2019 NFL Draft Grades: NFC South

Atlanta Falcons: B
1.) Chris Lindstrom, OG, Boston College
1b.) Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
4.) Kendall Sheffield, CB, Ohio St.
4b.) John Cominsky, DE, Charleston
5.) Qadree Ollison, RB, Pitt
5b.) Jordan Miller, CB, Washington
6.) Marcus Green, WR, Louisiana-Monroe

Atlanta’s squad was ravaged by injuries last year. When healthy, they have as complete a roster as any. With that in mind they moved aggressively to address their one major weak link — the offensive line. Taking Lindstrom first, the Falcons landed a technically sound player who should be there for the next ten-years. Then they traded up at the bottom of the the first-round for McGary. McGary, like Lindstrom, should start Day One and totally solidify the right side of the line.

It wasn’t until Day 3 of the draft, that the Falcons got back to work and they landed some interesting prospects on defense. Sheffield, has blazing speed and quality instincts in zone, but he didn’t provide many turnovers. He’s a work in progress, but there is promise. Same can be said for Cominsky. Cominsky, has massive size, but the production isn’t there. He can dominate and may play inside in the NFL.

The prospect to watch later is Ollison. Atlanta lost Tevin Coleman in free agency and needed another body to spell Devonta Freeman. Ollison, capped off his senior year with 1,213 yards and 11 touchdowns. He can catch the ball out of the backfield as well. Ollison, could emerge as a surprise weapon.

Carolina Panthers: B
1.) Brian Burns, DE, Florida St.
2.) Greg Little, OT, Ole Miss
3.) Will Grier, QB, West Virginia
4.) Christian Miller, LB, Alabama
5.) Jordan Scarlett, RB, Florida
6.) Dennis Daley, OT, South Carolina
7.) Terry Godwin, WR, Georgia

The Panthers had a nice, boring draft. Not moving up or down, the Panthers took things as they came draft weekend and walked away with an interesting haul. The most intriguing being the additions of Burns and Miller. Carolina heavily plays 4-3 defense, however Burns and Miller seemed better suited for 3-4 base schemes. Will that be a new wrinkle for head coach Ron Rivera’s squad in 2019? We shall see.

Offensively, the Panthers knocked it out of the park. Hopefully, the Panthers finally found their left tackle in Greg Little. Since the retirement of Jordan Gross, Carolina has been in dire need of a blindside protector for Cam Newton. Speaking of who, has only completed a full season twice out of the past five years. Grier, at last gives the Panthers a suitable backup plan.

Scarlett and Daley are notable late round additions. Scarlett, was effective in part time work at Florida. He averaged over five yards per carry and had 12 touchdowns. Daley, started the past two seasons at South Carolina and was a consistent force on the edge. He’s raw, but a mauler who could turn into a valuable backup.

New Orleans Saints: B-
2.) Erik McCoy, C, Texas A&M
4.) Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S, Florida
6.) Saquan Hampton, S, Rutgers
7.) Alzie Mack, TE, Notre Dame
7b.) Kaden Ellis, LB, Idaho

The Saints were void of a first-round selection after moving up last year to take edge rusher Marcus Davenport. That move remains to be seen as a good one or not. Having to wait until Day Two to make a move, the Saints struck gold with McCoy. After veteran center Max Unger retired, the team was left without a pivot. McCoy, will be the starter from the get-go and offers position versatility if need be.

Gardner-Johnson, is another versatile player having seen a lot snaps at both nickle and safety. With two safeties already entrenched atop the depth chart, perhaps Gardner-Johnson will mostly line up used at the former. Mack, as a late addition is intriguing. The team added Jared Cook in free agency, but there’s little depth. Mack, had an up and down stay in South Bend. Perhaps he can put together in the pros and surprise people. The talent is there and Sean Payton is a good coach.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: C+
1.) Devin White, LB, LSU
2.) Sean Bunting, CB, Central Michigan
3.) Jamel Dean, CB, Auburn
3b.) Mike Edwards, S, Kentucky
4.) Anthony Nelson, DE, Iowa
5.) Matt Gay, K, Utah
6.) Scott Miller, WR, Bowling Green
7.) Terry Beckner Jr., DT, Missouri

New head coach Bruce Arians and new defensive coordinator Todd Bowles inherited the 27th ranked defense and are transforming it from a 4-3 base scheme to a 3-4. That’s not gonna be an easy project and that is why they invested six of their eight picks to that side of the field. White will team with Lavonte David and give the franchise an absolutely tremendous foundation to build from. That’s a lot of leadership.

On Day Two, the Bucs focused solely on the secondary. The most interesting addition being, Edwards. Edwards is an in the box, aggressive safety that Arians and Bowles covet. However, he also has tremendous ball skills. He picked off ten passes and broke up thirty-three more over his time as a four-year starter. Bunting and Dean, will provide depth and consistency. Bunting, could emerge as early playing the slot.

Two players to pay attention to from Day Three are Nelson and Gay. That’s right. We’re talking kickers again. In 2016, Aguayo was drafted in the second-round by the Bucs. A reasonable pick considering he was the most accurate kicker in college football history, but everything went bad as Aguayo lost his stroke and was cut. Hopefully, Gay can be more productive. The former soccer player can drill it, he hit 8-11 field goal attempts over 50-yards.

2019 NFL Draft Grades: NFC North

Chicago Bears: B
3.) David Montgomery, RB, Iowa St.
4.) Riley Ridley, WR, Georgia
6.) Duke Shelley, CB, Kansas St.
7.) Kerrith Whyte, RB, Florida Atlantic
7b.) Stephen Denmark, CB, Valdosta St.

The reason the Bears didn’t pick until Round 3 was due to the Khalil Mack trade last year, and ya know what? That is totally okay. Mack, was already regarded as a Top 5 player in the league and all he did last year was dominate to the tune of 12.5 sacks in 14 games. That’s worth a 1st and 2nd Round pick every time.

Once on the clock, the Bears made good use of what was left. They traded away veteran running back Jordan Howard to Philly and needed someone to run between tackles. Montgomery is just that. Now, he had a lot of work in college (624 carries in three years), but he should work well in tandem with Tarik Cohen.

Ridley, in Round 4, is another quality addition. After years of having injury ravaged receivers and little depth, the Bears finally have a quality receieving corps. Ridley, has to develop his game more, but working as a part of an arsenal with Allen Robinson, Anthony Miller, and Taylor Gabriel will give him time.

Detroit Lions: B
1.) T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
2.) Jahlani Tavai, LB, Hawai’i
3.) Will Harris, S, Boston College
4.) Austin Bryant, DE, Clemson
5.) Amani Oruwariye, CB, Penn St.
6.) Travis Fulgham, WR, Old Dominion
6b.) Ty Johnson, RB, Maryland
7.) Isaac Nauta, TE, Georgia
7b.) P.J. Johnson, DT, Arizona

Last year the Lions focused drafting tough players. Clearly head coach Matt Patricia has a type, because he went out and drafted more of the same. Hockenson, is a classic grinder. He can play inline as a blocker and provide a passing threat. He’s as solid a prospect as you can kind entering the draft. He’ll have an immediate impact.

Harris and Oruwariye, are needed pieces to the secondary. Harris is the thumper that opposing receivers will be weary of as they cross the center of the field. Oruwariye, has notable ball skills with 27 pass-breakups and seven interceptions over the past two years. They need someone to play opposite Darius Slay and that might be Oruwariye.

Tavai and Bryant are two more prospects to watch. Tavai, seemed to be a reach, but he reads the field well and makes the stop. He missed a couple games last year and may surprise some people. Bryant, posted good numbers at Clemson, but were those his or the product of the talent around him? Detroit will find out.

Green Bay Packers: A
1.) Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan
1b.) Darnell Savage, S, Maryland
2.) Elgton Jenkins, C, Mississippi St.
3.) Jace Sternberger, TE, Texas A&M
5.) Kingsley Keke, DT, Texas A&M
6.) Ka’dar Hollman, CB, Toledo
6b.) Dexter Williams, RB, Notre Dame
7.) Ty Summer, LB, TCU

The Packers absolutely crushed this draft. Every pick has the potential to provide early and often in 2019. Armed with an extra first-round pick thanks to New Orleans’ eagerness for Marcus Davenport, the Packers double-dipped on defense. Gary, has some bust potential, but in Green Bay he has the potential to wreak havoc from the five-technique. Savage, is the safe and proven prospect the Packers have been looking for in the secondary. Able to play safety or corner, Savage will mix it up in run sport too.

On the offensive side of things, Jenkins and Sternberger can be Day One starter’s for the team. Granted, Sternberger will likely spell veteran Jimmy Graham, but he will have an impact. Sternberger exploited the seams at A&M and had 10 touchdowns last year. Jenkins, has the versatile to play center or guard. With Corey Linsley already established at the pivot, Jenkins might plug the gap at right guard.

Williams, is an intriguing late addition. He has all the talent to be a feature back, but had trouble staying on the field for the Golden Domers. He got things together (sort of) in 2018 and amassed 995 yards and 12 touchdowns. The Packers could use a power back, if Williams can keep it together, he could be a valuable asset.

Minnesota Vikings: B+
1.) Garrett Bradbury, C, NC State
2.) Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama
3.) Alexander Mattison, RB, Boise St.
4.) Dru Samia, OG, Oklahoma
5.) Cameron Smith, LB, USC
6.) Armon Watts, DT, Arkansas
6b.) Marcus Epps, S, Wyoming
6c.) Oli Udoh, OT, Elon
7.) Kris Boyd, CB, Texas
7b.) Dillon Mitchell, WR, Oregon
7c.) Olabisi Johnson, WR, Colorado St.
7d.) Austin Cutting, LS, Air Force

The Vikings really only had weak spot on their roster and they addressed it with one of the best prospects in the draft. By adding Bradbury, the Vikings landed a 10-year starter and allows them to utilize Pat Elflein’s versatility and shift him over to guard. Suddenly, the Viks’ lack luster line looks awfully strong.

Clearly the plan was to build things up around Kirk Cousins, because four of their next five picks were on the offensive side of the ball. Samia, adds grit to the interior of the line and he has starter upside. Smith, is a complimentary piece to starter Kyle Rudolph. He runs good routes. Mattison, is key to watch. Starter Dalvin Cook has had trouble staying healthy and lost their insurance policy in Latavius Murray. Mattison was very productive and can help preserve Cook.

On defense, Smith is a classic linebacker in coach Mike Zimmer’s scheme. He tallied over 350 tackles in four years. Even if he can’t crack the depth chart at linebacker, he is the reliable tackling to be a special teams ace for years. Epps and Boyd, prove that Zimmer can’t go a single year without drafting a defensive back.

2019 NFL Draft Grades: NFC East

Dallas Cowboys: C
2.) Trysten Hill, DT, UCF
3.) Connor McGovern, OG, Penn St.
4.) Tony Pollard, RB, Memphis
5.) Michael Jackson, CB, Miami
5b.) Joe Jackson, DE, Miami
6.) Donovan Wilson, S, Texas A&M
7.) Mike Weber, RB, Ohio St.
7b.) Jalen Jelks, DE, Oregon

The Cowboys’ roster is pretty set, so this draft class was more of an exercise of adding depth. The defensive line was the most glaring need and they invested three picks to bolster it. Hill, is a unique prospect. The production isn’t really there, but the talent is off the charts. If he puts it together, Hill could be a starter. Jelks and Jackson, will be valuable additions to the rotation with proven pass rushing abilities. Jelks offers some versatility, having played linebacker.

The offensive investments are intriguing. McGovern, is exactly the type of player that the Cowboys need. Their starters have dealt with injuries recently along the interior of the line. McGovern can play all three interior positions and with the future of Travis Fredrick up in the air, he could wind up starting as a rookie.

Pollard and Weber are important additions. Outside of Ezekiel Elliott, the Cowboys have no running backs. That’s dangerous. Elliott is too valuable and if he goes down, no one is there to buoy the rushing attack. Pollard, is a versatile weapon. He had 941 rushing yards and 1,292 receiving yards. Weber, is another multifaceted threat, although he’s better running between the tackles.

New York Giants: B-
1.) Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
1b.) Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
1c.) Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia
3.) Oshane Ximines, OLB, Old Dominion
4.) Julian Love, CB, Notre Dame
5.) Ryan Connelly, LB, Wisconsin
5b.) Darius Slayton, WR, Auburn
6.) Corey Ballentine, CB, Washburn
7.) George Asafo-adjel, OT, Kentucky
7b.) Chris Slayton, DT, Syracuse

Outside of reaching for Jones, this isn’t a bad haul. Speaking of Jones, it’s not the worst pick ever, but it is a reach and GM Dave Gettleman has taken a lot of heat. He said he was afraid of a couple teams swiping Jones before his team picked again at seventeen-overall. Truth or not, Jones is the future and sitting behind Eli Manning will be good for him, even if only to let the pick blow over.

In regards to the picks that will have a more immediate impact, there are a number of them. Lawrence, has rare athleticism for a big man and gives the Giants a true nose for their 3-4 system. Baker and Love provide immediate upgrades at the cornerback position. Baker, the only cornerback drafted in Round 1, has the experience and attitude to excel at the next level. Love, could become the nickle corner soon than later with his proven ball skills (40 pass-breakups and four interceptions over the last two years).

Ximines, is an intriguing player. Not many players from Old Dominion make it to the NFL, let alone get drafted in the third round from Old Dominion. Ximines’ numbers tell you everything you need to know. He had 51.5 tckles-for-loss and 33 sacks over the past four years. He still needs to get bigger, but the the sky is the limit with production like that.

Philadelphia Eagles: B
1.) Andre Dillard, OT, Washington St.
2.) Miles Sanders, RB, Penn St.
2b.) J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, WR, Stanford
4.) Shareef Miller, DE, Penn St.
5.) Clayton Thorson, QB, Northwestern

Another team with a will built roster, all GM Howie Rosman was addressing needs for the future. Dillard, will be the heir to future hall-of-famer Jason Peter’s spot on the left side of the offensive line. Giving Dillard a year to acclimate behind someone like Peters, isn’t the worst thing. Dillard can be a 10-year starter for the Eagles.

The Eagles traded a conditional sixth-round pick in next year’s draft to land veteran Jordan Howard. If things don’t work out for Howard, Sanders is the answer. And even then, Sanders has the capabilities to start based of his one year as the starter at Penn State. Arcega-Whiteside, gives the Eagles a building after DeSean Jackson and if they choose to move on from Alshon Jeffery in a year or two. In the meantime, he offers a serious red zone threat. He had 14 touchdowns last season.

Washington Redskins: B+
1.) Dwayne Haskins, QB, Maryland
1b.) Montez Sweat, OLB, Mississippi St.
3.) Terry McLaurin, WR, Ohio St.
4.) Bryce Love, RB, Stanford
4b.) Wes Martin, OG, Indiana
5.) Ross Pierschbacher, C, Alabama
5b.) Cole Holcomb, LB, North Carolina
6.) Kelvin Harmon, WR, NC State
7.) Jimmy Moreland, CB, James Madison
7b.) Jordan Brailford, OLB, Oklahoma St.

When reports of owner Dan Snyder taking over the reigns for the draft began to leak surface last week, I was fully prepared for a train-wreck of a draft from the perpetually inept Redskins. What we got instead was a surprisingly good draft class.

Starting with Haskins. Instead of making the trade up the draft board to take Haskins, the team waited and got their man at fifteen. A one-year starter, Haskins put up crazy numbers (4,831 yards and 50 touchdowns) and has the makings of a legitimate franchise quarterback. Sweat, fills the void left by Preston Smith opposite Ryan Kerrigan. He had 22 sacks in the past two years.

The talent Washington picked up later in the draft is impressive at every level. McLaurin, is the consummate team player, and will become a better receiver with time. He improved every year. Love’s stock fell due to injury, but if he can prove he’s healthy, he has the ability to be a starting back. Pierschbacher, was a four year starter and a rock for along the interior of the line. He has versatility to play guard or center. Harmon, is a giant target who posted back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons to close out his college days.

2019 NFL Draft Grades: NFC West

Arizona Cardinals: C
1.) Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
2.) Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
2b.) Andy Isabella, WR, UMass
3.) Zach Allen, DT, Boston College
4.) Hakeem Butler, WR, Iowa St.
5.) Deionte Thompson, S, Alabama
6.) Keesean Johnson, WR, Fresno St.
6b.) Lamont Gaillard, C, Georgia
7.) Josh Miles, OT, Morgan St.
7b.) Michael Dogbe, DE, Temple
7c.) Caleb Wilson, TE, UCLA

While this is a talent rich draft class, this draft class also highlights the colossal failures of the past, all while extending another. This tragedy is highlighted by the first overall pick. Murray, is a polarizing prospect in many ways and illustrates the poor decision making within the organization. Drafting a quarterback at No. 1 overall, just a year after trading up to draft Josh Rosen at No. 10 overall is just poor.

One of the the issues that plagued Rosen was a lack of weapons. The Cardinals invested three picks in Isabella, Butler, and Johnson, to help bolster Murray’s success. Where was that help for Rosen? The perpetuated failure mentioned earlier is that of the offensive line. It’s almost comical how long the Cardinals offensive line has been. Granted injuries ravaged some veterans, but nonetheless, where is the backup plan? Gaillard and Miles provide some depth, but that is too little too late.

Murprhy and Thompson highlight another lack of attention in previous years. The defensive secondary has been abysmal, outside of Patrick Peterson. And he is right to be frustrated with management. Murphy, has tremendous ball skills, but lack size. He should still be special. Thompson, was a one-year starter and needs to show the production in that one year wasn’t a fluke.

LA Rams: A
2.) Taylor Rapp, S, Washington
3.) Darrell Henderson, RB, Memphis
3b.) David Long, CB, Michigan
3c.) Bobby Evans, OT, Oklahoma
4.) Greg Gaines, DT, Washington
5.) David Edwards, OT, Wisconsin
7.) Nick Scott, S, Penn St.
7b.) Dakota Allen, LB, Texas Tech

The Rams executed a very smart draft strategy. Over the past few years they have spent massive amount of money; $87 million to Aaron Donald, $45 million to Todd Gurley, and $50.5 million to Brandin Cooks (and that’s just the guaranteed money). So with the club so cash strapped, where can you get cheap work? The draft. They traded out of the first-round to collect more picks and thus help fill the roster.

Rapp and Long are perfect additions to the Rams secondary. Aqib Talib isn’t getting any older and Marcus Peters may not be the long term answer, so don’t be surprised if Long is the starting cornerback in LA sooner than later. Same can be said for Rapp, who will seemingly replace veteran Eric Weddle in a year or two.

The Rams made a splash pick with all three of their offensive picks. Henderson, is the perfect back to spell Todd Gurley and help take some of the work. He’s explosive, proven by his 22 touchdowns last year, and can be a target out of the backfield. Evans and Edwards give the Rams quality line prospects with starter upsides. The talent up front is old and has little depth behind it. Great value.

San Francisco 49ers: C+
1.) Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio St.
2.) Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
3.) Jalen Hurd, WR, Baylor
4.) Mitch Wishnowsky, P, Utah
5.) Dre Greenlaw, LB, Arkansas
6.) Kaden Smith, TE, Stanford
6b.) Justin Skule, OT, Vanderbilt
6c.) Tim Harris, CB, Virginia

The Niners had a solid, unspectacular draft. Bosa was the final piece of a very quick and (hopefully) complete rebuild of their defensive line. They’ve spent a lot to address this area and after trading for veteran Dee Ford and adding Bosa, they won’t have to worry about it any further. Bosa, can set the edge as well as rush the passer. He’s the total package.

On Day Two, GM John Lynch had the clear plan of adding weapons, and did so by adding Samuel and Hurd. Samuel, has some injury concerns, but he runs good routes, has strong hands, and is a playmaking threat with special teams experience. Hurd, is a massive target (nearly 6’5″) and can play anywhere on offense, literally. He started off as a running back and can play inside and outside the numbers.

The rest of the draft was full of valuable depth additions. Most notably, Wishnowsky. I know what you’re thinking, and yeah, believe it. We’re talking punters right now! Wishnowsky, can boom a ball and get inside the 20-yard line fairly well. That being said, he kicked at Utah. Altitude helped. Hopefully, he can offer the same hang time at sea level. With Smith you know what you’re getting. Stanford has become TE U after sending a number of reliable prospects to league in recent years.

Seattle Seahawks: B
1.) L.J. Collier, DE, TCU
2.) Marquise Blair, S, Utah
2b.) D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
3.) Cody Barton, LB, Utah
4.) Gary Jennings, WR, West Virginia
4b.) Phil Haynes, OG, Wake Forest
4c.) Ugo Amadi, CB, Oregon
5.) Ben Burr-Kirven, LB, Washington
6.) Travis Homer, RB, Miami
6b.) Demarcus Christmas, DT, Florida St.
7.)John Ursua, WR, Hawai’i

The Seahawks had a very solid draft class. The main thing to take away from this draft class is that they really trust last year’s crop. After trading Frank Clark, you could argue that a pass rusher and tight end were their two biggest needs. They didn’t bring in either, signaling that the team believes Rasheem Green and Will Dissly can do big things in 2019.

But what about this year’s class? Collier, in Round 1, fits the profile of the Trey Flowers-like player they were looking for. Someone that can do it all on the edge. He broke out for six sacks and 11.5 tackles-for-loss last season. Blair, will hopefully end the recent string of misses at safety. He’s better in the box than in coverage. The additions to the linebacking corps will boost competition.

The addition of Metcalf and Jennings, signal that the reports of Doug Baldwin being potentially forced to retire due to injury were legitimate and a concern for the organization. Baldwin aside, the team still need help at receiver. Baldwin provided the only consistent target for Russell Wilson.

2019 NFL Draft Grades: AFC East

Buffalo Bills: B+
1.) Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
2.) Cody Ford, OG, Oklahoma
3.) Devin Singletary, RB, Florida Atlantic
3b.) Dawson Knox, TE, Ole Miss
5.) Vosean Joseph, LB, Florida
6.) Jaquan Johnson, S, Miami
7.) Darryl Johnson, DE, North Carolina A&T
7b.) Tommy Sweeney, TE, Boston College

The Bills are currently in the midst of a total franchise rebuild and they got some tremendous talent to use as building blocks, and that starts with Ed Oliver. He is a physical freak and super productive, despite what his numbers show from a forgettable campaign last year. He had 54 tackles-for-loss in three years. That is absurd. He’ll team well with veteran Star Lotulelei.

General manager Brandon Beane clearly wanted to get help for franchise quarterback Josh Allen, and he did just that on Day Two of the draft. Despite adding a number of pieces via free agency, the Bills further addressed the offensive line with Ford. He looks to have a shot at right tackle. Singletary, is incredibly productive. The worst of his three seasons resulted in 1,021 yards and 12 touchdowns. Knox’s best football is ahead of him, and will be a key check down target for Allen.

Late in the draft, the Bills brought in quality depth pieces in Joseph and Jaquan Johnson. Both have starter upside. Joseph, is a big hitter and flies sideline-to-sideline. Johnson, has great ball production and is a strong tackler.

Miami Dolphins: A
1.) Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
3.) Michael Dieter, OG, Wisconsin
5.) Andrew Van Ginkel, LB, Wisconsin
6.) Isaiah Prince, OT, Ohio St.
7.) Candler Cox, RB, Auburn
7b.) Myles Gaskin, RB, Washington

The Dolphins had a masterclass trade, when they dealt a late second-round pick and a fifth-round pick next year for Josh Rosen, the 10th overall pick from last year. The Dolphins caught the Cardinals in an embarrassing position and fleeced them. Trade aside, the draft is a great foundational draft for first-time head coach Brian Flores.

Wilkins, is as proven and dynamic a talent as you can get. He was a one-man wrecking crew at Clemson and brings that 40 tackles-for-loss and 16.5 sack production to a team that needs consistency. On the other side of the ball, they add Deiter and Prince. Deiter, will emerge as a Day One starter. He started 54 games in college and has the versatility to plat anywhere on the line. Prince, has starter upside and massive size, he could be the solution on the right side of the line.

Ginkel, looks to be a key special teams and the late addition of Gaskins is wise. While he is small in stature, his production was huge as a Huskie. He had 5,323 and 57 touchdowns over his college career, plus 65 receptions. He could be a quality complimentary weapon from the backfield.

New England Patriots: A
1.) N’Keal Harry, WR, Arizona St.
2.) Joejuan Williams, CB, Vanderbilt
3.) Chase Winovich, DE, Michigan
3b.) Damien Harris, RB, Alabama
3c.) Yodny Cajuste, OT, West Virginia
4.) Hjalte Froholdt, OG, Arkansas
4b.) Jarrett Stidham, QB, Auburn
5.) Byron Cowart, DT, Maryland
5b.) Jake Bailey, P, Stanford
7.) Ken Webster, CB, Ole Miss

This is one of the more impressive Patriot draft classes during Bill Belichick’s reign. While the omission of a tight end is notable, the other additions are so strong it’s almost irrelevant.

Clearly building depth on offense was the main objective for the Patriots, but their defensive additions really stick out. Williams, Winovich, and Cowart are key additions. While veteran Stephon Gilmore was an All-Pro last season, the position opposite him has been a rotating door for a few years now. Williams, has great size and ball production, and can be the long term solution there. Winovich, fits the Mike Vrabel/Rob Ninkovich mold on the edge of their defensive line.

On offense they addressed their key needs in finding a wide receiver, a developmental quarterback, offensive line depth, and even found an insurance policy for last year’s first-round pick Sony Michel. The offensive line addition stands out the most. Cajuste, has massive size and could emerge as the swing tackle the Patriots love to utilize. With Froholdt, the Pats may have found veteran Joe Thuney’s eventual replacement. He has starter upside.

New York Jets: B-
1.) Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
3.) Jachai Polite, DE, Florida
3b.) Chuma Edoga, OT, USC
4.) Trevon Wesco, TE, West Virginia
5.) Blake Cashman, LB, Minnesota
6.) Blessuan Austin, CB, Auburn

The Jets did a good job addressing areas of need, but they did so with boom-or-bust talent. Williams, is the exception tough. Williams, arguably the best player in the draft, was an absolute force for Bama last year. He had seven sacks and 17 tackles-for-loss. He is just scratching the surface of his ability and will work well with Leonard Williams.

Polite, is another disruptive addition to the d-line. Polite, broke out last year for 11 sacks last year. A gritty and aggressive edge player, Polite’s biggest question is if he can keep playing at that position. He’s versatile and should be a special if he keeps developing.

Edoga and Wesco, are interesting pieces on the offensive side of the ball. Edoga, could play tackle or get moved inside to guard. There are questions about his effort and an injury problem, if he can shake free of those issues he could rival Brandon Shell for the starting tackle spot on right side. Wesco, is a massive target and quality blocker, who be a compliment to last year’s mid-round gem Chris Herndon. Maybe lightning can strike twice for the Jets.

2019 NFL Draft Grades: AFC South

Houston Texans: C+
1.) Tytus Howard, OT, Alabama St.
2.) Lonnie Johnson Jr., CB, Kentucky
2b.) Max Scharping, OT, Northern Illinois
3.) Kahale Warring, TE, San Diego St.
5.) Charles Omenihu, DE, Texas
6.) Xavier Crawford, CB, Central Michigan
7.) Cullen Gillaspia, RB, Texas A&M

The Houston Texans draft class is a perplexing one, because of the amount of potential versus production. Now, the Texans would probably argue that production is production at any level, but that is quite the optimist’s perspective.

Howard, is a massive man who flashed dominance during the draft process, but he still needs work to carry that into the league. Scharping, a four-year starter, shows the nastiness to excel in the trenches and can anchor. The key to his game is versatility with experience at both tackle positions and at guard, as well.

Johnson, took the JUCO route before winding up at Kentucky, and in his two years amassed nine pass breakups and one interception. He has tremendous size, and the hope is that he will continue to develop. Omenihu, is an interesting addition. He seems a bit undersized for the Texans 3-4, does he get moved to linebacker?

Indianapolis Colts: B+
2.) Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
2b.) Ben Banogu, DE, TCU
2c.) Parris Campbell, WR, Ohio St.
3.) Bobby Okereke, LB, Stanford
4.) Khari Willis, S, Michigan St.
5.) Marvell Tell, S, USC
5b.) E.J. Speed, LB, Tarleton St.
6.) Gerri Green, DE, Mississippi St.
7.) Jackson Barton, OT, Utah
7b.) Javon Patterson, C, Ole Miss

The Colts and GM Chris Ballard were very wise in this draft, a burgeoning hallmark of the young general manager’s work. The Colts decided to trade down from the first-round in order to take more bites in the second, and they brought in a haul.

The Colts clearly identified their pass defense as the weak link of their team and addressed it early by picking Ya-Sin. He should be a Day One starter and has the toughness that Ballard likes in his players. He followed that up with Banogu and Campbell. An explosive edge rusher and an explosive slot receiver.

Back-to-back safety selections in Khari Willis and Marvell Tell is intriguing. Potential star safety Malik Hooker can’t stay healthy and veteran Clayton Geathers can’t play consistent. Building depth, while providing competition is always a great strategy. Okereke and Speed, provide a similar injection to the linebacking corps. Okereke, is a player worth watching. He was super productive at Stanford and is a contemporary ‘backer who could wind up starting sooner than later.

Jacksonville Jaguars: B-
1.) Josh Allen, DE, Kentucky
2.) Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
3.) Josh Oliver, TE, San Jose St.
3b.) Quincy Williams, S, Murray St.
5.) Ryquell Armstead, RB, Temple
6.) Gardner Menshaw, QB, Washington St.
7.) Dontavius Russell, DT, Auburn

The top of this draft saves the grade from receiving a “C”. The pair of Allen and Taylor is absolutely stellar. Allen, by the graciousness of Oakland, dropped right into their laps. Allen’s production and intangibles are everything you would want in a Top 10 player, and he keeps the Jacksonville defense firing at an elite level.

I had Taylor going to the Jaguars in the Top 10 of the first-round, a premonition that would eventually come true on Day Two of the NFL Draft after the Jags traded up to take Taylor. Taylor, is a starter for the next ten years and gives Jacksonville a young and dynamic pair of tackles.

The rest of the draft is confusing. Oliver, in Round 3, is a fine addition. He’s an emerging talent that could evolve into something. But how did the Jaguars fail to address their wide receiver corps? They have the quarterback and the tackles, but virtually no targets to throw to. That is a big miss.

Armstead and Menshaw, are a pair of depth and develop players who have great upside. It will be interesting to see what Menshaw can become at the pro level. Armstead, is a bulldozer with shoulder pads. He will spell and help preserve franchise running back Leonard Fournette, who has dealt with injuries since entering the league.

Tennessee Titans: B
1.) Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi St.
2.) A.J. Brown, WR, Ole Miss
3.) Nate Davis, OG, Charlotte
4.) Amani Hooker, S, Iowa
5.) Deandre Walker, OLB, Georgia
6.) David Long, LB, West Virginia

If Tennessee’s goal was to create depth, they succeeded. Davis, Hooker, Walker, and Long are all valuable and necessary depth pieces. The key draft picks here are Simmons and Brown, and for different reasons.

Brown, was a stellar pick. You don’t get value much better than that. The Titans have failed to provide quarterback Marcus Mariota with reliable targets. Brown, in two years as starter, amassed 160 receptions for 2,572 yards and 17 touchdowns. That is production you can lean on.

Simmons addition is needed, as they have run thin along the defensive, but Simmons tore his ACL early in the draft process. In addition to the injury, Simmons has serious character red flags. It was surprising to see head coach Mike Vrabel gamble on a player of that nature, but if he was convinced perhaps that is telling in itself.

2019 NFL Draft Grades: AFC West

Denver Broncos: B+
1.) Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
2.) Dalton Risner, OT, Kansas St.
2b.) Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
3.) Dre’Mont Jones, DT, Ohio St.
5.) Justin Hollins, OLB, Oregon
6.) Juwann Winfree, WR, Colorado

The Denver Broncos and GM John Elway did an incredible job during the draft. After years of spotty records, this has the makings of being a quality class. They started Day One of the draft by jumping down from the 10th overall selection and came away with Fant at the 20th. He instantly solves the question that the Broncos have had for years at the position.

On Day Two they addressed the trenches by bringing in Risner and Jones. Both have high upside, and Risner could be a Day One starter along the offensive line. The only question is, where? Risner has unique versatility, having played center and tackle at the college level, but he maybe best at guard.

Landing Lock was the key to this being a strong draft class. Everyone knows the Broncos have whiffed on addressing the quarterback position and instead of being pressured into reaching for one, the Broncos took that draft capital from trading in the first-round to jump up and take Lock, immediately after taking Risner.

Kansas City Chiefs: C
2.) Mecole Hardman, WR, Georgia
2b.) Juan Thornhill, S, Virginia
3.) Khalen Saunders, DT, Western Illinois
6.) Rashad Fenton, CB, South Carolina
6b.) Darwin Thompson, RB, Utah St.
7.) Nick Allegretti, OG, Illinois

The Chiefs really have to look themselves in the mirror. After cutting running back Kareem Hunt last season following the release of a video depicting him in a physical altercation with a woman, the team sent their first-round pick to Seattle for defensive end Frank Clark (who was kicked off the Michigan football team after a domestic violence arrest), AND THEN Tyreek Hill made headlines over draft weekend as audio surfaced which led to the child abuse case against Hill being reopened by local authorities (he also beat his girlfriend while she was pregnant and still was drafted by Kansas City). This is extremely poor management on full display and unfortunately for their rookie class, clouds their ascent to the NFL.

All that aside, the Chiefs addressed most of their needs over free agency. The draft acted more as an opportunity to fill the gaps on their roster. The Chiefs needed an extra weapon in the slot and added Hardman. He is electric with the ball in his hands and can provide some juice to the return game as well. The Chiefs offensive line was a big need and did little to add depth.

Adding to the defense was most important as they transform from a 3-4 scheme to a 4-3 scheme. Again, the Chiefs were big players in free agency, so this was more about creating depth. Thornhill and Saunders offer that, with starter upside. Thornhill, is versatile enough to lineup virtually anywhere in the secondary.

LA Chargers: B
1.) Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame
2.) Nassir Adderly, S, Delaware
3.) Trey Pipkins, OT, Sioux Falls
4.) Drue Tranquill, LB, Notre Dame
5.) Easton Stick, QB, North Dakota St.
6.) Emeke Egbule, LB, Houston
7.) Cortez Broughton, DT, Cincinnati

Unlike the Broncos, the Bolts weren’t jumping up and down the draft board. They stood pat and brought in a lot of production. With their first two picks they addressed their two biggest needs in defensive tackle and safety. Tillery, is a monster in the middle and got better every year at Notre Dame. Tillery in a rotation with Justin Jones and Brandon Mebane will be fun to watch.

As will the new duo Derwin James and Adderly. He may not be a flashy name, but he is a great football player and four-year starter with position versatility. He tallied 33 pass breakups and 11 interceptions over his career in Delaware and will be perfect compliment to the dynamic James.

The rest of the draft provides and depth and development players. Pipkins, is a D-II talent, but he was dominate. If coached up well, Pipkins could be an anchor on the right side. Stick, is the winningest quarterback in FCS history. Tranquill, if healthy, could develop into a starter sooner than later.

Oakland Raiders: A-
1.) Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
1b.) Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
1c.) Johnathan Abram, S, Mississippi St.
2.) Trayvon Mullen, CB, Clemson
4.) Maxx Crosby, DE, Eastern Michigan
4b.) Isaiah Johnson, CB, Houston
4c.) Foster Moreau, TE, LSU
5.) Hunter Renfrow, WR, Clemson
7.) Quenton Bell, DE, Prairie View A&M

The Raiders clearly targeted two things in this size and production. This is a loaded draft class in regard to those two criteria. While some may say the selection of Clelin Ferrell was a reach at No. 4, the player as a whole is hard to argue against. Ferrell’s numbers got better every season at Clemson. You can count on quality play from Ferrell for a decade.

The team went heavy on defense, going back to that side of the ball with five of their eight remaining picks. Abram and Mullen, are instant upgrades to the passing defense and could emerge as Day One starters. Johnson, has tremendous size, but little production. He could be molded into a starter in time.

On the offensive side of the ball, Oakland addressed the skill positions with Jacobs, Moreau, and Renfrow. Jacobs, arguably the top back in the draft, gives the Raiders the lead back they need. Moreau, is an under the radar player. Steady, old school prospect who is a force as a blocker and has the hands to add value in the passing game. Renfrow, is a classic gritty Jon Gruden type of player.

2019 NFL Draft Grades: AFC North

Baltimore Ravens: A
1.) Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
3.) Jaylon Ferguson, OLB, Louisiana Tech
3b.) Miles Boykin, WR, Notre Dame
4.) Justice Hill, RB, Oklahoma St.
4b.) Ben Powers, OG, Oklahoma
4c.) Iman Marshall, CB, USC
5.) Daylon Mack, DT, Texas A&M
6.) Trace McSorely, QB, Penn St.

Newly minted GM Eric DeCosta did a helluva job in first year running the show. DeCosta, has been the GM in-waiting for years, and didn’t hesitate to put his mark on the roster, going out and investing top draft capital within the receiving corps.

Quarterback Lamar Jackson is going to need targets if he is going to succeed and DeCosta stocked the arsenal. Brown, is a blur who can take the top off an offense. He may be slight in stature, Brown has big time production with 132 catches for 2,413 yards and 17 touchdowns. Boykin, a towering target who runs good routes and isn’t going to lose many jump balls. Hill, is a playmaker to help on the ground.

On defense, the Ravens got tremendous value in Ferguson. He is an absolute menace as an edge rusher. He has some questions about effort, but 66.5 tackles for loss and 45 sacks over four years simply can’t be ignored. Marshall and Mack provide quality depth.

Cincinnati Bengals: B-
1.) Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
2.) Drew Sample, TE, Washington
3.) Germaine Pruitt, LB, NC State
4.) Ryan Finley, QB, NC State
4b.) Rennell Wren, DT, Arizona St.
4c.) Michael Jordan, OG, Ohio St.
6.) Treyvon Williams, RB, Texas A&M
6b.) Deshaun Davis, LB, Auburn
6c.) Rodney Anderson, RB, Oklahoma
7.) Jordan Brown, CB, South Dakota St.

The Bengals started off strong by drafting Williams. He has a similar disposition to that of former-Bengal Andrew Whitworth. Williams, is the right kind of nasty and never missed a game in college. He was a three-year starter at Bama and played both sides of the line. What else do you want? That is a 10-year starter from Day One.

It’s the later rounds that things get strange and they do so quickly. First in drafting Sample. Sample had 21 total catches before his 25 receptions this past season and only totaled five career touchdowns, three of which came last year. Maybe I’m missing something, but I don’t think I am.

Pruitt and Davis are valuable additions to virtually empty positional group. Adding to trenches in Wren and Jordan are also welcomed additions. Jordan, could challenge for a starting position. Finley, is a capable talent who could evolve into Andy Dalton’s replacement.

Perhaps the most interesting pick came in the sixth-round. Anderson, is a supremely talented player. However, he only had one healthy season at Oklahoma. In his one healthy season, Anderson amassed 1,161 yards and 13 touchdowns. He has ability as a blocker and can provide a target out of the backfield. If he can shake the injury bug, this could be a strike of gold…but that’s a big if.

Cleveland Browns: B
2.) Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
3.) Sione Takitaki, LB, BYU
4.) Sheldrick Redwine, S, Miami
5.) Mack Wilson, LB, Alabama
5b.) Austin Seibert, K, Oklahoma
6.) Drew Forbes, OG, SE Missouri
7.) Donnie Lewis, CB, Tulane

Brown’s GM John Dorsey didn’t wait to make a splash. He spent his first-round pick to acquire Odell Beckham Jr., you really can’t use a first-round pick much better than that. Because of that the Browns had to wait until Day Two to join the party and they cannon balled right into the draft by trading up to take Williams.

Williams, might be the most naturally gifted cornerback in the draft, but he was dogged by questions of effort. Regardless, he posted 19 pass breakups and eight interceptions in his two years as a starter. That’s now a dynamic young tandem in Cleveland with Denzel Ward and Greedy Williams.

Takitaki and Wilson add competition to the linebacker position. The only incumbent starters are Christian Kirksey and Joe Schobert, and either could earn the third spot. Taktaki, had character red flags until he matured, earned the captain’s mantel, and turned in a 118 tackle season. Wilson, is highly athletic, but still developing. He only started one year at Bama.

Pittsburgh Steelers: B+
1.) Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
3.) Diontae Johnson, WR, Toledo
3b.) Justin Layne, CB, Michigan St.
4.) Benny Snell, RB, Kentucky
5.) Zach Gentry, TE, Michigan
6.) Sutton Smith, OLB, Northern Illinois
6b.) Isaiah Buggs, DT, Alabama
6c.) Ulysees Gilbert, LB, Akron
7.) Derwin Gray, OT, Maryland

I really like what Pittsburgh did. There were only two truly dynamic linebackers in this draft and after one of them was taken off the board, they weren’t waiting around. They jumped ten spots and took Bush. Not only was it a great move (moving in front a division rival nonetheless), but Bush fills a need that has dogged them for years.

Because of the trade, the Steelers had to wait until the third-round to get back into things. And when they did, they made tremendous additions. Johnson, is an explosive talent. He can make a play any time he touches the ball and has special teams experience. Layne, a converted wide receiver, plays the corner position fully understanding the nuances of the position. In an under performing group, he could get playing time early.

The sixth-round brought a pair of intriguing prospects in Smith and Buggs. Smith is an undersized pass rusher, but has crazy production. He had 124 tackles, 56.5 for loss, and 29 sacks in two years. Clearly he’s doing something right. Buggs, is the other addition. A productive two-year starter at Bama, Buggs has the make up to become a key rotational defender along the line.

2019 NFL Draft: Day 2 Preview

Day One was a wild and rainy event in Nashville, and that was only the beginning. We saw reaches in Oakland taking Clelin Ferrell at No. 4 overall and the Giants taking their heir to Eli in Daniel Jones. The two teams also made history by marking the 2019 NFL Draft as the first draft in history to have two teams with three picks a piece in the first-round.

So with so much crazy on Day One, where does that leave us for Day Two?

The Fallen Five
After the New England Patriots turned in the final pick of the Day One of the NFL Draft, there were five players left in the green room: Missouri quarterback Drew Lock, Oklahoma guard Cody Ford, Florida tackle Jawaan Taylor, LSU cornerback Greedy Williams, and Ole Miss wide receiver D.K. Metcalf.

Those players will top the list of players available for selection when Round 2 kicks off at 7 P.M. EST.

New Day, New Teams
Day Two of the NFL Draft will bring a number of teams into the fold. The Chicago Bears, Kansas City Chiefs, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, and New Orleans Saints were already slated to miss out on the first-round, barring a trade up (which didn’t happen for any team). All but the Bears will enter the draft come Round 2, the Bears will join in Round 3 – byproduct of their stellar trade for All-Pro linebacker Khalil Mack.

The Indianapolis Colts and St. Louis Rams traded out of the first-round last night, and will also join the party in Round 2.

Multiple Multiples
The Colts will be on the clock early in Round 2 and have the most picks of the round with three. The Broncos, Eagles, Texans, Patriots, and Chiefs all have two picks.

In Round 3, the Rams and the Patriots have the most picks with three apiece. The Ravens, Panthers, Redskins, Jaguars, Jets, and Steelers all have two picks. All this accumulation of capital makes it very likely for movement once any of these teams are on the clock.

Veterans on the Move
Two key veteran departures to watch for on Day Two are the potential trade of Cardinals quarterback Josh Rosen and the release of Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Both cases are worth paying attention to for very different reasons.

Rosen, the 10th overall pick last year, is now expendable after the Cards drafted Kyler No. 1 overall last night. With three teams drafting quarterbacks in Round 1, the pool of teams who need a quarterback has shrunk considerably. The teams left to watch for making a potential move are the Dolphins, Patriots, Packers, and Chargers.

In regards to Hill, the star receiver for the Chiefs entered the league under the disgusting cloud of having beaten his pregnant girlfriend. That got swept under the rug. Then more recently reports surfaced Hill now in trouble for having beaten his three year-old child, and just yesterday audio was released by his girlfriend regarding the situation.

It’s a disgusting story and shouldn’t be hard for you to track down, should you want further detail. I don’t want to write any more on it. Hill, should have never played in the league to begin with and shouldn’t ever again after all this surfaced. The Chiefs cut star running back Kareem Hunt last year for a physical altercation with a woman, it will be worth watching if they follow suit.

Round 2 Mock Draft
On lighter note, mock draft season ain’t done yet! Here’s a preview of Round 2…

1.) Arizona Cardinals: Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
2.) Indianapolis Colts: Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
3.) Oakland Raiders: Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama
4.) San Francisco 49ers: A.J. Brown, WR, Ole Miss
5.) Seattle Seahawks: Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S, Florida
6.) Jacksonville Jaguars: Greg Little, OT, Ole Miss
7.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cody Ford, OG, Oklahoma
8.) Buffalo Bills: D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
9.) Denver Broncos: Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
10.) Cincinnati Bengals: Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
11.) Detroit Lions: Joejuan Williams, CB, Vanderbilt
12.) Green Bay Packers: Jace Sternberger, TE, Texas A&M
13.) LA Rams: Erik McCoy, C, Texas A&M
14.) Indianapolis Colts: Dre’Mont Jones, DT, Ohio St.
15.) Carolina Panthers: Will Grier, QB, West Virginia
16.) Miami Dolphins: Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech
17.) Cleveland Browns: Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
18.) Minnesota Vikings: Miles Sanders, RB, Penn St.
19.) Tennessee Titans: Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
20.) Denver Broncos: Julian Love, CB, Notre Dame
21.) Philadelphia Eagles: Parris Campbell, WR, Ohio St.
22.) Houston Texans: Darrell Henderson, RB, Memphis
23.) Houston Texans: Lonnie Johnson, CB, Kentucky
24.) New England Patriots: Taylor Rapp, S, Washington
25.) Philadelphia Eagles: Juan Thornhill, S, Virginia
26.) Dallas Cowboys: Zach Allen, DT, Boston College
27.) Indianapolis Colts: Damien Harris, RB, Alabama
28.) LA Chargers: Dalton Risner, OT, Kansas St.
29.) Kansas City Chiefs: Andy Isabella, WR, UMass
30.) New Orleans Saints: Dawson Knox, TE, Ole Miss
31.) Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Layne, CB, Michigan St.
32.) New England Patriots: Jarrett Stidham, QB, Auburn

2019 NFL Mock Draft 3.0

Here we go! The big day is here and we are just hours away from Day One of the 2019 NFL Draft. Is there anything more exciting? Probably, but for the football obsessed this is as good a day as any, and what a wild night it’s shaping up to be.

Conventional wisdom had Oklahoma quarterback, and reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Kyler Murray pegged at No. 1 overall and Ohio State defensive end Nick Bosa locked at No. 2.

Well, things are up in the air now. How much? Just look at the number of sportsbooks that had Murrays odds of going first overall nosedive last night. And things don’t look any better when considering the fact that he blew off a charity event yesterday.

In a normal year, the Top 5 are fairly predictable. That’s not the case this year and with so much uncertainty, the probability of a trade happening within the Top 10 only grows more likely. Atlanta is latest to be rumored into a Top 10 jump, and Houston is also in consideration to pole vault up the draft board.

So where does that leave us with our mock draft? God only knows. But we are confident as ever in our mock draft and expect to once again hit .300….hopefully. Here is our final mock draft…

1.) Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
I’m keeping it boring. While we can totally see Oakland jumping into this spot, we don’t predict trades in our mock drafts. Wouldn’t be completely shocked to hear Bosa or Williams’ name called either.

2.) San Francisco 49ers: Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio St.
Keeping things consistent with our first two mock drafts, Bosa is the man once again. Williams could be in contention here too.

3.) New York Jets: Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
There has been a lot made of Oliver to the Jets. New defensive coordinator Gregg Williams was with the St. Louis Rams when they drafted Aaron Donald, and Oliver has drawn a lot comparisons to Donald. That being said, the Jets have expressed a desire to trade down. Keep an eye out.

4.) Oakland Raiders: Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
In our last mock draft we had the Raiders taking quarterback Dwayne Haskins. There was a lot of back-and-forth over keeping him here or taking Williams, arguably the best player in the draft. In the end we went with Williams.

5.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Devin White, LB, LSU
The Bucs let former-LSU linebacker Kwon Alexander leave via free agency and now replace him the former-LSU linebacker Devin White. While White’s play is worthy of a Top 5 selection, his leadership qualities make him an even more valuable draft pick.

6.) New York Giants: Josh Allen, OLB, Kentucky
Talk about talent meeting need. Allen is a perfect fit for what the Giants are trying to do on defense. In a 3-4 defense you’re only as good as your pass rushers and the G-Men don’t have any. Allen had 17 sacks last season.

7.) Jacksonville Jaguars: Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
Another pick we are keeping from our last mock draft. It just makes too much sense. Adding a bookend to Cam Robinson is a smart move. Nick Foles needs to be protected.

8.) Detroit Lions: Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
The tight end position is interesting this year. The top prospects are from the same school and it really comes down to preference. The Lions added veteran Jesse James via free agency, adding Fant would be a great complimentary piece. Also, don’t be surprised if Detroit trades down.

9.) Buffalo Bills: Andre Dillard, OT, Washington St.
Like Detroit, the Bills are also interested in trading down (allegedly). If they don’t, bolstering that front line would be a smart move. Adding Dillard would allow the Bills to flip tackle Dion Dawkins over to the right side, a position better suited for the veteran.

10.) Denver Broncos: Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
New head coach Vic Fangio was the defensive coordinator in Chicago last year when they drafted linebacker Roquan Smith. Fangio, knows the importance of a sideline-to-sideline defender in the middle of a 3-4 defense. Bush, would be a welcome addition.

11.) Cincinnati Bengals: Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
The Bengals’ offensive line was a joke last year. Was that a little too strong? Don’t care! Adding Williams would be a game changer. He is a Day One starter, the only question is where on the right side does he play, guard or tackle?

12.) Green Bay Packers: T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
And so we have it! Two Iowa tight ends off the board within the Top 15. Hockenson, is a complete tight end and takes some pressure off of veteran Jimmy Graham.

13.) Miami Dolphins: Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi St.
This is a very interesting position in the draft, if things shake out like this. There are two quarterbacks to watch here: Haskins and Duke’s Daniel Jones. It’s not outside the realm of possibility, but if Haskins starts to slide expect the Redskins to trade up and take him.

If they don’t go and grab a quarterback, watch for Sweat. Sweat, has medical red flags (breaking stories have refuted this), but he has been aware of it and still excelled in the SEC. Miami is very thin at defensive end, and Sweat could make a difference.

14.) Atlanta Falcons: Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Atlanta is being linked with a move into the Top 10. The player that seems to be getting linked with them is Devin Bush. If they can’t move up to take the linebacker, look for them to add to their collection of Clemson defensive lineman (Vic Beasley and Grady Jarrett) by adding Wilkins.

15.) Washington Redskins: Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio St.
This would be a perfect scenario for Washington. No trading up and still get their quarterback. But what happens if this mock gets it wrong (doubtful) and Haskins goes to Oakland? Look for a wide receiver, edge rusher, or Daniel Jones.

16.) Carolina Panthers: Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
The Panthers need help in the trenches on both sides of the ball. The question then becomes, do they address the offensive side or the defensive? Ferrell, is a well-rounded end, who can rush the passer and set the edge. His sacks numbers went from 6 to 9.5 to 11.5 over the past three years. A great trajectory for the Panthers to gamble on.

17.) New York Giants: Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan
That’s right! No quarterback! I agree that Eli Manning looks like a deer trying to stand on ice while he plays football, but the Giants had the 11th ranked passing offense last year. Yes, you read that right. GM Dave Gettleman loves his “hog mollies” in the trenches. Gary, is just that.

18.) Minnesota Vikings: Garrett Bradbury, C, NC State
This is a matter of one player solving two problems. Bradbury, is a Day One starter and the reigning Rimington Trophy winner. His arrival to the team allows the Vikings to shift current center Pat Elflein to guard.

19.) Tennessee Titans: Brian Burns, OLB, Florida St.
Tennessee traded up to acquire two linebackers last year, but they still need more. They brought in veteran pass rusher Cameron Wake, but how much does he have left in the tank? Burns can start off as a third down speed rusher, before taking over as a starter.

20.) Pittsburgh Steelers: Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
The question isn’t which position will the Steelers address, but rather which player will they choose at cornerback? Will it be Rock Ya-Sin, DeAndre Baker, maybe Byron Murphy? Ultimately, we landed on Williams for our final mock draft. He is (arguably) the best player at the position and will bring some size to the secondary.

21.) Seattle Seahawks: Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech
Seattle is such a hard team to read come draft season. James Carpenter? Bruce Irvin? Rashaad Penny? They are unconventional. The recent trade of Frank Clark has only increased the need they already had at end. Ferguson, racked up 17.5 sacks last season.

22.) Baltimore Ravens: D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
We had the Ravens taking a wide receiver in our last mock draft, we only switched the name. This position is primed for either Marquise Brown or Metcalf. They both have wheels, but Metcalf is the bigger target. Either will work and the Ravens are in desperate need at wide receiver.

23.) Houston Texans: Cody Ford, OG, Oklahoma
The hubbub around the Texans trying to trade up centers around them addressing their offensive line. If they want one of the top tackle prospects they’ll have to move up to around the bottom of the Top 10. If they can’t pull off a move, Ford is not the worst backup plan. He offers position versatility and grit to the offensive line.

24.) Oakland Raiders: Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
Veteran Marshawn Lynch has virtually retired, leaving the team with no real prospects to take over the lead back role. Jacobs, split time at Alabama which means he has plenty of tread on his tires. He would work well with third down back Jalen Richard.

25.) Philadelphia Eagles: N’Keal Harry, WR, Arizona St.
Here’s something different. Yes, they have DeSean Jackson (again) and Alshon Jeffery, but they lost Golden Tate and the writing looks to be on the wall for Nelson Agholor. Harry, posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons as a Sun Devil.

26.) Indianapolis Colts: Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi St.
In our last mock draft we had Simmons landing with the Colts in the second-round, but I don’t think teams will be sleeping on Simmons that long anymore. Simmons, tore his ACL in a pre-draft work out, but he is a Top 10 talent. The benefit of drafting him in the first-round, is that a team would then have a fifth year option to exercise on his contract.

27.) Oakland Raiders: Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
Ya-Sin, has had a steady climb up draft boards all draft season. He only had one year at Temple, but it was a big one in which he tallied 14 pass break-ups and two interceptions. He sticks to his man, and closes quickly thanks to great awareness.

28.) LA Chargers: Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
Admittedly, I don’t believe Jones lasts this long. But if he does, the Chargers would be wise to draft him. The Chargers don’t have a backup plan for Phillip Rivers and he isn’t getting any younger. Jones, has been molded to excel in the NFL.

29.) Seattle Seahawks: Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S, Florida
The Seahawks doing more Seahawk things. Gardner-Johnson, is a versatile and aggressive safety. Two things Seattle loves in their defenders. He can line up as a true safety, but has the coverage ability to play the nickle as well. A sure tackler, Gardner-Johnson is the next piece in a quickly revamped Seattle secondary.

30.) Green Bay Packers: Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
Like Jones, I don’t see Lock lasting this long. Of course, it seems every year that a quarterback prospect falls to the bottom of the first-round and somebody trades up to snag them. While the Packers aren’t trading up, they still stop the slide of Lock and develop him in to Rodgers heir.

31.) LA Rams: Erik McCoy, C, Texas A&M
The Rams are trying to (wisely) trade down and collect some picks. They’ve spent a lot of money on their stars and now are in need of some cheap labor, that comes from rookies. The offensive line needs a youth injection and they currently have no one at the pivot. McCoy remedies both problems.

32.) New England Patriots: A.J. Brown, WR, Ole Miss
Another note on Jones, if Daniel Jones starts to slide and keeps sliding to the near bottom of the first-round, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Pats move up and take the Duke quarterback. But again, no trades in our mock drafts. In this situation, Brown is the man. A big target, big production, and a quality route-runner.