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Eyes on the QBs: The Dolphins (No.5) or
the Chargers (No.6) are likely trade partners with DET at
No.3.
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 - 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 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. It’s truly anybody’s guess as to
which of the top four tackles are selected first. Wills could immediately
start on the right side before transitioning to the left side later
on in his career. He’s one of the safer options at this point
in the draft.
Previous Pick: Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
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, although they may have to trade
up, as his medicals have come back outstanding to this point.. Tagovailoa
possesses the character and leadership that a team like the Dolphins
could use.
There have been reports that Miami favors Justin Herbert over Tagovailoa,
but I don’t buy into those reports this close to the draft.
It seems as if Miami is trying to get Tagovailoa to fall to the
fifth pick, which may be working.
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: Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
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. San Francisco 49ers - 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.
San Francisco traded DeForest
Buckner for this pick. The thought is that they didn’t want
to pay for his new $84 million contract. That leaves a hole at
defensive tackle, and they could simply draft his replacement.
It would give the 49ers another dominant physical option on a
rookie contract along the defensive line. He would help make up
arguably the best defensive front in the NFL.
Previous Pick: Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 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 Buccaneers have more holes on defense, but they will be forced
to protect Tom Brady.
Becton solidified his stock as one of the best offensive tackles
in this draft after running a 5.11 40-yard dash at 364 lbs. at the
NFL Combine. He could potentially start early in his career, although
he’s a player that is best seen as a prospect with elite upside
for the future. Becton has the potential to dominate at left tackle
for years to come, and protecting Brady should be one of Tampa Bay’s
primary concerns this season.
Previous Pick: Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
15. Denver Broncos - 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 Broncos could add another cornerback in the draft or they
could continue the run on wide receivers. Denver looks to be all
in with Drew Lock,
giving him plenty of offensive weapons. They have their WR1 in
Courtland
Sutton, while Noah
Fant, Melvin
Gordon, and Phillip
Lindsay are complementary pieces. Ruggs would be the perfect
deep threat to complement Sutton and Lock’s elite arm strength.
He could take Denver’s offense to the next level.
Previous Pick: Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons - C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
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 oftentimes 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 Falcons added Dante Fowler Jr., plugging their edge rusher
hole for the time being. They could add another pass rusher here,
but cornerback seems to be the more pressing issue. Atlanta has
plenty of options to choose from, but Henderson makes the most
sense. He’s seemingly moving up draft boards at the moment,
and has Pro Bowl potential with his coverage skills. The Falcons
have their offense figured out, and adding another defensive piece
with this selection is nearly a given.
Previous Pick: C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
17. Dallas Cowboys - Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
Cesar Ruiz is the top interior lineman in this draft. He’s
an athletic big man that comes with plenty of power. He found tremendous
success in the run game, moving the opposition, while making his
way to the second level. Ruiz has plenty of power on his frame,
but his quickness is just as big of an asset. He has the potential
to become an outstanding center at the NFL level for years to come.
Ruiz doesn’t have many flaws, but he needs to work on his
communication, specifically for his position. Stunts and blitzes
will only get more complicated in the NFL, and that was one aspect
he struggled with at Michigan.
Dallas has a lot of holes they need to fill, but they have to find
a suitable replacement for Travis Frederick. Ruiz is the best interior
offensive lineman in this class, and he could immediately start
at center for Dallas. This may be a bit high to take him, so Dallas
should be looking to trade down if he is their plan, or this could
turn into a reach.
Previous Pick: Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
18. Miami Dolphins
- 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 Dolphins are in a complete rebuild, meaning they could go
virtually anywhere with this pick. Brian Flores added Byron Jones
to their secondary, but could still use help on the backend. Many
scouts are split on who the top safety in this class is, but McKinney
would add versatility to Flores’ defense. He could immediately
start because of that versatility, helping Miami’s defense
take the next step forward.
Previous Pick: Austin Jackson, OT, USC
19. Las Vegas Raiders - 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 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. Diggs possesses the size to
follow opposing WR1s around the field. He has plenty of experience
in the SEC, and he’s an outstanding piece for Las Vegas.
Previous Pick: Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
A.J. Terrell is another cornerback that has been at his best in
man coverage. He utilizes his length and quick feet to bait quarterbacks
into questionable throws. Terrell is aggressive at the catch point,
making every tight reception against him difficult. He has the potential
to turn into a dominant press corner in the NFL, but he has the
football IQ to play off and read the play, as well.
Terrell is a bit skinny, and will need to add to his frame at the
next level. Once he adds weight and muscle, Terrell will be able
to press any type of receiver in the NFL. At the moment, he’ll
struggle with bigger bodied receivers.
The Jaguars have a few holes they need to fill, and one of them
is cornerback. They’re weak and aging at the position without
featuring anyone that has hopes of turning into a CB1 later in their
career. After getting rid of A.J. Bouye and Jalen Ramsey, Jacksonville
is in dire need of help in their secondary. Terrell comes with tremendous
upside, making him an elite fit for the Jaguars.
Previous Pick: Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
21. Philadelphia
Eagles - 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 Eagles are in dire need of a young, dominant receiver. Jefferson
quickly climbed up draft boards, and he’s seen as the fourth
best WR in this class by a number of scouts. He has the potential
to turn into a workhorse WR, although he may play the majority of
his snaps in the slot. Still, Philadelphia looks to be moving on
from Alshon Jeffrey at some point sooner rather than later, and
Jefferson would make a great pairing with JJ Arcega-Whiteside to
help continue Carson Wentz’s development.
Previous Pick: Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
22. Minnesota
Vikings - Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
Jaylon Johnson has the physicality and size to matchup well with
opposing WR1s. He has found success in press coverage, disrupting
his opponents timing as long as he gets his hands on them. He’s
a player that competes throughout routes, as well, attacking the
ball and opponents hands, forcing them to make contested catches.
Johnson lacks the long speed of a top tier cornerback, though. He
can often make up for this with his press, but if he misses at the
line of scrimmage, he has virtually no way of catching a speed receiver.
He has struggled to read plays at times, as well.
Minnesota allowed multiple cornerbacks - Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes,
and Mackensie Alexander - leaving a major void at the position.
Luckily, this is a deep draft for the position, allowing them to
fill the void with this pick. The Vikings clearly need help at wide
receiver, but their defense may be a bigger concern early in the
draft. Johnson has the potential to shut down opposing WR1, but
he’ll need to work on a few aspects to his game to get to
that point.
Previous Pick: A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
23. New England Patriots - 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.
Does anyone truly believe the Patriots are going to tank for
the first overall pick and Trevor Lawrence next year? Bill Belichick
is too good of a coach to have a true shot at the first overall
pick, even if he uses someone like Brian Hoyer at quarterback.
Instead, they can grab their future signal-caller in one of the
most physically dominant quarterbacks in this draft. Love has
all the tools to find success in the NFL, and pairing him with
someone like Belichick could solidify his future.
Previous Pick: K’Lavon Chaisson, OLB, LSU
24. New Orleans Saints - Kenneth Murray, MLB, Oklahoma
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. He 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.
The Saints are one of the most complete teams in the NFL, although
they have a few different ways they could go with this pick. New
Orleans could use an upgrade at linebacker, although he could learn
behind Kiko Alonso prior to drawing starts. It would be interesting
to see if the Saints would ask Murray to play strong side linebacker
for Alex Anzalone, who has struggled with injuries throughout his
career.
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 Vikings traded away Stefon
Diggs for this selection. It would make sense that they want
to replace him, but they also have to replace Everson Griffin,
who left in free agency. Minnesota needs help in the secondary,
but adding a pass rusher is another way to help their secondary.
Chaisson is one of the top edge rushers in this draft, making
him the best selection at this pick after a run on cornerbacks
and a deep receiver class.
Previous Pick: K’Lavon Chaisson, OLB, LSU
26. Miami Dolphins - Austin Jackson, OT, USC
Austin Jackson is a bit of a polarizing prospect, who is seemingly
climbing up draft boards. He’s a bit of a project, but has
all of the physical tools to be a capable NFL player in the future.
Jackson possesses an outstanding frame to go along with solid lateral
movement and mobility. He has flashed with his hands in pass protection
throughout his career at USC, suggesting his ceiling could be at
left tackle in the NFL.
While Jackson features the frame of an NFL tackle, he will need
to fill it out for future success. He’s far too inconsistent
with his footwork at the moment, and doesn’t feature the strength
to make up for it. Jackson too often loses control of his body,
opening the door for pass rushers to find success. It’s these
inconsistencies that have some NFL teams and scouts worried about
his ability at the next level.
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. With the top four offensive linemen off the board, Miami
will have their pick of the second tier. Jackson isn’t ready
to be a day one starter, but he can develop into a solid left tackle
with the right coaching. He’s a bit of a risky option, but
it wouldn’t be surprising if he jumped Josh Jones on draft
day.
Previous Pick: D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
27. Seattle Seahawks - Josh Jones, OT, Houston
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 - Zack Baun, OLB, Wisconsin
Zack Baun is a complete player. He has found success in run defense,
pass rushing, and coverage at Wisconsin. Baun also has a plus motor,
chasing down plays in pursuit. He has great hips and solid flexibility
as an edge rusher. Baun also flashed the ability to read plays,
while finding success specifically in zone coverage.
He lacks experience as an edge rusher, as he only saw major snaps
at the position in 2019. Baun also lacks ideal size for the position.
He’ll need to add weight at the next level, but his lack
of size could hamper his ability to get off of block in the NFL.
This could be a major concern in run defense.
Baltimore is a team that can go a number of ways with this selection
because of their roster. Baun is a player that could spell Jaylon
Ferguson or he could find himself in a different linebacker position
down the road. Baltimore isn’t a team that needs immediate
help, allowing Baun to develop into the type of player they want.
He’ll likely find success on limited snaps as a rookie,
though.
Previous Pick: Kenneth Murray, MLB, Oklahoma
29. Tennessee Titans - A.J. Epenesa, DE, 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 a 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 Titans added to their pass rush in free agency, but they could
still use help from someone like Epenesa. He’s a safe option
for a solid team, and would immediately help their defense. While
he isn’t likely to turn into a dominant pass rusher like Tennessee
could be looking for, he will help other pass rushers on the defense.
He makes a great option late in the draft.
Previous Pick:
Terrell Lewis, Edge, Alabama
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 - Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
Brandon Aiyuk is likely a boom or bust option at the next level
possessing elite big play ability. He’s slippery after the
catch, elusive on returns, and possesses more than enough speed
to be a viable deep threat. He’s long for his height, which
could help increase his catch radius down the line.
College teams wanted to move Aiyuk from receiver to cornerback
after he transferred from JUCO college. He struggles with physicality
throughout his routes. He doesn’t naturally catch with his
hands, making contested catches difficult for him. He lets the
ball get into his body far too often and will need to work on
the nuances of playing the position.
The 49ers lost Emannuel Sanders to free agency, and it looks
as if Deebo Samuel
will be their WR1 for the future. He was somewhat expected to
be used as a gadget player, and that slot is seemingly open. San
Francisco has taken plenty of chances on receivers before, including
Samuel and Jalen
Hurd, who were seen as anything but sure-fire receivers in
the draft. Aiyuk will open the field for Samuel, and his big play
ability with manufactured touches could be a difference-maker
in this offense.
Previous Pick: Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
32. Kansas City Chiefs - Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
Jeff Gladney is an outstanding prospect, who could get lost in the
shuffle of a dominant cornerback draft. He’s a player that possesses
the footwork, speed, and physicality to find success in man coverage.
Gladney competes every play, performing well at the point of attack.
He could add to his frame a bit, but features the upside as a player
to shadow opposing WR1s for years to come.
Gladney is serviceable in zone coverage, but can look to improve
that aspect in the NFL. He needs to read offenses a bit better,
allowing him to faster process route combinations, resulting in
more potential turnovers.
The Chiefs offense will find success regardless of their players
as long as Patrick Mahomes is under center. That allows Kansas City
to focus on defense here. They could add depth at cornerback. They
also don’t have anyone that has the potential to become a
shutdown cornerback at the professional level. Insert Gladney. He
has the experience to start from day one, but could become a shadow
corner in the NFL, as well.
Editor's note:
