# Is for a player with with reported character or maturity concerns.
** Is for a player with reported injury concerns.
1.CINCINNATI - JOE BURROW - QB - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - a leaner ANDREW LUCK - retired
This team is clearly rebuilding, and they have a ton of needs, but I would be shocked if they traded this pick. I can't imagine someone offering them enough to pass on Joe Burrow . In the 20 plus years I have been breaking down the film on draft prospects the best college QB I have ever seen was Andrew Luck . I was right about him in every way, but one, and that was his commitment to the game . I really don't care what anyone else thinks about this, but I was shocked when Luck retired because of injuries? If it's not going to make you lose your mental capabilities ( concussions) , your ability to walk , or function for the rest of your life you don't retire as a 29 year old well payed QB . Especially now, when you finally have one of the leagues best O-lines , and the leagues rules are specifically designed to protect your primadonna Ass . I have had worse punk, and I wouldn't have quit if I had your opportunity, but then again I love the game . Burrow doesn't have Lucks long term college track record to bolster his status, but in every other way (except bulk) his on the field performance reminds me of when Luck was still a man . He has lightning fast reads , even slightly faster than Tua , which would have shocked me if anyone had told me that before the season. Poise, athleticism, , balls, accuracy all over the field . Plus he can scramble to buy time, and find the open man with the best of them, but if he has to run he is dangerous there too. Dude just seemed immune to pressure, murdered the blitz all year, and he kept getting better as the season went along . Played a ton of big time teams , and beat them ALL, unlike Luck ! Now it's true he had a great team around him , tons of weapons, a really good O-line, and a new offense that very few college QB's would have the mental capacity to run well. In his case he mastered it in one off season, and kept improving in it all year . Never had a bad game this season . Has an average arm, but so did Luck, Tom Brady, Joe Montana, and Peyton Manning . When you read defenses that fast, throw people open early the way he does, and display great accuracy, touch, and timing, who cares ? No one with a brain . The only worry I have with him is frame . He is a former All - State basketball player and has the build of one. He's listed at 6"4", 216, but I m not even sure if I buy that weight . He should spend every day until the combine training , and trying to gain muscle to get him to a legit 230 . My concern for his long term durability would be alleviated then . I am not saying he would need to be as big as Luck , who looked like a small defensive end( a big 6'4' , 240) when he was entered his first training camp . People make a big deal about him being a one year wonder, but the guy transferred over last year really late. Then he still won the staring job , although it was a different and predictably boring offense . As of now Joe Burrow is my second highest graded QB ever, just had the best college football season of any QB in history , and is now my #1 ranked player in the whole draft .SLAM DUNK PICK !
2.WASHINGTON- CHASE YOUNG - DE - OHIO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMP - MYLES GARRETT - BROWNS
I know some Redskin fans will love this pick, and others will say they need a new left tackle, and both will be right . However, unless someone in the first 7 picks, or maybe at worst top 9 offers them a big package of picks to move up this is the best thing to do . Young is the clear cut #2 player on my board, he plays a premium position, and he's probably number one for a lot of people . I know you have Ryan Kerrigan and Montez Sweat already, but you never can have enough people that rush the passer well . Young is more talented than both, and Kerrigan will be 32 next season. Plus he will also be in the last year of his contract in 2020 , and coming off a season ending injury . I am not suggesting they should cut him for cap savings either . Kerrigan is still a good pass rusher, and he's on the cusp of a possible HOF career with a few more good seasons . Like Daniel Snyder or not, but he does love his team, and I am sure he would want a guy who has played this well for this long to be career redskin, especially if he gets a gold jacket . A couple more years and he would probably reach that magical 100 sack plateau, maybe even this season if he returns to form. This team has plenty of needs, but QB isn't one, so their best hope is that Tua gets a clean bill of health from a team willing to pay enough to trade up for him. Personally I think it would be a lock if Tua hadn't gotten hurt this year, and this hip injury is a serious one for any player .It;'s possible someone even falls for Justin Herbert , but I wouldn't do it , and I don't see a team giving up a lot to move up for him . It's also possible a team wants to move up for Young, but I doubt the price would be as high in that situation, and unless you wow them I just don't see the skins trading away from an elite player . For now I think they stay it here and take the best player available . Young follows the Bosa brothers into the NFL continuing Ohio State's recent streak of providing premium edge players to the pros . He's not quite as polished as them, but he does show a lot of the same violent hands, and Young is definitely more athletic with a higher upside .
3.DETROIT - JEFFREY OKUDAH - CB - OHIO ST.NFL PLAYER COMP - a leaner ANDREW LUCK - retired
This team is clearly rebuilding, and they have a ton of needs, but I would be shocked if they traded this pick. I can't imagine someone offering them enough to pass on Joe Burrow . In the 20 plus years I have been breaking down the film on draft prospects the best college QB I have ever seen was Andrew Luck . I was right about him in every way, but one, and that was his commitment to the game . I really don't care what anyone else thinks about this, but I was shocked when Luck retired because of injuries? If it's not going to make you lose your mental capabilities ( concussions) , your ability to walk , or function for the rest of your life you don't retire as a 29 year old well payed QB . Especially now, when you finally have one of the leagues best O-lines , and the leagues rules are specifically designed to protect your primadonna Ass . I have had worse punk, and I wouldn't have quit if I had your opportunity, but then again I love the game . Burrow doesn't have Lucks long term college track record to bolster his status, but in every other way (except bulk) his on the field performance reminds me of when Luck was still a man . He has lightning fast reads , even slightly faster than Tua , which would have shocked me if anyone had told me that before the season. Poise, athleticism, , balls, accuracy all over the field . Plus he can scramble to buy time, and find the open man with the best of them, but if he has to run he is dangerous there too. Dude just seemed immune to pressure, murdered the blitz all year, and he kept getting better as the season went along . Played a ton of big time teams , and beat them ALL, unlike Luck ! Now it's true he had a great team around him , tons of weapons, a really good O-line, and a new offense that very few college QB's would have the mental capacity to run well. In his case he mastered it in one off season, and kept improving in it all year . Never had a bad game this season . Has an average arm, but so did Luck, Tom Brady, Joe Montana, and Peyton Manning . When you read defenses that fast, throw people open early the way he does, and display great accuracy, touch, and timing, who cares ? No one with a brain . The only worry I have with him is frame . He is a former All - State basketball player and has the build of one. He's listed at 6"4", 216, but I m not even sure if I buy that weight . He should spend every day until the combine training , and trying to gain muscle to get him to a legit 230 . My concern for his long term durability would be alleviated then . I am not saying he would need to be as big as Luck , who looked like a small defensive end( a big 6'4' , 240) when he was entered his first training camp . People make a big deal about him being a one year wonder, but the guy transferred over last year really late. Then he still won the staring job , although it was a different and predictably boring offense . As of now Joe Burrow is my second highest graded QB ever, just had the best college football season of any QB in history , and is now my #1 ranked player in the whole draft .SLAM DUNK PICK !
2.WASHINGTON- CHASE YOUNG - DE - OHIO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMP - MYLES GARRETT - BROWNS
I know some Redskin fans will love this pick, and others will say they need a new left tackle, and both will be right . However, unless someone in the first 7 picks, or maybe at worst top 9 offers them a big package of picks to move up this is the best thing to do . Young is the clear cut #2 player on my board, he plays a premium position, and he's probably number one for a lot of people . I know you have Ryan Kerrigan and Montez Sweat already, but you never can have enough people that rush the passer well . Young is more talented than both, and Kerrigan will be 32 next season. Plus he will also be in the last year of his contract in 2020 , and coming off a season ending injury . I am not suggesting they should cut him for cap savings either . Kerrigan is still a good pass rusher, and he's on the cusp of a possible HOF career with a few more good seasons . Like Daniel Snyder or not, but he does love his team, and I am sure he would want a guy who has played this well for this long to be career redskin, especially if he gets a gold jacket . A couple more years and he would probably reach that magical 100 sack plateau, maybe even this season if he returns to form. This team has plenty of needs, but QB isn't one, so their best hope is that Tua gets a clean bill of health from a team willing to pay enough to trade up for him. Personally I think it would be a lock if Tua hadn't gotten hurt this year, and this hip injury is a serious one for any player .It;'s possible someone even falls for Justin Herbert , but I wouldn't do it , and I don't see a team giving up a lot to move up for him . It's also possible a team wants to move up for Young, but I doubt the price would be as high in that situation, and unless you wow them I just don't see the skins trading away from an elite player . For now I think they stay it here and take the best player available . Young follows the Bosa brothers into the NFL continuing Ohio State's recent streak of providing premium edge players to the pros . He's not quite as polished as them, but he does show a lot of the same violent hands, and Young is definitely more athletic with a higher upside .
NFL PLAYER COMP - JALEN RAMSEY - JAGUARS
The Lions are another team that may want to trade back for a big package of picks for a QB needy team , and according to the trade value chart it would cost about the equivalent of a mid 2nd round pick less at #3 . There is also an outside chance they fall in love with a QB , and take Tua or even Herbert, especially now that Stafford will be 32 and has a back injury . Since Stafford's contract is written in a way that it would be hard to trade him , and stupid to release him . They are another team with a lot of needs, but that's usually the case when your picking high in the draft . Short of a windfall trade their best case scenario is the redskins trading their pick to a QB needy team, and Chase Young falling to them, or the skins losing their minds and passing on Young . Pairing him with Trey Flowers would give them a great edge duo. Failing that they need interior D-Line help if Mike Daniels or A'Shawn Robinson isn't re- signed, and Derrick Brown would be a good fit . Plus in the secondary Tavon Wilson & Rashaan Melvin, and Darius Slay is coming off his worst season since he was a rookie. Also Slay is in the last year of his deal, and their were trade rumors about him last year, after they dumped starting safety & defensive captain Quandre Diggs to the Hawks before the trade deadline . At LB Jarrad Davis has been a bust , and I love Isiah Simmons. Plus Simmons can also play safety . In the end I am going with Okudah . I only have 5 blue chip elite players in the draft right now after Tua got hurt . Burrow and Young are gone in this scenario , and that leaves Odukah & Simmons, and Brown. Since I think CB's are more valuable unless the interior D-Lineman is an elite pass rusher , I will give them the corner . Okudah is the highest graded corner I have done since Patrick Peterson . He isn't quite as physical or thick, but he is a an excellent press man corner . Jeff has plenty of speed, fluid hips, quick feet , ball skills , and the confidence & swagger you want in a lock down CB .
4.NY GIANTS - ANDREW THOMAS - OT - GEORGIA
NFL PLAYER COMP - DUANE BROWN - SEAHAWKS
The Giants have been trying to upgrade their O-Line for years , and while it's has been better, it's still not good. Nate Solder hasn't lived up to his contract, and Mike Remmers has always been a average at best OT, who is only getting worse . After finishing my top 10 tackles I still have Thomas at #1 , although Jedrick Wills , Mekhi Bexton, and maybe even Josh Jones could end up in the top 11 with all these tackle needy teams in that range . I personally see Tristan Wirfs as a better fit at guard after finishing his tape if you are thinking of bringing him up, but a tackle needy team may still take him a little later and see what he can do outside first . Thomas is has been starting since he was a true freshman at RT, and has been starting at LT the last 2 years . He is a dominant run blocker and a good pass blocker who has the athleticism to be be dominant their too with some technique refinement, and bringing in Mark Columbo to coach the O-Line can only help him . His biggest weakness right now is blocking down field , but that's it . He already plays in a pro style offense and I see him as a plug and play starter at either tackle spot . I know the Giants would love to have and a DE, CB, or LB, but Young & Okudah are already gone here . Plus I don't see the Giants drafting a LB in the first round, although GM Dave Gettleman did take Shaq Thompson in the 1rst when he running the Panthers . I also think their interior D-Line is one of the few strengths on their team so that leaves out Derrick Brown. I actually think they have pretty good depth at WR too , but I guess Jerry Jeudy are CeeDee Lamb are possibilities as well. However , if they really think Daniel Jones is the answer at QB they need to protect him better , and Jones did play a lot better than I was expecting last year .
5.MIAMI- JEDRICK WILLS - OT - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP -WILLIE ANDERSON - retired
The fins literally have needs almost everywhere . Other than Christian Wilkins , Xavien Howard, and Devante Parker they can all be replaced . Also, Howard may get traded, but he had an off year after they left him all alone in the secondary so his value could be down some . Could they take Tua or another QB if they fall here ? Yes , but I have a feeling they won't . They could trade upo if they really love Tua , but I think he may be there when they pick if they love him. Plus, if he is hurt bad, and they still love him this might be as high as he could go . Fitz was pretty good the 2nd half of last year, and he is the perfect stopgap QB, not to mention they did just give up a 2nd rounder for Rosen . They have more draft capitol than any other team with 3 first, 2 seconds , and a 3rd . If they want to move up they can . In fact they are the only team that could throw such a ridiculous package together to tempt the Bengals to let them trade up to #1 and take Burrow . They also have an extra #1 & #2 in next years draft thanks to trading away Laremy Tunsil . They traded back so much last year that I expect them to do that at least one or twice this year . The reason for that is twofold, and unless they want to pay the price for Burrow I think it's a good idea . The 2 reasons are 1. To rebuild the roster ( especially the O-Line ) so the that when they do get a QB they have give him a good chance to succeed . 2. That they have the draft capitol to go up and get any QB they want next year . Trevor Lawrence or Justin Fields would sure appreciate a better team around them next year if they end up a Dolphin .Now the top player on my board left are Simmons &Derrick Brown, but since they just dumped similar player in Minkah Firzpatrick I think that leave's him out. Since they just took an interior D-Lineman in the first last year I think that leaves out Brown . Also, rebuilding the O-line should be a priority so I am giving them Wills. I was on Bama LT Alex Leatherwood by week 3 of the season , but Wills didn't get on my radar until late in the season . Leatherwood went back to school despite my first round grade on him, but Wills was a pleasant surprise . Jedrick is big , strong, and nasty with surprisingly light feet. He needs a more physical hand punch, but he keeps his hands inside , and I think he could flip over to left tackle. Even as a right tackle he is not far behind Thomas on my board.
6.LA CHARGERS- - ** - JUSTIN HERBERT - QB - OREGON
NFL PLAYER COMP - JOSH ALLEN - BILLS
The Chargers have a big decision to make at QB. Phillip Rivers is a UFA , and he moved his family to Florida . Rivers didn't have his best season, but with the Bolts often injured patchwork O-Line I'm personally surprised he survived the year without a big injury . So I am not even sure if he would come back and play for the Bolts , or even if he will play again unless he gets what he wants. I am sure he has saved plenty of money out of his 16 years as a NFL QB , and that his money will go a lot farther in Florida than Cali . There are 3 teams in Florida that could use an upgrade at the QB position , but I doubt Miami and Rivers will be interested in each other . Tampa and Jacksonville are both closer to winning , but I would go Tampa if I was him. Even after Tua's injury Herbert is the 3rd QB on my board , and unless they can talk Rivers into coming back or somehow convince Brady to head their way the are going to need a QB now. Tua's would be a better choice if he's healthy , but I am not counting on him to play much in 2020 until I hear otherwise . In 2017 Herbert was a spread read option QB with all the tools you could want . Tall with a cannon arm , and a willingness o throw down the field that you don't often see. He had his share of bubble & tunnel screens too, which definitely helped his completion percentage , but he could also fire a 20 yard out or a hit a DIG route on a rope . His accuracy still needed work , especially on those deep balls . That season when he put more air under the ball to go deep it had a tendency to sail on him, and he also occasionally threw receivers into potentially dangerous hits with late or off target throws . He also broke his collarbone late that season, but In 2018 he made improvements in those problem areas, and the offense also changed a bit . That year Herbert also started showing the capability of being a strong explosive runner who specialized in moving the chains in short yardage situations , or take off for a bigger gain when the play broke down, or even on the occasional read option . He also showed the smarts on when to slide to protect himself . Despite already being 6"6" 230 pounds his frame has plenty of room for growth and he could easily carry 250 pounds if muscle to help protect himself . He also broke his collarbone late that season , and that can sometimes he a recurring injury , but he went the next 2 years without it flaring up . In 2019 the offense changed a little , and became more run oriented . Justin still has all the physical tools, but I expected a similar jump this season as the one I saw from 2107 to 2018 , and I didn't see it. While his completion percentage went back up and his interception went down a little too, I that was more due to the conservative offense that gave him more play action passes . He didn't run as much this season himself , but showed his legs off in a big in their bowl game. All in all he is still a very good QB prospect, but he hasn't stepped up in the big moments the way a guy I would trade up for & then anoint my franchise QB . Their are also some rumors of leadership questions around him because he is not the most outwardly vocal guy, but he is universally loved by his teammates . Thats; not the end of the world . Eli manning just retired after a long successful career in New York of all places, and he is not the most loquacious guy either . Had probably would have been a top 5 pick last season, and maybe even #1 overall if Kyler Murray wasn't such perfect fit for Kliff Kingsbury's offense . He returned for a chance at the PAC 12 title , and to play a season with his incoming freshman TE little brother, and I don't think it really hurt his stock, but he didn't do anything to make it go up for me either . There is nothing wrong with being a game manager , which is what Herbert looked like this season, but there are times you just want to see a QB let it rip & win the game for you, instead of just not losing it. Both are valuable , but the former is a guy who can win it all with A LOT around him like a early career Russel Wilson . The latter is a guy like Wilson now that can drag a below average team to the playoffs , and a good team to the the title . Basically after 3 years I expected more than the incremental growth I saw . He still may end up being a franchise QB , but right now he's a guy I could see the Chargers taking him if he fell to them at the 6th pick . However, he's not a guy I would give a lot of extra picks to move up and get in a trade package . In conclusion this guy has all the tools and skills . He just needs to harness them , show more consistency , and a lot more special plays in big moments to convince me he is a franchise QB .
7.CAROLINA - DERRICK BROWN - DT - AUBURN
NFL PLAYER COMP - KENNY CLARK - PACKERS
I know plenty of Panther fans will scream Tua here, and if their docs give him a good long term health prognosis it might be a good idea . Newton still has a year on his contract , and this will give them a chance to see if he can return to form . If so, they can franchise him and get something for him , or maybe even trade Tua if Cam finds a time machine and wins another MVP . I also suspect some will say what about Isaiah Simmons ? Luke Kuechly just abruptly retired, but since it's concussions I get it . It still saddens me though, as Luke was one of the best MLB's I ever saw . Plus it's just 5 years after after Patrick Willis did the same thing . 2 of the elite middle LB's in the history of the game retiring at 29 , but hey LB is a rough job and if your worried about losing your mental facilities I get it . However Simmons isn't a MLB , he's a safety or an undersized weak side LB , and they already have one of those in Shaq Thompson so he's not a fit , although he would be a giant upgrade over Eric Reid at safety .However, their is guy or 2 worth this pick that I think fits their other biggest need , and that is along the D-Line . Gerald McCoy, Vernon Butler , and Kyle Love , are all UFA's this off season . Plus former Pro Bowler Kawaan Short missed most of the year with a torn rotator cuff . Brown and Javon Kinlaw are the 2 best clear cut interior D-Linemen in this draft for me, and both have the size and strength to 2 gap when they are in a 3-4 , and the initial quickness to help out rushing the passer . Brown is higher on my board , and he definitely had a better year . Coming into this season I saw Brown as more of a nose tackle as he was an elite run stuffer, but he really improved as a pass rusher this year , and I think he could move all over their 3 man front . He has a great motor, big powerful hands , off the ball quickness, just runs over opposing lineman , dominated LSU's vaunted O-Line, and it's hilarious when people are dumb enough to run at him . His only weakness are a lack of pass rush moves( bull rush, push through a shoulder, or slap the hands down and bull rush is it ) and counters. This guy is a tone setter with a really high floor , and a leader that any new coach should be itching to draft .
8.ARIZONA - JOSH JONES - OT - HOUSTON
NFL PLAYER COMP - LAREMY TUNSIL - TEXANS
The Cardinals got a good start on their rebuild last year , but their O-line isn't very good, but they did improve as pass blockers as the year ran along . They do say practice makes perfect, and they pass a lot, but it's also a spread system designed to get rid of the ball quickly & run a ton of plays . however, the only O-lineman that I think might be a long term piece is left tackle DJ Humpries and he's a free agent . Jones is not the best player left on my board, and he's not even the best OT left in my opinion , but he comes out a spread system . I doubt they pick Mekhi Becton because that would be the smart thing to do , and most of their 1rst round draft picks in the Steve Keim era have been the wrong guy up until last season . However, it's imperative that they upgrade the O-line to protect their young, undersized, potential franchise QB . So I am not even going to entertain another position here . Josh has decent size & length, but very quick feet and more than enough athleticism to handle the blindside . However, he needs a lot of technique refinement, especially with his hand placement & punch timing . He could work out because he's still very talented , and he should get much better coaching in the NFL from Sean Kugler .
9.JACKSONVILLE - ISAIAH SIMMONS - S/LB - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMP - THOMAS DAVIS - CHARGERS
Finally Simmons comes off the board, and it's to a team that needs him , and that runs a scheme he can excel in . He's clearly the best player on the board, and unless they want to take Tua I can't see them even considering anyone else . After Telvin Smith started to go downhill you could see Myles Jack trying to pick up some of his slack, and then his play went down too. Then Smith abruptly retired before the 2019 season , and Jack got even worse. He needs that fast ground covering weak-side LB next to him so he can concentrate on his responsibilities , and I doubt Smith returns. While he will only be 29 this season his out of the blue retirement shouldn't sit well with anyone in the organization , and the only time I heard about him this year was when the cops were called to his house right after last Thanksgiving . Simmons is just a flat out stud. he is the best safety , off the ball LB, and movable defensive chess piece in this draft . He can play the run, cover, rush , and he's just a play-maker wherever they line lined him up, and they lined him up all over the defensive formation . He was everywhere on film, almost to the point that I thought there were 2 of him on the field sometimes .
10.CLEVELAND - MEKHI BECTON - OT - LOUISVILLE
NFL PLAYER COMP - ANDREW WHIWORTH - RAMS
The Browns disjointed again . I admit I picked them to win the division , and they imploded . This is definitely the most talented team in the division, but you wouldn't know it by their record . Before the season my big worries were LT , RG, and a rookie head coach, but I confess that Freddie Kitchens was just as bad as their O-line. Both tackles were, bad , but the RT was way even worse. Both players they payed at RG were terrible . They tried to trade for former Pro Bowler Trent Williams to man the blindside, but stubborn Daniel Snyder wouldn't make the deal , but I bet he will now, Williams is adamant about never playing for the skins again , although instead of a 1rst and some change I doubt they get more than a 2nd rounder for him now . Williams sat out a whole season , will be 32 thus season, failed his physical in weird way, and he had been having some injury problems for the previous 3 years . I would still make that deal for a 2nd if I was the Browns , and he passes his physical . I would still take Becton even if I pulled it off . Another thing that didn't work out was the OBJ trade. He took his diva whiny millennial look at me personality to new heights, continued his history of being injury prone, and did a lot to help undermine his coach and QB . I would trade him, and draft a WR in this very deep class in the 2nd or 3rd round . Then we have Baker . Crappy O-Line or not he definitely regressed, and made me think that what I used to think was just cocky young brashness , might in fact be Odell-like myopic millennial divaness . Don't think that one OT , now matter how good is going to fix this. They need to draft multiple O-Lineman & sign or trade for a couple more . Other than their center or LG all these guys could easily be replaced and upgraded . I spend most of the college season watching guys I haven't watched before, but I had already seen 4 of Becton's games coming into the season, and I had him projected as a low first rounder . I watched 3 more games this week, and WOW ! I was so impressed I will even say it backwards . WOW ! Becton is huge . One of those guys that is so big, wide , and long that he is just hard to get around . He also looks like a a guy who you might want to move to guard , but you would be wrong . As long as he keeps his weight in check he is very effective on the edge as a pass protector, and his 370 pounds is pretty well distributed, but if he could cut down to 340 by the combine he could actually be the first OT drafted . Sometimes guys with his profile like Johnathan Ogden , Andrew Whitworth, or Cordy Glenn just know how to use what they have to kick ass . His brutal hand punch is effective and his anchor is elite . His hands are so big & arms are so long it's hard for him to completely miss with his punch, and a partial punch from him can still throw you off course or stop you in your tracks . Plus he is a physical road grader in the run game as a drive blocker . Most giants don't excel down the field , but he is not your normal giant , and he goes hunting . Other than getting better at picking up stunts & blitzes , and getting more accurate with his punch he is a really good OT prospect . Stunts & blitzes usually just come with time, and if he keeps getting in better shape sky's the limit. Mekhi is my 3rd ranked OT and #12 overall player . I would do this if I was Cleveland now that Simmons is off the board ,and definitely if I didn't bring in a good veteran OT, no matter if Simmons is there . With a little time to keep developing his technique & body he could be a perennial Pro Bowler . Louisville used to flip their OT's , so he has played both tackle spots, but I am convinced he could handle the blindside full time in the NFL, after watching him doing it this year. Once I have caught up and watched all 400 some guys I expect to watch this draft season, I will be looking to post my final ranking for 2020. In those 2 weeks I will watch more tape on the top tier guys I have at each position to separate them and give final grades. I wouldn't be surprised if he even moves up a little on my board, and I also wouldn't be surprised that after the combine & free agency shake out ,and some tackle needy teams are left wanting, if he was drafted a little higher too.
11.NY JETS - JERRY JEUDY - WR - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - AMARI COOPER - COWBOYS
The Jets need offensive lineman more than anything , but unless they See Tristan Wirfs as OT he is the only possibility at this point in this scenario. However, they do have an extra 3rd rounder if they want to trade up a little in case some one they love doesn't fall here . Still, they have plenty of other needs , and their are 2 players that absolutely fill their 2nd biggest need, and are plenty worth this pick . That need is WR, because Robbie Anderson is a free agent ,and Adam Gase doesn't seem to want to pay top dollar for skill players right now. Sam Darnold needs some more weapons. Both Ceedee Lamb & Jerry Jeudy are number WR's to me, and both are top 10 values in my book . While I have Lamb slightly ahead in the long run they are more 1A and 1B to me . Jeudy is more polished & pro ready right now, and he fits this offense well. He is an advanced route runner even for a pro player, comes out of a pro style offense , and is a high character guy unlike Anderson . Plus his hands are good, except I wouldn't expect him to win a lot of jump balls . I really hope they invest in the O-Line in both free agency in the draft though . They need CB's too, but I don't see one being drafted this high after Okudah is gone .
12.LAS VEGAS- CEEDEE LAMB - WR - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - ODELL BECKHAM JR.
The 2019 raiders should strangely be considered a success even though they didn't make the playoffs. Dumping AB actually brought the team together. Even though Isaiah Simmons is already gone , and they can't fill their top need of an off the ball LB there are still some good choices here that filla big need . Unless the Raiders decide to draft a QB here, and in this case Tua is just sitting there like a blinking light if Gruden wants him. Although I think if Gruden wanted a QB it wouldn't be a target of opportunity, and that he would trade up for him . They do need a # 1 WR , otherwise they wouldn't have tried to bring in the train wreck that is Antonio Brown . Tyrell Williams profiles well ( and is paid like ) a good number 2 WR . Lamb looks to be a little bigger & faster than Jeudy, and while he is good at the more limited route tree Oklahoma runs, he still needs work there to fit into a Pro style offense . He is explosive with great hands , and well above average ability track the ball . Combining that with his ability to play great from both the outside & inside , and I think his long term upside gives him the slight lead in the race to be the # 1 WR in the 2020 draft . If some other edge rusher( since Chase Young is way gone ) meets their criteria that could also be a fit,but that's really hard to tell with them, after their random overdraft of Clelin Ferrell Last year .
13.INDIANAPOLIS - LAVISKA SHENAULT JR. - WR - COLORADO
NFL PLAYER COMP - AJ BROWN - TITANS
The obvious choice here is Tua, but I doubt it, even if their doctor's sign off on him . With Lucks abrupt retirement ,and Jacoby Brissett playing pretty well before an injury I don't expect them to bring in a QB unless his injury history & build scream durable . The main reason the Colts have to worry about is LT Anthony Castonzo , and they have the franchise tag as last resort if they have trouble getting a deal done, so i am going to go with another big need . The only WR on their team that is serious threat to defenses is TY Hilton , and he has become injury prone lately , although Zach Pascal showed a decent signs of becoming a solid # 3 last season . Every once in a while you see a player who is the absolute focal point of an entire offense . Like Deebo Samuel was in 2018 at S. Carolina, and Shenault is the same . He has lined up at every possible skill position , even QB to run a little wild cat , although I think his primary use should be as a power slot .He is a big powerful guy that is hard to tackle , and you could easily hand him the ball 5 times a game in a variety of ways to take advantage of his explosive running style. He is not afraid to go over the middle, and shows strong hands. Some injuries slowed him this year after a dominant 2018 . but I love this guy, have a solid first round grade on him, and think he could help every single team in the league . An innovative guy like Frank Reich could find a ton of ways to use a versatile player like Laviska .
14.TAMPA BAY - ** - TUA TAGOVAILOA - QB - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - MARK BRUNELL - retired
I just can't see them giving Winston the franchise tag, unless they have already re-signed Shaquil Barrett. Plus, they might want to bring back RT Demar Dotson too. Winston has not grown the way we all hoped he would in 5 years of play . He is still the same guy he was at Florida State . On one drive he makes a throw that few QB's can, and then on the next makes a stupid read that's hard to understand in hindsight , or forces a throw that he shouldn't have tried . Throw in the fact that he has also continued his off the field problems, and I just don't see it . Now if they can get him on a one year prove it deal, and then draft a QB it makes sense if Arians is going to stick around for the long term . This pick fits especially if it's going to take Tua awhile to heal, and he needs a red shirt this year . Tua has elite poise & he reads defenses like a veteran NFL QB . He is built like a RB, and his lack of height will knock him down some boards, as we won't know his true height until the combine. I would guess 6"1" tops , but his average arm will push him down some, boards too. That RB like build is what confuses me with his injury history , as he looks like a shorter Dak Prescott on the field, and I have seen Dak run over a LB & pop up with a smile. Although Dak wished he had Tua's accuracy & ability to throw people open . Tua has been hurt all 3 years of college, although this years hip injury could be a long term thing. His mobility is one of his great skills, and hip injuries can also really affect your ability to throw the ball , and he didn't have the strongest arm to begin with. If he had come through this year unscathed there would probably be a few teams who value experience as a starter more than others who would have him with their number #1 QB . He would also have been the 6th player in my elite blue chip tier, and the Redskins would be giggling with how much they could extract from a QB needy team that wanted to move up to #2 overall for him. Although that could still happen if his medicals look good at the combine, but I doubt they get healthy Tua prices even if a team buys into him . I have actually heard some complain that Tua has too much talent around him, but that's stupid to me . Burrow had the same thing , and they both play in one of the elite conferences in the NCAA against top competition . Keep a watch on Phillip Rivers signing here too. He just moved his big family to Florida, and a short term deal with a Tua draft pick makes even more sense than the Winston/Tagovailoa duo does .
15.DENVER - ** - JAVON KINLAW - DT - S. CAROLINA
NFL PLAYER COMP - CHRIS JONES - CHIEFS
Denver has plenty of needs , and a lot of significant players hitting free agency , especially in the secondary & D-Line, but this where I see the best value at pick #15 . With Derek Wolfe, Shelby Harris, and Mike Price all unrestricted free agents on the Bronco D-Line it is time to look for a younger less expensive player to fill at least one of those spots . After finishing his tape , and watching how much he dominated the first 2 Senior Bowl practices Kinlaw is the 10th ranked overall player on my board . Although the weird tendinitis does make me nervous so his medicals at the combine will be key in where he finally ends up. He has the size, length, motor, strength, and even enough quickness to be a consistent Pro Bowl performer in the league . It's rare for players with his length to so well inside against the run, and unlike the NFL Pro Bowler he reminds me of he didn't struggle with his pad level in college . If he can expand and redefine his pass rush repertoire he has a chance to be a superstar in the NFL, but he already looked improved this year in getting after the passer .
16.ATLANTA - AJ EPENESA - DE - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMP - DAVID IRVING - retired
The Falcons have an undersized defense that is easy to run on, and 2 of their edge rushers are free agents. Epenesa is a tall powerful strong side end who's best position on tape and in the NFL might be as a 3 technique . On this team he could be their strong side end on run downs, and then kick inside next to Grady Jarrett to wreak havoc on QB's . AJ also has an elite frame to be a 3-4 five technique so I don't think he fall very far. AJ's size and strength are sorely needed on this defense . A deep cover safety who can play single high is almost as big a need, but since I have a higher grade on Epenesa , and I think this guy is a perfect fit for this team i will go with D-Lineman here .
17.DALLAS - XAVIER McKINNEY - S - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - MINKAH FITZPATRICK - STEELERS
Long suffering cowboy fans( like my little brother) have finally got rid of the clapper . Yes , Jason Garrett .The great non - adjuster The dean of time mismanagement is gone, and what makes my brother laugh even harder is that he is now the OC of the rival Giants . It's hilarious! They will now know exactly what he wants to do, and that he won't be able to adjust if it doesn't work. Mike McCarthy letting stud O-line coach Mark Columbo go to the Giants should worry cowboy fans though, although Joe Philbin is a pretty good replacement . So now they have a coach that has been to 4 NFL championship games and even won a Superbowl. Plus he's is saying all the right things about adjusting and making his offense more variable. Dallas may still be in that possible championship window where their veterans aren't broken down yet, and they still have enough young premium talent to make a run . However, they have A LOT of key players hitting free agency . Let's start with the obvious for all the fantasy football players of the world. Dak Prescott & Amari Cooper are both free agents . Amari may be smart enough to not try to break the bank , but Dak seems set on it . Now I think Cooper is a top 10 real life NFL WR, and since most teams start 3 WR these days that is very significant . Dak is more a middle of the pack QB in the real world , and their are a lot less starting QB's(32) in the NFL . Yes I know he's a winner, and he has done a lot of things you want from a guy who is the face of your franchise . Plus QB's are justifiably the leagues highest paid players. It is the most important position , but Dak has had a lot of help , and he still hasn't gotten them over the hump in 4 years as a starter . In at least 2 of those seasons he had a team talented enough to win it all . Great O-line , RB , and a lot of wide open players coming off play action passes . He threw a lot more this year and correspondingly had bigger numbers in passing yards & TD's, but he also had a lower completion percentage & his reads still need to speed up . Just because the Rams and Eagles were dumb enough to way overpay Goff & Wentz doesn't mean Dallas has to do the same . Plus the taxes are a lot lower in Texas than those 2 places, especially California . He wants more than both . I call B.S .- Goff got a 4 yr. 134 million with 110 million guaranteed. That's is stupid money , and a stupider decision to pay him specifically . I just don't think Jerry is as dumb as the rams front office , and if he pays him that much then Stephen Jones should have him committed and take over the team. In fact Dak wants Russell Wilson MONEY. 35 mil per year, where Goff gets 33.5 . Wilson is a Superbowl winning TOP 3 IN THE NFL ELITE QB, and Dak is not . I didn't bat an eye when Wilson got paid because he deserved it . He dragged that 4-12 without him team to the playoffs 2 years in a row with very little help . He is irreplaceable. Dak is not . If they pay Dak anything more than Kurt Cousins ( 3 years 84 million all guaranteed ) they are idiots, and Dak would be making more because of the tax differentials . I know Dak was a 4th rounder who hasn't made a ton from the cowboys, but he makes plenty in endorsements from being the QB of the most popular team in the league ,and that 28 million a year guaranteed is probably too much, but I bet Cowboy fans could stomach it. Right now he isn't paid enough for them to hate him when he fails, but they will if he is making a ton and keeps coming up short . Plus Dak stunk up the joint in 2018 until he got Cooper . So to me they need D-lineman and DB's more than anything . Robert Quinn, Michael Bennett , and Maliek Collins are all UFA's . Plus long time starter Tyrone Crawford missed 3/4 of the season , will be 31 this year, and they could save about 7 million by moving on . In the secondary starting CB's Byron Jones & Anthony Brown are UFA's , as is SS Jeff Heath . Jones might be the only one they would want to pay enough to bring back, although they could keep Brown if he would take less, and Heath if wants to go back to just being a special teamer . I was surprised by how much Mckinney had improved this year after watching his 2019 tape. Based off last years film I saw him as a box SS and occasional nickle LB who would be a 2nd or 3rd rounder . He really stepped up this year, played all over the field ,and played well. He's a versatile guy who can play high or low ,and is a 2 year starter in Alabama's pro ready defense . Dallas hasn't had a guy like this since ( should be in the HOF) Darren Woodson . He's probably not as fast as Fitzpatrick, and definitely not as fast as Woodson, but he can do a lot of the same things .
18.MIAMI-(steelers) - ** - K'LAVON CHAISSON - OLB/DE - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - TJ WATT - STEELERS
The Dolphins didn't get much for their edge rushers last season, and only Charles Harris has shown any promise there, and only as a situational pass rusher so far .Chaisson is a rangy explosive 3-4 OLB with growth potential who has the flexibility to bend the arc outside. He fires off the snap like a bullet , and can press the edge & make OT's over set then dart back inside on the rare occasion that he doesn't just run right by them . He has a lot of pass rush moves including the rare effective spin move . Plays the run tough , and is technically sound & aware , but he still needs to add some more muscle & strength if he's going to spend more time as a 4-3 DE in the NFL . Great motor and he can chase down plays backside and down the field . Had an ACL tear 2 years ago that will need ot be checked out, but he was the main guy in making Trevor Lawrence look jittery for the first time in his college career , and since that was in the National Championship in the biggest game of his career the arrow is definitely pointing up for him .
19.LAS VEGAS-(bears) - CJ HENDERSON - CB - FLORIDA
NFL PLAYER COMP - MARLON HUMPHREY - RAVENS
The raiders need a an off the ball LB, and a corner badly, but I think CB is a bigger need if they bring back Burfict . Plus they traded Conley last year and Daryl Worley is a UFA . CJ has a tall long armed lanky frame that allows a quick jam, and has the ball skills of a former WR .He's physical in coverage & against the run , but he also needs to add a little more muscle . Has good speed and is also an excellent blitzer with good timing . Zack Baun & Kenneth Murray are also possibilities considering their need at off the ball LB. Plus both , especially Baun could also help out the pass rush . On more wild card in this scenario is Utah ST. QB Jordan Love . His assortment of tools & raw ability would appeal to a guy like Gruden , but he probably needs a year or of work in a NFL system before he is ready to be an NFL starter unless you cater the office to his skill set . Derek Carr has 3 more years left on his contract , but most of the dead money is now gone .If they want to to trade him, or just inexplicably cut him ( Gruden made some really stupid decisions last year) they could do it without a big financial hit .
20.JACKSONVILLE -(rams)- HENRY RUGGS - WR - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - TYREEK HILL CHIEFS
The Jags already filled their biggest need at LB in this mock with the 9th pick .They also need a CB, safety, WR, and maybe some O-line help . Marquis Lee suffered through another injury prone year, and they can get out his contract without too big of a hit . Plus, Ruggs is worth this pic, is better slot receiver, and has ridiculous speed . He may be the fastest guy in the draft . Henry is explosive, has strong hands, is fearless over the middle, can win jump balls, and he would be a sick counterpart to Fournette on Jet Sweeps . Not as polished a route runner a the other Alabama WR's but he made progress this year, and they had so much talent at WR he was underused in my opinion .
21.PHILADELPHIA- TEE HIGGINS -WR - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMP - MIKE WILLIAMS - CHARGERS
The Birds are probably going to move on from injury prone expensive WR's Alshon Jeffrey & Nelson Agholor . Especially after the rumors that they were the guys throwing QB Carson Wentz under the bus, and considering how well Wentz played when with the young guys at the end of the season . Now if Carson can just stay healthy . Higgins is a tall big WR that specializes in wining jump balls down the field. Basically like a drama free Jeffery . He shows good hands & a wide catch radius with the potential to be an elite red zone and 3rd down weapon . the Eagles need secondary more than anything , and Delpit would be a good fit , but I think anyone else is a reach, and that they need to give Wentz all the help they can get to justify the ridiculous contract they gave him .
22.BUFFALO - JUSTIN JEFFERSON - WR - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - REGGIE WAYNE - retired
Buffalo doesn't have as many needs as you might think , but they need a little more size at WR with Beasley being 5"8" & John Brown being 5"10" . Jefferson has good height, good speed , is a crafty route runner, is strong handed over the middle , can play inside or outside, and showed out big in both College playoff games . Especially against Oklahoma where he destroyed them with 14 catches , 227 yards, and 4 TD's. Coming off a year where he had over 100 catches, over 1,500 yards ,and 18 TD's , he really surprised me after I watched his tape because he's actually the # 2 WR in this offense . He's kind of too lean ,could add 10-15 pounds of muscle on his frame ,and probably not lose any speed because his game isn't about being a burner . The Bills could also really use another edge rusher or interior D-Lineman . Outside Lorenzo Alexander retired and Shaq Lawson is FA after not living up to his draft status . Inside Jordan Phillips is FA as the NT , and I'm not sure if they will probably try to being him back. Cost is usually the issue in Buffalo though, as according to My Bills fan buddy Matty " The quickest way to get out of Buffalo is to make the pro bowl and deserve a raise " .Although I don't think Phillips fits that description at all. However, they are under new ownership , and might actually retain their good players now & in the future . With most of Star Lotulelei's guaranteed money running out after 2020 they might want to move on from him after this year too. .
23.NEW ENGLAND - GRANT DELPIT - S - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - MALIK HOOKER - COLTS
I realize that a lot of people want a QB here, and I have done that before myself. Plus if anyone could get away with dumping Tom Brady it's the hoody, but I am thinking Robert Kraft will step in again . Brady didn't have a great year, but the loss of Gronk without even remotely trying to adequately replace him is on Bill .The only WR Brady had all year who knows how to run the right routes in this complicated offense is Edleman, and he was playing hurt all season . Plus his O-Line was banged up . He lost his center David Andrews all year ,and anytime Marshall Newhouse gets over 700 snaps in your offense your in trouble. Most of those were at left tackle, and even someone who gets rid of the ball as quick as Brady can't be expected to have a great year under all these conditions . However, Bill does always like to be early instead of late, and in this case I am thinking he would dump another future HOFer in Devin McCourty . Devin is also a career patriot . 10 years of excellence ,and he's the only other current Patriot who I believe could retire right now and still be make it to the HOF .McCourty is still a great player , and he has consistently taken less than market value to remain a patriot . He was the 9th highest paid safety in the league this year, but he should be paid among the top 3. His twin brother is signed for another year so that could be incentive enough to take a 1 year deal at what the Pats are willing to pay, but his twin brother Jason is even more woefully under paid for his level of play, and if he wants a raise he's not likely to get it from Belichick . Maybe they both retire the same way they came into the world - together . I don't know yet, but I think Delpit is worth this pick . He's a deep coverage free safety like McCourty . I actually thought Grant might end up a top 10 pick coming into this year, but his 2019 tape wasn't as good as last years . Now he had a shoulder & ankle injury , and that could have contributed to his missed tackles. Maybe that's why he took some bad angles .Trying to avoid compounding those injuries would logically explain a lot . Whatever the case he's not a pile inspector who avoids trying to make a tackle, and he does cover a lot of ground in the back half of the secondary . Grant is a tall rangy safety who can make really quick reads in zone , and he goes after the ball. He's not quite as adept in man to man, and that's the only reason he might not specifically fit the Patriots , as they run a lot of man coverage . However, the thing that makes Belichick the man is that he adapts to the talent on his team, and runs what he can with the available personnel . 3 athletic ground covering players that allow him to play man to man ( Devin McCourty, and LB's Kyle Van Noy & Jamie Collins) are all unrestricted free agents . Plus as I already mentioned if Devin goes , Jason probably does too . Not to mention that Bill could coach up Delpit in man coverage, and probably show him how to shed blocks better as well .
24.NEW ORLEANS- JORDAN LOVE - QB - UTAH ST.
NFL PLAYER COMP - JAMEIS WINSTON - BUCCANEERS
I realize that this probably a no go if Drew Bree's returns, but after having a great team go down with some questionable calls in back to back years to the Vikings he may be ready to move on. He has nothing left to prove, He has ring, lock HOF stats , and could probably run for governor of Louisianan and be a lock there too . I doubt they bring back, Bridgewater and Hill if Brees goes, but of Bree's retire's they could keep one, and draft a QB here. Sean Payton is one of the great QB coaches in the league , and I'm sure he would love to see what he could do with the toolsy Love . I didn't watch Love's 2018 tape until right before the 2019 college season, but in hindsight it might have been a blessing . He would have definitely been in my first 2020 mock draft, but that's because he had better tape in 2018 , and it was logical to expect a better year this year . He didn't. The new offense combined with him losing his 4/5 of his O-Line , some weapons ,and he did not adjust well. I have a 2nd round grade on him, but he is very talented and QB's tend to go a round early . He has a rocket arm, mobility, generally solid mechanics. Love also has the ability to make throws off platform on the move, and from a variety of different angles . Sometimes he reminds me of a young Brett Favre in both the good & bad ways . He has that big arm that can make some crazy throws , but he is overconfident and forces too many balls. In addition his reading of defenses needs work . If his first reads not open he doesn't always see it, and then he takes too long to go from the 2nd and 3rd read. Plus he doesn't have a good feel for the rush . He has a good frame, high upside, and a low floor. Basically he seems like a lottery ticket to me, but I thought the same about Mahomes, although he went to a perfect situation . This could be his perfect situation for Jordan. Payton is probably 2nd to Andy Reid in the NFL in QB whispering, and if they bring back a vet QB and don't rush him onto the field that could be the way to unlock his awesome talent .
25.MINNESOTA - SEATTLE - TRISTAN WIRFS - T/G - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMP - TYRON SMITH - COWBOYS
The Vikings O-Line is vastly overrated . Rookie first rounder Garret Bradbury did not play well, and I admit I was high on him , but I still believe in his future . LT Riley Reiff would be a better fit at guard, but he might need to take a pay a cut to stay . Both guards are bad. Only RT Brian O'neill can be considered solid to me , and I think he has the athleticism to move to the left side if needed . I like Wirf's a lot , but apparently not as much as other people who put out draft content or follow the draft closely . I received multiple comments about it when I moved him down my board some , and most of them were so full of insults and F-bombs that I just didn't post them . I did 4 more of his games last week, and while he definitely has the talent to play outside I think he is a better fit inside at guard right now. I have listed him as T/G all along for a reason .He struggles with balance regularly on tape for 2 years running . He is also not a consistent natural knee bender , gets high too often in pass pro, and ends up on the ground too often . On the plus side he is not only very athletic at times , he is also super strong all the time . He has a lot of the same strengths and flaws Tyron Smith had in college as a sophomore, but Smith improved a lot more as a junior when he entered the draft . Both played RT in college with the ability to flip over to the blindside if they took to NFL coaching, and both were strong enough to play inside if that didn't work out. Like I said Smith improved a lot as Junior and WIrfs not so much, and I don't know if he has Tyron's super long arms, but the Vikings need help at at least 2 and maybe 3 O-Line spots . So I think he's worth the risk here, and if he doesn't work out at OT, I am comfortable that he would hold up well inside .
26.MIAMI-(texans) - D'ANDRE SWIFT - RB - GEORGIA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMP - DALVIN COOK - VIKINGS
After Miami traded Kenyan Drake he broke out. Now you can think there O-Line was actually worse than the Cards . That's sadly true, but the bigger reasons are the offensive scheme , overall talent of the team, and the fact that cards weren't always behind so then they didn't always have to pass like the fins. After my number one back Travis Etienne went back to school it came down to Swift, JK Dobbins, and Jonathan Taylor for my number one overall RB in this daft. In the end Swift is just a more complete and NFL ready player right now . He can run with speed, power, and wiggle. He can catch, run routes and is a solid blocker . Has good feet, vision , and is versatile enough to play in any NFL scheme . He fumbled twice in the playoff game in 2018 , but Taylor has had much bigger ball security issues . Plus Swift just looked a little safer carrying the ball than Dobbins this year .
27.SEATTLE - ISAIAH WILSON - OT - GEORGIA
NFL PLAYER COMP - MARCUS CANNON - PATRIOTS
Every year I feel like I watch Russell Wilson drag this OK at best team into contention, and every year I see him running for his life way too often when he has to pass. The Hawks have tried to put resources into the O-Line in both the draft, free agency, and even trade for T Duane Brown. Brown is the only one of them I would feel comfortable with if I was Russell . The worst of them is former 1rst rounder German Ifedi who is blessedly a UFA. I liked this guy in the draft too. He's so talented, he flashes once in a while, but he is also wildly inconsistent & a penalty waiting to happen . Isaiah is the opposite because he's consistent. He's also nasty, huge & long armed like Ifedi. Isaiah was the biggest surprise of my tape watching at OT so far . His technique isn't always sound ,and he's not as talented as Ifedi, but he gets the job done almost always , unlike Ifedi . Although he does have that same giant TE build with very little bad weight on his frame ,and looks to have the same long arms . Wilson's biggest problem is over aggression , but that's usually the best mistake an O-lineman can make as long as it's not a common one . The reason for that is because sometime even if you block the wrong guy ,especially in the run game, if you move him somewhere the RB can find a hole anyway. So Pete Carroll please give Russell another Wilson so I don't have to pray for his very survival every 3rd snap .
28.BALTIMORE - ZACK BAUN - LB/DE - WISCONSIN
NFL PLAYER COMP - CLAY MATTHEWS - RAMS
The Ravens barely even tried to replace CJ Mosley, and their off the ball LB's were the biggest weakness on their defense this year. Only Josh Bynes played well ,and he isn't a every down guy . They also didn't do much to replace Zadarius Smith last year either and Matt Judon is also a UFA on the edge this year . Baun was more of an edge rusher at Wisconsin, and let me be clear that I think he could make it as a full time 3-4 OLB in the NFL, but many teams won't even try a guy his size outside full time on the edge . I think he could do it, but I also think he can play inside and outside . He is smart, has a solid array of pass rush moves, strong, quick, and he looked very good at the Senior Bowl practices playing off the ball . He could help out both areas .
29.TENNESEE - KENNETH MURRAY - LB - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - JAYLON SMITH - COWBOYS
Unless they have a brain fart and fail to re-sign Derek Henry the Titans biggest need is a off the ball LB . Rashaan Evans had a down year and Wesley Woodyard will be a 34 old free agent . Murray is a better athlete than football player right now , but Mike Vrable is just the guy to coach him up and bring out the best in him . He's a poster boy looking LB who will win the weigh in, has sick athleticism ,and a crash test dummies willingness to attack the ball carrier . I have a 2nd rounder on him, but I think he's worth the risk here .Great speed ,but he needs to get better at reading the play , moving laterally, and recognizing route combinations in coverage, especially in man . His over aggressiveness gets used against him on tape , and even though he see's it quick sometimes he also comes in too hot and overruns too many plays. Murray is more than willing to take on blocks , but he doesn't always do it right, and his stacking & shedding needs work . He has a huge upside and I think this coaching staff & scheme could polish up his football IQ
30.GREEN BAY - PATRICK QUEEN - LB - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - LAVONTE DAVID - BUCCANEERS
I realize Bryan Bulaga is a free agent, but I think they will re-sign him . This was his best year in awhile, and I think they will get a deal done. Remember that the new front office has been more friendly to Aaron Rodgers wishes, and he doesn't have a lot of familiar players left on this roster . Since Bulaga probably doesn't want to go anywhere, and he played in every game this year for the first time in a few years ( did get knocked out of 2) they can justify a decent salary on a short term deal . Plus, there is no offensive tackles remotely worth this pick left in this scenario . I think their are a few WR's that should be in play if they keep this pick ,but the Pack haven't drafted a WR in the first round since 2002 , so I'm not going there yet. Plus there is so much depth at WR they could find a stud in the 2nd or 3rd , like current #1 WR Davante Adams who was a 2nd rounder in 2014. An inside LB would fit as well, and I originally thought of passing on my next guy here because I just went back to back with 2 right ahead of them . However, on second thought I think this late another guy with a 2nd round grade could fit, even though he doesn't have the size I think they need . The main reason for that is that they need someone who can cover more ground , and that is better in coverage than what they currently have . Patrick is a undersized speedy LB who came in balled out in both playoff games for the National champs . If you want Isaiah Simmons to play LB for you , but don't have a high enough pick , or want to pay the price to move up for him, Queen is the most comparable player in this draft .
31.SAN FRANCISCO - TREVON DIGGS -CB - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - JIMMY SMITH - RAVENS
Frisco is a zone heavy team ,especially cover 3 , and they could use another CB. Jason Verrett got hurt again, and I don't see anyone giving him more than the league minimum now, but he may also want another change of scenery . RCB Emmanuel Moseley is a restricted free agent, and even though Sherman just had a great year he will be 32 next season . Diggs is an experienced zone corner out of Alabama , and his scheme translates very well to the niners . He is tall, strong, long, smart, physical, and fast in coverage . Wish he was as good in man , and against the run. He still needs more work finding the ball 1 vs 1 i coverage, and in being more physical as a tackler everywhere. The niners really need a guard or a center more, but I don't have one in the first right now, and CB has turned out to be thinner than I thought. So I would rather get the last of my 3 current 1rst round corners more than one of my three 2nd round centers .
32.KANSAS CITY - JONAH JACKSON - G - OHIO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMP - JOSH SITTON - retired
Frank Clark is the only edge rusher that scares anyone in KC , but he hasn't lived up to his contract yet this year,and got off to a slow start too. However, they just won the Superbowl and the big thing that stuck out to me was how much pressure the O-Line gave up on Mahomes . 2 years ago DR. Laurnet Duverny- Tardif was a good young guard on the way up, and he had just got a new contract . The last 2 year she as steadily declined, and KC can save about 5 million by moving on from him . He's an actual medical doctor so don't feel too bad for him . He's already made over 20 million dollars in the NFL , and if he never played again he could probably do more good for the world in general . I don't have a interior O-lineman with a first round grade right now, but it's very rare for any team to be picking 32nd to ever have a guy with a 1rst round grade when their time comes up. So they can either trade this pick, take the best player available on their board , or take a 2nd rounder at a position of need like Dallas did back in 2013 with Travis Frederick . Since O-Lineman tend to have a lower bust rate than other positions That's what I would do if I was the Chiefs and I'm sure it would make Patrick Mahomes happy after all the big hits he took in that game . My highest rated interior O-lineman left on the board is Jonah Jackson of Ohio ST. He can play Guard or Center , is an excellent pass protector , and really stood out at the Senior Bowl . It's rare for a 5th year graduate Senior to really bump up his stock in his final season, but after 4 years at Rutgers Jackson transferred to the Buckeyes . He started right away , and since he has already played for 5 different offensive coordinators in his time in college he is very experienced . He needs to buff up his legs some and lower his center of gravity and not avoid his occasional tendency to get caught leaning .On the bright side he consistently shows tremendous balance and quickness down in and down out . In the pass happy NFL , and specifically playing for an Andy Reid offense , this pick makes a lot of sense .
The Lions are another team that may want to trade back for a big package of picks for a QB needy team , and according to the trade value chart it would cost about the equivalent of a mid 2nd round pick less at #3 . There is also an outside chance they fall in love with a QB , and take Tua or even Herbert, especially now that Stafford will be 32 and has a back injury . Since Stafford's contract is written in a way that it would be hard to trade him , and stupid to release him . They are another team with a lot of needs, but that's usually the case when your picking high in the draft . Short of a windfall trade their best case scenario is the redskins trading their pick to a QB needy team, and Chase Young falling to them, or the skins losing their minds and passing on Young . Pairing him with Trey Flowers would give them a great edge duo. Failing that they need interior D-Line help if Mike Daniels or A'Shawn Robinson isn't re- signed, and Derrick Brown would be a good fit . Plus in the secondary Tavon Wilson & Rashaan Melvin, and Darius Slay is coming off his worst season since he was a rookie. Also Slay is in the last year of his deal, and their were trade rumors about him last year, after they dumped starting safety & defensive captain Quandre Diggs to the Hawks before the trade deadline . At LB Jarrad Davis has been a bust , and I love Isiah Simmons. Plus Simmons can also play safety . In the end I am going with Okudah . I only have 5 blue chip elite players in the draft right now after Tua got hurt . Burrow and Young are gone in this scenario , and that leaves Odukah & Simmons, and Brown. Since I think CB's are more valuable unless the interior D-Lineman is an elite pass rusher , I will give them the corner . Okudah is the highest graded corner I have done since Patrick Peterson . He isn't quite as physical or thick, but he is a an excellent press man corner . Jeff has plenty of speed, fluid hips, quick feet , ball skills , and the confidence & swagger you want in a lock down CB .
4.NY GIANTS - ANDREW THOMAS - OT - GEORGIA
NFL PLAYER COMP - DUANE BROWN - SEAHAWKS
The Giants have been trying to upgrade their O-Line for years , and while it's has been better, it's still not good. Nate Solder hasn't lived up to his contract, and Mike Remmers has always been a average at best OT, who is only getting worse . After finishing my top 10 tackles I still have Thomas at #1 , although Jedrick Wills , Mekhi Bexton, and maybe even Josh Jones could end up in the top 11 with all these tackle needy teams in that range . I personally see Tristan Wirfs as a better fit at guard after finishing his tape if you are thinking of bringing him up, but a tackle needy team may still take him a little later and see what he can do outside first . Thomas is has been starting since he was a true freshman at RT, and has been starting at LT the last 2 years . He is a dominant run blocker and a good pass blocker who has the athleticism to be be dominant their too with some technique refinement, and bringing in Mark Columbo to coach the O-Line can only help him . His biggest weakness right now is blocking down field , but that's it . He already plays in a pro style offense and I see him as a plug and play starter at either tackle spot . I know the Giants would love to have and a DE, CB, or LB, but Young & Okudah are already gone here . Plus I don't see the Giants drafting a LB in the first round, although GM Dave Gettleman did take Shaq Thompson in the 1rst when he running the Panthers . I also think their interior D-Line is one of the few strengths on their team so that leaves out Derrick Brown. I actually think they have pretty good depth at WR too , but I guess Jerry Jeudy are CeeDee Lamb are possibilities as well. However , if they really think Daniel Jones is the answer at QB they need to protect him better , and Jones did play a lot better than I was expecting last year .
5.MIAMI- JEDRICK WILLS - OT - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP -WILLIE ANDERSON - retired
The fins literally have needs almost everywhere . Other than Christian Wilkins , Xavien Howard, and Devante Parker they can all be replaced . Also, Howard may get traded, but he had an off year after they left him all alone in the secondary so his value could be down some . Could they take Tua or another QB if they fall here ? Yes , but I have a feeling they won't . They could trade upo if they really love Tua , but I think he may be there when they pick if they love him. Plus, if he is hurt bad, and they still love him this might be as high as he could go . Fitz was pretty good the 2nd half of last year, and he is the perfect stopgap QB, not to mention they did just give up a 2nd rounder for Rosen . They have more draft capitol than any other team with 3 first, 2 seconds , and a 3rd . If they want to move up they can . In fact they are the only team that could throw such a ridiculous package together to tempt the Bengals to let them trade up to #1 and take Burrow . They also have an extra #1 & #2 in next years draft thanks to trading away Laremy Tunsil . They traded back so much last year that I expect them to do that at least one or twice this year . The reason for that is twofold, and unless they want to pay the price for Burrow I think it's a good idea . The 2 reasons are 1. To rebuild the roster ( especially the O-Line ) so the that when they do get a QB they have give him a good chance to succeed . 2. That they have the draft capitol to go up and get any QB they want next year . Trevor Lawrence or Justin Fields would sure appreciate a better team around them next year if they end up a Dolphin .Now the top player on my board left are Simmons &Derrick Brown, but since they just dumped similar player in Minkah Firzpatrick I think that leave's him out. Since they just took an interior D-Lineman in the first last year I think that leaves out Brown . Also, rebuilding the O-line should be a priority so I am giving them Wills. I was on Bama LT Alex Leatherwood by week 3 of the season , but Wills didn't get on my radar until late in the season . Leatherwood went back to school despite my first round grade on him, but Wills was a pleasant surprise . Jedrick is big , strong, and nasty with surprisingly light feet. He needs a more physical hand punch, but he keeps his hands inside , and I think he could flip over to left tackle. Even as a right tackle he is not far behind Thomas on my board.
6.LA CHARGERS- - ** - JUSTIN HERBERT - QB - OREGON
NFL PLAYER COMP - JOSH ALLEN - BILLS
The Chargers have a big decision to make at QB. Phillip Rivers is a UFA , and he moved his family to Florida . Rivers didn't have his best season, but with the Bolts often injured patchwork O-Line I'm personally surprised he survived the year without a big injury . So I am not even sure if he would come back and play for the Bolts , or even if he will play again unless he gets what he wants. I am sure he has saved plenty of money out of his 16 years as a NFL QB , and that his money will go a lot farther in Florida than Cali . There are 3 teams in Florida that could use an upgrade at the QB position , but I doubt Miami and Rivers will be interested in each other . Tampa and Jacksonville are both closer to winning , but I would go Tampa if I was him. Even after Tua's injury Herbert is the 3rd QB on my board , and unless they can talk Rivers into coming back or somehow convince Brady to head their way the are going to need a QB now. Tua's would be a better choice if he's healthy , but I am not counting on him to play much in 2020 until I hear otherwise . In 2017 Herbert was a spread read option QB with all the tools you could want . Tall with a cannon arm , and a willingness o throw down the field that you don't often see. He had his share of bubble & tunnel screens too, which definitely helped his completion percentage , but he could also fire a 20 yard out or a hit a DIG route on a rope . His accuracy still needed work , especially on those deep balls . That season when he put more air under the ball to go deep it had a tendency to sail on him, and he also occasionally threw receivers into potentially dangerous hits with late or off target throws . He also broke his collarbone late that season, but In 2018 he made improvements in those problem areas, and the offense also changed a bit . That year Herbert also started showing the capability of being a strong explosive runner who specialized in moving the chains in short yardage situations , or take off for a bigger gain when the play broke down, or even on the occasional read option . He also showed the smarts on when to slide to protect himself . Despite already being 6"6" 230 pounds his frame has plenty of room for growth and he could easily carry 250 pounds if muscle to help protect himself . He also broke his collarbone late that season , and that can sometimes he a recurring injury , but he went the next 2 years without it flaring up . In 2019 the offense changed a little , and became more run oriented . Justin still has all the physical tools, but I expected a similar jump this season as the one I saw from 2107 to 2018 , and I didn't see it. While his completion percentage went back up and his interception went down a little too, I that was more due to the conservative offense that gave him more play action passes . He didn't run as much this season himself , but showed his legs off in a big in their bowl game. All in all he is still a very good QB prospect, but he hasn't stepped up in the big moments the way a guy I would trade up for & then anoint my franchise QB . Their are also some rumors of leadership questions around him because he is not the most outwardly vocal guy, but he is universally loved by his teammates . Thats; not the end of the world . Eli manning just retired after a long successful career in New York of all places, and he is not the most loquacious guy either . Had probably would have been a top 5 pick last season, and maybe even #1 overall if Kyler Murray wasn't such perfect fit for Kliff Kingsbury's offense . He returned for a chance at the PAC 12 title , and to play a season with his incoming freshman TE little brother, and I don't think it really hurt his stock, but he didn't do anything to make it go up for me either . There is nothing wrong with being a game manager , which is what Herbert looked like this season, but there are times you just want to see a QB let it rip & win the game for you, instead of just not losing it. Both are valuable , but the former is a guy who can win it all with A LOT around him like a early career Russel Wilson . The latter is a guy like Wilson now that can drag a below average team to the playoffs , and a good team to the the title . Basically after 3 years I expected more than the incremental growth I saw . He still may end up being a franchise QB , but right now he's a guy I could see the Chargers taking him if he fell to them at the 6th pick . However, he's not a guy I would give a lot of extra picks to move up and get in a trade package . In conclusion this guy has all the tools and skills . He just needs to harness them , show more consistency , and a lot more special plays in big moments to convince me he is a franchise QB .
7.CAROLINA - DERRICK BROWN - DT - AUBURN
NFL PLAYER COMP - KENNY CLARK - PACKERS
I know plenty of Panther fans will scream Tua here, and if their docs give him a good long term health prognosis it might be a good idea . Newton still has a year on his contract , and this will give them a chance to see if he can return to form . If so, they can franchise him and get something for him , or maybe even trade Tua if Cam finds a time machine and wins another MVP . I also suspect some will say what about Isaiah Simmons ? Luke Kuechly just abruptly retired, but since it's concussions I get it . It still saddens me though, as Luke was one of the best MLB's I ever saw . Plus it's just 5 years after after Patrick Willis did the same thing . 2 of the elite middle LB's in the history of the game retiring at 29 , but hey LB is a rough job and if your worried about losing your mental facilities I get it . However Simmons isn't a MLB , he's a safety or an undersized weak side LB , and they already have one of those in Shaq Thompson so he's not a fit , although he would be a giant upgrade over Eric Reid at safety .However, their is guy or 2 worth this pick that I think fits their other biggest need , and that is along the D-Line . Gerald McCoy, Vernon Butler , and Kyle Love , are all UFA's this off season . Plus former Pro Bowler Kawaan Short missed most of the year with a torn rotator cuff . Brown and Javon Kinlaw are the 2 best clear cut interior D-Linemen in this draft for me, and both have the size and strength to 2 gap when they are in a 3-4 , and the initial quickness to help out rushing the passer . Brown is higher on my board , and he definitely had a better year . Coming into this season I saw Brown as more of a nose tackle as he was an elite run stuffer, but he really improved as a pass rusher this year , and I think he could move all over their 3 man front . He has a great motor, big powerful hands , off the ball quickness, just runs over opposing lineman , dominated LSU's vaunted O-Line, and it's hilarious when people are dumb enough to run at him . His only weakness are a lack of pass rush moves( bull rush, push through a shoulder, or slap the hands down and bull rush is it ) and counters. This guy is a tone setter with a really high floor , and a leader that any new coach should be itching to draft .
8.ARIZONA - JOSH JONES - OT - HOUSTON
NFL PLAYER COMP - LAREMY TUNSIL - TEXANS
The Cardinals got a good start on their rebuild last year , but their O-line isn't very good, but they did improve as pass blockers as the year ran along . They do say practice makes perfect, and they pass a lot, but it's also a spread system designed to get rid of the ball quickly & run a ton of plays . however, the only O-lineman that I think might be a long term piece is left tackle DJ Humpries and he's a free agent . Jones is not the best player left on my board, and he's not even the best OT left in my opinion , but he comes out a spread system . I doubt they pick Mekhi Becton because that would be the smart thing to do , and most of their 1rst round draft picks in the Steve Keim era have been the wrong guy up until last season . However, it's imperative that they upgrade the O-line to protect their young, undersized, potential franchise QB . So I am not even going to entertain another position here . Josh has decent size & length, but very quick feet and more than enough athleticism to handle the blindside . However, he needs a lot of technique refinement, especially with his hand placement & punch timing . He could work out because he's still very talented , and he should get much better coaching in the NFL from Sean Kugler .
9.JACKSONVILLE - ISAIAH SIMMONS - S/LB - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMP - THOMAS DAVIS - CHARGERS
Finally Simmons comes off the board, and it's to a team that needs him , and that runs a scheme he can excel in . He's clearly the best player on the board, and unless they want to take Tua I can't see them even considering anyone else . After Telvin Smith started to go downhill you could see Myles Jack trying to pick up some of his slack, and then his play went down too. Then Smith abruptly retired before the 2019 season , and Jack got even worse. He needs that fast ground covering weak-side LB next to him so he can concentrate on his responsibilities , and I doubt Smith returns. While he will only be 29 this season his out of the blue retirement shouldn't sit well with anyone in the organization , and the only time I heard about him this year was when the cops were called to his house right after last Thanksgiving . Simmons is just a flat out stud. he is the best safety , off the ball LB, and movable defensive chess piece in this draft . He can play the run, cover, rush , and he's just a play-maker wherever they line lined him up, and they lined him up all over the defensive formation . He was everywhere on film, almost to the point that I thought there were 2 of him on the field sometimes .
10.CLEVELAND - MEKHI BECTON - OT - LOUISVILLE
NFL PLAYER COMP - ANDREW WHIWORTH - RAMS
The Browns disjointed again . I admit I picked them to win the division , and they imploded . This is definitely the most talented team in the division, but you wouldn't know it by their record . Before the season my big worries were LT , RG, and a rookie head coach, but I confess that Freddie Kitchens was just as bad as their O-line. Both tackles were, bad , but the RT was way even worse. Both players they payed at RG were terrible . They tried to trade for former Pro Bowler Trent Williams to man the blindside, but stubborn Daniel Snyder wouldn't make the deal , but I bet he will now, Williams is adamant about never playing for the skins again , although instead of a 1rst and some change I doubt they get more than a 2nd rounder for him now . Williams sat out a whole season , will be 32 thus season, failed his physical in weird way, and he had been having some injury problems for the previous 3 years . I would still make that deal for a 2nd if I was the Browns , and he passes his physical . I would still take Becton even if I pulled it off . Another thing that didn't work out was the OBJ trade. He took his diva whiny millennial look at me personality to new heights, continued his history of being injury prone, and did a lot to help undermine his coach and QB . I would trade him, and draft a WR in this very deep class in the 2nd or 3rd round . Then we have Baker . Crappy O-Line or not he definitely regressed, and made me think that what I used to think was just cocky young brashness , might in fact be Odell-like myopic millennial divaness . Don't think that one OT , now matter how good is going to fix this. They need to draft multiple O-Lineman & sign or trade for a couple more . Other than their center or LG all these guys could easily be replaced and upgraded . I spend most of the college season watching guys I haven't watched before, but I had already seen 4 of Becton's games coming into the season, and I had him projected as a low first rounder . I watched 3 more games this week, and WOW ! I was so impressed I will even say it backwards . WOW ! Becton is huge . One of those guys that is so big, wide , and long that he is just hard to get around . He also looks like a a guy who you might want to move to guard , but you would be wrong . As long as he keeps his weight in check he is very effective on the edge as a pass protector, and his 370 pounds is pretty well distributed, but if he could cut down to 340 by the combine he could actually be the first OT drafted . Sometimes guys with his profile like Johnathan Ogden , Andrew Whitworth, or Cordy Glenn just know how to use what they have to kick ass . His brutal hand punch is effective and his anchor is elite . His hands are so big & arms are so long it's hard for him to completely miss with his punch, and a partial punch from him can still throw you off course or stop you in your tracks . Plus he is a physical road grader in the run game as a drive blocker . Most giants don't excel down the field , but he is not your normal giant , and he goes hunting . Other than getting better at picking up stunts & blitzes , and getting more accurate with his punch he is a really good OT prospect . Stunts & blitzes usually just come with time, and if he keeps getting in better shape sky's the limit. Mekhi is my 3rd ranked OT and #12 overall player . I would do this if I was Cleveland now that Simmons is off the board ,and definitely if I didn't bring in a good veteran OT, no matter if Simmons is there . With a little time to keep developing his technique & body he could be a perennial Pro Bowler . Louisville used to flip their OT's , so he has played both tackle spots, but I am convinced he could handle the blindside full time in the NFL, after watching him doing it this year. Once I have caught up and watched all 400 some guys I expect to watch this draft season, I will be looking to post my final ranking for 2020. In those 2 weeks I will watch more tape on the top tier guys I have at each position to separate them and give final grades. I wouldn't be surprised if he even moves up a little on my board, and I also wouldn't be surprised that after the combine & free agency shake out ,and some tackle needy teams are left wanting, if he was drafted a little higher too.
11.NY JETS - JERRY JEUDY - WR - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - AMARI COOPER - COWBOYS
The Jets need offensive lineman more than anything , but unless they See Tristan Wirfs as OT he is the only possibility at this point in this scenario. However, they do have an extra 3rd rounder if they want to trade up a little in case some one they love doesn't fall here . Still, they have plenty of other needs , and their are 2 players that absolutely fill their 2nd biggest need, and are plenty worth this pick . That need is WR, because Robbie Anderson is a free agent ,and Adam Gase doesn't seem to want to pay top dollar for skill players right now. Sam Darnold needs some more weapons. Both Ceedee Lamb & Jerry Jeudy are number WR's to me, and both are top 10 values in my book . While I have Lamb slightly ahead in the long run they are more 1A and 1B to me . Jeudy is more polished & pro ready right now, and he fits this offense well. He is an advanced route runner even for a pro player, comes out of a pro style offense , and is a high character guy unlike Anderson . Plus his hands are good, except I wouldn't expect him to win a lot of jump balls . I really hope they invest in the O-Line in both free agency in the draft though . They need CB's too, but I don't see one being drafted this high after Okudah is gone .
12.LAS VEGAS- CEEDEE LAMB - WR - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - ODELL BECKHAM JR.
The 2019 raiders should strangely be considered a success even though they didn't make the playoffs. Dumping AB actually brought the team together. Even though Isaiah Simmons is already gone , and they can't fill their top need of an off the ball LB there are still some good choices here that filla big need . Unless the Raiders decide to draft a QB here, and in this case Tua is just sitting there like a blinking light if Gruden wants him. Although I think if Gruden wanted a QB it wouldn't be a target of opportunity, and that he would trade up for him . They do need a # 1 WR , otherwise they wouldn't have tried to bring in the train wreck that is Antonio Brown . Tyrell Williams profiles well ( and is paid like ) a good number 2 WR . Lamb looks to be a little bigger & faster than Jeudy, and while he is good at the more limited route tree Oklahoma runs, he still needs work there to fit into a Pro style offense . He is explosive with great hands , and well above average ability track the ball . Combining that with his ability to play great from both the outside & inside , and I think his long term upside gives him the slight lead in the race to be the # 1 WR in the 2020 draft . If some other edge rusher( since Chase Young is way gone ) meets their criteria that could also be a fit,but that's really hard to tell with them, after their random overdraft of Clelin Ferrell Last year .
NFL PLAYER COMP - AJ BROWN - TITANS
The obvious choice here is Tua, but I doubt it, even if their doctor's sign off on him . With Lucks abrupt retirement ,and Jacoby Brissett playing pretty well before an injury I don't expect them to bring in a QB unless his injury history & build scream durable . The main reason the Colts have to worry about is LT Anthony Castonzo , and they have the franchise tag as last resort if they have trouble getting a deal done, so i am going to go with another big need . The only WR on their team that is serious threat to defenses is TY Hilton , and he has become injury prone lately , although Zach Pascal showed a decent signs of becoming a solid # 3 last season . Every once in a while you see a player who is the absolute focal point of an entire offense . Like Deebo Samuel was in 2018 at S. Carolina, and Shenault is the same . He has lined up at every possible skill position , even QB to run a little wild cat , although I think his primary use should be as a power slot .He is a big powerful guy that is hard to tackle , and you could easily hand him the ball 5 times a game in a variety of ways to take advantage of his explosive running style. He is not afraid to go over the middle, and shows strong hands. Some injuries slowed him this year after a dominant 2018 . but I love this guy, have a solid first round grade on him, and think he could help every single team in the league . An innovative guy like Frank Reich could find a ton of ways to use a versatile player like Laviska .
14.TAMPA BAY - ** - TUA TAGOVAILOA - QB - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - MARK BRUNELL - retired
I just can't see them giving Winston the franchise tag, unless they have already re-signed Shaquil Barrett. Plus, they might want to bring back RT Demar Dotson too. Winston has not grown the way we all hoped he would in 5 years of play . He is still the same guy he was at Florida State . On one drive he makes a throw that few QB's can, and then on the next makes a stupid read that's hard to understand in hindsight , or forces a throw that he shouldn't have tried . Throw in the fact that he has also continued his off the field problems, and I just don't see it . Now if they can get him on a one year prove it deal, and then draft a QB it makes sense if Arians is going to stick around for the long term . This pick fits especially if it's going to take Tua awhile to heal, and he needs a red shirt this year . Tua has elite poise & he reads defenses like a veteran NFL QB . He is built like a RB, and his lack of height will knock him down some boards, as we won't know his true height until the combine. I would guess 6"1" tops , but his average arm will push him down some, boards too. That RB like build is what confuses me with his injury history , as he looks like a shorter Dak Prescott on the field, and I have seen Dak run over a LB & pop up with a smile. Although Dak wished he had Tua's accuracy & ability to throw people open . Tua has been hurt all 3 years of college, although this years hip injury could be a long term thing. His mobility is one of his great skills, and hip injuries can also really affect your ability to throw the ball , and he didn't have the strongest arm to begin with. If he had come through this year unscathed there would probably be a few teams who value experience as a starter more than others who would have him with their number #1 QB . He would also have been the 6th player in my elite blue chip tier, and the Redskins would be giggling with how much they could extract from a QB needy team that wanted to move up to #2 overall for him. Although that could still happen if his medicals look good at the combine, but I doubt they get healthy Tua prices even if a team buys into him . I have actually heard some complain that Tua has too much talent around him, but that's stupid to me . Burrow had the same thing , and they both play in one of the elite conferences in the NCAA against top competition . Keep a watch on Phillip Rivers signing here too. He just moved his big family to Florida, and a short term deal with a Tua draft pick makes even more sense than the Winston/Tagovailoa duo does .
15.DENVER - ** - JAVON KINLAW - DT - S. CAROLINA
NFL PLAYER COMP - CHRIS JONES - CHIEFS
Denver has plenty of needs , and a lot of significant players hitting free agency , especially in the secondary & D-Line, but this where I see the best value at pick #15 . With Derek Wolfe, Shelby Harris, and Mike Price all unrestricted free agents on the Bronco D-Line it is time to look for a younger less expensive player to fill at least one of those spots . After finishing his tape , and watching how much he dominated the first 2 Senior Bowl practices Kinlaw is the 10th ranked overall player on my board . Although the weird tendinitis does make me nervous so his medicals at the combine will be key in where he finally ends up. He has the size, length, motor, strength, and even enough quickness to be a consistent Pro Bowl performer in the league . It's rare for players with his length to so well inside against the run, and unlike the NFL Pro Bowler he reminds me of he didn't struggle with his pad level in college . If he can expand and redefine his pass rush repertoire he has a chance to be a superstar in the NFL, but he already looked improved this year in getting after the passer .
16.ATLANTA - AJ EPENESA - DE - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMP - DAVID IRVING - retired
The Falcons have an undersized defense that is easy to run on, and 2 of their edge rushers are free agents. Epenesa is a tall powerful strong side end who's best position on tape and in the NFL might be as a 3 technique . On this team he could be their strong side end on run downs, and then kick inside next to Grady Jarrett to wreak havoc on QB's . AJ also has an elite frame to be a 3-4 five technique so I don't think he fall very far. AJ's size and strength are sorely needed on this defense . A deep cover safety who can play single high is almost as big a need, but since I have a higher grade on Epenesa , and I think this guy is a perfect fit for this team i will go with D-Lineman here .
17.DALLAS - XAVIER McKINNEY - S - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - MINKAH FITZPATRICK - STEELERS
Long suffering cowboy fans( like my little brother) have finally got rid of the clapper . Yes , Jason Garrett .The great non - adjuster The dean of time mismanagement is gone, and what makes my brother laugh even harder is that he is now the OC of the rival Giants . It's hilarious! They will now know exactly what he wants to do, and that he won't be able to adjust if it doesn't work. Mike McCarthy letting stud O-line coach Mark Columbo go to the Giants should worry cowboy fans though, although Joe Philbin is a pretty good replacement . So now they have a coach that has been to 4 NFL championship games and even won a Superbowl. Plus he's is saying all the right things about adjusting and making his offense more variable. Dallas may still be in that possible championship window where their veterans aren't broken down yet, and they still have enough young premium talent to make a run . However, they have A LOT of key players hitting free agency . Let's start with the obvious for all the fantasy football players of the world. Dak Prescott & Amari Cooper are both free agents . Amari may be smart enough to not try to break the bank , but Dak seems set on it . Now I think Cooper is a top 10 real life NFL WR, and since most teams start 3 WR these days that is very significant . Dak is more a middle of the pack QB in the real world , and their are a lot less starting QB's(32) in the NFL . Yes I know he's a winner, and he has done a lot of things you want from a guy who is the face of your franchise . Plus QB's are justifiably the leagues highest paid players. It is the most important position , but Dak has had a lot of help , and he still hasn't gotten them over the hump in 4 years as a starter . In at least 2 of those seasons he had a team talented enough to win it all . Great O-line , RB , and a lot of wide open players coming off play action passes . He threw a lot more this year and correspondingly had bigger numbers in passing yards & TD's, but he also had a lower completion percentage & his reads still need to speed up . Just because the Rams and Eagles were dumb enough to way overpay Goff & Wentz doesn't mean Dallas has to do the same . Plus the taxes are a lot lower in Texas than those 2 places, especially California . He wants more than both . I call B.S .- Goff got a 4 yr. 134 million with 110 million guaranteed. That's is stupid money , and a stupider decision to pay him specifically . I just don't think Jerry is as dumb as the rams front office , and if he pays him that much then Stephen Jones should have him committed and take over the team. In fact Dak wants Russell Wilson MONEY. 35 mil per year, where Goff gets 33.5 . Wilson is a Superbowl winning TOP 3 IN THE NFL ELITE QB, and Dak is not . I didn't bat an eye when Wilson got paid because he deserved it . He dragged that 4-12 without him team to the playoffs 2 years in a row with very little help . He is irreplaceable. Dak is not . If they pay Dak anything more than Kurt Cousins ( 3 years 84 million all guaranteed ) they are idiots, and Dak would be making more because of the tax differentials . I know Dak was a 4th rounder who hasn't made a ton from the cowboys, but he makes plenty in endorsements from being the QB of the most popular team in the league ,and that 28 million a year guaranteed is probably too much, but I bet Cowboy fans could stomach it. Right now he isn't paid enough for them to hate him when he fails, but they will if he is making a ton and keeps coming up short . Plus Dak stunk up the joint in 2018 until he got Cooper . So to me they need D-lineman and DB's more than anything . Robert Quinn, Michael Bennett , and Maliek Collins are all UFA's . Plus long time starter Tyrone Crawford missed 3/4 of the season , will be 31 this year, and they could save about 7 million by moving on . In the secondary starting CB's Byron Jones & Anthony Brown are UFA's , as is SS Jeff Heath . Jones might be the only one they would want to pay enough to bring back, although they could keep Brown if he would take less, and Heath if wants to go back to just being a special teamer . I was surprised by how much Mckinney had improved this year after watching his 2019 tape. Based off last years film I saw him as a box SS and occasional nickle LB who would be a 2nd or 3rd rounder . He really stepped up this year, played all over the field ,and played well. He's a versatile guy who can play high or low ,and is a 2 year starter in Alabama's pro ready defense . Dallas hasn't had a guy like this since ( should be in the HOF) Darren Woodson . He's probably not as fast as Fitzpatrick, and definitely not as fast as Woodson, but he can do a lot of the same things .
18.MIAMI-(steelers) - ** - K'LAVON CHAISSON - OLB/DE - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - TJ WATT - STEELERS
The Dolphins didn't get much for their edge rushers last season, and only Charles Harris has shown any promise there, and only as a situational pass rusher so far .Chaisson is a rangy explosive 3-4 OLB with growth potential who has the flexibility to bend the arc outside. He fires off the snap like a bullet , and can press the edge & make OT's over set then dart back inside on the rare occasion that he doesn't just run right by them . He has a lot of pass rush moves including the rare effective spin move . Plays the run tough , and is technically sound & aware , but he still needs to add some more muscle & strength if he's going to spend more time as a 4-3 DE in the NFL . Great motor and he can chase down plays backside and down the field . Had an ACL tear 2 years ago that will need ot be checked out, but he was the main guy in making Trevor Lawrence look jittery for the first time in his college career , and since that was in the National Championship in the biggest game of his career the arrow is definitely pointing up for him .
19.LAS VEGAS-(bears) - CJ HENDERSON - CB - FLORIDA
NFL PLAYER COMP - MARLON HUMPHREY - RAVENS
The raiders need a an off the ball LB, and a corner badly, but I think CB is a bigger need if they bring back Burfict . Plus they traded Conley last year and Daryl Worley is a UFA . CJ has a tall long armed lanky frame that allows a quick jam, and has the ball skills of a former WR .He's physical in coverage & against the run , but he also needs to add a little more muscle . Has good speed and is also an excellent blitzer with good timing . Zack Baun & Kenneth Murray are also possibilities considering their need at off the ball LB. Plus both , especially Baun could also help out the pass rush . On more wild card in this scenario is Utah ST. QB Jordan Love . His assortment of tools & raw ability would appeal to a guy like Gruden , but he probably needs a year or of work in a NFL system before he is ready to be an NFL starter unless you cater the office to his skill set . Derek Carr has 3 more years left on his contract , but most of the dead money is now gone .If they want to to trade him, or just inexplicably cut him ( Gruden made some really stupid decisions last year) they could do it without a big financial hit .
20.JACKSONVILLE -(rams)- HENRY RUGGS - WR - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - TYREEK HILL CHIEFS
The Jags already filled their biggest need at LB in this mock with the 9th pick .They also need a CB, safety, WR, and maybe some O-line help . Marquis Lee suffered through another injury prone year, and they can get out his contract without too big of a hit . Plus, Ruggs is worth this pic, is better slot receiver, and has ridiculous speed . He may be the fastest guy in the draft . Henry is explosive, has strong hands, is fearless over the middle, can win jump balls, and he would be a sick counterpart to Fournette on Jet Sweeps . Not as polished a route runner a the other Alabama WR's but he made progress this year, and they had so much talent at WR he was underused in my opinion .
21.PHILADELPHIA- TEE HIGGINS -WR - CLEMSON
NFL PLAYER COMP - MIKE WILLIAMS - CHARGERS
The Birds are probably going to move on from injury prone expensive WR's Alshon Jeffrey & Nelson Agholor . Especially after the rumors that they were the guys throwing QB Carson Wentz under the bus, and considering how well Wentz played when with the young guys at the end of the season . Now if Carson can just stay healthy . Higgins is a tall big WR that specializes in wining jump balls down the field. Basically like a drama free Jeffery . He shows good hands & a wide catch radius with the potential to be an elite red zone and 3rd down weapon . the Eagles need secondary more than anything , and Delpit would be a good fit , but I think anyone else is a reach, and that they need to give Wentz all the help they can get to justify the ridiculous contract they gave him .
22.BUFFALO - JUSTIN JEFFERSON - WR - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - REGGIE WAYNE - retired
Buffalo doesn't have as many needs as you might think , but they need a little more size at WR with Beasley being 5"8" & John Brown being 5"10" . Jefferson has good height, good speed , is a crafty route runner, is strong handed over the middle , can play inside or outside, and showed out big in both College playoff games . Especially against Oklahoma where he destroyed them with 14 catches , 227 yards, and 4 TD's. Coming off a year where he had over 100 catches, over 1,500 yards ,and 18 TD's , he really surprised me after I watched his tape because he's actually the # 2 WR in this offense . He's kind of too lean ,could add 10-15 pounds of muscle on his frame ,and probably not lose any speed because his game isn't about being a burner . The Bills could also really use another edge rusher or interior D-Lineman . Outside Lorenzo Alexander retired and Shaq Lawson is FA after not living up to his draft status . Inside Jordan Phillips is FA as the NT , and I'm not sure if they will probably try to being him back. Cost is usually the issue in Buffalo though, as according to My Bills fan buddy Matty " The quickest way to get out of Buffalo is to make the pro bowl and deserve a raise " .Although I don't think Phillips fits that description at all. However, they are under new ownership , and might actually retain their good players now & in the future . With most of Star Lotulelei's guaranteed money running out after 2020 they might want to move on from him after this year too. .
23.NEW ENGLAND - GRANT DELPIT - S - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - MALIK HOOKER - COLTS
I realize that a lot of people want a QB here, and I have done that before myself. Plus if anyone could get away with dumping Tom Brady it's the hoody, but I am thinking Robert Kraft will step in again . Brady didn't have a great year, but the loss of Gronk without even remotely trying to adequately replace him is on Bill .The only WR Brady had all year who knows how to run the right routes in this complicated offense is Edleman, and he was playing hurt all season . Plus his O-Line was banged up . He lost his center David Andrews all year ,and anytime Marshall Newhouse gets over 700 snaps in your offense your in trouble. Most of those were at left tackle, and even someone who gets rid of the ball as quick as Brady can't be expected to have a great year under all these conditions . However, Bill does always like to be early instead of late, and in this case I am thinking he would dump another future HOFer in Devin McCourty . Devin is also a career patriot . 10 years of excellence ,and he's the only other current Patriot who I believe could retire right now and still be make it to the HOF .McCourty is still a great player , and he has consistently taken less than market value to remain a patriot . He was the 9th highest paid safety in the league this year, but he should be paid among the top 3. His twin brother is signed for another year so that could be incentive enough to take a 1 year deal at what the Pats are willing to pay, but his twin brother Jason is even more woefully under paid for his level of play, and if he wants a raise he's not likely to get it from Belichick . Maybe they both retire the same way they came into the world - together . I don't know yet, but I think Delpit is worth this pick . He's a deep coverage free safety like McCourty . I actually thought Grant might end up a top 10 pick coming into this year, but his 2019 tape wasn't as good as last years . Now he had a shoulder & ankle injury , and that could have contributed to his missed tackles. Maybe that's why he took some bad angles .Trying to avoid compounding those injuries would logically explain a lot . Whatever the case he's not a pile inspector who avoids trying to make a tackle, and he does cover a lot of ground in the back half of the secondary . Grant is a tall rangy safety who can make really quick reads in zone , and he goes after the ball. He's not quite as adept in man to man, and that's the only reason he might not specifically fit the Patriots , as they run a lot of man coverage . However, the thing that makes Belichick the man is that he adapts to the talent on his team, and runs what he can with the available personnel . 3 athletic ground covering players that allow him to play man to man ( Devin McCourty, and LB's Kyle Van Noy & Jamie Collins) are all unrestricted free agents . Plus as I already mentioned if Devin goes , Jason probably does too . Not to mention that Bill could coach up Delpit in man coverage, and probably show him how to shed blocks better as well .
24.NEW ORLEANS- JORDAN LOVE - QB - UTAH ST.
NFL PLAYER COMP - JAMEIS WINSTON - BUCCANEERS
I realize that this probably a no go if Drew Bree's returns, but after having a great team go down with some questionable calls in back to back years to the Vikings he may be ready to move on. He has nothing left to prove, He has ring, lock HOF stats , and could probably run for governor of Louisianan and be a lock there too . I doubt they bring back, Bridgewater and Hill if Brees goes, but of Bree's retire's they could keep one, and draft a QB here. Sean Payton is one of the great QB coaches in the league , and I'm sure he would love to see what he could do with the toolsy Love . I didn't watch Love's 2018 tape until right before the 2019 college season, but in hindsight it might have been a blessing . He would have definitely been in my first 2020 mock draft, but that's because he had better tape in 2018 , and it was logical to expect a better year this year . He didn't. The new offense combined with him losing his 4/5 of his O-Line , some weapons ,and he did not adjust well. I have a 2nd round grade on him, but he is very talented and QB's tend to go a round early . He has a rocket arm, mobility, generally solid mechanics. Love also has the ability to make throws off platform on the move, and from a variety of different angles . Sometimes he reminds me of a young Brett Favre in both the good & bad ways . He has that big arm that can make some crazy throws , but he is overconfident and forces too many balls. In addition his reading of defenses needs work . If his first reads not open he doesn't always see it, and then he takes too long to go from the 2nd and 3rd read. Plus he doesn't have a good feel for the rush . He has a good frame, high upside, and a low floor. Basically he seems like a lottery ticket to me, but I thought the same about Mahomes, although he went to a perfect situation . This could be his perfect situation for Jordan. Payton is probably 2nd to Andy Reid in the NFL in QB whispering, and if they bring back a vet QB and don't rush him onto the field that could be the way to unlock his awesome talent .
25.MINNESOTA - SEATTLE - TRISTAN WIRFS - T/G - IOWA
NFL PLAYER COMP - TYRON SMITH - COWBOYS
The Vikings O-Line is vastly overrated . Rookie first rounder Garret Bradbury did not play well, and I admit I was high on him , but I still believe in his future . LT Riley Reiff would be a better fit at guard, but he might need to take a pay a cut to stay . Both guards are bad. Only RT Brian O'neill can be considered solid to me , and I think he has the athleticism to move to the left side if needed . I like Wirf's a lot , but apparently not as much as other people who put out draft content or follow the draft closely . I received multiple comments about it when I moved him down my board some , and most of them were so full of insults and F-bombs that I just didn't post them . I did 4 more of his games last week, and while he definitely has the talent to play outside I think he is a better fit inside at guard right now. I have listed him as T/G all along for a reason .He struggles with balance regularly on tape for 2 years running . He is also not a consistent natural knee bender , gets high too often in pass pro, and ends up on the ground too often . On the plus side he is not only very athletic at times , he is also super strong all the time . He has a lot of the same strengths and flaws Tyron Smith had in college as a sophomore, but Smith improved a lot more as a junior when he entered the draft . Both played RT in college with the ability to flip over to the blindside if they took to NFL coaching, and both were strong enough to play inside if that didn't work out. Like I said Smith improved a lot as Junior and WIrfs not so much, and I don't know if he has Tyron's super long arms, but the Vikings need help at at least 2 and maybe 3 O-Line spots . So I think he's worth the risk here, and if he doesn't work out at OT, I am comfortable that he would hold up well inside .
26.MIAMI-(texans) - D'ANDRE SWIFT - RB - GEORGIA ST.
NFL PLAYER COMP - DALVIN COOK - VIKINGS
After Miami traded Kenyan Drake he broke out. Now you can think there O-Line was actually worse than the Cards . That's sadly true, but the bigger reasons are the offensive scheme , overall talent of the team, and the fact that cards weren't always behind so then they didn't always have to pass like the fins. After my number one back Travis Etienne went back to school it came down to Swift, JK Dobbins, and Jonathan Taylor for my number one overall RB in this daft. In the end Swift is just a more complete and NFL ready player right now . He can run with speed, power, and wiggle. He can catch, run routes and is a solid blocker . Has good feet, vision , and is versatile enough to play in any NFL scheme . He fumbled twice in the playoff game in 2018 , but Taylor has had much bigger ball security issues . Plus Swift just looked a little safer carrying the ball than Dobbins this year .
27.SEATTLE - ISAIAH WILSON - OT - GEORGIA
NFL PLAYER COMP - MARCUS CANNON - PATRIOTS
Every year I feel like I watch Russell Wilson drag this OK at best team into contention, and every year I see him running for his life way too often when he has to pass. The Hawks have tried to put resources into the O-Line in both the draft, free agency, and even trade for T Duane Brown. Brown is the only one of them I would feel comfortable with if I was Russell . The worst of them is former 1rst rounder German Ifedi who is blessedly a UFA. I liked this guy in the draft too. He's so talented, he flashes once in a while, but he is also wildly inconsistent & a penalty waiting to happen . Isaiah is the opposite because he's consistent. He's also nasty, huge & long armed like Ifedi. Isaiah was the biggest surprise of my tape watching at OT so far . His technique isn't always sound ,and he's not as talented as Ifedi, but he gets the job done almost always , unlike Ifedi . Although he does have that same giant TE build with very little bad weight on his frame ,and looks to have the same long arms . Wilson's biggest problem is over aggression , but that's usually the best mistake an O-lineman can make as long as it's not a common one . The reason for that is because sometime even if you block the wrong guy ,especially in the run game, if you move him somewhere the RB can find a hole anyway. So Pete Carroll please give Russell another Wilson so I don't have to pray for his very survival every 3rd snap .
28.BALTIMORE - ZACK BAUN - LB/DE - WISCONSIN
NFL PLAYER COMP - CLAY MATTHEWS - RAMS
The Ravens barely even tried to replace CJ Mosley, and their off the ball LB's were the biggest weakness on their defense this year. Only Josh Bynes played well ,and he isn't a every down guy . They also didn't do much to replace Zadarius Smith last year either and Matt Judon is also a UFA on the edge this year . Baun was more of an edge rusher at Wisconsin, and let me be clear that I think he could make it as a full time 3-4 OLB in the NFL, but many teams won't even try a guy his size outside full time on the edge . I think he could do it, but I also think he can play inside and outside . He is smart, has a solid array of pass rush moves, strong, quick, and he looked very good at the Senior Bowl practices playing off the ball . He could help out both areas .
29.TENNESEE - KENNETH MURRAY - LB - OKLAHOMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - JAYLON SMITH - COWBOYS
Unless they have a brain fart and fail to re-sign Derek Henry the Titans biggest need is a off the ball LB . Rashaan Evans had a down year and Wesley Woodyard will be a 34 old free agent . Murray is a better athlete than football player right now , but Mike Vrable is just the guy to coach him up and bring out the best in him . He's a poster boy looking LB who will win the weigh in, has sick athleticism ,and a crash test dummies willingness to attack the ball carrier . I have a 2nd rounder on him, but I think he's worth the risk here .Great speed ,but he needs to get better at reading the play , moving laterally, and recognizing route combinations in coverage, especially in man . His over aggressiveness gets used against him on tape , and even though he see's it quick sometimes he also comes in too hot and overruns too many plays. Murray is more than willing to take on blocks , but he doesn't always do it right, and his stacking & shedding needs work . He has a huge upside and I think this coaching staff & scheme could polish up his football IQ
30.GREEN BAY - PATRICK QUEEN - LB - LSU
NFL PLAYER COMP - LAVONTE DAVID - BUCCANEERS
I realize Bryan Bulaga is a free agent, but I think they will re-sign him . This was his best year in awhile, and I think they will get a deal done. Remember that the new front office has been more friendly to Aaron Rodgers wishes, and he doesn't have a lot of familiar players left on this roster . Since Bulaga probably doesn't want to go anywhere, and he played in every game this year for the first time in a few years ( did get knocked out of 2) they can justify a decent salary on a short term deal . Plus, there is no offensive tackles remotely worth this pick left in this scenario . I think their are a few WR's that should be in play if they keep this pick ,but the Pack haven't drafted a WR in the first round since 2002 , so I'm not going there yet. Plus there is so much depth at WR they could find a stud in the 2nd or 3rd , like current #1 WR Davante Adams who was a 2nd rounder in 2014. An inside LB would fit as well, and I originally thought of passing on my next guy here because I just went back to back with 2 right ahead of them . However, on second thought I think this late another guy with a 2nd round grade could fit, even though he doesn't have the size I think they need . The main reason for that is that they need someone who can cover more ground , and that is better in coverage than what they currently have . Patrick is a undersized speedy LB who came in balled out in both playoff games for the National champs . If you want Isaiah Simmons to play LB for you , but don't have a high enough pick , or want to pay the price to move up for him, Queen is the most comparable player in this draft .
31.SAN FRANCISCO - TREVON DIGGS -CB - ALABAMA
NFL PLAYER COMP - JIMMY SMITH - RAVENS
Frisco is a zone heavy team ,especially cover 3 , and they could use another CB. Jason Verrett got hurt again, and I don't see anyone giving him more than the league minimum now, but he may also want another change of scenery . RCB Emmanuel Moseley is a restricted free agent, and even though Sherman just had a great year he will be 32 next season . Diggs is an experienced zone corner out of Alabama , and his scheme translates very well to the niners . He is tall, strong, long, smart, physical, and fast in coverage . Wish he was as good in man , and against the run. He still needs more work finding the ball 1 vs 1 i coverage, and in being more physical as a tackler everywhere. The niners really need a guard or a center more, but I don't have one in the first right now, and CB has turned out to be thinner than I thought. So I would rather get the last of my 3 current 1rst round corners more than one of my three 2nd round centers .
32.KANSAS CITY - JONAH JACKSON - G - OHIO ST.
NFL PLAYER COMP - JOSH SITTON - retired
Frank Clark is the only edge rusher that scares anyone in KC , but he hasn't lived up to his contract yet this year,and got off to a slow start too. However, they just won the Superbowl and the big thing that stuck out to me was how much pressure the O-Line gave up on Mahomes . 2 years ago DR. Laurnet Duverny- Tardif was a good young guard on the way up, and he had just got a new contract . The last 2 year she as steadily declined, and KC can save about 5 million by moving on from him . He's an actual medical doctor so don't feel too bad for him . He's already made over 20 million dollars in the NFL , and if he never played again he could probably do more good for the world in general . I don't have a interior O-lineman with a first round grade right now, but it's very rare for any team to be picking 32nd to ever have a guy with a 1rst round grade when their time comes up. So they can either trade this pick, take the best player available on their board , or take a 2nd rounder at a position of need like Dallas did back in 2013 with Travis Frederick . Since O-Lineman tend to have a lower bust rate than other positions That's what I would do if I was the Chiefs and I'm sure it would make Patrick Mahomes happy after all the big hits he took in that game . My highest rated interior O-lineman left on the board is Jonah Jackson of Ohio ST. He can play Guard or Center , is an excellent pass protector , and really stood out at the Senior Bowl . It's rare for a 5th year graduate Senior to really bump up his stock in his final season, but after 4 years at Rutgers Jackson transferred to the Buckeyes . He started right away , and since he has already played for 5 different offensive coordinators in his time in college he is very experienced . He needs to buff up his legs some and lower his center of gravity and not avoid his occasional tendency to get caught leaning .On the bright side he consistently shows tremendous balance and quickness down in and down out . In the pass happy NFL , and specifically playing for an Andy Reid offense , this pick makes a lot of sense .
I think Wirfs is higher on the Browns draft board than Becton. Also, I love Jonah Jackson but he would be a reach in round 1.
ReplyDeleteWirfs may actually be higher on the Browns board, but I don't know that for sure because I don't work for their team ,and it's too early to have a finalized board anyway. I have only watched 3 games on a lot of these players. On many of them I'll watch up to 10 so I can separate them. Unless you actually do work for the Browns I would like to know your reasoning behind the ranking of Wirfs. As for Jonah Jackson I stated in my write-up that I had a second-round grade on him. NFL teams draft for their specific system, and they usually only have around 15 to 18 first round grades. So most of the picks in the bottom of the first round are people with second round grades. Of course different teams have different draft boards so sometimes you could actually be picking last in the first round and you have a guy fall to you with a first-round grade, but that's rare . When I'm doing my rankings I have to include all the teams so I always have more first round ,second round ,third round grades Etc. But like I said Jackson fits their system they may have a higher grade on him, and either way if they're not going to trade the pick they have to take somebody.
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