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(04/22/19 7:04pm)
With NFL free agency, pro days and a rampant rumor cycle in full swing, the same is true for On The Clock.
The post-combine, mid-free agency Mock Draft 3.0 features dramatic player movement on the draft board, team needs and a healthy amount of trades. Team needs have changed; so has the opening round.
From pick 1 to 64, this two-round mock goes in-depth to predict who will be going where when all is said and done.
Note: “Proj. TRADE” denotes trades that have been projected. These have not occured… Yet.
For the most up-to-date draft coverage or questions or comments, follow me, @CKrisNorton on Twitter.
Arizona Cardinals (3-13) - Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
Team Needs: WR, CB, DE Mock 2.0: Kyler Murray
Is Arizona ready to bet their future on Kyler Murray? Are the Cardinals trying to drum up trade interest for the first overall pick? One week prior to draft day, smokescreen season is in full swing.
In this mock draft, the Cardinals fully commit to their second rebuild in as many years. Kliff Kingsbury seems intrigued by unleashing a Russell Wilson clone on the NFC West, alongside the original. With the first overall pick, Kingsbury completes step one in bringing his Air Raid offense to the National Football League, a competent quarterback with the ability to scramble and a rocket arm.
(Proj. Trade - SF) Oakland Raiders (4-12) - Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Team Needs: DE, OL, MLB, OLB Mock 2.0: (Trade) Nick Bosa
Oakland’s turbulent season comes full circle. Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden replace Amari Cooper and Khalil Mack with Antonio Brown and Nick Bosa, respectfully with an additional first round pick to spare. The Raiders send the 4th and 27th pick to the San Francisco 49ers in return for the 2nd overall pick.
With the 2nd overall pick, the Raiders select Bosa, a player who is almost unanimously the top ranked prospect in the draft. The re-tooled Raiders are ready to compete in the AFC West.
New York Jets (4-12) - Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
Team Needs: OL, DT, DE Mock 2.0: Quinnen Williams
At the NFL Combine, Jets General Manager Mike Maccagnan expressed the Jets interest in trading down to recoup trade assets from last year’s deal with the Colts to draft Sam Darnold. With Kyler Murray off the board and the Dolphins and Redskins willing to test their luck, the Jets are forced to stay put.
In one of the best player-team pairings in the first round, New York picks the most talented interior defensive lineman in a stacked class in one-man-wrecking-crew Quinnen Williams. Not a bad back-up plan for the J-E-T-S.
(Proj. Trade - OAK) San Francisco 49ers (4-12) - Jonah Williams, OL, Alabama
Team Needs: CB, OLB, WR Mock 2.0: (Trade) Josh Allen
Unusual for a team picking in the top three, San Francisco already has their $137.5 million quarterback of the future in Jimmy Garoppolo. The 49ers are more than happy to trade back, pick up an the 27th overall pick, and select a chess piece along the offensive front who may end up succeeding Joe Staley at left tackle.
If the draft plays out this way, 49er General Manager John Lynch will be acclaimed for “draft move of the year” by NFL analysts. If Lynch is able to find another trade partner, the 49ers may not be done moving down to collect draft capital.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-11) - Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan
Team Needs: CB, SS, RG, DT Mock 2.0: Rashan Gary
Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy’s future in Tampa Bay is murky. If the Bucs opt to decline McCoy’s option, a new bully in the front seven is necessary. If McCoy’s option is picked up, Gary still makes sense. Michigan’s game plan for Gary was constantly in question last season. Is he a defensive tackle at the next level? Is he a defensive end?
Either way, the Buccaneers procure the self-proclaimed best prospect in the draft.
New York Giants (5-11) - Josh Allen, DE, Kentucky
Team Needs: OL, QB, DE Mock 2.0: Dwayne Haskins
No quarterback for the Giants? Not with this pick. Having a top-three talent fall into their lap a month removed from the Olivier Vernon-for-Kevin Zeitler trade is too tempting for New York to pass up. Allen’s 17.0 sacks in his final collegiate season would be more than welcome on a Giants defensive front that only forced 30 sacks in 2018.
The Giants are gearing up for one last run at the postseason with Eli Manning.
Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11) - T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
Team Needs: TE, OC, DL Mock 2.0: Jonah Williams
With an elite defense and incoming quarterback Nick Foles in the fold, Jacksonville is an offensive playmaker or two away from matching their 2017 run to the AFC Championship. Unquestionably the most highly-touted tight end in a top-heavy class, Hockenson has a chance to become the first top-ten tight end since Eric Ebron was selected 10th in 2014.
Detroit Lions (6-10) - Montez Sweat, DE, Florida State
Team Needs: WR, OLB, CB Mock 2.0: Montez Sweat
Pairing Montez Sweat with Trey Flowers on the edge, anchored by Damon “Snacks” Harrison and A’Shawn Robinson in the middle gives 2nd-year head coach and former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia the defensive line of his dreams. Aaron Rodgers, Kirk Cousins, and Mitchell Trubisky will have to find comfort outside the pocket.
The Lions defense will look much less like a doormat in 2019.
Buffalo Bills (6-10) - D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
Team Needs: OL, WR, DT, OLB Mock 2.0: Greg Little
Quarterback Josh Allen can’t run for 631 yards again next year. The question for the Bills becomes: is Josh Allen running because of constant lapses in protection or because he doesn’t have anyone downfield creating separation? Both are correct and both will be addressed in the early rounds of the 2019 draft.
In this mock draft, Metcalf’s unparalleled combine testing vaults him up into the top ten and into a Buffalo Bills jersey. Metcalf will look to become the first Bills receiver to tally more than 700 receiving yards since 2015.
10.Denver Broncos (6-10) - Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Team Needs: QB, S, OL Mock 2.0: Drew Lock
Call it a mini-slide for Dwayne Haskins, who some analysts still view as the top quarterback in the class. Through free agency moves and the Giants’ willingness to give Eli Manning the keys to the offense for one more year, the rest of the top ten appears to be set at quarterback.
General Manager John Elway, always captivated with strong-armed prospects like Drew Lock, has a more polished player fall into his lap. Elway is ecstatic to let Haskins develop behind newly-acquired Joe Flacco in his first season as a pro.
11.Cincinnati Bengals (6-10) - Devin White, LB, LSU
Team Needs: MLB, RT, TE, QB Mock 2.0: Devin White
The marriage of the Cincinnati Bengals and Devin White made sense long before the Bengals decided to part ways with long-time linebacker Vontaze Burfict. A sideline-to-sideline thumper is now a necessity in an AFC North division with James Conner, Lamar Jackson, and the suddenly scary Cleveland Browns.
12.Green Bay Packers (6-9-1) - Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
Team Needs: OLB, RG, SS Mock 2.0: Ed Oliver
Aaron Rodgers will retire some day. Each time the seven-time Pro Bowler sets foot on the field with the current offensive line, that day moves dramatically closer.
Taylor, the 6’5 mauler out of Florida, projects as the best right tackle in the draft. His 310-pound frame is a welcomed sight on the Packers offensive front in an attempt to keep pass rushers out of Aaron Rodgers’ face and tacklers out of Aaron Jones’ way.
13.Miami Dolphins (7-9) - Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
Team Needs: CB, WR, QB Mock 2.0: (Trade) None
The Dolphins have won between 6 and 10 games in every season dating back to 2008 and haven’t claimed a single playoff victory since Y2K. With Tom Brady’s stranglehold on the AFC East ending in the near future, Miami sees a window opening. Shipping off Ryan Tannehill, the team’s last first-round quarterback selection (8th overall in 2012), to the Tennessee Titans and signing Ryan Fitzpatrick signals the beginning of a full-scale rebuild.
Drafting a new quarterback is step No. 1. Though the Dolphins could push for a top-five pick for a loaded quarterback draft in 2020. Aside from Tannehill Lock would be the only quarterback selected by the Dolphins in the first round since Dan Marino in 1983.
14.Atlanta Falcons (7-9) - Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
Team Needs: DT, CB, TE Mock 2.0: Christian Wilkins
Steve Sarkisian’s tenure as offensive coordinator has turned a Super Bowl runner-up into a team drafting in the top half of the first round. While the offense hasn’t been firing on all cylinders, it’s still a strength. The defense, meanwhile, has been a sieve.
Adding a difference-maker who has drawn comparisons to Aaron Donald would go a long way in getting after Cam Newton and Drew Brees in the NFC South. The faster the Falcons can force the ball out of opposing quarterbacks’ hands, the more time Matt Ryan will have to orchestrate his offense.
15.Washington Redskins (7-9) - Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
Team Needs: QB, FS, CB Mock 2.0: Byron Murphy
Yes, Washington did trade for Case Keenum. But, that was before Arizona’s selection of Kyler Murray forced Josh Rosen onto the market. In this mock draft, the Redskins have sent a 2nd and a 3rd-round compensatory pick to the Cardinals for Rosen.
On the defensive end, Washington is surprisingly deep. In Josh Norman’s age-30 season, he tallied 64 tackles and three interceptions. But at 31 years old, how much does he have left in the tank? In Byron Murphy, Washington gets one of the premier cover corners in the draft and a potential successor to Norman.
16.Carolina Panthers (7-9) - Clelin Ferrell, DL, Clemson
Team Needs: DE, OL, FS Mock 2.0: Clelin Ferrell
Carolina has had a busy past month. The franchise replaced center Matt Kalil with Matt Paradis, re-signed All-Pro Daryl Williams to a one-year deal, and watched quarterback Cam Newton announce his short-term retirement from sex. Lost in this shuffle and celibacy-induced mind improvement was the retirement of franchise-leading sack artist Julius Peppers.
Versatile defensive lineman Clelin Ferrell won’t be able to fill Peppers’ shoes immediately, but will help the Panthers’ defense maintain quarterback pressure for years to come.
17.New York Giants (5-11) - Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
Team Needs: OL, QB, WR Mock 2.0: N’Keal Harry
After foregoing their choice of incoming quarterbacks not named Kyler Murray with the sixth overall pick, the Giants can’t afford to wait much longer. New York reaches to select a quarterback who has garnered comparisons to their current signal-caller.
At the NFL Scouting Combine in February, Jones even spoke to what it would mean to him to play alongside Eli Manning. New York obliges and selects their quarterback for 2020 and the foreseeable future.
18.Minnesota Vikings (8-7-1) - Greg Little, OL, Ole Miss
Team Needs: OG, DT, OLB Mock 2.0: Jawaan Taylor
In signing former Tennessee guard Josh Kline, the offensive line will already be more stable in 2019 for year two of the Kirk Cousins experiment. Adding a pro-ready tackle will further aid the Viking’s journey back to the playoffs.
19.Tennessee Titans (9-7) - Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Team Needs: OLB, TE, DL Mock 2.0: Brian Burns
Tennessee, like Washington, has underperformed considering the strength of their roster on defense. Also like Washington, the Titans have questions at quarterback. Between Marcus Mariota and newcomer Ryan Tannehill, the Titans should have their answer and be free to fortify their defensive line. Since linebacker Brian Orakpo’s retirement, keeping the defensive front seven strong is priority No. 1.
20.Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6-1) - Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
Team Needs: MLB, WR, CB Mock 2.0: Devin Bush
Though Pittsburgh lost two former All-Pro skill players in 2019, neither wide receiver nor running back is the biggest need. With Juju Smith-Schuster and James Conner taking over, respectively, in these roles, the Steelers can focus on the one loss they never accounted for: linebacker Ryan Shazier.
Despite being slightly undersized (5’11” and 234 pounds), Bush’s 4.43 40-yard dash and 40.5-inch vertical jump certainly looks the part of a sideline-to-sideline enforcer at the next level.
21.Seattle Seahawks (10-6) - Cody Ford, OG, Oklahoma
Team Needs: OG, FS, DE Mock 2.0: T.J. Hockenson
The Seahawks have not spent a first-round pick on a lineman since they took Germain Ifedi out of Texas A&M in 2016, and it shows. After allowing 51 sacks of Russell Wilson last season, it’s time to address the need.
But will Seattle make a pick from the 21st spot? The Seahawks have had both their 1st and 2nd-round picks twice since the 2012 draft. Due to a trade for Houston’s tackle Duane Brown, this year is no exception. Expect Seattle to explore trading down. Indianapolis? New England?
22.Baltimore Ravens (10-6) - A.J. Brown, WR, Ole Miss
Team Needs: WR, DE, FS Mock 2.0: A.J. Brown
The Lamar Jackson era is underway and it’s time to surround him him weapons. Free agent running back Mark Ingram has signed, wide receivers are next. After cutting Michael Crabtree, the Ravens are in the market for a new No. 1 target. Whoever they see as the top-rated receiver will come off the board here. In this case, it’s A.J. Brown out of Ole Miss.
23.Houston Texans (11-5) - Andre Dillard, OT, Washington State
Team Needs: OL, OT, WR Mock 2.0: Chris Lindstrom
The highest priority needs in Houston lie along the offensive line. One year removed from a season-ending ACL injury to franchise quarterback Deshaun Watson, the Texans allowed a league-high 62 sacks.
Dillard, a 3rd Team All-American, has been rising up draft boards after posting a sub-5.0 40-yard dash at 6’5”, 315 pounds. With the 23rd pick, Houston may have found Deshaun Watson his new best friend.
24.Oakland Raiders via CHI (4-12) – Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
Team Needs: DE, OL, MLB, OLB Mock 2.0: Parris Campbell
If the draft was based strictly on athletic talent, Williams would be a shoo-in as a top ten pick. If a team ‘falls in love with him’, he still may be. Due to his slender 6’2”, 185-pound frame and below average tackling ability, he slides in this mock draft. If he does, you won’t see the Raiders complaining.
Pairing Williams with Gareon Conley gives Oakland a young core in the defensive backfield and a fighting chance in the AFC West “spread offense” arms race.
25.Philadelphia Eagles (9-7) - Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
Team Needs: RB, OT, DE Mock 2.0: Josh Jacobs
It’s true that trading for a 1,000-yard rusher and former Pro Bowler in Jordan Howard may shift Philadelphia’s priority in the draft. However, the one constant in the Doug Pederson era has been a backfield by committee. With Jay Ajayi entering free agency, Corey Clement in danger of missing offseason workouts due to injury, and Darren Sproles pondering retirement until May, it may be time to retool the backfield.
Adding the top running back in the class to Jordan Howard immediately forms one of the most daunting backfield duos in the league.
26.Indianapolis Colts (10-6) - Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
Team Needs: WR, DT, CB Mock 2.0: Dexter Lawrence
With nine picks overall and six coming in the first four rounds, it’s conceivable to think that General Manager Chris Ballard may explore packaging some of his war chest to move up in the first round. But as Ballard will tell you, he “likes them picks”. The Colts stand pat to have a top-15 caliber talent fall into their laps.
Though Lawrence was never able to repeat his Freshman All-American season (79 tackles, 9.5 for loss, 7 sacks), he was a mainstay on the best defensive line in the NCAA. Lawrence drops slightly in the first round due to a failed drug test that kept him out of the NCAA championship playoffs in 2018.
27.(Proj. Trade - OAK) San Francisco 49ers (4-12) - Dre Baker, CB, Georgia
Team Needs: CB, OLB, WR Mock 2.0: (Trade) Josh Allen
In trading down with the Raiders from the second spot to the fourth, San Francisco adds an additional first round selection. With Garoppolo and the two-headed monster of Coleman and McKinnon in the backfield, the 49ers can turn their attention to adding playmakers on the defensive side of the ball.
Cornerback Richard Sherman is in the twilight of his prime and will not be a lockdown corner for much longer, maybe not even in 2019. Adding another technically sound cover corner will go a long way for a rebuilding secondary.
28.Los Angeles Chargers(12-4) - Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame
Team Needs: DT, OL, OLB Mock 2.0: Dre’Mont Jones
Another year of Chargers hype; another year left out of the AFC Championship. Even though 37-year-old Philip Rivers is still plugging away at a Pro Bowl level, many analysts have already began lobbying for Los Angeles to select their quarterback of the future.
Instead, the Chargers opt to take advantage of their open window and continue to build around Rivers. Tillery has been hovering around the end of the first round and trending upward. Los Angeles finds another piece for their already-brutal front seven.
29.Kansas City Chiefs (12-4) - Brian Burns, DE, Florida State
Team Needs: CB, DE, S Mock 2.0: Greedy Williams
The 2018 Kansas City Chiefs were a revelation. By selecting overlooked, talented players with “red flags” during the draft process, the Chiefs reaped the benefits of having Kareem Hunt and Tyreek Hill. Now they are dealing with the repercussions. Depending on the outcome of Tyreek Hill’s legal investigation, wide receiver may become a need for part, or all, of 2019.
But, if Brian Burns is still on the board this late in the first round, he will not fall past the Chiefs. Adding a defensive presence after the team moved on from both Dee Ford and Justin Houston is a no-brainer.
30.Green Bay Packers via NO(6-9-1) - Nasir Adderley, S, Delaware
Team Needs: OLB, RG, SS Mock 2.0: Irv Smith Jr.
After losing Haha Clinton-Dix, Green Bay’s secondary has backpedaled this offseason. With their second first round pick, the Packers match need with opportunity in selecting the top-rated safety in Nasir Adderley.
Coming from a football family, the Adderley’s are familiar with Green Bay. Nasir’s distant cousin, Herb Adderley, sealed Lombardi’s Packers win in Super Bowl II with an interception return for a touchdown. Adderley to the Packers would be a great pick and a better story.
Los Angeles Rams (13-3) - Mack Wilson, LB, Alabama
Team Needs: MLB, OLB, OG Mock 2.0: Mack Wilson
For the most complete team in football, this is a luxury pick. As it stands, the weakest group on the roster is the linebacking corps; Mack Wilson would bolster it. Los Angeles could be considered prime landing territory should one of the premier defensive linemen or linebackers fall.
New England Patriots (11-5) - Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
Team Needs: TE, DT, WR Mock 2.0: Noah Fant
As far as Super Bowl Champion rosters go, the Patriots have as many holes as any in recent memory. New England will likely go the “best-player-available” route. In this scenario, it’s Noah Fant. Fant joins T.J. Hockenson to make the first tight end tandem from the same school to ever be drafted in the first round. Out goes Gronkowski, in comes Fant.
Arizona Cardinals (3-13) - N’Keal Harry, WR, Arizona State
Team Needs: WR, CB, DE First Round: Kyler Murray, QB
Josh Rosen or Kyler Murray, whoever finds himself under center in Arizona in 2020, is going to need help in the trenches. Unfortunately for Rosen, Murray, and the Cardinals, there isn’t an offensive tackle left on the board worthy of the 33rd pick.
However, the Cardinals’ quarterback will get help in the top of the 2nd round. Arizona finds the long-term successor to future Hall of Famer Larry Fitzgerald in N’Keal Harry.
Indianapolis Colts via NYJ (10-6) - Jonathan Abram, S, Mississippi State
Team Needs: WR, DT, CB First Round: Dexter Lawrence, DT
Though starting strong safety Clayton Geathers is only 26 years old and on a team-friendly one-year contract, his health is a constant question mark. The Colts forego needs at wide receiver and cornerback to find his replacement.
Like Geathers, Abram doesn’t shy away from contact. With a reputation as one of the hardest hitters in the SEC last season, Abram adds a new, much-needed, alpha in the Colts’ secondary.
Oakland Raiders (4-12) – Chris Lindstrom, OG, Boston College
Team Needs: DE, OL, MLB, OLB First Round: Nick Bosa, DE, Greedy Williams, CB
The basis of Jon Gruden’s offensive master plan was to bring football back to 1998 with a ‘smashmouth’ style. But we didn’t see much of the newly installed run game last year, or a passing game, or defense.
Parting ways with Donald Penn opens a spot at offensive tackle, but Oakland is in a position where they can afford to select the best offensive lineman available outside center. Chris Lindstrom’s run-heavy approach at Boston College makes him suited to slot in next to center Rodney Hudson and into Gruden’s vision.
San Francisco 49ers (4-12) - Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
Team Needs: CB, OLB, WR First Round: Jonah Williams, OL
Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo is back, but who will he throw to in 2019? Outside of Marquise Goodwin and maybe Dante Pettis, the cupboard looks bare. In adding Tevin Coleman to the backfield with Jerick McKinnon, San Francisco is looking to build a potent offense. They’re missing a dynamic catch-and-run receiver… Until now.
One of the most electric receivers in college football last season, Brown’s draft position takes a hit due to his foot injury late last season as well as his diminutive size (170 pounds). “Hollywood” Brown lands on a roster that made a compelling offer to Pittsburgh for his cousin, Antonio.
New York Giants (5-11) - Garrett Bradbury, OC, N.C. State
Team Needs: OL, QB, DE First Round: Josh Allen, DE, Daniel Jones, QB
Three of the past five drafts have not seen a center drafted in the opening round. 2019 is not the year to buck the trend. New York is ready to capitalize by selecting the top-rated center in the draft with their third selection of 2019.
Whoever is under center, Eli Manning or Daniel Jones (in this draft), the signal caller needs help badly. Bradbury is an able pass-blocker but his expertise lies in getting to the second level in run-blocking. For a team looking to become a run-first attack behind Saquon Barkley, the Giants finds a perfect match in Bradbury.
Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11) - Eric McCoy, OC, Texas A&M
Team Needs: TE, OC, DL First Round: T.J. Hockenson, TE
For the second year in a row, the first two centers off the board go back-to-back (Frank Ragnow and Billy Price in 2018). Jacksonville’s opening two picks are spent along the offensive line to give newly-acquired Nick Foles the help he’ll need to contend in the AFC South.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-11) - Deionte Thompson, S, Alabama
Team Needs: CB, SS, RG, DT First Round: Rashan Gary, DL
After giving up a 34 touchdowns to just 9 interceptions and 8.2 yards-per-attempt in 2018, it’s time for changes in the Bucs’ defensive backfield. Adding Rashan Gary bolsters the pass-rush, whether defensive tackle Gerald McCoy returns or not.
Tampa Bay did sign safety Kentrell Brice from Green Bay, but his upside is nowhere near Thompson’s. A young tandem of Thompson and Justin Evans behind Vernon Hargreaves has potential to turn around the Buccaneers’ secondary.
Buffalo Bills (6-10) - Dalton Risner, OL, Kansas State
Team Needs: OL, WR, DT, OLB First Round: D.K. Metcalf, WR
Another round and another chance for Buffalo to surround second-year quarterback Josh Allen with talent. This time, the Bills choose to fortify their floundering offensive line. At 6’5”, 300 pounds and an exceptional pass-blocker, Risner figures to be a strong right tackle at the professional level.
Denver Broncos (6-10) - Parris Campbell, WR, Ohio State
Team Needs: QB, S, OL First Round: Dwayne Haskins, QB
General Manager John Elway secured this year’s ‘quarterback of the future’ in Dwayne Haskins in the first. Cutting Demaryius Thomas lead to the emergence of Courtland Sutton in 2018; Emmanuel Sanders’ age may cede responsibility to Parris Campbell in 2019. The 6’1” burner out of Ohio State ran a 4.31 40-yard-dash at the NFL Scouting Combine and is trending towards the end of the of the first round. If available, the Broncos have an easy choice to make.
Cincinnati Bengals (6-10) - Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
Team Needs: MLB, RT, TE, QB First Round: Devin White, LB
Trending the opposite direction of Parris Campbell is defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. The Mississippi State product was a near-lock to be a top-ten pick until he tore his ACL during an offseason workout Feb. 12.. Facing a long road to recovery, Simmons will likely not be available until 2020.
For the rebuilding Bengals, time is a small price to pay for an elite talent. The former Freshman All-SEC, All-SEC, and Third Team All American lead the Bulldogs with 17 tackles for loss, including two sacks, in 2018.
Detroit Lions (6-10) - Jachai Polite, DE/OLB, Florida
Team Needs: WR, OLB, CB First Round: Montez Sweat, DE
Yes, Detroit just signed Trey Flowers. Yes, this mock draft has the Lions taking Montez Sweat with the eighth pick. But, with former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia at the helm, pass rush is the top priority in a stacked NFC North. Starting Flowers and Sweat with Polite coming in as a reliever is a daunting ask of any offensive tackle.
Polite looked like a 15-25 selection early in the year. In a breakout 2018, Polite garnered All-American honors with 17.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and an NCAA-high 6 forced fumbles. However, no one has done a better job of tanking his draft stock since the combine. After a sluggish 4.84 40-yard dash, Polite came off as annoyed with his combine interviews. He believed that the teams he met with were picking on the faults in his game.
Green Bay Packers (6-9-1) – Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech
Team Needs: OLB, RG, SS First Round: Jawaan Taylor, OT, Nasir Adderley, S
For Green Bay, this draft is about filling as many holes as possible to give 35-year-old Aaron Rodgers the pieces he needs to compete for one last shot at a Super Bowl. Having already satisfied needs along the offensive line and the secondary, pass rush is next in line. After not receiving an invite to the Scouting Combine, Ferguson has been busy. With 22 scheduled top-30 visits, he may not last 43 picks.
Atlanta Falcons (7-9) - Amani Oruwariye, CB, Penn State
Team Needs: DT, CB, TE First Round: Ed Oliver, DT
Owners of the NFL’s 5th-worst passing defense (260 yards per game), the Falcons also gave up a second-highest completion percentage of 68.0 as well as 33 touchdowns to 15 interceptions.
That has to change in 2020. In an attempt to bounce back into playoff contention, Atlanta selects the best defensive back available with Amani Oruwariye.
(Proj. Trade - WSH) Arizona Cardinals (3-13) - Michael Jordan, OL, Ohio State
Team Needs: WR, CB, DE Picks: Kyler Murray, QB, N’Keal Harry, WR
Three picks, three chances for first year head coach Kliff Kingsbury to reshape his offense in his image. The Josh Rosen era netted Arizona the first overall pick in the draft and this second round selection from Washington as trade compensation.
Left guard J.R. Sweezy turned 30 earlier this month. Right guard Justin Pugh has been bounced from right tackle to left guard, then to the right side, in addition to only being healthy for 15 games in the past two seasons. A fresh body on the offensive line would go a long way in Kyler Murray’s development.
Carolina Panthers (7-9) - Taylor Rapp, S, Washington
Team Needs: DE, OL, S First Round: Clelin Ferrell
The Panthers are a difficult team to predict in this position. Having filled a defensive line need with Ferrell in the first round as well as watching four offensive linemen come off the board in the last nine picks, this is not the way Carolina wants to see Friday play out. General manager Marty Hurney would have two options: safety or wide receiver.
In this mock, he chooses the latter. Taylor Rapp’s game perfectly complements safety Eric Reid’s. Whereas Reid is a coverage free safety, Rapp is better suited for the box and is an instinctive run supporter. A strong centerfield is a must with a schedule that sees the Saints and Falcons twice per year.
Miami Dolphins (7-9) - Kelvin Harmon, WR, NC State
Team Needs: CB, WR, QB First Round: Drew Lock
In this mock, Miami has replaced Ryan “this is his year” Tannehill with Drew Lock to stash behind Ryan Fitzpatrick. If the Dolphins are in fact looking to stay competitive, I’ll set the over/under of games started by Fitzpatrick at 7.5.
Jarvis Landry, the only Dolphins wide receiver to post a 1,000 yard season since 2010, is also no longer with the club. Not a single Miami wide receiver surpassed 575 yards last season, a paltry mark of 38.1 yards per game.
Cleveland Browns (7-8-1) - Tre Lamar, LB, Clemson
Team Needs: OL, LB, S First Round: None (Traded #17, #95, Jabrill Peppers for Odell Beckham Jr.)
Cleveland General Manager John Dorsey is on a spending spree and has given the Browns franchise a seven-win season for the first time in five years. No stranger to shopping picks, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Browns move up or down on draft day.
Should Cleveland stay put at No. 49,, they’ll look to bolster their linebacking corps after letting Jamie Collins become a cap casualty. Though he isn’t the most gifted at sifting through blockers and diagnosing plays early, he would feel right at home behind Myles Garrett and Olivier Vernon.
Minnesota Vikings (8-7-1) - Renell Wren, DT, Arizona State
Team Needs: OG, DT, OLB First Round: Greg Little, OL
It only takes one team to fall in love with a prospect to see him come off the board sooner than anticipated. Despite a modest 4.5 tackles for loss, one sack and two pass deflections in 2018, it’s not his production that will have teams interested. But a 6’5”, 318-pounder who runs a 5.01 40-yard dash will drum up attention. Wren put up 30 reps on the bench press in addition to showing quick feet in individual drills at the combine.
Putting Wren on a defensive line with Linval Joseph and Danielle Hunter would almost be unfair.
Tennessee Titans (9-7) - Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama
Team Needs: OLB, TE, DL First Round: Christian Wilkins, DT
Tennessee’s Mariota vs. Tannehill quarterback battle will be an interesting one to watch in preseason. Whoever comes out on top is going to need a security blanket. 34-year-old Delanie Walker, coming off a gruesome lower leg injury in last year’s season opener, is not long for this league. As Jonnu Smith has come along slowly, it is time to add another pass-catcher to the mix.
Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6-1) - Hakeem Butler, WR, Iowa State
Team Needs: MLB, WR, CB First Round: Devin Bush, LB
Whether they intended to be or not, the Steelers were prepared for the departures of Le’Veon Bell and Antonio Brown. With the #1 wide receiver and running back roles in good hands with Juju Smith-Schuster and James Conner, respectively, it’s time to work on refilling depth.
Behind Smith-Schuster, James Washington produced an underwhelming 217 receiving yards in his rookie campaign. After that, the cupboard is bare. Giving quarterback Ben Roethlisberger a 6’5” target with sub-4.5 40-yard dash speed is an interesting enough prospect for General Manager Kevin Colbert to pull the trigger.
Philadelphia Eagles via BAL (9-7) - David Edwards, OT, Wisconsin
Team Needs: RB, OT, DE First Round: Josh Jacobs, RB
The dynamic running game lost its magic in 2018, and so did the Eagles. Adding the top-rated running back in the draft to field the lion’s share of carries is a good first step in righting the ship and stabilizing the running back room, but adding to the trenches may be just as important.
Jason Peters may be the most accomplished left tackle in the NFL (2x All-Pro, 9 Pro Bowls), but at 37 years old it is past time to have a back-up in place. Edwards may not be the most polished pass protector, but he was an integral part of the Badger offensive line that powered Jonathan Taylor to more than 4,000 rushing yards over the past two seasons.
Houston Texans via SEA (11-5) - Terry McLaurin, WR, Ohio State
Team Needs: OL, OT, WR First Round: Andre Dillard, OT
The 2019 draft is all about making life easier on Deshaun Watson. Houston addressed the offensive line in the first round of this mock, but outside of superstar DeAndre Hopkins, the wide receivers aren’t doing Watson any favors.
Despite spending a first round pick on Will Fuller V in 2016, Fuller has only played in 31 of a possible 48 regular season games since 2016. His starts have dropped in each season since his rookie year. In McLaurin, the Texans get a burner with 4.35 speed and 20.0 yards per reception. Opposite Hopkins, he would be able to stretch the field.
Houston Texans (11-5) - Elgton Jenkins, OL, Mississippi State
Team Needs: OL, OT, WR Picks: Andre Dillard, OT, Terry McLaurin, WR
Three picks, three assets for Deshaun Watson. At Mississippi State, Jenkins saw time at four out of five offensive line spots, though most of his experience came at center. More than anything, the Texans need stability up front. Need matches availability and Houston is well on its way to rebuilding the offensive line.
New England Patriots via CHI (11-5) - Riley Ridley, WR, Georgia
Team Needs: TE, DT, WR First Round: Noah Fant, TE
Ideally, New England would be able to add a defensive lineman in the second round but,at this point, the draft’s deepest position has been tapped out.
The reigning Super Bowl champions have drafted a wide receiver in the second round or higher just once since 2006 (Aaron Dobson in the 2nd round, 2006). With a starting duo of Julian Edelman and Phillip Dorsett, it’s time for an infusion of talent. Ridley, the younger brother of Falcons’ receiver Calvin Ridley, projects as a WR2 at the next level. Historically, a group of WR2’s hasn’t been a problem for Tom Brady.
Philadelphia Eagles (9-7) - Zach Allen, DE, Boston College
Team Needs: RB, OT, DE Picks: Josh Jacobs, RB, David Edwards, OT
Zach Allen has been projected by most to come off the board in the early goings of the second round. But in this mock draft, he falls, to the benefit of the Eagles. Though the Eagles have Josh Sweat in the fold, Allen is a much more refined pass rusher and presents a better match with former first-round pick Derek Barnett moving forward.
Dallas Cowboys (10-6) - Juan Thornhill, S, Virginia
Team Needs: TE, S First Round: None (Traded #27 for Amari Cooper)
The Cowboys make their 2019 draft debut after trading their first-round selection for Amari Cooper last season. It appears that the Cowboys may not be in on veteran safety Eric Berry, so they turn to the draft. Thornhill led the Cavaliers in both tackles (98) and interceptions (6) in his senior year, plus seven passes defensed.
Indianapolis Colts (10-6) - Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
Team Needs: WR, DT, CB Picks: Dexter Lawrence, DT, Jonathan Abram, S
The Colts need a wide receiver. Though Indianapolis signed Devin Funchess to start opposite of T.Y. Hilton, their recent history with free agent wide receiver acquisitions has been spotty. Even if Funchess does work out, giving quarterback Andrew Luck a third wide receiver in addition to tight ends Jack Doyle and Eric Ebron and one of the best offensive lines in football turns the Colts into a Super Bowl caliber offense.
The Colts could use toughness on the edge. In a game against Clemson, Samuel weaved through and bounced off of eight defenders on his way to a 50-yard gain.
Los Angeles Chargers(12-4) - Oshane Ximinies, DE, Old Dominion
Team Needs: DT, OL, OLB First Round: Jerry Tillery, DT
With players from a small school, it’s always a relative unknown how they will adjust at the next level. That being said, the end of the second round may be slightly high for the red-shirt senior out of Old Dominion. In this mock draft, offensive linemen have flown off the board, meaning the Chargers can either reach for a need or experiment.
Having lead his team in sacks the past two seasons (33 career sacks), Ximines also ranked in the top ten in the NCAA in forced fumbles in each of the past two seasons, with four in each campaign.
Kansas City Chiefs (12-4) - Damien Harris, RB, Alabama
Team Needs: CB, DE, S First Round: Brian Burns, DE
In the wake of Kareem Hunt’s dismissal from the franchise, the Chiefs are left with Damien Williams and newly-signed Carlos Hyde at running back. This may be strong enough to roll with to open 2019, but the Chiefs would do well to add another hard-nosed runner.
In terms of measurables, Damien Harris and Kareem Hunt had eerily similar numbers coming out of the combine. Both measured 5’”10, 216 pounds. Harris edged Hunt in the 40-yard dash, but Hunt put up two more reps on the bench. Harris beat Hunt in the vertical by just a half inch and by two inches in the broad jump.
New Orleans Saints (13-3) - Michael Deiter, OG, Wisconsin
Team Needs: OL, DE, WR First Round: None (Traded #30 for Marcus Davenport)
Although he hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down, Drew Brees will turn 41 years old during this year’s playoffs. With a closing window, you can bet New Orleans will be doing everything in their power to gear up for one last Super Bowl run (or two). The Saints traded up last year, giving up this year’s first rounder for Marcus Davenport. If the price is right, they may consider moving up again to give Brees his greatest chance for success.
In this draft, they stay put and select Michael Deiter, who garnered Second Team All-American honors as well as First Team All-Big Ten in his senior season.
Kansas City Chiefs via LAR (12-4) - Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, DB, Florida
Team Needs: CB, DE, S Picks: Brian Burns, DE, Damien Harris, RB
With their move to bring in safety Tyrann Mathieu in the offseason, the Chiefs have realized that their woes in the secondary may be the most prevalent hurdle in their way to a Super Bowl appearance.
Gardner-Johnson’s true role on the defense will depend on the team. Kansas City finds itself a defensive chess piece who can be used alongside Mathieu or shifted, depending on matchups.
New England Patriots (11-5) - Isaiah Buggs, DT, Alabama
Team Needs: TE, DT, WR Picks: Noah Fant, TE, Riley Ridley, WR
Having filled Rob Gronkowski’s position with Noah Fant and by signing Austin Sefarian-Jenkins, New England can focus on shoring up other holes throughout the roster. One said holes lies on the interior of the defensive line. Currently manned by Lawrence Guy and Mike Pennel, the Patriots should look to bolster the unit.
Buggs’ combine numbers left more to be desired and he may not come off the board until early on Day 3. However, production in the best conference in the NCAA is hard to argue with. In his senior campaign, Buggs totaled 51 tackles, 13.5 for a loss, 9.5 sacks, three pass break-ups and two forced fumbles.
(03/13/19 3:21pm)
With the 2019 Scouting Combine in the rearview mirror, the NFL is one step closer to the main event of the offseason: the NFL Draft. As general managers and coaches evaluate the incoming talent, so does On The Clock.
Post-Combine, Mock Draft 2.0 features dramatic player movement on the draft board, team needs and now trades. A number of athletes boosted their stock at the Combine; others didn’t fare as well. Which athletes and teams are on the move?
Note: “Proj. TRADE” denotes trades that have been projected. These have not occurred… Yet.
For the most up-to-date draft coverage or questions or comments, follow me @CKrisNorton on Twitter.
17.New York Giants -N’Keal Harry, WR, Arizona State
Team Needs: OL, QB, WR 1.0 Pick: New Trade
Wow. Trading Odell Beckham Jr. may be the Giants way of admitting to the NFL, and themselves, that it’s time for a rebuild. Among the positions on the Giants wishlist is a replacement for Beckham Jr.
Despite measuring in an inch shorter than expected at the Scouting Combine, Harry is still a presence on the outside. A back-shoulder catch expert, NFL scouts primary concern was the Arizona State product’s footspeed and ability to find separation. Harry eased some of those concerns with a 4.53 40-yard dash.
18.Minnesota Vikings (8-7-1) - Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
Team Needs: OL, DT, OLB 1.0 Pick: Cody Ford, OL
Kirk Cousins first season in Minnesota mirrored his last in Washington. Both seasons saw the 30-year-old passer sacked 40+ times and fumble the ball away at least four times. For Cousins to ever live up to the Vikings’ $28 million/year expectations, they are going to have to give their signal caller some help. Running low on cap space before tempting Anthony Barr back from the Jets, the Vikings won’t find their help in free agency.
Minnesota turns their hopes to April’s draft and select the top remaining offensive lineman available, Jawaan Taylor. Taylor falls into the late teens due to his restriction to the right tackle position in his college career. The Vikings snag a capable run- and pass-blocker ready to become a day-one starter.
19.Tennessee Titans (9-7) - Brian Burns, DE, Florida State
Team Needs: OLB, TE 1.0 Pick: T.J. Hockenson, TE
Marcus Mariota’s 55 career starts make him the longest tenured Titans quarterback since Steve McNair (131 with the Titans; 38 as the Oilers).The former Heisman-winner enters his fifth year having regressed in both of his previous seasons. While Mariota’s time in Nashville may be limited, Tennessee brought in Adam Humphries to give the face of the franchise the tools he needs to succeed.
The defense is a different story. Though Kenny Vaccaro was brought in to replace safety Johnathan Cyprien, outside linebacker Derrick Morgan and defensive tackle Bennie Logan have not been resigned. Brian Orakpo’s retirement opens up a large hole in the Titan’s pass rush. Tennessee addresses this need with Brian Burns.
20.Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6-1) - Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
Team Needs: MLB, WR, CB 1.0 Pick Marquise Brown, WR
What a difference a few years makes in the NFL. Ben Roethlisberger is the last “Killer B” standing. Antonio Brown talked his way to Oakland this week and Le’Veon Bell is currently choosing his new team.
However, in this mock, Pittsburgh addresses a more long-standing need. Linebacker Ryan Shazier is still under contract, but he may never play again. Though undersized, Devin Bush’s 4.43 40-yard dash speed and 40.5-inch vertical make him the sideline-to-sideline enforcer the Steeler defense has been missing.
21.Seattle Seahawks (10-6) - T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
Team Needs: OG, FS, DE 1.0 Pick: Jonah Williams, OT
Offensive line has been a weak point for the Seahawks since 2015. Though betting the 2019 season solely on Russell Wilson’s escapability may not be the wise route to go down, Seattle has been content to do just that in the first round of the draft for the better half of the 2010s. This is the year for the Seahawks to break the cycle - sort of.
An average blocker, Hockenson’s lengthy frame will allow him to tack on mass and improve at the next level. The Iowa product’s allure comes from his production in the passing game. Though splitting reps with potential first-rounder Noah Fant, Hockenson won both the Mackey Award and the honor of being the top Big Ten’s top tight end in 2018. In 13 games, Hockenson finished with 49 receptions, 760 yards and six touchdowns.
22.Baltimore Ravens (10-6) - A.J. Brown, WR, Ole Miss
Team Needs: WR, DE, FS 1.0 Pick: N’Keal Harry, WR
With Lamar Jackson as the established quarterback of the future, Baltimore has begun to tailor the offense to his needs. The Ravens are reportedly one of the last two teams standing in the battle for Le’Veon Bell’s services. If Bell finds his way to Baltimore, the Ravens will turn their attention to filling their #1 wide receiver role after cutting Michael Crabtree.
Brown, D.K. Metcalf’s college teammate, was the more refined and productive receiver in their time in Oxford. The draft’s premier route runner, Brown is a rock solid target who will start from day one in the Lamar Jackson-led offense.
23.Houston Texans (11-5) - Chris Lindstrom, OG, Boston College
Team Needs: OL, OT, WR 1.0 Pick: Dalton Risner, OL
Deshaun Watson’s knee injury in 2017, and sack total in 2018, should serve as a wake-up call for Houston. During a campaign which saw the Texans allow a league-high 62 sacks, Houston relied on an offensive line comprised of three former undrafted free agents. Watson would appreciate an infusion of young talent between him and the defense.
A capable run- and pass-blocker, Chris Lindstrom would be a day-one plug-and-play starter in Houston. The four-year starter has the size and experience to match up against the Jaguars front seven twice each year.
24.Oakland Raiders (4-12) – from Chicago - Parris Campbell, WR Ohio State
Team Needs: DE, WR, OL, MLB, OLB 1.0 Pick: Devin Bush, MLB
Before the draft, Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock pulled off arguably the biggest move of the offseason in trading for Antonio Brown. Due to a trade projected in this mock draft, the duo also secured their pass rusher of the future in Nick Bosa. With their two most pressing needs satisfied, the Raiders will take the best player available.
Or will they? Oakland has long had an affinity for speedster wide receivers, but, the Raiders have not selected a wide receiver before the seventh round since taking Amari Cooper 4th overall in 2015. The Raiders get back to their roots by picking a 1,000-yard wide receiver with 4.31 40-yard dash speed to stretch the field opposite Antonio Brown.
25.Philadelphia Eagles (9-7) - Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
Team Needs: RB, OT, DE 1.0 Pick: Josh Jacobs, RB
Jay Ajayi was supposed to be the answer at running back for Philadelphia. Though he is still only 25 years old, an ACL injury forced Ajayi to the injured reserve in his contract year and it is likely that he has played his last game for the Eagles. Ajayi was joined on the injured reserve by Corey Clement and in free agency by Darren Sproles.
With the 25th pick, the Eagles remold their running back by committee. Jacobs, the best running back in the draft, averaged over 5.0 yards-per-carry and 11 touchdowns in 2018. With only 250 carries in his college career, Philadelphia is happy to add a talented runner with hardly any wear on his body.
26.Indianapolis Colts (10-6) - Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
Team Needs: WR, DT, CB 1.0 Pick: Christian Wilkins, DT
With a resurgent 2018 behind Andrew Luck, fans and analysts alike have clamored for Indianapolis to add playmakers in free agency to take them to the next level. So far, this has come in the form of Devin Funchess. With another top-35 pick and a deep incoming wide receiver class, the Colts can focus on Chris Ballard’s “build up the lines” approach.
If the Colts are committed to building up the defensive line, Dexter Lawrence is an ideal fit. With just one year and limited talent, Defensive Coordinator Matt Eberflus turned 2017’s 26th ranked team in rushing yards allowed into the eighth best in 2018 and sixth best in yards per carry (3.9). Adding a 6-foot 4-inch, 340-pound elite run stuffer and bull rusher to the mix may help the Colts defense make the next jump forward.
27.(Proj. TRADE) San Francisco 49ers, from OAK via DAL - Nasir Adderley, S, Delaware
Team Needs: OLB, DE, WR 1.0 Pick: Kelvin Harmon, WR
San Francisco’s inclusion in the top-10 passing yards-per-game defense in 2018 is misleading. While the 49ers allowed under 4,000 passing yards over 16 games, they also allowed the second-most touchdowns (35) allowed to opposing quarterbacks. Being knocked out of games early contributed to their opponents low pass numbers and their 4-12 record. The 2019 version should resemble their 22nd ranked 2017 edition, meaning help in the secondary is a must.
After starting his first two years as a cornerback, Adderley blossomed as a safety. In 19 games, Adderley tallied 126 tackles, 17 passes defended, and 8 interceptions. General Manager John Lynch gets a defensive chess piece as a result of trading down earlier in the first round.
28.Los Angeles Chargers(12-4) - Dre’Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State
Team Needs: DT, OL, OLB 1.0 Pick: Dre’Mont Jones, DT
Is this the year that the Chargers invest in Philip Rivers’ successor?
At 37 years old and with Daniel Jones (Duke) still on the board, it’s a fair question and a tempting proposition. Giving Jones a year to learn the system behind Rivers may ease the Chargers’ transition in the post-Rivers era. Coming off a 12-4 season, all signs point to Los Angeles surrounding their 15-year veteran with talent to make one last push for a Super Bowl appearance.
With Darius Philon testing the free agency market, defensive tackle may be a necessity. Luckily for the Chargers, in this mock draft, a four-year starter and All-American is still available in the bottom of the first round.
29.Kansas City Chiefs (12-4) - Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
Team Needs: CB, S, DE 1.0 Pick: Byron Murphy, CB
Year 1 of the Pat Mahomes era kicked off better than anyone outside the Kansas City locker room could have hoped for. With the NFL MVP and a receiver on the verge of the richest wide receiver deal in league history, the offense is set for years to come. The defense, on the other hand, is another story.
Allowing the 2nd-most yards-per-game in 2018 (405.5) and bottom ten in points (24.0), the Chief defense is playing catch-up. Though there are concerns with Williams’ tendency to allow himself to be baited by opposing quarterbacks, he plays like the most athletic cornerback in the draft. A playmaker in the secondary would go a long way for the AFC runner-ups.
30.Green Bay Packers, from NO - Irv Smith Jr., TE. Alabama
Team Needs: OLB, RG, SS 1.0 Pick: Deionte Thompson, S
With Green Bay shoring up their defensive line with Ed Oliver early in the first round, the Packers can turn their attention to the offense with the second pick. Outside Davante Adams, Aaron Rodgers has had a revolving cast of targets over the past couple campaigns. The Packers look to change that this year.
In Irv Smith Jr., the Pack select a big-bodied pass catcher unafraid to battle in the trenches. The Alabama product totalled 44 receptions, 710 yards, and seven touchdowns in his second college season.
Los Angeles Rams (13-3) - Mack Wilson, MLB, Alabama
Team Needs: MLB, OLB, OG 1.0 Pick: Mack Wilson, MLB
One of the most complete teams in football, Los Angeles doesn’t have glaring holes throughout its roster. Their weakness has come in the linebacking corps and was exploited by the Patriots in the Super Bowl. A linebacker able to step up into the box to defend the run as well as chase tight ends and slot receivers would go a long way in bringing the Rams back to the Super Bowl in 2020.
Accounting for six interceptions and seven defended passes over his past two seasons, Wilson’s ball skills may be the best of any linebacker in the draft. This is a skill coveted by the Rams, who are familiar with shootouts and passing contests.
New England Patriots (11-5) - Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
Team Needs: TE, DT, WR 1.0 Pick: Irv Smith Jr., TE
As far as Super Bowl champions go, the Patriots have plenty of holes to try to plug up in the offseason. While many will clamor for New England to draft Brady’s successor in Daniel Jones, Tom Brady has continued to play at a high level and the Patriots organization will attempt to maximize their number of shots at ring number seven.
Iowa becomes the first school in NFL history to have two tight ends drafted in the first round of a single draft. Often overshadowed by teammate T.J. Hockenson in college, the freakishly-athletic Fant is scooped up with the last pick in the first round to become the long-term replacement for Rob Gronkowski.
(03/06/19 1:02am)
With the 2019 Scouting Combine in the rearview mirror, the NFL is one step closer to the main event of the offseason: the NFL Draft. As general managers and coaches evaluate the incoming talent, so does On The Clock.
Post-Combine, Mock Draft 2.0 features dramatic player movement on the draft board, team needs and now trades. A number of athletes boosted their stock at the Combine; others didn’t fare as well. Which athletes and teams are on the move?
Note: “Proj. TRADE” denotes trades that have been projected. These have not occured… Yet.
For the most up-to-date draft coverage or questions or comments, follow me @CKrisNorton on Twitter.
Arizona Cardinals - Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
Team Needs: WR, CB, MLB -- 1.0 Pick: Nick Bosa, DE
Measuring 5’10¼” does not normally help quarterbacks move up draft boards. Yet, this is not a normal prospect or a normal year. With a solid Pro Day in Norman, Kyler being drafted #1 overall is not only very real possibility, but a sentence no one imagined writing one week ago. Kliff Kingsbury runs an offensive system that doesn’t afford a quarterback much protection and Kyler’s escapability is a perfect match.
What about Josh Rosen? Rosen, along with a 3rd-round pick, will be sent to a quarterback-needy team in exchange for a first-round pick. More on that later.
(Proj. TRADE) Oakland Raiders, from SF - Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Team Needs: DE, WR, OL, MLB, OLB -- 1.0 Pick: Quinnen Williams, DT
With the Arizona Cardinals drafting quarterback Kyler Murray, the top overall talent in the draft “falls” to the second pick and sets off the draft dominoes. Since trading Khalil Mack to the Bears, Gruden has spoken to how difficult it is to find a premier pass rusher in the NFL. The Raiders give up the 4th and 27th picks to move up so Gruden and Mayock can get their guy.
If the Raiders find a suitor for Derek Carr, all bets are off, and the Raiders may trade their way into the first pick. If Kyler Murray does not go #1 overall, Carr may have played his last down in Oakland.
New York Jets - Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
Team Needs: OL, DT, DE, RB -- 1.0 Pick: Josh Allen, DE
At the combine, Williams made clear that he is a top-5 pick, as well as his love for Oreos. Williams aced his position drills and then ran a 4.87 in the 40-yard dash. Against the advice of his agent, Williams ran the 40 again, improving his time to 4.83. While he could be considered as the first overall pick, the Jets would be lucky to have him at #3.
(Proj. TRADE) San Francisco 49ers, from OAK - Josh Allen, DE, Kentucky
Team Needs: OLB, DE, WR -- 1.0 Pick: Clelin Ferrell
Similar to Chris Ballard’s move last year, John Lynch would be the leader in the clubhouse for “draft deal of the year” in 2019. By trading back from 2nd to 4th, not only do the 49ers pick up the 27th overall pick, they still draft a player they might have taken at #2. San Francisco fans cheer for someone not named George Kittle for the first time since Jimmy Garoppolo was named the 49er’s quarterback last offseason. Allen’s 17.0 sacks at Kentucky last year would be a welcomed sight in the bay.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan
Team Needs: CB, SS, RG, DT -- 1.0 Pick: Greedy Williams
This pick depends entirely upon whether or not Gerald McCoy is re-signed in free agent. According to reports, McCoy isn’t hopeful. Though Gary played defensive tackle at Michigan, he may be suited better for defensive end at the next level. If McCoy is back in 2019, this gives the Buccaneers one of the scariest defensive fronts in the NFL. If McCoy is a cap casualty, Gary still may make sense in an effort to shoure up the defensive line.
New York Giants - Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Team Needs: OL, QB, DE -- 1.0 Pick: Kyler Murray, QB
The Giants seem content with letting their two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback ride into the sunset on his own terms. Just because Eli Manning will be back in 2019 doesn’t mean the Giants should go without a backup plan. Haskins, like Manning in his youth, is a well-built pocket passer (6’3”, 231 pounds), an exceptional arm talent, and an unwilling runner. The Ohio State quarterback would gel quickly with Odell Beckham Jr., Saquon Barkley, and Evan Engram to form one of the most talented young cores of skill position players in the league.
Jacksonville Jaguars - Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
Team Needs: QB, TE, OC -- 1.0 Pick: Dwayne Haskins, QB
If the board falls as projected, the Jaguars will be lucky to have already signed Nick Foles early in free agency. Cutting starting quarterback Blake Bortles is a necessary move in returning Jacksonville to its 2017 edition. By drafting Jonah Williams, who made his case for top offensive tackle at the combine, they can kick Greg Robinson out to right tackle. With a new quarterback in place, a reinforced offensive line, and a healthy Leonard Fournette, the Jaguars can leave games up to their stifling defense, just as they were designed to do.
Detroit Lions - Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
Team Needs: WR, OLB, CB -- 1.0 Pick: Rashan Gary, DL
The Lions spent their first two draft picks of 2018 on the offensive side of the ball. With Matt Patricia at the helm, that won’t happen again this year. Patricia would sign up today to work with the 6’6”, 260 pound Sweat, who ran a 4.41 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine Sunday. To keep up in the NFC North, the Lions will need a player of Sweat’s caliber to get after Aaron Rodgers, Kirk Cousins, and Mitchell Trubisky.
Buffalo Bills - Greg Little, OT, Ole Miss
Team Needs: OL, WR, DT, OLB -- 1.0 Pick: Jawaan Taylor, OT
The Bills watched their top-10 pick, franchise quarterback scramble for 631 yards in his rookie year. Josh Allen scrambled for only 767 yards in three seasons at Wyoming. Keeping Allen healthy and developing in his sophomore year should be priority #1 in Buffalo. At 6’5”, 310 pounds, with 35-inch arms, Little has prototypical left tackle size. Current left tackle Dion Dawkins was seen as a guard/tackle coming into the league, it may be time to test Dawkins at left guard.
10.Denver Broncos - Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
Team Needs: QB, S, OL -- 1.0 Pick: Drew Lock, QB
At the Combine, a media member asked Denver’s General Manager John Elway if he felt this quarterback class was being dismissed too early. Elway’s response was, “we’re still evaluating.” While the Broncos still have Case Keenum and Joe Flacco on the roster, they’re still in the mix for a first round quarterback, and Elway has a soft spot for large quarterbacks. While the Broncos reportedly didn’t meet with the top four quarterback prospects at the combine, there is still time for meetings before the draft.
11.Cincinnati Bengals - Devin White, LB, LSU
Team Needs: MLB, RT, TE, QB -- 1.0 Pick: Devin White, MLB
The Bengals’ linebacking corps has deteriorated from a strength into a liability. Vontaze Burfict’s concussion issues have kept him off the field and his usual antics have given the front office headaches. Preston Brown was brought in via free agency to rectify the situation. Instead, Brown finished the year on the injured reserve. In Devin White, Cincinnati gets the best linebacker in the draft, and a defensive field general.
12.Green Bay Packers - Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
Team Needs: OLB, RG, SS -- 1.0 Pick: Jachai Polite, DE
When Aaron Rodgers wasn’t on the field, the Packers were hapless in 2018. No remaining prospects that would fill the most pressing needs on the Green Bay roster would be worthy of the #12 pick.
The Packers go the best-player-available route and end up with a top five talent in Ed Oliver. Had Oliver foregone his senior year of college and come out early last year, he likely would have been selected in the first five picks. Instead, Oliver slips to 12th due to an injury-plague campaign lowlighted by a sideline dispute over a coat and questions about his true position in the NFL.
(Proj. TRADE) Arizona Cardinals, from MIA - D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
Team Needs: CB, WR, QB? -- 1.0 Pick: A.J. Brown, WR
Josh Rosen, welcome to Miami. The Dolphins trade the 13th overall pick to the Cardinals for Rosen and a third round pick.
If the draft plays out this way, the analysts will be quick to anoint Arizona the winners of the NFL draft, a meaningless title before the season begins. Kliff Kingsbury gets his quarterback and a successor to Larry Fitzgerald. D.K. was the darling of the combine after testing with a 4.33 40-yard dash (faster than Julio Jones), 27 bench press reps (more than Khalil Mack) and a 40.5-inch vertical. He has garnered some Calvin Johnson and Julio Jones comparisons. By the time the media hype runs its course, Metcalf may be a top-ten pick.
14.Atlanta Falcons - Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Team Needs: DT, CB, TE -- 1.0 Pick: Dexter Lawrence, DL
Wilkins, the Walter Campbell Award winner, is just as impressive off the field as he is on it. On the field, Wilkins was a cog in what is widely regarded the NCAA’s best defensive line. He ended his college career with 192 tackles, 16 sacks, 15 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, and three offensive touchdowns.
The Falcons solidify their defensive line, helping out their secondary, and giving Matt Ryan and the offense more chances to score.
15.Washington Redskins - Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
Team Needs: QB, FS, CB -- 1.0 Pick: DeAndre Baker, CB
In this mock draft, the Redskins lose the league-wide game of quarterback musical chairs. With Rosen to the Dolphins and the three top-rated quarterbacks off the board, Washington looks to Teddy Bridgewater or Jacoby Brissett to replace injured Alex Smith.
Even with the 15th pick, Washington comes away with the best cover corner in the draft and future complement to Josh Norman. In his senior campaign, Murphy had four interceptions, one returned for a touchdown, and defended an impressive 13 passes.
16.Carolina Panthers - Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
Team Needs: DE, OL, FS -- 1.0 Pick: Montez Sweat, DE
It’s “CLEE-LIN”. Full disclosure, Ferrell may be long gone by the 16th pick. If he does drop this far, the Panthers have an easy decision to make. An All-American, Ferrell wrapped up his National Championship season with 53 tackles, 19.5 for a loss, 11.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles. Ferrell drops due to his injury history - a torn ACL in high school, a hand injury that forced him to redshirt his freshman season at Clemson, and most recently, a tweaked hamstring during his 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine.
With the Clemson defensive end, the Panthers find their long-term replacement for future Hall of Famer Julius Peppers.
(03/04/19 3:35pm)
21.Seattle Seahawks (10-6) - Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
Team Needs: OG, FS, DE
Since 2014, the Seahawks have needed to rework their offensive line. Since 2014, the Seahawks have ignored that need. In this mock draft, it’s a different story in 2019. In an attempt to lighten Russell Wilson’s load on the offensive end, the Seahawks select the 6’5 300 pound mauler out of Alabama. While 33-year-old Duane Brown (acquired from the Texans) will be anchoring the left side of the line for the foreseeable future, Williams would be able to occupy the right tackle spot for the time being. Kicking George Fant inside to guard may allow the Seahawks to fortify two offensive line spots with one pick.
However, with only 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th round picks left as a result of trades for Duane Brown, Brett Hundley, and Shalom Luani, the Seahawks are very likely to trade back to pick up more draft capital.
22.Baltimore Ravens (10-6) - N’Keal Harry, WR, Arizona State
Team Needs: WR, DE, FS
The Ravens’ first year plan of sitting rookie Lamar Jackson behind veteran Joe Flacco quickly changed course. The aftermath? Joe Flacco is on his way to Denver when the new league year begins and Baltimore has its first new franchise quarterback in a decade. Early returns on Jackson were good. The rookie finished the season with a 6-1 record and nearly 700 rushing yards. For this offense to make the leap in Year 2, a downfield and red zone threat is necessary. Enter N’Keal Harry.
The 6’4, 215 pound jump-ball specialist adds a dimension to the offense that the Ravens have lacked for the better half of the Joe Flacco tenure. A big-bodied target is a must to improve from Jackson’s 171 passing yards-per-game in 2018. With Michael Crabtree’s release, all signs point to a new No. 1 wideout.
23.Houston Texans (11-5) - Dalton Risner, OL, Kansas State
Team Needs: OL, OT, WR
Houston has only drafted two offensive linemen since choosing their new franchise quarterback, Deshaun Watson, and traded the only first round offensive lineman pick in franchise history. The Texans have slowly seen themselves drift into 2015 Colts territory, which put Andrew Luck’s playing career in jeopardy. Allowing 62 sacks (highest in the NFL) is not the way to ensure the success of the face of your franchise.
If Dalton Risner is available, the Texans pull the trigger and get a versatile guard capable of playing any position on the line other than left tackle.
24.Oakland Raiders (4-12) – from Chicago - Devin Bush, MLB, Michigan
Team Needs: Everything… DE, WR, OL, MLB, OLB
The Raiders were able to stay put and select Clelin Ferrell, the heir to Khalil Mack’s blindside edge-rushing position. With their most significant need filled, Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock still have a laundry list of holes on both sides of the ball, and can go with the best player available.
While slightly undersized, Bush is a quick sideline-to-sideline enforcer. The junior linebacker amassed 161 tackles, 10 sacks, and 13 passes defensed in his previous two seasons at Michigan. If Bush sneaks past the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Raiders will be happy to have a new field general on the defensive side.
25.Philadelphia Eagles (9-7) - Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
Team Needs: RB, OT, DE
Despite a disappointing 9-7 year in 2018, Philadelphia worked themselves into the second round of the playoffs and Nick Foles had them one 4th quarter drive away from an NFC Championship appearance. With the 25th pick, Philadelphia selects the top running back in the class out of Alabama. Workload is a concern with running back more than any other position in football and, over the past three seasons, Jacobs has only carried the ball 250 times due to a backfield by committee at Alabama. This makes him an extremely attractive prospect to a team dealing with injury issues at running back with Jay Ajayi and Darren Sproles.
26.Indianapolis Colts (10-6) - Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Team Needs: WR, DT, CB
The resurgent Colts outperformed every expert’s preseason pick, midseason pick, and the Houston Texans in the playoffs in 2018. After a tumultuous couple of seasons, Andrew Luck is back to form and the AFC South has found its equilibrium. With quarterback speculation and drama set aside, the Colts look to repeat their draft performance of last year which saw them draft two All-Pro rookies in Quenton Nelson and Darius Leonard. This hadn’t happened since the Bears drafted Gale Sayers and Dick Butkus in 1965.
In this mock draft, the Colts end up with one of the best pairings of the first round. Indianapolis happily selects a 3-time All-American, Campbell Award-winning, substitute teacher in Christian Wilkins. The Colts fill a need on the field and a franchise attitude off the field.
27.Oakland Raiders (4-12) – from Dallas - Kelvin Harmon, WR, NC State
Team Needs: Everything… DE, WR, OL, MLB, OLB
The Raiders have already addressed key needs in selecting Clelin Ferrell, DE, and Devin Bush, MLB, in the first round. While Khalil Mack’s role has been filled the best it can be, it’s time to turn to Amari Cooper. If Derek Carr is going to be the starter in Oakland next year, which remains to be seen, he’s going to need help downfield. While his offensive line did him no favors, a significant amount of Carr’s 50 sacks could be attributed to a lack of separation in the secondary.
At 6’3, 215, Harmon is a possession-type wide receiver with strong hands that will turn into a reliable wide receiver that, outside 31-year-old Tight End Jared Cook, Derek Carr doesn’t currently have.
28.Los Angeles Chargers(12-4) - Dre’Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State
Team Needs: DT, OL, OLB
This was the Chargers’ year to make a push in the AFC. Every year seems to be the Chargers’ year. With Phillip Rivers set to turn 38 halfway through next season, Los Angeles is running out of ‘years’. Serious questions will be asked this offseason about the direction of the team moving forward. For now, Rivers is the face of the franchise and GM Tom Telesco plans on giving his quarterback the help he needs to break into the Super Bowl. Part of this plan is creating one of the most dangerous defensive lines in football.
Dre’Mont Jones is an athletic handful at defensive tackle ready to draw offensive linemen away from Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram. With the explosive combine that he is capable of, Jones may not be available this late in the first round.
29.Kansas City Chiefs (12-4) - Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
Team Needs: CB, S, DE
In his first season at the helm, Patrick Mahomes took the league by storm and took the Chiefs to their first AFC Championship in 25 years. If anything can hold him away from a Super Bowl appearance in Year 2, it will be their defense. While it could partially be due to Kansas City’s quick strike offense putting up points, and pressure, on the opposing team, the Chief defense ranked 31st in total yardage (405.5 ypg), 27th in rushing yards allowed, and 31st in passing. Though the front seven could use a young infusion of talent, secondary is the pick.
In this mock draft, the Chiefs select Byron Murphy. If Murphy, who some have graded as the best cover corner in the draft, slides this far it is a rare no-brainer pick.
30.Green Bay Packers (6-9-1) – from NO - Deionte Thompson, S, Alabama
Team Needs: OLB, RG, SS
In return for last year’s 14th overall pick, which the Saints used to select Marcus Davenport, the Packers receive the 30th pick from the Saints in 2019. It couldn’t come soon enough for Green Bay. Despite 4,400+ yards and a 25-2 touchdown-to-interception stat line from 35-year-old Aaron Rodgers, the Packers find themselves with their lowest win total in a decade. Green Bay’s core players, save DaVante Adams, have eroded and the team is desperately looking for playmakers on both sides of the ball.
Since parting ways with Haha Clinton-Dix, the Packers have fallen behind in the arms race attempting to contain the other NFC North quarterbacks. Deionte Thompson gives the secondary an intelligent center fielder that will make Matt Stafford, Kirk Cousins, and Mitch Trubisky look twice.
Los Angeles Rams (13-3) - Mack Wilson, MLB, Alabama
Team Needs: MLB, OLB, OG
On paper, the Rams have one of the most complete teams in the league. They will not need much to retool and find themselves in the Super Bowl once again. With middle linebacker as an area of concern, the Rams match need with best player available and select Wilson out of Alabama. The run on Crimson Tide players continues.
New England Patriots (11-5) - Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama
Team Needs: TE, DT, WR
Coming off their 6th Super Bowl, the Patriots’ roster is as depleted as any Championship winner in recent memory, specifically at tight end and wide receiver. How much longer will Rob Gronkowski be able to play? If “not much” is the answer, then the answer for New England is Irv Smith Jr.
(02/20/19 12:35am)
11.Cincinnati Bengals (6-10) - Devin White, MLB, LSU
Team Needs: MLB, RT, TE, QB
Three years removed from making six playoff berths in seven years, Cincinnati is looking for a fresh start in the post-Marvin Lewis era. As a former quarterback and quarterback coach, newly introduced Head Coach Zac Taylor has a quarterback decision on his hands.
Unless a team in need like Washington or Miami attempts to trade for the 31-year-old Andy Dalton, or the team outright cuts him, Dalton will be wearing black and orange until he hits free agency in 2021.
Cincinnati needs more than a solution at quarterback to claw their way out of perpetual mediocrity. Whoever lines up under center in 2019 is going to need an improved offensive line, and the defense could use a new leader of their own. Middle Linebacker Vontaze Burfict has been a perennial headache for the franchise and his play no longer justifies his antics. Preston Brown was brought in last offseason to be their long-term answer but finished his season on the Injured Reserve.
The Bengals fill their most pressing need with White, who in his Sophomore and Junior year had a combined 250+ tackles, 26 TFLs and 7.5 sacks.
12.Green Bay Packers (6-9-1) - Jachai Polite, OLB/DE, Florida
Team Needs: OLB, RG, SS
For as great as Aaron Rodgers is, he can only carry 52 guys so far. The Packers’ draft-day struggles have led them astray from their traditional “build from within” policy. Though Green Bay is expected to compete for a playoff spot year in and year out, their depth chart has deteriorated since their 2011 Super Bowl.
If Rodgers is going to find success in the last leg of his career, the Packer’s need to invest in the right side of their offensive line in the early goings of the 2019 draft. The greatest needs, though, may come on the other side of the ball. The defensive line struggles against the run, Clay Matthews is no longer an elite edge defender, and the pairing of 22-year-old cornerbacks Jaire Alexander and Josh Jackson have yet to produce alongside 35-year-old safety Tramon Williams.
The Packers’ have two tries to right the ship in the first round. With their first, they should select the Florida product fresh off an 11.0 sack, 19.5 TFL year. Polite, with a similar body type as Matthews, may be his successor.
13.Miami Dolphins (7-9) - A.J. Brown, WR, Ole Miss
Team Needs: CB, WR, QB?
With Ryan Tannehill on the field, the Dolphins have consistently hovered around .500, which is decent for an AFC East team not in New England. Unfortunately for Miami, Tannehill has ended each of the last two seasons on the sideline. Even when healthy, the 30-year-old has yet to establish himself as an above-average quarterback. If it hasn’t happened by now, it isn’t going to. This may be Tannehill’s last chance to prove that he is a starting quarterback in the NFL. In this mock draft, the quarterbacks worthy of a top-15 selection are no longer available and the Dolphins are forced to turn their attention elsewhere (until 2020).
With this pick, Miami gives their offense the most talented wide receiver in the 2019 class and a great complement to Devante Parker. Between their new wide receiver duo and backfield pairing of veteran Frank Gore and future starter Kenyan Drake, the Dolphins have as much offensive talent as they have had in recent memory.
14.Atlanta Falcons (7-9) - Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
Team Needs: DT, CB, TE
The only upside to the Falcon’s wasted year was that it netted them a top-15 pick. Atlanta’s team has grossly under performed since the 28-3 Super Bowl collapse and may face multiple key departures in free agency in the coming months. Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett is reportedly looking for Aaron Donald-level money (6 years, $135 million) and running back Tevin Coleman is likely to leave for a starting role elsewhere.
Had Jeffery Simmons, the 21-year-old Mississippi State defensive tackle, not torn his ACL in pre-combine workouts he would have been the pick here. The Falcons stick with a defensive tackle and select Clemson’s Dexter Lawrence. The Junior standout was an integral cog in the best defensive line in the NCAA; if Jarrett suits up in black and red next year, Lawrence may find himself again on the best defensive line in his league.
15.Washington (7-9) - DeAndre Baker, CB, Georgia
Team Needs: QB, FS, CB
The early news coming out of Alex Smith’s camp is not good. A brutal compound lower leg fracture in November may hold Smith out for the better part of 2019 (if he is able to come back at all), and leaves Washington without a starting-caliber quarterback. Luckily for GM Doug Williams, quarterbacks are in a buyer’s market this offseason. The Broncos showed their hand early into the new year, trading for Joe Flacco and making Case Keenum expendable and available for a late-round pick. With the top three quarterback prospects spoken for, Washington spins the free agency wheel. Case Keenum, Teddy Bridgewater, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Jacoby Brissett are all in play here. For the record, Nick Foles would be a good fit. However, Washington wouldn’t be able to swing his $20 million tag in addition to Smith’s salary, and the Eagles would rather trade Foles out of the NFC North.
Instead of reaching to satisfy a need, Washington takes the best man-to-man corner in the draft out of Georgia. Josh Norman is 31 years old and is creeping past his prime. This pick fills a future need.
16.Carolina Panthers (7-9) - Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
Team Needs: DE, OL, FS
In 2018, the Panthers were a middling team in a stacked NFC South. A stout offensive line and defensive poise have all but evaporated since the team’s run to Super Bowl 50. Quarterback Cam Newton may appreciate more help along the offensive line, but instead Carolina will opt to fortify the defensive side of the ball.
The Panthers take advantage of a strong defensive line class and fill their need with the best player available. Montez Sweat slides into the end position vacated by the now-retired Julius Peppers across from 31-year-old Mario Addison. The 6’6 Sweat was responsible for 30 TFLs and 22.5 sacks in his previous two seasons and is a handful on the edge.
17.Cleveland Browns (7-8-1) - Greg Little, OT, Ole Miss
Team Needs: OT, WR, MLB
Well, well, well… Look who’s picking outside the top ten. Cleveland has not had their first pick land outside the top ten since 2015 (15th) and have had multiple top-32 draft picks in five consecutive seasons. The beer fridges opened, and so did the flood gates. Since the 2018 #1 overall pick’s debut, the Baker Mayfield-led Browns finished 7-7, closing out the season 5-2, and resembling an actual NFL franchise for the first time in years.
As good as year 1 of the John Dorsey rebuild was, there is still much left to do to turn this team into a playoff contender. Just because Baker Mayfield has escapabillity doesn’t mean the offensive line should test him. Selecting a franchise left tackle while kicking Greg Robinson out to right tackle would solidify a formidable offensive line anchored by veterans LG Joel Bitonio and RG Kevin Zeitler.
18.Minnesota Vikings (8-7-1) - Cody Ford, OG/OT, Oklahoma
Team Needs: OG, DT, OLB
With both Sheldon Richardson and Anthony Barr looking for new contracts, free agency will loom large in the front office’s draft strategy. However, one thing is for certain: if the next $56 million of Kirk Cousins’ three-year contract is going to go smoother than the first $28 million, he’s going to need major help along the front line.
Though Oklahoma's offensive line won the Joe Moore Award (given to the best offensive line in college football) with Ford at tackle, his 6’4 340 lb. frame translates better to guard in the NFL. The Vikings could use his versatility on the line. Ford could be a plug-and-play starter at guard from day one.
19.Tennessee Titans (9-7) - T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
Team Needs: OLB, TE
2018 marks three straight 9-7 campaigns and the Titans appear to be treading water in the AFC South. Tennessee boasts the 3rd best scoring defense (18.9 ppg allowed) in the league. While they will have to replace veteran OLB Brian Orakpo this season, they look like strong contenders to finish in the top-5 again next year. Offense (19.4 ppg) is a different story. After posting a 45-19 TD-INT ratio in his rookie and sophomore seasons, franchise quarterback Marcus Mariota has followed with just 24 touchdowns and 23 interceptions over the last two injury-riddled years.
Mariota’s numbers may be due in part to a lack of weapons. Corey Davis, Tajae Sharpe, and Taywan Taylor have all underwhelmed, Delanie Walker is oft-injured, and aside from a 61-yard touchdown catch, Jonnu Smith was a non-factor. Enter T.J. Hockenson. The 21-year-old out of Iowa is exactly what Tennessee covets; a capable blocker and solid route runner. A new security blanket for Mariota could be the driving force behind a resurgent offense in 2019.
20.Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6-1) - Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
Team Needs: MLB, WR?, CB
In the span of just two years, the Steelers may see three of their franchise cornerstones leave town. Linebacker Ryan Shazier’s spine injury looks to be career-ending, Pittsburgh franchise-tagged Le’Veon Bell out the door, and Antonio Brown is looking to talk his way out of that same door. James Connor has filled Bell’s role admirably but the hole at linebacker has been problematic. Assuming Antonio Brown is traded, the Steelers will need a young route runner opposite Juju Smith-Schuster.
In this mock draft, the Steelers grant their 2nd all-time wide receiver a trade and immediately draft his younger cousin. This won’t happen… Right? Marquise Brown’s height, weight, and playing style would seem eerily familiar in Heinz Field. Like his cousin, Brown is able to turn any amount of separation into a 30 yard catch-and-run.
(02/13/19 1:03am)
The 2018 Super Bowl has come and gone, meaning 31 teams and their fans are already looking ahead to next season. As General Managers enter their busy season, so does On the Clock, the Campus Citizen's NFL Draft column.With the NFL combine kicking off February 26th, we’ll take our first crack at predicting how the incoming rookies will fair.
*Note - this initial mock draft will not include trades. Trades will be predicted between the Combine and the NFL Draft.
Arizona Cardinals (3-13) - Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Team Needs: WR, CB, MLB
The Cardinals haven’t won more than seven games since 2015; neither has their first-time NFL head coach Kliff Kingsbury. Kingsbury inherits a team headlined by aging stars and bereft of young talent. Larry Fitzgerald has signed on for his 16th season and both Chandler Jones and Patrick Peterson will turn 29 this year. Arizona will be looking for Fitzgerald’s heir apparent and a young running mate for either Jones or Peterson in the early rounds. But, what the Cardinals need more than anything is health. By 2018’s end, three starting offensive linemen (D.J. Humphries, Mike Iupati, and Justin Pugh) found themselves on the Injured Reserve; Josh Rosen found himself on his back. Often.
While the 2019’s strengths don’t match up well with the Cardinal’s top needs, they have their choice between several blue-chip prospects, or they can trade down to fill multiple needs.
Bosa’s skill set is comparable to his brother, Joey’s. Unfortunately, so are his injury issues. A Chandler Jones-Nick Bosa 1-2 pass rush punch would wreak havoc on the NFC West and give second year quarterback Josh Rosen more opportunities with the ball. Bosa will be participating in the Combine and will look to cement his status as top prospect with an explosive workout.
San Francisco 49ers (4-12) - Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
Team Needs: OLB, DT, WR
John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan’s rebuild is not going according to plan. However, while teams picking in the top five usually look for a signal caller, Jimmy Garappolo’s availability allows San Francisco to look elsewhere.
The 49ers have taken defensive lineman with their first pick in three of the last four drafts. The strength of this 2019 class may make it four out of five. The 49ers could take their guy with the #2 pick or trade down a couple of spots and still walk away with a premier defensive lineman.
While the 49ers will probably end up shopping this pick, the explosive Williams would give San Francisco one of the most complete defensive lines in the league.
New York Jets (4-12) - Josh Allen, DE, Kentucky
Team Needs: OL, DT, DE, RB
The Jets’ trade-up and selection of Sam Darnold at #3 in 2018 was the first time New York had spent a first-round choice on an offensive player since they selected Mark Sanchez in 2009. In 2019, it’s back to defense.
Ideally, the Jets would be able to choose an offensive lineman to help keep their young franchise quarterback upright. Without an offensive lineman worthy of a Top 3 pick, defensive line will be the selection. The defensive front seven has had a Sheldon Richardson-sized hole since 2016 and could also use a running mate for young defensive end Leonard Williams. Nick Bosa, Quinnen Williams, or Josh Allen will be dressing in Green and White next year. In this mock draft, it’s Josh Allen left at the #3 spot.
A feature running back is also a need, but don’t be surprised when the Jets sign Le’Veon Bell or Tevin Coleman next year.
Oakland Raiders (4-12) - Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
Team Needs: Everything… DE, WR, OL, MLB, OLB
Jon Gruden is not afraid to make moves, and it should be noted the Raiders’ needs are subject to dramatic change. Gruden’s efforts to trade away his most valuable franchise cornerstones and catapult himself down the draft board have netted the Raiders three first-round draft picks and a roster full of holes. Specifically, holes at defensive end and wide receiver.
Oakland’s plan is to have the team functional by the time they make the final move to Las Vegas in 2020. For this to happen, the Raiders need to nail each of their first three selections.
Or will new GM Mike Mayock use all three picks? Oakland has plenty of draft capital to work with and could easily move up into San Francisco’s spot depending on combine results. But, in this mock draft, the Raiders forego the Best Player Available (BPA) and attempt to fill the hole left by Khalil Mack. In his Junior and Senior seasons, the 6’5 Ferrell had a combined 121 tackles, 21 sacks, and 5 forced fumbles. The combination of production and pedigree is an easy sell to the future Las Vegas Raiders.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-11) - Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
Team Needs: CB, SS, RG, DT
The hiring of quarterback guru Bruce Arians signals that the Buccaneers are not quite ready to wave the white flag with Jameis Winston. For as many times as Mike Evans and DeSean Jackson torched opponents’ defenses deep last year, the Tampa Bay defense gave it back just as quickly. Only the Raiders (29.1 ppg) gave up more points than the Bucs (29 ppg).
While the secondary is the most pressing concern, a need at defensive tackle may be opening up soon. DT Gerald McCoy’s 2019 contract is not guaranteed and he was less than certain about his future in a week 17 post-game conference.
This pick may come down to Greedy Williams and Houston’s Ed Oliver, but the need for a defensive back coupled with Gerald McCoy’s possible return wins out. For now.
New York Giants (5-11) - Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
Team Needs: OL, QB, DE
The majority of the Giants’ offseason speculation will be centered on whether or not Eli Manning will be commanding the offense in 2019. Dwayne Haskins, Drew Lock, and Heisman winner Kyler Murray will be a part of the discussion, though the 2020 crop of passers is much more highly touted.
Whoever lines up under center next year is going to need some help. Manning was sacked 2.9 times per game last season, sometimes due to his own immobility, but not always. Securing the offensive line will let Odell Beckham Jr. and Saquon Barkley do what they were drafted to do.
Keep in mind that the first quarterback drafted has come off the board with the 3rd pick or higher in every year since 2013 when E.J. Manuel was taken 16th overall. Come draft season, “Quarterback Inflation” is a very real concept. In this mock draft, the Giants stay in the 6th slot and have their choice of signal callers. By April it may not be realistic.
New York seems intent on letting Eli Manning dictate his own timeline before letting him ride out into the sunset, but a contingency plan is necessary. Murray does not have prototypical quarterback size; neither does Baker Mayfield and the Browns seem to be pretty happy with him. With the state of the Giants’ offensive line, they are in need of a nimble quarterback to elude pressure often. Murray could give New York a trio of young dynamic playmakers.
Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11) - Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Team Needs: QB, TE, OC
One year removed from an AFC Championship game run, the AFC South is back to its status quo. The wildly under performing Jaguars are at a crossroads and management will need to determine whether drafting a quarterback will solve all of their woes.
Jacksonville may kick the tires on Joe Flacco in free agency, though if they fall in love with a young quarterback prospect, they may need to leapfrog the Giants to draft him.
Assuming the Jaguars regain health on their roster, they have one of the most solid line-ups in football. On paper, at least. With a stacked defense, GM David Caldwell can turn his attention to the offense. The Jaguars have to believe that they are one quarterback (not named Blake Bortles) away from regaining traction in the AFC South. For their new signal-caller, they turn to someone with a much different skill-set. Haskins displayed only a fraction of the mobility of Bortles but showed all of the arm talent that Bortles lacked.
Detroit Lions (6-10) - Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan
Team Needs: WR, OLB, CB
It’s year two of Matt Patricia’s tenure and the Lions are still looking for a defensive identity. After spending their first two picks on the offense last year, it’s time to find it.
While the defensive ends worthy of a Top-10 selection should be gone by the eighth pick, the run on defensive tackles and possibly quarterbacks will push the remaining premier talents down the board. The Lions could very easily end up with the top cornerback or linebacker in the draft.
At this stage in the game, the former highest rated prospect coming out of high school is a bit of a question mark. Is he fast enough to play defensive end? Is he big enough to be a defensive tackle? It is clear that Michigan did not do him any favors with their gameplan. What Gary is, though, is a freakish athlete and a unique talent. An electrifying combine performance may push Gary’s draft stock much higher than the 8th pick.
Buffalo Bills (6-10) - Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
Team Needs: OL, WR, DT, OLB
After making their first playoff appearance in this millennium, the most anticipated Bills season in 20 years finished with an all-too-familiar 6-10 record (four out of the last eight years).
The Bills hired QB coach Ken Dorsey to aid Josh Allen’s development, but Allen won’t reach his potential without a #1 target and a revamped offensive line. The departure of both center Eric Wood and guard Richie Incognito as well as the cutting of WR Kelvin Benjamin left Allen scrambling in 2018. Having your rookie quarterback carry the ball 89 times for 631 yards is not the best plan for his long-term health.
The 6’5, 350 lb. Taylor provides too much value for Buffalo to pass up. Putting Taylor at left tackle allows the Bills to either send Dion Dawkins out to right tackle or kick him inside to left guard. The Bills have the opportunity to upgrade two offensive line spots with one pick. Josh Allen will thank them.
10.Denver Broncos (6-10) - Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
Team Needs: QB, S, OL
The relatively unsuccessful first year of new quarterback, and poor man’s Alex Smith, Case Keenum has the Broncos fan base uneasy. GM John Elway is running out of chances to introduce new starting quarterbacks and finds himself squarely on the hot seat.
With a stout defense and the pairing of Emmanuel Sanders and Courtland Sutton at wide receiver, this is arguably the most attractive landing spot for any quarterback drafted this season.
During the Elway tenure, the Broncos have taken 6’7 Brock Osweiler and 6’7 Paxton Lynch in the early rounds to be their quarterback of the future. Neither has been. It’s back to the drawing board with Drew Lock, a sizable prospect with a strong arm.