect who oozes physical talent and just has to put it all together. He has amazing length and towers at 6ft 6in. He will eventually be the primary MIKE linebacker for the Los Angeles Rams.

104: New Orleans Saints: Jaime Newman, QB, Wake Forest

Jaime Newman is an athlete, through and through. He has amazing mobility and normally won’t go down after the first hit due to his large frame and fighting mentality. I had the opportunity to speak with him and he has impeccable character. The question is can he clean up his decision making, he makes some really questionable throws. He was picked off twice by Richie Grant in Senior Bowl Day three practice.  

The post 3-Round 2021 NFL Mock Draft appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

The 2021 NFL playoffs are in full swing as the divisional round steadily approaches. On Saturday, the match-ups presented ought to be highlighted by the Aaron Donald led Rams combatting the MVP candidate Aaron Rodgers in the frozen tundra at 4:35 ET. Later on in the day, the often criticized big-game performer Lamar Jackson takes a trip up north to battle the satisfied galvanized Bills Mafia.

The last course of match-ups are kicked off by the ground and pound Cleveland Browns taking a trip to Kansas City, as the first seventh seed to advance to the divisional round in NFL history faces the defending Super Bowl champions (Kansas City Chiefs). And come to 6:40 ET on Sunday, it’s time to witness the ageless Tom Brady faces his kryptonite Saints in the Big Easy.

The NFL season has faced its ups and downs through the COVID halted season, but it’s truly been an exceptional gift to not only see mid-January playoff action but a plate of intriguing match-ups being displayed this 2021 divisional round.

Once the eclipse of the near 2020-2021 season finishes at the expense of a Lombardi trophy up for the taking in Tampa Bay, the most prosperous focus will be on the NFL draft for 32 teams. And candidly; the evaluation of elite prospects is already on location for the teams witnessing the eight playoff teams remaining.

As February and the NFL combine inches closer, let’s attack a polarizing mock draft of where the “cream of the top” prospects could land in April. In this draft feature, I’m going to untwine how I project the Top-10 draft picks to play out. Let’s get started.

1. 1) Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence-QB-Clemson

The glamorous news is in the works in Jaguars nation. Urban Meyer has touched down in Jacksonville, as he is expected to be pinned their shiny head coach. This is the first time that the 56-year-old coach has been a head coach at the NFL ranks.

At this point in the conclusion of the College Football season and another championship won by Nick Saban, it’s clear that Trevor Lawrence is in the driver’s seat to be the No. one overall draft choice. Meyer and Lawrence will be a dream fit, as the all-time great CFB coach knew what he was doing when saving his NFL resume until 2021. Here’s an overview of notable QBs to relish under Urban Meyers:

Alex Smith (Utah)

Tim Tebow (Florida)

Dwayne Haskins (Ohio State)

Urban Meyers is ready to take the reigns, inject inspriation into Jacksonville fan base, and make Trevor Lawrence a offensive rookie of the year candidate in 2021.

2) New York Jets: Justin Fields-QB-Ohio State

The Ohio State dual-threat QB is ready to take his show to the next level. Fields started the COVID decimated season throwing more touchdowns than incompletions, then faced some adversity in the passing game, but finally flexed his freakish athletic ability in a massive, gutsy victory over Clemson.

As Urban Meyer flees to Jacksonville, the New York Jets notch their future head coach in Robert Saleh. Saleh is the guy they believe is destined to build the right culture, create up a potent defense, and perform the right overhaul in the big apple.

I don’t foresee the coaching hire having a drastic change with their choice at No. two overall (assuming they don’t trade back). Fields has done enough to prove his worth as a Top-two draft pick & he’s the right QB to lean on against Josh Allen, Tua Tagovailoa, and “Bill Belichick” in the AFC East.

3) Carolina Panthers (Trade with Miami Dolphins): Zach Wilson-QB-BYU

Out of the teams that need a top QB in the draft the most, I would argue that Carolina is viable for the top squad in such debate. The Carolina Panthers finished third place in the NFC South under a 5-11 record, which ultimately led to the new GM hire of Scott Fitterer.

The Panthers understand that they compete in a divison where the Buccaneers sit in second place, while the Saints are one of the most invested “win now” teams, despite Brees expected to retire post this playoff run. On offense, they are ready to hand the keys to a signal caller that can propel an offense fueled by Christian McCaffrey, DJ Moore, Robby Anderson, and swiss army knife Curtis Samuel.

Joe Brady runs an efficient orchestra, but Teddy Bridgewater looks like the previous game manager in Minnesota. Zach Wilson posted the second-highest QBR since 2014 in 2020 (95.4), and it’s not deceiving to know that Carolina needs a star QB to compete in the brute NFC South while boasting a young defense that has its growing pains.

The post 2021 NFL Mock Draft: Top-10 Selections appeared first on Pro Football Mania.