Chase Young is likely the safest and most
complete player in this draft.
1. Cincinnati Bengals - Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
Joe Burrow’s historic season led to him likely becoming the first
overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He possesses exceptional football
IQ to go along with outstanding anticipation. He’s a quarterback
that can throw his receivers open, while working around pressure
in the pocket. Burrow can read the entire field, working through
each of his progressions. Arguably his best trait is his accuracy,
limiting mistakes while maximizing his opportunities.
Burrow doesn’t have any burning red flags to his game, but he
is already 24 years old. Still, his production against elite level
competition allows us to overlook his age. Burrow doesn’t possess
great arm strength, but his accuracy and anticipation will likely
make up for deficiencies at the NFL level.
The Bengals have holes along both sides of the ball. They benched
Andy Dalton
in 2019 for Ryan
Finley, who is clearly not their quarterback of the future.
Burrow is a player that has the upside to turn a franchise around,
even with glaring holes at multiple positions. He’s a franchise
quarterback, who can elevate the players around him and the Bengals
will finally have a player that they can build their team around.
Previous Pick: Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins - Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
Chase Young is likely the safest and most complete player in this
draft. He’s an outstanding defender in the run game, setting
the edge without much give and is a game-changing pass rusher. He
boasts elite hands at the point of attack, while possessing more
than enough pass rush moves to keep offensive linemen guessing.
Young has a great first step, quickness to match, outstanding bend,
and elite speed to the quarterback. He doesn’t solely rely
on speed, possessing tremendous power when utilizing power techniques.
Young doesn’t truly have any flaws but he could get better
in coverage and space, but his athleticism will allow him to do
that as he matures that part of his game.
The Redskins drafted their franchise quarterback last year and have
plenty of holes to fill, but it’s clear that an elite pass rusher
in the NFL has the ability to change games. Young is arguably the
safest prospect with the highest ceiling in the draft. He boasts
Hall of Fame potential, and is the type of defensive game-changer
Washington is in need of.
Previous Pick: Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions - Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
Okudah enjoyed one of the best collegiate careers for a cornerback
in recent memory. He’s an excellent man coverage corner,
featuring elite quickness, athleticism, and ball skills. He’s
a confident player that isn’t afraid to crowd receivers.
Okudah is aggressive, allowing him to jump routes and make plays
that others may not trust themselves enough to make. He also played
in a complex college system, making his transition to an NFL system
that much easier.
Okudah sometimes trusts his instincts a bit too much. His speed
allowed him to make up for this at the collegiate level, but that
may not be the case in the NFL. He also will need to find more success
as a zone coverage cornerback, although any team that drafts him
should switch to a man-based scheme.
The Lions saw their star cornerback, Darius
Slay, take a step back in 2019. He’s set to become a free agent
after this season, and has already stated he wants elite cornerback
money. Detroit could potentially pay him to pair him with Okaduh
for what could be one of the best cornerback duos in the NFL, or
they could use their rookie to take over as their shutdown option
once Slay’s contract is up.
Previous Pick: Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants - Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
Becton has absurd size, resulting in tremendous power at the point
of attack. As is the case with bigger linemen, this size and strength
helps Becton’s power run blocking. He has the potential to
be one of the better run blockers in the NFL. Surprisingly, Becton
has the footspeed to reach the second level, as well. His size and
power allows him to anchor his body in pass protection, while also
possessing the speed to meet speed rushers before it’s too
late.
While Becton’s strength is such an advantage at the moment,
it could also be one of his biggest downfalls early on in his
career. With his ability to rely solely on his power at the collegiate
level, Becton lacks the technique and polish needed for the NFL
level. He has struggled with his initial punch at times, and his
strength won’t make up for that in the NFL the same way
it did in the ACC. Becton has also struggled with known weight
issues, although that shouldn’t be an overly large concern
for coaches if Becton is committed to success at the next level.
The Giants have plenty of holes that need to be filled on the
defensive side of the ball. Isaiah Simmons would make sense here,
but the team also needs to protect their first round franchise
quarterback. There are multiple offensive tackles that could come
off the board first in this draft. Becton improved his stock at
the combine, running a 5.11 40-yard dash at 364 lbs. He has the
most upside of any offensive tackle in this draft, and that’s
something the Giants could look to take advantage of.
Previous Pick: Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
5. Miami Dolphins - Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
Tua Tagovailoa comes with tremendous upside as a rhythm passer
in the NFL. He is an intelligent quarterback that reads defenses
before the snap, while making progressions after the play begins.
Tagovailoa possesses tremendous accuracy to go along with elite-level
touch. He also stays composed under pressure, making plenty of high-level
throws with defenders in his face. Tagovailoa doesn’t possess
elite speed, but he finds ways to work around pressure in the pocket,
while boasting enough mobility to extend plays.
Tagovailoa relies heavily on his accuracy and touch because he
doesn’t have elite arm strength. Still, his throwing power
will be more than serviceable in the NFL. He has durability concerns,
including a gruesome season-ending injury that has likely caused
him to fall a bit in this draft. Furthermore, there are questions
as to whether Alabama’s receiving group made the quarterback
or if the quarterback made the receiving group.
The Dolphins started their “Tank for Tua” campaign at the beginning
of the season. They didn’t stick with it, though, ending up with
the fifth overall pick. Still, they could get their quarterback
of the future because of injury. Tagovailoa possesses the character
and leadership that a team like the Dolphins could use.
Previous Pick: Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers - Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
Herbert has the prototypical size and arm strength for the NFL.
He possesses the ability to make any throw on the field, while flashing
elite potential at times. Herbert is an athletic player that has
the mobility to leave the pocket and pick up first downs with his
legs. He isn’t overly consistent, but when he gets into rhythm,
he finds plenty of success.
While Herbert has the upside of an NFL quarterback, he comes with
quite a bit of question marks. His accuracy is less than stellar,
struggling to consistently make high quality throws. Herbert struggles
to progress through his reads, as well. While he possesses the
arm strength to make elite throws, his inconsistencies could result
in plenty of missed opportunities.
Philip Rivers
is no longer the quarterback of the Los Angeles Chargers. They could
search for his replacement in free agency, or they could look in
the NFL Draft. Herbert was one of the top quarterback prospects
last season, and that’s the case once again this year but he’s somewhat
of a clear third option behind Burrow and Tagovailoa. Herbert isn’t
as safe as the other options, but he owns franchise-changing potential
if his skills are maximized at the next level.
Isaiah Simmons is a player that could fly up draft boards. He’s
as versatile of a defender as anyone in recent memory. At Clemson,
Simmons played 100+ snaps at five different positions. He could
find success in the NFL at linebacker, slot corner, safety, or as
an edge rusher. Simmons is an outstanding tackler, while boasting
elite sideline-to-sideline range. He can guard at a high level in
both zone or man coverage. His cardio is outstanding, and he possesses
the football IQ to seamlessly maneuver from position to position
depending on the team needs in each defensive package. Simmons pure
upside was on full display, as he posted one of the best combine
performances in recent history.
The Panthers have plenty of holes throughout their roster. They
lost Luke Keuchley to retirement, leaving a massive hole at linebacker.
They also need help at cornerback and potentially safety.
Simmons is a player that can fit nearly any role a defensive coordinator
needs, and he has game-changing potential on his side of the ball.
Simmons’ limitless versatility nearly guarantees he’ll find success
at the NFL level, and that’s something Carolina needs on defense.
Previous Pick: Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson
8. Arizona Cardinals - Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
Tristan Wirfs is a gritty lineman from a school that consistently
produces that type of player. He possesses an impressive frame,
but that doesn’t limit his foot speed. He ran a ridiculous 4.85
40-yard dash, flashing his pure athleticism throughout his other
combine drills, as well. Wirfs comes with tremendous power, suggesting
he’ll find success against both speed and power rushers at the next
level. He isn’t an overly polished run blocker, but has flashed
once he gets to the second level of defenses. His initial contact
is generally successful, but he struggles to consistently finish
plays in the run game.
Wirfs would be an interesting addition to the Cardinals line. They
need help at tackle, which is where he projects by most scouts at
the NFL level. With that being said, some have suggested that Wirfs
will need to slide inside to guard. If that’s the case, Arizona
could go with another offensive tackle option here, but Wirfs is
the type of player that could protect Kyler
Murray’s blindside for years to come.
Derrick Brown is an NFL-ready player that is one of the best prospects
in this draft. He has an elite combination of power, speed, explosiveness,
and technique. Brown is a player that will be stout in the run game,
while possessing plenty of interior pass rush upside. He’ll
be a day one starter in the NFL, and has proven for years of experience
in the tough SEC. While Brown’s best attribute is his power,
his elite cardio/motor is one of the biggest reasons he’s
projected to find success at the next level.
The Jaguars could use help on the interior defensive line. Taven
Bryan seems primed to break out, but Brown would be a player that
can completely change their defense. He boasts an outstanding ceiling,
and he’s one of the safest players in the draft. Similarly to Simmons,
Brown could end up being a top-three pick in this draft, making
him a steal for a team like Jacksonville that needs help at his
position.
Previous Pick: Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
10. Cleveland Browns - Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
Thomas was a three-year starter at left tackle in the SEC. He played
in a pro-style offense at Georgia, accumulating plenty of high-level
experience. He is already an outstanding run blocker, displaying
tremendous power. He has found success as a pass blocker, flashing
more than enough upside to find success on the left side of the
line in the NFL. He boasts great hands as well, possessing a tremendous
first punch that allows him to control defenders.
Thomas has struggled at times with his footwork. He has displayed
enough foot speed to fix these issues with more coaching, although
he tends to rely on his power.
The Browns offense took a massive step back in 2019. A large
part of that was the play of their offensive tackles. Greg Robinson
and Chris Hubbard both struggled, and it isn’t guaranteed
that either is back as a starter. Thomas has the experience to
immediately slide into the starting left tackle role for Cleveland.
He would be a massive upgrade for Baker Mayfield’s blindside,
and could anchor the left side of the line for years to come.
Previous Pick: Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
11. New York Jets - Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
Jerry Jeudy is an elite route runner, who possesses fluid hips.
He understands the nuances of his routes, setting up defenders,
while quickly getting in and out of his breaks. Jeudy has tremendous
body control, allowing him to track the deep ball at a high level.
He isn’t overly dominant after the catch, but has the ability
to make big plays on short routes. While it isn’t the most
important part of scouting reports, Jeudy is also a willing blocker,
making him one of the most complete receiving options in this draft.
Jeudy doesn’t have many flaws in his game, although he tends
to let the ball get to his body. He needs to work a bit on his
drops early in his career. Jeudy is often seen as the safe option
as opposed to other high upside players in this draft, but he
has all the makings of a WR1 at the NFL level.
The Jets have some talent in their receiving group, but they don’t
have a true number one for their franchise quarterback to rely on.
Adding Jeudy would allow them to open up their offense, while giving
Sam Darnold
the next step for his development.
Previous Pick: Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
12. Las Vegas Raiders - CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
Lamb is another outstanding receiving option in this draft, who
has flashed WR1 potential. He has the ability to help an offense
at every level, possessing tremendous ball skills. Lamb is also
an outstanding tracker once the ball is in the air. He has the potential
to run a full route tree, adding tremendous YAC potential on short
routes. Similarly to Jeudy, Lamb is a willing blocker, often helping
in the Oklahoma run game.
Lamb’s combine will likely determine his value. Some have
questioned his speed, and he could jump Jeudy as the top receiver
if he performs well in the 40-yard-dash. Lamb is also a wide receiver
that has to answer questions about the talent of his competition.
The Big 12 is known as an offensive conference with less than
stellar cornerbacks. Some may question whether Lamb can dominate
NFL cornerbacks the same way he did to the Big 12’s options.
The Raiders are in dire need of a game-changing playmaker on the
outside. After Antonio
Brown left the team, Las Vegas was left with Tyrell
Williams as their top option. Hunter
Renfrow was a pleasant surprise in the slot, but Las Vegas needs
a true number one option on the outside. Lamb has the potential
to become that, making him a great fit.
Previous Pick: CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
13. Indianapolis Colts - Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
Love is an outstanding option from a physical standpoint. He has
tremendous size, strength, and mobility for a quarterback. Love
has a quick release with plenty of arm strength to make any throw
at the next level. He also isn’t afraid to extend plays with
his legs, improvising on the spot. Furthermore, Love is a passer
that is willing to attempt nearly any throw on the field, flashing
unwavering confidence in his arm throughout games.
While he has all the physical traits, Love has struggled with
his decision-making. He’s a player that trusts his physical
tools far too much, often times testing defenses with throws that
are easy turnovers. Love will need to greatly improve his pre-snaps
reads, along with his ability to diagnose coverage at the next
level.
The Colts lost their franchise quarterback, Andrew
Luck, to a surprise retirement last season. They replaced him
with Jacoby
Brissett, but he didn’t have a season to make them believe he’s
the future at the position. The Colts could use this pick on a few
players, but if they believe they can get their franchise quarterback
in the middle of the first round, that’s likely a shot they’d be
willing to take.
Previous Pick: Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
Javon Kinlaw is an outstanding physical prospect. He has tremendous
size on the interior defensive line. Kinlaw is an explosive player
with incredible burst to go along with power and surprising lateral
quickness. He boasts quick hands, and has the potential to be a
player that can consistently disrupt plays in the backfield. Kinlaw
also looked like a new player from 2019 to 2020, adding plenty of
muscle to his frame. He has the potential to continue to add to
his frame at the next level.
Kinlaw is a typical prospect that has all the physical traits,
but needs to improve his technique. He struggles to efficiently
use his hands to peel off of blocks or set the edge when needed.
He keeps his pad level a bit high, allowing his opponents to control
his body. Kinlaw also needs to work on his reads early on plays.
The Buccaneers have a plethora of holes throughout their roster,
specifically on the defensive side of the ball. Ndamukong Suh
is expected to leave via free agency, leaving a hole as a 3-4
defensive end. While that may not be Kinlaw’s most natural
position, he boasts the physical traits to make the transition
in the NFL. He comes with quiet pass rushing potential as well,
which is something Tampa Bay is in dire need of.
Previous Pick: A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
15. Denver Broncos - Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
Trevon Diggs is a cornerback that possesses tremendous size. He
also boasts length as a defender, and the athleticism to cover quite
a bit of ground in the secondary. This size will allow Diggs to
shadow WR1s throughout his career, as well. He’s already outstanding
in zone coverage, displaying tremendous knowledge early in his career.
He also uses his size when pressing his opponents, overwhelming
them at the line of scrimmage.
While Diggs has flashed in press coverage, he isn’t overly
consistent in man coverage at this point in his career. He is
also at his worst when playing off-man. The team that drafts him
will need a plan in place for their defense to set Diggs up for
success.
The Broncos are in an odd spot in their secondary. Chris
Harris Jr. is one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, but he
could be on his way out of Denver. If that’s the case, they will
need to replace him immediately. Even if Harris stays, the Broncos
could add another high upside cornerback. Diggs may never live up
to his potential if he can’t produce in man coverage, but he’ll
be an outstanding zone corner regardless.
Previous Pick: Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons - Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
Yetur Gross-Matos is another massive edge rusher in this draft.
He uses his length extremely well, while also possesses solid hand
speed and placement. Gross-Matos has a quick first step, allowing
him to bend around the edge. He is a solid tackler, who owns enough
power to set the edge, as well. Gross-Matos’ best attribute
could be his motor, wearing his opponents down throughout the game
and individual plays.
Gross-Matos is a player that comes with plenty of upside, but
he isn’t quite there yet. He has trouble diagnosing plays,
although his athleticism has made up for that at times in the
NCAA. That won’t be the case in the NFL. Gross-Matos also
doesn’t win with elite speed or power, although he possesses
enough of both. With that being said, he needs to add pass rush
moves to his arsenal, which will come with time.
Adrian Clayborn
and Vic Beasley
are two pass rushers for the Atlanta Falcons that will be free agents
this season. Atlanta will need to replace some of this production
if they let either or both of them walk. Gross-Matos could play
off the bench for Atlanta early in his career, allowing him to progress
without losing his confidence to early struggles.
Previous Pick: Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
17. Dallas Cowboys - Grant Delpit, S, LSU
Grant Delpit is an extremely complete safety. He has the ability
to play man or zone coverage. He also possesses plenty of range,
while also flashing the ability to play in the box if needed. Overall,
he’s a downhill player, who can make big plays on the backend.
Delpit is a willing, if unspectacular, tackler, who often tries
to create turnovers. There are some that believe Delpit will have
the ability to play cornerback at the next level, if needed, because
of his intelligence.
Many scouts asked him to become a better tackler in 2019, and he
certainly did. He’ll need to sure-up those skills if he wants
to find consistent success in the NFL.
The Dallas Cowboys need to re-sign Dak
Prescott, Amari
Cooper, and Byron
Jones. It looks at the moment as if Jones could be the odd man
out. If that’s the case, they’ll need to replace one of the best
safeties in the NFL. At this pick, the Cowboys have their pick of
the top safeties, and Delpit would be a solid replacement in the
back end of their secondary.
Previous Pick: Grant Delpit, S, LSU
18. Miami Dolphins - Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
Jedrick Wills is an outstanding prospect. He comes with tremendous
technique, winning at the line of scrimmage from his first punch
on. He also boasts tremendous power, allowing him success in both
run and pass blocking. Along with his great technique, Wills has
plus footwork. He is an outstanding pass blocker already in his
young career, and a solid run blocker. He possesses the ability
to get to the second level, as well. Overall, Wills is a smart player,
who wins with technique to go along with solid physical traits.
Wills strictly played right tackle for Alabama. Scouts have wondered
if he can make the transition to left tackle at the NFL level. One
of the biggest concerns is that Wills doesn’t possess great
foot speed. While he has outstanding technique, he won’t be
able to move to left tackle if he struggles against speed rushers.
The Dolphins are in a complete rebuild, and they are in dire need
of offensive linemen. If they draft Tua Tagovailoa with their first
pick, they will need to keep him healthy, as he has struggled with
injuries. Getting one of his personal offensive lineman from Alabama
is a perfect match. If Wills can’t move to left tackle, he’ll make
an outstanding right tackle throughout his career.
Previous Pick: Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
19. Las Vegas Raiders - Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
Kristian Fulton is an elite man coverage cornerback. He’s
at his best when he’s pressing, as he is outstanding at disrupting
his opponents’ routes. Fulton is extremely aggressive in his
coverage, jumping routes, attacking the ball, and making any reception
more difficult on receivers. He also trusts his instincts, while
possessing enough makeup speed to recover from any wrong reads.
Fulton has the ability to play in any coverage, but he could improve
in zone coverage. While it isn’t a major issue, it’s
a necessity for success in the NFL. Fulton also needs to improve
as a tackler. There are likely to be some concerns throughout his
interviews, as well, after Fulton missed the 2017 season due to
suspension.
The Raiders are in dire need of consistency in their secondary.
They have been drafting defensive backs for years, but none have
turned into a shutdown cornerback. Fulton is a player that possesses
the ability to shadow number ones on opposing teams, and he could
be the player that adds some consistency to the backend of the Las
Vegas defense.
Previous Pick: Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
Kenneth Murray is an aggressive linebacker with range and the
athleticism to play sideline-to-sideline. He makes tackles even
when he seems to be out of position. He plays fast from the start
of the play, allowing him to hit the hole with explosion, although
this also gets him into trouble at times.
Murray’s fast play is generally seen as a plus, but he misreads
plays at too high of a rate for the NFL. Hr wasn’t asked to
play man coverage much at Oklahoma and while he is an athletic player,
suggesting he will be able to, it’s a bit of an unknown for
the NFL. Overall, Murray’s play recognition will be his biggest
concern for his future.
Telvin Smith
stated that he was going to sit out the 2019 NFL season, and it
remains to be seen if he’ll actually return after his year off.
The Jaguars will need to replace quite a bit of production, and
Murray could help with that. Myles
Jack is also coming off of a bad season, and Jacksonville will
have their pick of linebackers at this point in the draft.
Previous Pick: Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
21. Philadelphia Eagles - Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
Henry Ruggs III possesses elite speed, and will be able to take
the top off of any defense in the NFL. That isn’t the only
good part about his game, though. Along with his speed, Ruggs is
outstanding at tracking the ball and continues to add routes to
his repertoire. His larger route tree is extremely important, as
Ruggs is outstanding after the catch, and will be more than simply
a deep threat at the next level.
Ruggs can make contested catches, but he too often allows balls
to get into his body. He also needs to continue to add to his route
tree, while working on his ability to get off the press. Solid press
corners will disrupt his routes, limiting his speed and taking away
the receivers best attribute.
The Eagles struggled with injuries to their receivers in 2019. Ruggs
is a player that can learn behind DeSean
Jackson, who is one of the best deep threats in the NFL. He
would add another dimension to their offense, and would give them
some much needed depth.
Previous Pick: Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
22. Buffalo Bills - Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
Tee Higgins is a massive receiver, who utilizes his body extremely
well. He boasts an elite catch radius with outstanding hands. Higgins
isn’t a player that often lets the ball get into his body
either. He possesses the ability to play through contact, and is
arguably the best receiver in the draft in contested situations.
He was known as a deep threat at Clemson, and his tracking ability
is outstanding at this point in his career.
While Higgins looked outstanding as a deep threat throughout his
collegiate career, some have questioned his long speed. That is
a question he can answer at the NFL Combine, although with his size,
he doesn’t need a blazing 40-yard dash to be able to beat
corners deep in the NFL. Higgins also needs to work on his route
tree. As primarily a deep threat at Clemson, he struggles in the
short and intermediate routes.
According to Pro Football Focus, the Bills receivers caught only
40.3% of their contested catch opportunities last season. That’s
the situation in which Higgins thrives, and he can immediately help
the offense. Furthermore, Allen can rely on John
Brown and Cole
Beasley early in Higgins’ career, allowing him to become a more
complete receiver before being thrust into a number one role.
Previous Pick: Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
23. New England Patriots - K’Lavon Chaisson, OLB, LSU
K’Lavon Chaisson is a player that could climb draft boards
as we head towards late April. He has outstanding pass rushing tools,
as he can win with both speed and power. He’s a player with
outstanding bend as well, giving him a variety of ways to beat opposing
linemen. Furthermore, Chaisson utilizes his power well when setting
the edge in run support. His first step is outstanding, allowing
him to get ahead of his opponents early in the play. Chaisson comes
with coverage ability, flashing the tools needed to play both zone
and man coverage at the next level. He’s a versatile option,
as some believe he’ll be able to play OLB or add weight and
play with his hand in the dirt.
Chaisson missed the majority of the 2018 season with an ACL tear.
While he proved that he was healthy during the 2019 season, this
is still a major concern for the physicality of his position. Furthermore,
Chaisson’s injury stunted his development on and off the field
a bit.
The Patriots could look to fill out their offense here, but adding
a high upside pass rusher is also a necessity. Chaisson looks the
part, and New England hasn’t moved away from risky options in the
past. He gives them tremendous upside late in the draft, which is
something they may not find on the offensive side of the ball at
this point.
Previous Pick: K’Lavon Chaisson, OLB, LSU
24. New Orleans Saints - Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
Jefferson is a fluid route runner, who thrives in reading coverages
for option routes. He boasts quick hands, not hinting at when the
ball is close to arriving. Jefferson also possesses a great catch
radius, consistently making plays away from his body. He has flashed
the ability to track deep balls, although he relies heavily on his
athletic ability to get them. Jefferson helped his case at the combine,
running a 4.43 40-yard dash with a 37.5 inch vertical and a 10’4”
broad jump. This athletic ability has allowed him to find success
both on the outside and in the slot.
While he’s a physical specimen, Jefferson could struggle
to release from press coverage early in his career. He also struggles
with his quickness in and out of his breaks. He'll need to work
heavily on his technique to be able to run a full route tree at
the next level. Some have suggested that Jefferson benefited greatly
from the LSU offense, and that he could’ve struggled in
a more pro-style offense with a less efficient quarterback.
The Saints desperately need someone to take the pressure off
of Michael Thomas. While he’s an elite receiver and can
do it all without help, adding a high upside second option to
the offense would make him that much better. Jefferson has the
potential to take the pressure off of Thomas, as he boasts WR1
upside, giving the Saints multiple elite receiving options for
the first time in years.
C.J. Henderson possesses the speed and traits to play man coverage,
while boasting the smarts to find plenty of success in zone, as
well. He’s a player that isn’t afraid to come off of
his receiver to make a play. He also owns tremendous recovery speed,
allowing him to jump routes and still find success, unlike slower
cornerbacks in the NFL. Henderson has also proven that he can find
success in press coverage, as he is a physical option at the line
of scrimmage. Overall, he possesses all the tools to become the
top coverage cornerback in this class.
There is one trait that the NFL will frown upon with Henderson -
tackling. He isn’t a willing tackler, and often times looks
as if he’s trying to avoid the confrontation. Other cornerbacks
have fallen in the draft simply because of their unwillingness to
tackle, and that may be the case with Henderson.
The Vikings are a team that needs help in coverage. Their cornerbacks
have struggled quite a bit, and that is one of their only defensive
flaws. Adding arguably the best cover corner in this draft makes
quite a bit of sense. It simply comes down to whether they can accept
his unwillingness to tackle.
Previous Pick: C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
26. Miami Dolphins - D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
D’Andre Swift is a stocky running back with a powerful lower
half and this allows him to finish runs with power, although he
has also flashed plenty of elusiveness throughout his career. Swift
has a quick burst and he can get upfield in a hurry. He’s
also a hands catcher, who will add more to his passing game in the
NFL. Most importantly, Swift is an outstanding pass blocker for
his position. If the Dolphins draft a quarterback that has struggled
with injuries, getting an elite pass blocking running back is a
must.
Swift often relies too heavily on his power. He boasts the elusiveness
to make defenders miss, but often times finishes the play with
power rather than speed/agility. Swift also struggled with injuries
throughout his career. Consistently suffering from small injuries
is could be problematic in the NFL.
Miami is a team that is in dire need of a rushing attack. Ryan
Fitzpatrick led the team with 243 rushing yards last season.
Kalen Ballage
has proven to be a bust, while Myles
Gaskin and Patrick
Laird aren’t the answer. Getting a versatile running back that
can help a rookie quarterback in multiple ways would be a great
way to end their trio of first round picks in this draft.
Josh Jones was a four year starter at Houston. He has all the
physical tools to find success in the NFL. He boasts an outstanding
build with the arm length to find success at tackle. He also flashes
the foot speed necessary to find success as a left tackle at the
professional level. Jones is at his best in pass protection, but
he also flashed as a run blocker later in his career. While he is
raw in some areas, he is experienced and has seen relatively consistent
growth throughout his career.
Jones has all the physical traits to find success in the NFL, but
he lacks nearly all of the technique. Surprisingly, he struggled
to develop this even as a four year starter at Houston. Jones also
lacks football IQ, and has struggled with his footwork in crucial
situations. He’s an experienced physical specimen that needs
to be molded into an NFL-caliber tackle at the next level.
The Seahawks have allowed Russell
Wilson to mask how bad their offensive line actually is. This
says quite a bit because they are still generally seen as one of
the worst offensive lines in the NFL. Jones comes with quite a bit
of risk if he can’t change his technique, but he also comes with
tremendous upside. He could be a consistent lineman for Seattle
if they are able to progress him early in his career.
Previous Pick: Josh Jones, OT, Houston
28. Baltimore Ravens - A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
A.J. Epenesa was seen as an elite prospect prior to the season,
but he fell off a bit in 2019. He’s a lengthy player that
boasts tremendous power. He utilizes this power in his pass rush
moves, although he has gotten better with his hands throughout the
season, as well. Furthermore, Epenesa is outstanding at setting
the edge, as his size and power allows him to hold his ground, even
against bigger linemen. Similarly to many players from Iowa, Epenesa
is a player that is willing to do the dirty work in the trenches.
While he boasts tremendous power, Epenesa isn’t an elite
athlete. He doesn’t possess great burst for a pass rusher
either. Essentially, Epenesa is seen as a solid prospect, who
isn’t capable of turning into an All Pro player.
The Ravens are in an interesting position this offseason. They
need to re-sign a few players, including some of their top pass
rushers. They’re a team that would benefit greatly from
finding pass rushers, who can get pressure without blitzing. Epenesa
isn’t a game-changing pick for Baltimore but is the safe
option, as he can help their defensive line, while adding occasional
pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Lewis is a long, athletic pass rusher. He’s a bit thin, but
has found ways to use that to his advantage when slipping blocks.
He has an outstanding first burst on his way to the quarterback.
He isn’t elite at setting the edge, but he can make big plays
in the run game due to his quickness and ability to squeeze through
blocks. His length also works in his favor when he doesn’t
get to the quarterback, as he possesses the ability to bat balls
down at the line of scrimmage.
Lewis has dealt with a few major injuries throughout his career.
This comes as a major concern because of his slim build. He can
maintain his size if he’s strictly used as a situational
pass rusher, but he’ll need to add weight to become a three-down
player. Lewis also needs to work on his play recognition and football
IQ, but his pure athleticism has limited his issues with this
throughout his collegiate career.
Between a lack of production and age, the Titans are in need
of pass rush help. Lewis is a high upside passing rushing option,
although he comes with quite a bit of risk. Tennessee could go
with a safer pick this late in the first round, but it seems more
likely that they take another shot on a boom or bust pass rusher
that can make game-changing plays on defense.
Previous Pick: Curtis Weaver, DE, Boise State
30. Green Bay Packers - Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
Patrick Queen is a linebacker that can play sideline-to-sideline.
He’s an athletic player that sets the tone early in games.
He also boasts a great combination of strength and speed. Queen
is outstanding at navigating through traffic, as well. He can find
the ball carrier while shedding blocks. Queen also comes with the
upside to play both man and zone coverage at the next level and
possesses the upside to become a three-down linebacker.
Oddly enough, Queen had plenty of ups and downs throughout his
career at LSU. He wasn’t always seen as a starter, but ultimately
found plenty of success when gaining the job throughout the year.
Queen plays with a bit too much aggression at times and if his
first read isn’t correct, he could take himself out of plays.
The Packers have a major hole at middle linebacker. Blake
Martinez doesn’t look like the answer, and Green Bay will certainly
need to fill that hole if he leaves in free agency. Overall, they
need someone that can make plays against the run if they want to
make a run for the Super Bowl, and Queen could be that player.
Previous Pick: Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
31. San Francisco 49ers - Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
Xavier McKinney is a versatile safety that can play a variety
of positions. He has seen snaps as a deep safety, in-the-box safety,
and slot cornerback. He can potentially play zone or man coverage,
as well. McKinney is aggressive, attacking the ball in the air or
the ball carrier in a downhill fashion. He boasts plenty of speed,
but is known as a power hitter, who can play multiple positions
at the next level.
McKinney’s biggest struggles come when he’s trying
to tackle in space. Shifty running backs and receivers will be
able to make him miss in do or die situations. With that being
said, McKinney is known as a solid tackling option when maneuvering
through traffic. He simply needs to work on tackling without help
in space.
The 49ers don’t have a lot of holes on their team. Jimmie Ward is
a free agent, and McKinney is a player that has been compared to
him. He would be an easy fit but that doesn’t need to be the case.
McKinney could play behind or with Ward, and learn from a similar
player how to maximize his ceiling in the NFL.
Previous Pick: Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
32. Kansas City Chiefs - Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
Jonathan Taylor is an extremely complete running back. He has
burst, power, speed, and quickness. He also possesses solid vision.
Some have voiced concerns about his long speed, but that has never
seemed to be a problem for his size in the NCAA. Taylor has flashed
as a receiver, as well. He’s a safe option at running back,
who comes with quiet upside.
Taylor needs to work on his receiving skills. He doesn’t
have a variety to his route tree and needs more reps as a pass
blocker. With that being said, he should easily be able to improve
in both facets in the NFL. The major concern with Taylor is the
amount of touches he had at Wisconsin. He has been their workhorse
running back for years, and may struggle to keep his physical
traits late into his NFL career. Furthermore, Taylor struggled
with fumbles and will need to work on his ball security at the
next level.
The Chiefs are a complete team but could use some depth in the running
game. Prior to the 2019 season, Kansas City made it clear that Damien
Williams wasn’t a workhorse back, but he ended up in that role late
in the season. Taylor is a player that can be a workhorse, or they
can split his carries to limit the amount of damage he takes early
in his career.
