2021 NFL MOCK DRAFT - 3/15/21 - With Trades and Player comparisons

  The PRO DAYS are in full swing now . Still grinding tape and searching for more information . I'm betting the Pro days will bring a lot more names to the forefront . This is a offense heavy draft, especially in the first round  , and there are 3 defensive positions where I expect multiple players to come off the board in the opening round . I'd bet on 3 corners .3 or 4 LB'S ,maybe 3 edge guys , and one safety and DT each   . There is one more corner , safety , and 2 D-Lineman I could see sneaking in .That's only 12 defensive guys in the first , with a max of 16 , and it be as few as 11 !  If it's 16 then it's probably people over drafting for need instead of grade, but different teas will have different grades as well. On the offensive side of the ball I expect 5 QB's, 4 or 5 WR'S , one or two TE's, one or 2 RB's to buck a trend , and a LOT of offensive lineman. In fact I expect there will be more O-Lineman drafted in the first than any other position group, even though only one(maybe 2) will come off the board in the top 10. OT's have a lower bust rate because if they don't work outside you can usually make them more effective inside , but many of them will be over drafted this year too .The Senior bowl was even more illuminating than usual this year  . I am still favoring the guys who  played this year over those who sat out ( all or a lot of the season ) whenever it's close , and I am not sure if that will change . With the workout portion of the combine staying cancelled their were be even less information out there than usual about those missing players, and I have never trusted Pro day numbers very much , but this year they will carry more weight to sway draft boards . That means the Senior Bowl might have been our best chance to get precise measurements on a lot of players . Also, remember that just because they are in my first round mock that doesn't mean that I have a first round grade on them . I rarely have 32 players with a first round grade in any draft, and that's with me taking every scheme into account . Most teams are very scheme specific , and may have only 15-18 guys with a first round grade on their individual boards . With the cap reduced there are a lot of players being restructured, taking a salary reduction , or being cut outright . So I wouldn't expect big free agent dollars for many guys this off season. In fact their will probably be a lot of 1 year deals, and veteran free agents as football tries to recover from the massive financial losses due to Covid .  I am not even sure if we will have full stadiums in all NFL markets this year . I live in the Soviet republic of California, and our fascist lefty governor loves destroying businesses and lives so he can make as many people as possible dependent on the Government . So I might not even get to checkout that new stadium in California yet. In 2022 I expect the TV money will roll in along with fuller stadiums, and things will get back to a more normal way of life. So if your team has a lot of cap space they can potentially make large gains in 2021 , but I don't know how sustainable they are. Please remember that this is how I think teams will draft, and not necessarily my personal rankings . I have also added player comparisons so you can get an idea of who your team might be getting . The higher they are ranked the more likely they are to reach that comp, and it's only for on the field . I will change them if I think of a better one too. Feel free to comment. Agreeing or disagreeing is welcome, but please do it respectfully and intelligently or I just won't post it . So here it is. Enjoy .

# Is for a player for with reported character or maturity concerns .

** Is for a player with reported injury concerns .

1.JACKSONVILLE - TREVOR LAWRENCE - QB - CLEMSON

NFL PLAYER COMP - CARSON PALMER - retired

The Jets blew it, and now the Jags ended with one of the great QB prospects in history . Trevor is so good that it even brought Urban Meyer out of his 2nd retirement ,although the more I thought about it the less I like the hiring. Meyer seems more like an opportunist to me that is gravy training on a cherry gig, but who knows maybe he will become the 3rd coach to win both a NCAA championship and the Superbowl . The Jags are coming off a good 2020 draft and they lead the league in cap space  . They also already have plenty of young talent at the skill positions , except for TE. They have no key free agents they need to resign either , and when you add 5 of first 65 2021 draft picks this team could have a very quick turnaround .The biggest needs on offense ( after drafting Lawrence ) are left tackle and TE . The Jags obviously disagree with me about left tackle because they slapped the franchise tag on chronic underachiever Cam Robinson, although they could be just covering their asses, or maybe they want to kick him inside to guard .On defense they should just go best player available , except for edge rushers where they are already covered. So lets talk about the foregone conclusion of picking Trevor Lawrence . The best QB grade I have ever had for a college player is still Andrew Luck, but before that it belonged to Carson Palmer . Although I wasn't evaluating players at the time when Elway entered the draft , and I have heard many legendary personnel men say he was the best QB prospect they ever saw  . Palmer was big ( 6"5" , and 235 pounds ) , had a strong arm , and was very mobile and athletic ( 4.62  40 time ) for such a big guy . Although he didn't run much , especially after he tore his ACL . I mention this for two reasons .  One - because a lot of people are saying that Lawrence is the greatest QB prospect to ever come along , and Lawrence is number 2 for me behind Luck , but ahead of Palmer . The other is because Lawrence reminds me of a better version of Palmer . Palmer had an up and down college career until his Heisman trophy winning 2002 season , and Lawrence has been great from the start .The game has changed , and Lawrence is more likely to run a lot more than Palmer ever did . Plus Palmer's frame was a lot more filled out with muscle , but that's who he reminds me of , although Luck and Palmer played in more Pro friendly offenses in college. Some may want to point out that Luck only had an average arm . Arm strength isn't as important to me because if it's good enough, and you can throw people open quickly you can still make all the throws . The two greatest QB's of ALL - TIME in my book are Brady and Montana, and they only had average arms . Peyton Mannings was even a little below average , but all three of them made quick reads and got the ball away fast , and that alleviates some of the arm strength question . Lawrence has the big arm to make all the throws in the NFL, Solid accuracy, was productive behind a subpar O-line ,and has a lot of big game experience & leadership traits . So Lawrence is my all time number two QB prospect behind  Luck . Only a fool would pass on him, and the only way I would trade this pick is for Patrick Mahomes, and that would NEVER happen .So a slam dunk for the Jags .

 
2.NY JETS - ZACH WILSON  - QB - BYU

NFL PLAYER COMP - BRETT FAVRE - retired

Darnold can't stay healthy , and he still turns the ball over too much , so they should just ship him out of town like Gase . Maybe he might even turn it all around for a new team. He's still very young, and hasn't had much to work with in his time with New York .If they aren't going to take a QB they should trade down because I believe The Panthers would give them a kings ransom for this pick, and they would only have to drop to #8 while getting even more picks . They don't have as much potential quality in their picks as the Jags do , but they do have 5 of the top 87 already , and they are 2nd only to the Jags in cap space .  Plus they have a ton of needs on defense, need to improve their interior O-Line , and add some more weapons on offense . In the end I think they trade Darnold  & draft Zach Wilson , or make the huge trade with the Texans for Deshaun Watson . I'm thinking a relatively new GM like Joe Douglas won't want to trade enough of his draft pick bounty to pry away Watson . Plus they could get at least a 3rd for Darnold, or maybe a 2 and a conditional pick thrown in . So more picks to build around their new QB .Now I have to say after doing all his tape I surprisingly FREAKING LOVE ZACH WILSON ! Before the 2020 season I broke down one of his 2019 games ( against Utah because I liked their defense ) , and I wasn't real impressed . I usually only watch one if there isn't a lot of buzz on the guy , and then see if they deserve a deeper look .What I didn't know was that he had both shoulder and hand injuries at the time . That's entirely my fault because when I break down film on a player , as opposed to just watching it like the fan I also am, l do it without the sound to avoid being distracted or influenced by the commentary . They probably mentioned it on the broadcast and I never knew . This year my initial take when buzz started going around about him was his poor level of competition might be inflating the chatter . That's not his fault, and they actually had a tougher schedule lined up before Covid hit, but with so many teams cancelling their season they had to take what they could get . Wasn't a great schedule ,and they did lose the first game of his I broke down in 2020 at Coastal Carolina , who was #18 at the time .  He definitely looked more mobile , had great pocket awareness , and showed a stronger arm . Still didn't see him as a first rounder , but then I watched San Diego ST and especially the UCF game . UCF had one of the best secondary's in all of college football this year , and he was special in that game . I then went after all of his tape, and found out about the 2019 injuries . I remembered that he had a good true freshman year as a starter for 7 games in 2018 . So I watched his first start against Hawaii , and his last 2 games of that year .  Against Utah in 2018 I already saw significant progress happening , and flashes of brilliance .In the the Bowl Game  against Western Michigan who was a step down from Utah  . Wilson was a perfect  8 for 18 with 4 TD'S and 317 yards passing despite some decent pass rush pressure in that game . That's when you really started to see the guy he became this year . in 2020 he had a Tony Romo like 6th sense in the pocket, a really strong arm coming at you from a bunch of weird angles, and a point guard like distribution of accurate NFL throws all over the field . It's very Favre-ish in both the good & bad ways . He can make throws few can with a flick of the wrist, but that big arm & gunslinger mentality can come with a lot of growing pains . As Great as Favre was there is a reason why he is still the ALL-TIME NFL leader in interceptions 10 years after he retired by a whopping 59 over the next guy . Wilson's reads are pretty quick too, he can throw guys open , does pretty well against pressure, and has no off the field concerns that I have heard about . His only Negatives are, level of competition this year, lacks an ideal frame to add weight  , the occasional arrogantly forced ball, and he's almost a ginger😂 .  Only Luck, Lawrence and Burrow had higher QB grades for me in the last decade  . He's now my clear cut #2 QB and the 4th highest graded player on my whole board . If I had the number 2 pick I would run to the podium when it was my turn . 

3.MIAMI-(texans)-  PENEI SEWELL - OT - OREGON

NFL PLAYER COMP - TRENT WILLIAMS - 49ers

Miami is one of the teams that may possibly trade down, and that's if they don't decide to swing a megadeal for Deshaun Watson .  I don't think they should for a couple of reasons . First , while this team is on the rise coming off a 10-6 season that was with a last place schedule, and they still need some more good players before they can be considered true Superbowl contenders. They currently have the picks and cap space to make those moves right now , but a lot of that would be gone if they acquired Watson . Second - I still believe in Tua. Expecting a rookie to come in with those below average weapons and a patchwork O-Line was unrealistic. He needed at least one of the two to do a better job . Now if they give him improved blocking , and some weapons that can separate better then he should be expected to make some good progress . The Fins drafted 3 O-Lineman last year and all 3 had some starts . only 2nd rounder Robert Hunt lived up to his draft slot , and that was playing right tackle  .  Hunt would be a better fit inside at guard . You draft Sewell and throw him in at LT, move 2020 21rst rounder Austin Jackson to RT , and kick Hunt into guard and you have now improved 3 positions on the O-line . If they stay at #3 I believe that they should ( and will) take Penei Sewell with the pick . This guy is a true dancing bear . There are very few people on planet earth of this size that move so well . He was kicking ass as a starting true freshman LT at Oregon right out of the gate, and that shows not just talent ,but work ethic & football IQ . Smart with good strength and hand placement .Sewell is not technically refined yet from a NFL perspective, but he can do things most NFL starting OT's can't, and that's saying a lot . He has all the talent in the world, although I would like to see more of a mean streak . The fins could also trade back with Carolina , add to their  already impressive array of draft picks ,and get a offensive weapon . At least 2 and maybe 3 among Ja'maar Chase, Devonta Smith, Jaylan Waddle, or Kyle Pitts will likely be available at #8 . They already have two 1rst, two 2nds, and a 3rd without trading down . At this moment I'm thinking they go with Sewell if he is there at #3 .

4.ATLANTA - JUSTIN FIELDS - QB - OHIO ST.

NFL PLAYER COMP - DESHAUN WATSON - TEXANS

I no longer think they can trade Matt Ryan because it would kill their cap, and the cap went down after Covid , although the Falcons could split the almost 50 million cap hit over 2 years with a post June 1rst trade . I do believe they should take a QB here either way ,  if there is one they like , have him back up Ryan this season before trading Matty next year , ala Brees /Rivers back in the day .The Falcons have serious cap problems ,and need all their picks so I doubt they are one of the teams that might to trade up for #2  . It wouldn't shock me if they traded down to get more picks , and if they aren't taking a QB that might be their best play . Fields has taken a lot of criticism because of the failure of other Buckeye QB's in the Pro's and I find it unwarranted after doing all of his tape for 2 years . Yes, I saw Indiana and Northwestern. I have broke down every one of his games in 2019 and 2020 . Needs to speed up his release , because Fields has the slowest reads & release time of the 5 first round QB's , but he is also the most accurate QB in the draft when his mechanics are right . When they are not it can be a problem. Anyone hating on him and comparing him to Haskins has it dead wrong , because Fields is NOT very similar to Dwayne Haskinsi . Despite the fact that Haskins had the strongest arm in his draft class  he rarely threw ( or even looked ) down the field, . He was a check down Charlie , and besides Haskins reportedly failed because he liked the nightlife more than watching film & learning NFL football . Fields is the opposite in that he looks to throw down the field too much, and he is also a far superior athlete and runner to Haskins . He will also need to learn a MUCH wider playbook , and cut back on his urge to run when his first or 2nd read isn't open. His other big flaw is eye discipline, because he is too often staring down his first receiver . So once he learns to mislead safeties he will make a huge jump in effectiveness . Has the arm to make all the NFL throws ,but it is still behind the bigger arms of Lance, Wilson, and Lawrence in order. Don't surmise that I don't like Fields because I moved Wilson ahead of him . I just believe Wilson translates to the Pro game quicker, is better long term, and has a higher upside as a passer . If I was Atlanta, Philly, or Carolina I would take him . Throw Frisco & Denver in there too, but I have trouble thinking he even makes it to Denver , Most years Fields would be the consensus number one overall pick .

5.CINCINNATI - JA'MARR CHASE - WR - LSU

NFL PLAYER COMP - DEANDRE HOPKINS - TEXANS

The Bengal's had a good draft, but injuries to their young O-Line ended Joe Burrows impressive rookie season . Combine that with too many guys getting playing time over established veterans for some reason, and you get a 4-11-1 record.  However, it was still progress over their 2-14 2019 season . Future HOFer AJ GREEN is a free agent , and he had been relegated to #3 WR status last season anyway. Winning at the end of the season cost them Penei Sewell . I don't see another O-Lineman I would be comfortable taking in top 10 , let alone top 5 , but if Sewell falls here I am sure they would take him. So I will go with a receiver . I had Devonta Smith slightly ahead of Chase after he sat out the whole season , although I definitely had Ja'marr way ahead of before opted out, and I would happy with Kyle Pitts too . Then Smith refused to weighed and measured at the Senior Bowl, which makes me think he's even smaller than his listed 6"1" and 175 lbs.   I think if it was a toss up for them that the LSU connection would be the the kicker to make the Bengals take Chase here anyway. Chase dominated SEC corners , and did the same in the playoffs as a red shirt sophomore . Justin Jefferson had a great a rookie year , and I had a first round grade on him , but I liked Chase a lot more before the opt out . Ja'maar is an Alpha . A Physically dominant WR with a my ball mentality ,and a wide catch radius . Smacks aside corners at the line of scrimmage ,and can get open at all levels despite still needing some polish as a route runner . Plays much bigger than he is breaking tackles ,and the will of would be tacklers. Not a burner , but he gets open enough  ,gets behind DB's, separates when the balls in the air, and wins contested catches .  Chase and Burrow have a connection that I see carrying over to NFL, and if you add him to Tyler Boyd & Tee Higgins you have a high end WR core . The Bengals have plenty cap space before free agency, but owner Mike Brown is not known for spending money . This might be the time to spend some and go after a Joe Thuney.  Then take some more of that cash and extend young stud safety Jessie Bates . I think with a healthy O-line & Burrow , Chase , their other draft picks, and whole lot of young talent with  another year under their belt could get them to .500 this year on a last place schedule .

*** TRADE *** The PANTHERS trade their 1rst (#8)  and 2nd(#39)  rounders in this draft and a 3rd rounder in 2022 to the EAGLES for their 1rst rounder (#6)  . *** TRADE ***

6.CAROLINA -(eagles) - TREY LANCE - QB -  N. DAKOTA ST.

NFL PLAYER COMP - STEVE MCNAIR - retired

Teddy Bridgewater has never been the same since his injury . He is still a solid QB, but lacks the upside and durability of a long term franchise QB these days . Matt Rhule is too good of a coach to be picking this high next season, and I think he takes the big athletic QB who fits his system here . Maybe Lance sits a season behind Teddy because his 2020 season was cancelled after only 1 game this year, and it wasn't a good showing as a passer . Plus he needs work on throwing guys open , and needs to sharpen his accuracy some too .His 2019 tape was excellent though . That year Lance threw 28 TD'S ,  WITH NO PICKS , rushed for 1100 yards, and another 14 TD's . His undefeated 2019 team also won a championship, and that is really hard to ignore . He has a cannon for an arm . Only played in one game this year after only 15 starts heading into the season , and it was the worst game he played for the bison's, and I have watched 11 of them. In this years lone game he only completed 50% of his passes in a run heavy play action offense with some very open receivers . Although he did rush for 143 yards & two TD's on only 15 carries , which he means had 4 total TD's that day , but he also threw his first pick .Also on the bright side his season was cancelled instead of just opting out ,and I have no reason to think he had any say in it . His mechanics are just OK, with a lower than ideal throwing motion & longer release that could lead to forced fumbles & tipped balls . I see him as having a high floor anyway . Trey has the Biggest arm in the draft and is built like a linebacker . Really dangerous runner and is used to playing under center already. As a passer they run a very basic paint by the numbers Pro style offense ,with a lot of the same route combinations over and over  . He executes that offense very safely, but I wish he would take more chances down the field , as he mostly throws deep on designed play action passes . His running ability gives him a high floor as a rookie if you tailor the offense to his strengths . However, unlike Wentz , Prescott, and Newton as rookies he doesn't just read half the field . That alone should give him a leg up on all 3 early if he goes to a good team . If he is a full season starter as a rookie he could be a fantasy football stud , especially if he went to the 49ers . Only trading up to #6 keeps the Panthers from mortgaging their future too , Carolina has a lot of cap space as well, and they should use that money to improve their O-line right now .

7.DETROIT  - DEVONTA SMITH - WR - ALABAMA

NFL PLAYER COMP - a slimmer CALVIN RIDLEY - FALCONS

Matt Patricia was obviously a failure as a head coach. While trying to recreate the Patriots he didn't learn Belichick's most important lesson . That being to adjust your system to the personnel you have when you don't have the right guys to run your ideal system . I'm a huge Jeffrey Okudah fan, but even Stephen Gilmore didn't play at his peak level for a few years in the league .  You don't take a rookie CB, no matter how highly rated & drafted he was, and then expect him to play single man coverage outside against Adam Theilen, Allen Robinson , and especially Davante Adams . Patricia wanted to play man , and didn't care if he had the personnel for it, plus Okudah was playing injured .    Belichick will have a completely different game plan with different personnel and sub packages one week to the next , and Patricia wasn't wily enough to figure that out  . Then he drove away Matthew Stafford, and left Dan Campbell with a big mess to fix .  Wide receivers Kenny Golliday , Marvin Jones, Danny Amendola , and Mohammed Sanu are all free agents this off season. While I think they find a way to bring back Golliday (they didn't franchise tag him)  the others are big question marks . Plus the Lions don't have a lot of cap space, although the 2 future first rounders they got to take on Goff's contract should help the rebuild . Since Campbell got a 6 year contract , and a serviceable veteran QB to start now ,he has time to build the roster . That means he can go best player available, and avoid forcing a QB pick this year , and if one falls here they can trade back and get even more picks to speed up the rebuild  .Smith is kind of like a skinnier Calvin Ridley, and he can play all 3 WR spots well. A elite route runner who separates at will, sets up DB's with his intelligence,  and has great hands . He lacks size , but he's almost always open early thanks to a a lot of different releases, and is home run threat on the deep ball . Probably needs to add about 10 more pounds of muscle , because although he doesn't struggle to get off the line in college he will face better press corners in the NFL . Even though he is not a high level burner , he is slippyier than a greased eel .Smith even returned some kicks this year , and took one to the house . He was absolutely the best player in college football this season , and I was surprised & happy that he got the Heisman . One more worry is if he doesn't measure at LEAST 6 ft. 170 , and it's possible after he refused to be weighed & measured at the Senior Bowl. His pro day measurements might be more important than his 40 and drills .Could go behind his Alabama teammate Waddle if that happens , but I would take this guy in the top 10 , and be happy about it.  Smith has a high floor and football IQ . He's just a really good football IQ, and " The Slim Reaper " is the coolest & most fitting nickname I can remember .

8.PHILLADELPHIA-(panthers)-MICAH PARSONS - LB - PENN ST.

NFL PLAYER COMP -  BOBBY WAGNER - SEAHAWKS

Even after resigning Jason Kelce and restructuring Darius Slay the Eagles still have cap troubles. So trading back so they can get more picks and cheaper players makes a a ton of sense unless they are taking a QB .  I don't see them taking a QB here unless the owner is going to give Roseman a new 3 year window because right now Howie has to justify using a 2nd rounder on Hurts last season  . Barring that magnanimous gesture trading back is the move here . I expect they take Kyle Pitts or Parsons. Pitts because they are trading Ertz ,and they like to run a lot of 2 TE sets .Micah is another player who sat out the season , and in his case it really scares me from taking him in the top 10 because he so raw at off the ball LB . Also a part of me thinks he would be better off as an edge rusher, but the former RB already switched positions to LB 2 years ago . He has elite size , speed , and power for a LB , but currently lacks the football IQ and instincts to be the QB of a defense . Parsons & Greg Rousseau are the 2 top consensus guys heading into the season who were new to a position, but opted out anyway , and I think both of them hurt their stock because of it . After he blows up his PRO DAY I expect Parsons goes top 10 anyway , and the Eagles need help at LB . His upside is of the charts, but keep an ear to the ground for character concerns . An offensive lineman would help a lot too , because they were slaughtered by injuries up front last season , and they have a lot of age up front . However, my next O-Lineman is Slater , and I don't see him in the top 10 . If they trade back any farther he might be a good idea though . I don't see a offensive playmaker here like Pitts , although many others do . The reason for that is because I don't think that was the problem last year . 1 -The line was beat up, and the starters missed a ton of games too  2- The top 3 WR on the depth chart heading into the season (Jackson,Jeffery, and Reagor ) missed a combined 25 games , and all of them missed at least 3 apiece  . 3 - Wentz lost his confidence, and Hurts isn't a polished passer . 4 - The defense couldn't stop anybody which put more pressure on the QB's . 5 - Ertz and Goedert missed 5 games each too . 6 - Covid caused the leagues rookie classes to get a slower start than imagined . 7- Apparently the relationship between Wentz and Doug Pederson got so bad that they weren't even talking for much of the season . Howey Roseman is on thin ice so he would be wise to get some more picks ,and show he hit on some very early . Reagor , Hurts ,  Wallace , Driscoll, and maybe even Tega Wanogho from the 2020 draft should all have increased roles this year as well .

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9.DENVER -  CALEB FARLEY - CB - VA TECH

NFL PLAYER COMP - JIMMY SMITH - RAVENS

The Broncos are one of the teams trying to get in on Deshaun Watson , and as disappointing as Drew Lock was to us all last season I can see why . BUT unless they are getting Watson , or a QB they love just falls in their lap just falls in their lap at #9 I expect this pick to be made somewhere on defense. Possibly on the )-line  on the O-Line , but I think corner is the likely choice if they stay at #9 , because I think Denver or Dallas will be the first team to pick a corner if they stay in place . The Broncs go first , and the once vaunted Denver secondary has holes at corner . Farley is the most talented corner in this draft , and even though he sat out the season I think he goes ahead of more polished 2nd generation players like Surtain , Horn , and Samuels . His tools , traits , and upside are huge . You just see don't many CB's this big that move so well . Farley was probably always the best athlete on his team growing up , because guys like that tend to become QB's in a lot of high schools even if they aren't the best passer , because you tend to want the ball in the hands of your best athlete as much as possible at that level. He is raw as a corner , and his initial transition in college was to WR . His 2019 tape at corner was great, but that's all we have to go on to decide if he is a top 10 pick in this draft . He's almost always in off coverage, and while he definitely has the size & strength to press you rarely saw it on tape . Caleb has a great burst to the ball , and good makeup speed as well . I expect he will shine on his Pro day, and that his upside will make him the first corner drafted.  Farley fits the Broncos system to a tee, and unless they take a QB or trade back I expect them to take him.

*** TRADE *** The DOLPHINS trade their 1rst (#18)  and 2nd(#50)  rounders in this draft to the COWBOYS for their 1rst rounder (#10)  . *** TRADE ***

10.MIAMI-(dallas)-JAYLEN WADDLE - WR - ALABAMA

NFL PLAYER COMP- a faster TYLER LOCKETT -SEAHAWKS

Now the Dolphins start collecting weapons for Tua, and it's a former teammate , if not the one most people expected . Waddle is a burner who explodes out of his breaks, runs away from defenders with the ball in his hands, and teams will have to game plan for his game breaking speed whenever he's lined up . He makes plays all over the field,  is a weapon as a receiver, runner, and even as a returner . A good route runner with a wider catch radius than I expected for his size. Waddle plays bigger than he is with his compact build as blocker and runner. He will pull safeties and open up the rest of the field for the offense . He had a broken ankle this year, but came back for the national championship game when other guys were sitting out that whole season. Even though he obviously wasn't 100% he still made a key catch in the game .HIs hands are just OK , and he's not he biggest guy , but I believe in him .

*** TRADE *** The JAGUARS trade the 1rst (#25)  they got from the RAMS and the 2nd (#45)  rounder they have from the VIKINGS  and a 3rd rounder next year to the GIANTS for their 1rst rounder (#11)  . *** TRADE ***

11.JACKSONVILLE-(giants) - KYLE PITTS - TE - FLORIDA

NFL PLAYER COMP - DARREN WALLER - RAIDERS

I expect Urban Meyer to want to win now. That means spending a lot of that cap pace in free agency ,and trading up to get another special player in Pitts . Pitts is just a weapon on offense, and he's only 20 year sold right now so you can expect him to get even better . A mismatch as either a WR or TE . He's not a great blocker, but at least he tries to block, and has the frame to add more muscle once his man strength comes in . He's too fast for most LB's, and too big for most DB . You don't see many TE's explode out of their brakes and separate like Pitts . Add this guy to Chark & Shenault ,and Trevor Lawrence should hit the ground running . 

12.SAN FRANCISCO - MAC JONES - QB - ALABAMA

NFL PLAYER COMP -  MATT HASSELBECK - retired

Jimmy G has missed 23games in the last 3 years ,  he's just solid at his best, and he comes with a 25 million dollar salary . I know that the 49ers have some key free agents that they can't resign while paying Jimmy that kind of money, and only a fool would extend his injury prone inconsistent ass .  For me I would literally prefer Jones over Garoppolo even if they had the same salary, because I believe he will be  more consistent once he learns the offense.  The niners aren't in cap trouble , but they just have too many free agents to resign, and not  enough room to fit them all . Dallas had the same dilemma last year and let Byron Jones leave, and it really hurt their defense . Richard Sherman, Jason Verrett , Ahkelllo Witherspoon ,K'waun Williams, Jaquiski Tartt, Dontae Jhonson , and Jamar Taylor are all free agents in the frisco secondary . Sadly that isn't even their biggest free agent worry . That would  be Trent Williams , and lets not forget about key cogs named Kyle Jusczcyk & Kendrick Bourne . You draft Jones and get rid of Garoppolo you can keep most of those key guys .  That's why even though frisco is in the same boat as Dallas when it comes to the secondary in free agency I don't have the 49ers taking a corner . San Francisco  has more cap space, and a easily replaceable QB. Dallas has none of those . Right now Jones is a more PRO ready QB than the 4 who will be drafted ahead of him this year, but he also the lowest tools, upside, and he needs a lot around him to win early . Jones is accurate ,makes lightning quick reads, and knows how to mislead safeties.  The 49ers have a offense that is loaded at all the other skill positions like Alabama , and Jones gets rid of the ball so quickly that his average ram isn't much of factor that most of the time. They just need a QB and some interior O-Lineman . This scheme should translate well to Jones , and Shanahan's are good at putting a hard working QB into a good position to be productive quickly. They could also trade back , or take a corner or interior O-Lineman, but this makes the most sense to me. Don't let last season confuse you . This team is a Superbowl contender who was just killed by injuries . Even with a rookie in Jones they could be in the Superbowl again right away .

13.LA CHARGERS - CHRISTIAN DARRISAW - OT - VA. TECH

NFL PLAYER COMP - RONNIE STANLEY - RAVENS

The Chargers O-Line has been a wreck for years, and the fact that Herbert played so well last year behind it is pretty impressive , especially when you consider how often he threw down the field compared to what he did at Oregon. They should spend most of their cap space ,and at least 2 of their top 3 picks up front . They have the cap room to bring in 2 veterans starters . Darrisaw excelled in a predominantly zone run scheme,  and was a good pass blocker too .Teams in the top 20 like the 49ers and bears would be better fits , especially if the 49ers lose Trent Williams . I can't tell if he's just so smooth that it looks easy, if he's lazy, has  the occasional gas tank problem, or if he just underestimates his opponents .  Probably some of each, but he needs to fire his hands quicker to protect his chest .The results are good overall, but I wish he was meaner and tried to finish more often. He was a good run blocker this year ,and usually those guys are killers so it's even more mystifying to me that he doesn't finish as many blocks as he could .The Bolts run more Inside zone and man/gap, but I would still take him here . Darrisaw is my number 2 OT, because I see Slater as a better fit inside personally . He probably doesn't have the massive arm length of Ronnie Stanley, but the tape is almost boring just like the Ravens Pro bowl tackle when he entered the draft . I'm sure Herbert would love to have a boring rush from his blindside . 

14.MINNESOTA -  RASHAWN SLATER - OL - NORTHWESTERN

NFL PLAYER COMP - LOGAN MANKINS - retired

Despite a lot of veteran cuts last year the Vikings are still 25th in the league in cap space . So if there is a QB available here that a team below them likes they might be willing to trade down and get more picks. If Rashawn Slater was still here than he would be the pick , but with him gone I will just give them my next interior O-lineman. Left guard Dakota Dozier was really bad last year and Slater is the #1 interior O-Lineman on my board . No one did a better job against Chase Young one on one in 2019, but I have read in 2 different places from people in the know that he has sub 33 inch arms. So I expect him to play center or guard in the NFL, but his Pro day number came in on March 9th and they claim he had 33 exactly. Not sure who to believe now, and all the rest of his testing numbers were top notch and back up his excellent tape. . That doesn't mean that he couldn't hold up outside, but i do think he would be a better fit on the interior .  His tape is better than Sewell's, but he lacks the same athletic upside. He has played both OT spots in college, and his technique has improved every year . He can stay smoothly engaged while on the move better than most NFL guys already , and is adept at riding players past the pocket .Has a mean streak , goes hunting ,and will find somebody to block even when he's uncovered. Needs to keep his hands up with more regularity, but he is a natural knee bender with a good punch  . He tends go get too high when going to the 2nd level, but he doesn't stop until he blocks someone . Every time I saw him get beat was to the inside, so I believe the move to guard will make him a day one impactful starter . He is my number one interior O-Lineman after I discovered Landon Dickerson injury history , and I see Pro Bowls in his future there .

15.NEW ENGLAND - ZAVEN COLLINS - LB/EDGE - TULSA 

NFL PLAYER COMP - DONT'A HIGHTOWER  - PATRIOTS

It's the Patriots so they could do anything . "IF" Mac Jones falls here I believe they would take him , but you never know with Belichick . They resigned Newton, buy with only 5 million guaranteed for one year they are obviously not committed to him long term .Plus they are more prone to trading back than any team in the league .I'm going to give them Collins because he fits their size wishes, and because of his versatility . I think Collins would fit best as a 3-4 OLB rushing the passer more regularly , but you also seeing him playing great as an off the ball LB .  Collins can cover, fill against the run, and blitz as a LB . His tape was a happy surprise . He can do it all, but his level of competition wasn't ideal at Tulsa . He's got big throwback LB size, but the movement skills that you need in today's sub package game . His only weakness is his technique as a tackler, and that's part of the reason I would rather set him loose to rush the passer . He reminds me of a current Patriot ,and that seals the deal for me , although I may be higher on him than most .

16.ARIZONA  - PATRICK SURTAIN THE 2ND - CB - ALABAMA

NFL PLAYER COMP - MARLON HUMPHREY - RAVENS

This son of a retired PRO BOWL corner looks to be living up to his dad's legacy . He is extremely polished as you would expect  . He has good size for the position , is scheme diverse and can go up and contest the catch .  Despite all that he lacks top end speed , fluidity, and quickness on tape .  He has a extremely high floor ,and I expect him to be at least a solid starting corner, although he doesn't have the same mega upside as Farley, or even Horn . He plays at a high level outside or in the slot . Has a very high football IQ, recognizes route combinations, and is a technical clinic as a corner . The rare true freshman starter at the biggest NFL producing college, and played for  Saban , who is for developing NFL DB's .Plays a ton of press and zone, but I think his best fit would be in a cover 3 heavy scheme like Frisco , Las Vegas, Dallas, Or Seattle. 

17.LAS VEGAS - JEREMIAH OWUSA-KORAMOA - LB/S - N. DAME

NFL PLAYER COMP - DERWIN JAMES - CHARGERS

The Raiders defense was terrible last year . They have been restructuring , cutting and trading guys to get under the cap. Some of those trades were once big time O-Line starters so they could go that way with the pick. A lot of the defensive problems were due to a lack of a pass rush, and lack of coverage talent, but their big free agent signing of LB Cory Littleton didn't work out either. They have a smart tough guy in Kwiatkowski , but they need speed and reliability . They also need help at safety after former 1rst rounder John Abram was terrible last year , and slot corner/safety Lamarcus Joiner was let go. Jeremiah is lightning fast , makes plays sideline to sideline against the run & pass, and can cover the slot like a 2nd round DB . I think he is a better fit at safety as he is not a guy who will take on, stack & shed blocks . Although he will run right by blockers ,or through a shoulder of a blocker & can be a blitzing weapon too. New DC Gus Bradley would love this kind of speedy chess piece, and he also brings value as a pass rusher  . This is the kind of rare guy that can guard a high end move TE, and make plays all over the field. Only weaknesses I see for him is if he goes to a unimaginative DC, or that he sometimes comes in too hot and overrun plays . 

18.DALLAS-(miami)- JAYCEE HORN - CB - S. CAROLINA

NFL PLAYER COMP - AQIB TALIB - retired

Dallas is still in cap trouble after over paying Dak, and I don't see it creating enough cap space to make a splash in free agency. They have a lot of needs , and their once vaunted O-Line is getting older and injury prone. First  enter Travis Frederick retired . Tyron Smith has been missing a few games every year with back & neck injuries, but he missed most of last year and had neck surgery, and your back & neck are often each a retirement injury . RT La'el Collins was the youngest of their good blockers and he missed the whole year with a hip injury, and even stalwart iron man Zack Martin missed games last season. Plus they restructured a lot of those older injured O-Lineman to create cap space, and that bill is going to come due eventually . Add the Dak injury and a bad beat up defense , and you see why I expect them to trade back. Maybe the line is healthy this season, but I wouldn't be surprised if they took one of the many dual tackle/guards available in the 1rst 2 rounds. However, they only have last years 2nd rounder Trevon Diggs( who played well for a rookie) and Anthony Brown signed as possible viable starters at corner . So a corner is clearly their biggest need ,and I expect them to get one of the 3 I have a first round grade on, unless something ridiculous like CeeDee Lamb falling to them happens again . Horn Opted out before the season was over, but played well in 7 games. Blatantly the grabbiest corner I have ever seen who is still likely to go in the 1rst round  . Alpha who competes on every play . Great fluidity & feet for a big corner . Actually follows the opposing teams WR around the field at times . Technique is just OK, and you will see him pedal high or open his hips too soon more than I expected from a 2nd generation player . Very physical pressing at the line, but too physical after 5 yards, especially when the receiver makes his break on the ball  . He's a willing tackler, but technique is wild and sloppy . I think he fits a cover 3 team well . If Dallas hits in this draft & makes some cheap quality veteran additions in free agency , and is healthy this year their window of contention is still open . You know Jerry Jones is ALL-IN to win another one after what he payed Dak ,and he's too old to rebuild . This trade back gives them 4 day 2 picks . They could get a much needed Nose tackle,  O-Lineman, safety, and maybe even another corner or LB with those picks.

19.WASHINGTON -  RASHOD BATEMAN - WR - MINNESOTA

NFL PLAYER COMP - ALLEN ROBINSON - BEARS

Obviously the Redskins need a QB , and I believe if ANY of the top 5 fell here they would take a shot, but I can't see them trading up for one this year, or at least not very far . Whoever the QB is they need another receiver to pull double coverages off Mclaurin. In fact it's kind of amazing how well Mclaurin has played considering the poor QB play of a variety signal callers  , and the lack of other viable targets around him . Bateman is a different kind of reviver than Mclaurin , as he gets open without the top end speed that Terry has . Rashod has great releases off the ball, can get open early , and is a smart route runner . Good size , physical in every way, and can break tackles after the catch . His tape was better in 2019 when he played more outside  This year he played more slot for some reason, and while he still looked good the film wasn't quite as impressive. Maybe it was the loss of Tyler Johnson to the draft , or the Covid shortened and unorthodox practice time, but he also opted out before the season was over . The only issue with him is drops . He  may not a burner , but he can get open on his own ,and be a starting X or Power slot . Add him to Mclaurin & the blossoming Logan Thomas ,and the new QB will have decent shot at success . 

20.CHICAGO - ALIJAH VERA-VUCKER - G/T - USC

NFL PLAYER COMP - JOEL BITONIO - BROWNS 

Right now the Bears just squeezed under the cap . So I don't see how Chicago can get a better QB after throwing the franchise tag on Allen Robinson without gutting their currently competitive roster . So they probably need to resign Robinson before free agency begins , and trading back to get more picks might be a good idea . Other than QB , offensive tackle is their number one need, but so many of the top OT's in this draft might be a better fit at guard . So I'm going to give them my next highest rated OT . The bears are more of a zone team and that's right up Tuckers alley . I don't think taking Vera-Tucker here would be an overdraft, and at least he can play some left tackle if needed .Alijah Tucker is the # 3 guard and #3 OT on my board.  He played left tackle last year , and did pretty well until they played Oregon, but to be fair Kayvon Thibodeaux is my odds on favorite to go #1 overall next year . Anyway I think Tucker is a better fit at his normal left guard position , but the Bears will probably play him outside. He is the best 2nd level blocker in the draft, and could spring Montgomery and Cohen for some big runs in this offense .

21.INDIANAPOLIS - KWITY PAYE - DE/OLB - MICHIGAN

NFL PLAYER COMP - MELVIN INGRAM - FA

Since the Colts already went and got Wentz as a QB, an Frank Reich helped him almost win a MVP I doubt they take a QB High . Left tackle and edge rusher would seem to be the most obvious needs, but if they have their choice of their top edge rusher versus a their 4th or 5th OT I think they go for the DE . Plus they have the cap space to sign a top FA at either spot . Personally I would rather spend money on Trent Williams, Alejandro Villanueva, or Eric Fisher than any of the edge FA's .Justin Houston and Denico Autry played the most snaps at DE for the Colts last year, and both are free agents . Paye is a twitchy freakish athlete with good size . He is mostly a bull rusher right now, and he needs to expand his pass rush repertoire, but I think after his Pro day he will be the first edge rusher off the board . It's a projection because he is a better athlete than football player right now , but all the edge guys this year have questions . At least I saw progress this season .He is the kind of player that D-Line coaches salivate about in a draft meeting .

22.TENNESSEE - AZEEZ OJULARI - OLB/DE - GEORGIA

NFL PLAYER COMP - SHAQ BARRETT - BUCCANEERS

The Titans need a Right tackle, pass rushers, and a corner . I don't have another corner with a first round grade so I going to give them Ojulari , because I have first round grade on and he fits their base 3-4 scheme .When I got done watching Azeez on March 1rst. I was impressed . He has played well in the SEC against a lot of future NFL OT's the last 2 seasons, but he does most of it with only one move . He fires off the ball and beats blockers with speed and good hand use . I don't see him as a every down 4-3 end unless he gets bigger & stronger, and he already played in a rotation at Georgia. Don't know if he has the frame to put on much more without losing that ability to bend the arc outside . 

23.RAVENS-(jets,seattle)- TEVEN JENKINS - G/T - OKLAHOMA ST.

NFL PLAYER COMP - ZACK MARTIN - COWBOYS

My favorite tape to watch among this years crop of O-Lineman. He's a nasty  powerful finisher. Played OT in college and he might be able to hold up there , but I like him inside where his limited arm length is less likely to hold him back . Has great balance for a guy who is leaning forward so often, but I think that would be alleviated inside . Good on the move pulling and at the 2nd level .He's a mature player who's brawler mentality could inspire other O-Lineman to up their game .  Violent hands and a natural knee bender . Didn't face the best competition, but his tape kicks ass . Mostly a right tackle , but he has a few starts at LT and guard in his past . This guy fits the Ravens power running game hard nosed mentality like a glove , and since they only pass 20-25 times a game he could even be their RT if they trade Orlando Brown JR. Other wise he would start at one of their guard spots .

24.PITTSBURGH - LIAM EICHENBERG - OT - N. DAME

NFL PLAYER COMP - MIKE MCGLINCHEY - 49ers

Both of the Steelers starting OT's will be free agents this off season, but not only do I expect that they will bring at least one of them back, they also have history of getting O-lineman later in the draft and developing them well . They don't have a lot of cap space to bring in much either .Edge rushers in the first round are more the Steelers style than over drafting a O-lineman , and I doubt they have the cap space to bring back Bud Dupree this off season . However, the 2 edge guys that I have 1rst round grade that fit their scheme just went at 21 and 22 . Also , the Steelers have over drafted very recently at positions of need an OT'S have a low bust rate because they can usually kick inside if they fail on the edge . Liam remind spme of a former N. dame OT who is now the starting RT for the niners. He is tall an doesn't bend well, but surprisingly is better at run blocking than he is the passing game anyway .  He has good pass sets but can get bull rushed because of playing so high . Throws his hands well, and resets when they are swept away, but too often they do get smacked away . If he through them tighter inside he might have less trouble with people getting inti his chest . He isn't a top athlete, but is still effective for the most part . He has improved every year , and has played both tackle spots. I have a 2nd round grade on him, but he has a high floor if you put him at RT in a run heavy scheme . The Steelers are reportedly planning to go back to running the ball more so I see him as a good fit for them.

25.NY GIANTS-(jax,rams)- GREGORY ROUSSEAU - DE/DT - MIAMI

NFL PLAYER COMP - DAVID IRVING - RAIDERS

The Giants are 21rst in the league in cap space, and that's before they pay Leonard Williams . They need more picks to keep building their roster .Giants have needed edge help for a long time , and this could be their chance to get it . This guy is like Parsons , a extremely physically gifted player who opted out anyway  ,despite  being as raw as a plate of sushi , He is also built like Julius Peppers who was a former college power forward before sticking with football, but doesn't look to be the same type athlete . Unless he can show me some tape from an alternate universe where played well outside against good competition i have trouble projecting him there . He has the frame to carry a lot more weight and play primarily inside against slow footed interior players, and since that's the only place I have seen him consistently win that's where I am going to project and comp him .  This guy has an elite frame and enough upside to entice someone to take him in the 1rst round . He was a WR and safety in high school who outgrew the positions, and he has only year of tape as a D-Lineman in 2019 as a redshirt freshman . Then he opted out . I would have him get up to 280 or 290 and make him a 3 technique, but I think teams will want him on the edge, and kick him inside in passing situations . He has long arms and some bend so it very well could work, but he could have been a top10 pick if he had played well off the edge this year .

26.CLEVELAND - CHRISTIAN BARMORE - DT - ALABAMA

NFL PLAYER COMP - GERALD MCCOY - FA

The Browns finally broke through this season . All those draft picks have made them a contender who won a playoff game , and it was even sweeter beating  the division rival Steelers .. Now it's time to see  if they can get to the Superbowl .  They have some cap space, but might be saving it for a new deal for Baker . I expect this to be a DT, DE,WR, or CB. Since I don't have another CB or WR with a first round grade I am leaving them out for now. The DE's left all make me wary . They do have a chance to take my top DT though. Larry Ogunjobi hasn't progressed and is now a free agent, but Barmore lined up next to Myles Garrett could scare some offensive coordinators. They are both great talents, and you could also run twists and stunts them . Barmore is a big, strong, athletic, flexible  interior D-lineman who can play all of the inside spots in a odd or even front except for 2 gapping NT . Unlike many recent Alabama DT's & 5 techs he doesn't 2 gap at a high level inside , but he's better at it outside at the 5 technique, although he could play some shaded nose. Barmore can shed blockers quickly one on one in both the run & pass games . Surprised by how few starts a guy this talented has, and that does give me pause .He gets off the ball well and changes the line of scrimmage quickly when he makes initial contact . Dominated the playoff game and National Championship Game this year, but it also worries me that he didn't that every week . Is he the type guy who only shows up and plays his hardest when he's about to get paid ?The only interior D-Lineman I have a first round grade on, and should be the first one off the board, maybe in the top 20 picks .Maybe playing with a stud like Garrett will inspire him to be more consistent . 

27.NY JETS- (ravens)-  TRAVIS ETIENNE - RB - CLEMSON

NFL PLAYER COMP - JAAMAL CHARLES - retired

The Jets need more weapons , and I know many think a WR should be the pick here, but Ettienne is a game breaker , and there are plenty of WR's in the 2nd & 3rd rounds. After the disappointment of the shell of Leveon Bell masquerading for Jets fans they deserve a real high end RB . He would take pressure off the young QB, is definitely worth a first rounder, is a threat to take it to house on every play, and is someone you have to game plan against . First, I can't believe he went back to school this year, but he improved, and didn't opt out like so many others .Etienne is a one cut straight ahead back that hits the hole with speed , strong leg drive, runs low, and has great contact balance. The Jets new coach came out of a one cut system in Frisco, and I expect them to follow suit in New York . He's running so fast that he breaks tackles, and he also really improved as a weapon in the receiving game this season . Etienne has a nice spin move ,and is so explosive that he runs to daylight when defenders think they have an angle on him  . Ran a 4.4 at his pro Day, but he looks faster in pads with an elite burst. Doesn't make big cuts, but generally subtly changes direction at full speed to create failed arm tackles , and did it behind a poor O-Line this season. He also has a LOT less carries than any 3 year starting 1rst round RB I can remember . Could use some more patience as a runner and blocker, and more consistency in pass pro but he's willing to stick his face in the mix . He is a safe pick in a draft with a lot of questions .

28.NEW ORLEANS- TREVON MOEHRIG - S - TCU

NFL PLAYER COMP - HARRISON SMITH - VIKINGS

Starting FS Marcus Williams was somehow given the franchise tag after a Herculean effort to get under the salary cap , but Malcolm Jenkins seems to be more about politics than playing good football these days .So the cash strapped Saints need an upgrade in the box . Moehrig isn't just the best safety in this draft, but also someone with a first round grade who has fallen all the way to  pick # 28 in this mock . In a draft with very few sure things he is a steal here .He's a complete player that could play in any scheme with the size to even play some LB. He's a big hitter, but can cover the slot receiver . Is a force against both the run and pass , and plays well high or low, but is better closer to the line of scrimmage . He's a ballhawk too .

29.GREEN BAY - NICK BOLTON - LB - MISSOURI

NFL PLAYER COMP - SEAN LEE - COWBOYS

The pack struggled to get under the cap and they could be a team that is willing to trade out of the 1rst round, even though it would cost them that 5th year of control . I see a Offensive lineman, defensive lineman, WR ,CB, or LB here . Since a reader pointed out to me that they don't like to take WR's in the first, and I looked it up it's true . The last one was Javon Walker in 2002  so I ruled that out . I guess they could take Alex Leatherwood or Alim McNeil along the lines, but I don't have a first on either . Same with my next corner so I am going with LB . For some reason they let Blake Martinez leave after one injury riddled season, and then over payed for injury prone Christian Kirksey . Well they cut him after that disaster, and they now need a QB of the defense . Someone who can set the tone, and is smart enough to get everyone lined up right . Bolton was a massively productive LB in the SEC in back to back years .Only an average athlete with average size for the position, but he brings it on every play . High level football IQ and instincts make him play way faster than his timed speed . Hits like a truck, and makes plays against the run and pass from sideline to sideline . Starting zone middle LB with a solid 1rst round grade . Wouldn't want him covering shifty backs or TE's deep down the field , but in the packs defense he could clean up a lot of mistakes . Old school mano a mano MIKE backer . 

30.BUFFALO -CARLOS BASHAM JR- DE/DT -WAKE FOREST

NFL PLAYER COMP - CAMERON JORDAN - SAINTS

I expect the Bills to go O-line, Edge rusher, or corner here. Since they have a lot of free agent O-Lineman I really wanted to go there, but they have already resigned 3 of them. So I went with a edge rusher for a couple of reasons. Trent Murphy is a free agent and is past his prime .Jerry Hughes could be a 32 year old cap casualty, because they can save over 7 million by cutting him, and he doesn't do much against run.  Basham is a big physical strongside end with a mighty bull rush , but also a decent spin move, although the bull rush should be his primary move going forward. If he takes to coaching he could easily be the most reliable of this 2021 bunch of edge prospects, but I doubt he is the first edge guy taken because the league is going more towards smaller quicker edge players . He looks more like a 5 technique, and he can play some there too, but I like him as a 4-3 end, who can kick inside to the 3 on in some passing situations. He is far quicker off the snap than most guys his size, and he has very high floor, which is rare in 2021 . I also have first round grade on him .

31.KANSAS CITY - ALEX LEATHERWOOD - T/G- ALABAMA

NFL PLAYER COMP - VERNON CAREY - retired

Obviously most people are going to think Offensive tackle here after watching a harried Mahomes hobble around in the big game . I agree that its a decent idea , but I will also make the argument why it's not necessary in the first round  .  The Chiefs were missing their 3 best blockers in the Superbowl , and all 3 could be back next season . Both starting Pro Bowl OT's got knocked out for the year before the playoffs, and both should be healthy for 2021, although their best blocker Schwartz is a question because it's a back injury  . Starting guard Laurent Duvernay Tardiff opted out before the season, and spent the year ( ( former pre-med  and future doctor ) nobly helping out in hospitals as a orderly . 2020 3rd round Pick OT Lucas Niang also opted out before the season . KC also had the almost worst case scenario starting at tackle in the Superbowl . Guard Andrew Wylie who had missed the Chiefs other post season games actually started out of position at RT . Last but definitely not least we come to Superbowl blindside starter Mike Remmers . Even people who aren't regular fans, and only watch the Superbowl might have recognized the name . The reason is that Remmers was the primary victim of one of the greatest defensive performances in post season history in Superbowl 50 by Von Miller in 2016 . Remmers was then the starting right tackle for the Panthers and proceeded to look like a turnstile as Miller kept working him all day long . One more tidbit is that Offensive tackle is very deep in this draft , and as many as 10-13 of them could come off the board on day two. Half them might be better at Guard or can at least play their well if the Chiefs regular starters return to form in 2021 . The Chiefs run a lot of 3 safety big nickle looks, and Daniel Sorenson is a free agent who played terrible last season, but I think they can find that guy later . I was also considering going with an edge rusher, because non of the KC edge guys did much last year , and that includes the highly paid Frank Clark . However, after all that consideration  they cut both injured OT's so I am going with a O-Lineman . Leatherwood has the length & feet to be an NFL left tackle, but he has inconsistent pass sets sometimes . Oversetting , feet too wide ,and bad hand placement are the most common culprits . Plus every once in a while it looks like he gives up if beat off the snap. Very frustrating guy , and he is just an OK athlete that might be a better fit inside . Sometimes he looks perfect with a great lockout and you think franchise left tackle too .He has experience at both left tackle and right guard in the SEC so he's been playing against a lot of NFL guys. He is a people mover in the run game, with serious strength , but he also falls of blocks too much . I moved him back some after the Senior Bowl, but beggars can't be choosers, and he's the next OT on my list. Worst case scenario I see him as a good starting guard, but if he gets his act together he's a left tackle .

32.TAMPA BAY - NAJEE HARRIS - RB - ALABAMA

NFL PLAYER COMP - ARIAN FOSTER - retired

Congrats to the BUCS and all their fans .Every time people doubt Brady he rears back and wins . I admit that I didn't think he was a fit in a offense that goes down the field so much, but by the final 3rd of the season you could see some definite progress . Then they of course won the Superbowl, and the word is that they are bringing almost all of the band back together. A edge rusher or RB make the most sense here, but I just love Najee's game, and think he could be the missing piece to going back to back . He has great vison, some wiggle, breaks tackles, and is a stud in the passing game . Brady loves throwing to his backs, and you need to be able to pass protect to play with him . Najee has great hands with the agility to adjust to the ball in the air like a WR, and he's a man in pass pro. Not a home run hitter, but he will move the chains in a variety of ways . I can see him as a 300 touch guy with ease . On the edge there are so many question marks that I can see the Bucs getting someone in round 2 or 3 who is just as likely to contribute as they would here . However, if you want a definitely useful cheap starter at a position of need in this scenario Harris is the guy .