RADIO
It is the most magical week of the year, when the mysticism of Gandalf, Harry Potter, and all the power of your aunt's healing crystals cannot combine to match the aura surrounding NFL Draft week! With the best week of the year here and just a few days until the actual NFL Draft begins, it is the perfect time to release my final mock draft of the season.
This mock will be like my last, going three rounds deep. Notes will be included with each pick. There is one significant general note worth making before we begin, though. That note is this: my final mock will ignore the wild conjecture and random buzz that always precedes the draft's opening bell.
The weeks leading up to the NFL Draft are always loaded with rumors and buzz. Whims regarding a few players always change wildly and inevitably in the final days before the draft. Trying to bake those into a mock is folly. While we occasionally get a major shocker, like Baker Mayfield going first overall, these rumors are usually proven false and do more harm than good to mocks. For that reason, I will ignore the buzz.
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Round 1
1.*Chicago Bears- Caleb Williams, QB, USC
This pick is written in ink… that could be erased if you try really hard, but then the paper will tear, the ink will run, and it makes a big mess. So, we will avoid that problem and just go with the pick that everyone knows is coming.
2. Washington Commanders- Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
A part of me wants to force Drake Maye into this spot simply because I think it's what Washington should do. The buzz has never indicated that's what will happen, though. Daniels is more polished and a better athlete than Maye, so he should be the pick for a GM who has already been burned by a high-upside, but raw, big-bodied talent (Trey Lance) like Maye.
3. New England Patriots - Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
There remains considerable buzz that the Patriots could trade out of this pick, including their own front office saying they would do so for a ransom. There is also buzz that the Patriots want a quarterback in this class and do not want to trade back too far. Odds are they won’t get any of the top four passers if they trade back, so logic suggests Maye will be their pick. It’s the right pick, too.
4.*TRADE: Minnesota Vikings– J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
The Vikings and Broncos are competing for McCarthy's services with Maye off the board. It’s unlikely the Chargers want to help the Broncos get McCarthy, so Denver calls Arizona… which means Minnesota also has to make the same call. Minnesota has far more resources to get this done. The Cardinals will trade back if Jordan Addison is included or a second deal with Atlanta is in place.
As for this move, McCarthy couldn’t ask for a better landing spot. His film isn’t worthy of a top-10 pick, but it’s almost inevitable that he will be one. The Vikings are the ideal landing spot. He’s accurate, mobile, smart, throws with velocity, and has good mechanics.
Trade Details…
Cardinals Receive: Pick No. 11 and No. 23 overall, plus Minnesota’s 2025 first-round pick
Vikings Receive: Pick No. 4 overall and Arizona’s 2025 second-round pick
5. Los Angeles Chargers – Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
Yes, I believe the Chargers are foolish enough to pass on Harrison Jr. Yes, I believe the Chargers could draft an offensive lineman who isn't even the first or second-best blocker on most boards if they cannot trade out of this pick. For now, we will project zero teams trying to trade up and the Chargers taking Harrison, who is the best player available at a major position of need.
6. New York Giants- Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
The Giants have been the favorite to land Nabers all offseason long. Nothing has happened that changes their need for an elite playmaker, except maybe their reported interest in the quarterback class. This is a bet the Giants take one more year with Daniel Jones, rather than overpay in a short move up for J.J. McCarthy.
7. Tennessee Titans- Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame
Another staple of our drafts is Joe Alt to the Titans. Even less has happened to discourage us from this pick. There is an outside chance Tennessee is one of the teams strangely enamored with JC Latham, and Rome Odunze makes some sense here, but Alt is still our pick.
8.*TRADE: Arizona Cardinals- Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
As mentioned, if the Cardinals feel comfortable moving back, it will likely be because the Falcons are primed to trade back. Atlanta must focus on defense, and the top few defenders in this class are all closely grouped. Arizona has the spare picks to go up and get a star receiver in Odunze while Atlanta can trade down with a good chance at getting its preferred defender at No. 11.
Trade Details…
Cardinals Receive: Picks No. 8 and No. 143
Falcons Receive: Picks No. 11 and No. 66
9.*TRADE: Philadelphia Eagles– Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo
The Bears have to be eager to trade back and recoup the second-round pick they don't have. Meanwhile, Philadelphia has a history of trading up and has reportedly expressed interest in doing so with other teams. It desperately needs cornerback help, so they had the top one on the board.
Trade Details…
Bears Receive: Picks No. 22, No. 50, plus Philadelphia’s 2025 second-round pick
Eagles Receive: Pick No. 9 and Chicago’s 2025 fourth-round pick
10. New York Jets- Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
While Troy Fautanu makes tons of sense for the Jets, the feeling is they might target a blocker later on. Getting Aaron Rodgers another weapon seems to be what Gang Green wants to do. Bowers is an elite receiving option and the best weapon left on this board.
11. *TRADE BACK: Atlanta Falcons – Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
The Falcons move back, add a quality draft pick, and still select the player they would have taken had they stayed at No. 8. There's no better feeling than adding picks, dropping your rookie-salary slot, and still getting the guy you always wanted. Turner is a rangy and athletic edge who can play standing up or in the dirt, which is perfect for Atlanta's new defensive scheme.
12. Denver Broncos– Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
The Broncos desperately need help at quarterback, but they may have a few tricks up their sleeve. So, they stay put here after failing to trade up for McCarthy. Arnold fills another hole for them, sewing up the corner spot opposite Patrick Surtain II.
13. Las Vegas Raiders- Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington
I'm fine staying out on a limb by projecting Penix a full round higher than some analysts. There are rumors that multiple teams, including Atlanta, Seattle, and a mystery team, may be looking to trade back into the first round to get him. If Las Vegas cannot trade back and wants a high-upside quarterback, it must take Penix here. His profile screams Raiders, and I expect he goes higher than expected.
14. New Orleans Saints- Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State
The Saints need a lot of things. However, their current build suggests they think they can win with Derek Carr… for some reason. That means they must improve the offensive line in front of him. Fashanu has the most pass-blocking upside of anyone in this class and he is a natural left tackle, which is where New Orleans has needed help for years.
15. Indianapolis Colts- Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa
Terrion Arnold is a distinct possibility here if he falls, but DeJean is the higher-rated corner on my board even if he does. When healthy, DeJean is the more athletic player and the bigger playmaker. His instincts also fit the zone scheme Indy ran 84% of the time last season.
16. Seattle Seahawks – Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington
Fautanu deserves to be drafted higher than this according to my board. He also deserves to go to a team that will use him at tackle. However, the Seahawks make a lot of sense for the local product. That’s why I projected Fautanu here three months ago. He can fill a big need at guard and then move out to tackle when injury or poor play arises.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars- Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas
Brian Thomas Jr. continues to be my favorite Jags selection. Still, GM Trent Baalke is a defensive-minded executive with a considerable history of taking defensive tackle prospects high in the draft. Murphy II is easily the top defensive tackle in this class, pushing the pocket and wrecking the run in spectacular fashion.
18. Cincinnati Bengals- Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia
The Bengals remain a throw-first team, so Mims makes sense for them. The biggest hole on Cincy’s roster is right tackle, where Trent Brown is an aging and injury-prone stopgap. Mims is a very athletic right tackle prospect who is raw but dripping with potential. His pass-blocking upside is better than almost any other tackle left on this board.
19. Los Angeles Rams- Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA
Choosing between Latu and Jared Verse would be tough for the Rams. New defensive coordinator Chris Shula has said he plans to run a lot of "the same" 3-4 schemes as the past regime, which would fit Latu better than Verse. 3-4 schemes usually get most of their pass-rush pressure from standup outside linebackers, which Latu's polish and plan would fit perfectly.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers- JC Latham, OT, Alabama
The Steelers need to move Broderick Jones to his natural left tackle spot, which would also serve as a significant upgrade over Dan Moore Jr. If they do that, it opens the right tackle position for competition. Many are high on Latham, a natural right tackle with massive size and power. Arthur Smith traditionally likes to establish the run, and Latham can help.
Graham Barton is another distinct possibility in this spot, but Latham's popularity is much higher in NFL circles than it is with us. Barton would cure what ails Pittsburgh’s interior line, but that wouldn't address the issues with Moore at left tackle and Jones out of position at right. Quality tackles are typically harder to find than guards or centers.
21. Miami Dolphins- Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma
The Dolphins have done nothing to solve their long-term offensive tackle questions, and Terron Armstead isn't getting healthier or younger. While Taliese Fuaga is the higher-rated tackle on most boards, Guyton is the better athlete with better pass-blocking tools. The Sooner fits what Miami needs better than the Beaver.
22. TRADE BACK: Chicago Bears- Jared Verse, DE, Florida State
The Bears could use another weapon for Caleb Williams, but Verse is simply too good of a value in this spot. Chicago has a notable need for a pass-rusher opposite Montez Sweat. Verse is a wrecking ball who is stout against the run and has double-digit sack potential.
23.*TRADE BACK: Arizona Cardinals- Graham Barton, OL, Duke
The Cardinals got very little out of their starting center last year, who is currently projected to be in that same role this year. They also signed Jonah Williams to play right tackle despite considerable film and metrics that suggest he can't do that well. Barton could help fill either of those needs. He is a much more popular player amongst NFL teams than many think.
24. Dallas Cowboys- Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State
Tyron Smith’s exit has left a hole at left tackle that Tyler Smith should fill. There is still a gaping hole at right tackle, though. Fuaga should be drafted higher than this, so Dallas will thank its stars that he is available. The Beaver would help it establish the run game it lost last year.
25. Green Bay Packers- Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois
I routinely project Newton to Green Bay not because he would be fantastic value in this spot but because the Packers do not have enough interior pass-rushers for their new 4-3 scheme. Newton is a short-armed but savvy pass-rusher who is a slight reach with this pick. There aren't many defensive tackles worth an early pick in this class, so Newton gets elevated.
26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State
Someone is going to overdraft Chop Robinson, just like they always do with undersized and underperforming edges who are really fast. In his defense, Robinson’s takeoff is special. He anticipates the snap well and accelerates to full speed almost immediately. Standing up in Tampa’s scheme would also help hide his lack of size while taking advantage of his strengths.
27.*Arizona Cardinals- Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson
Wiggins is tenacious and very fast. Arizona needed to replace almost every cornerback on its roster last year since they were all pretty bad. The two are a good fit. Arizona has filled three significant holes in the first round of this mock draft.
28. Buffalo Bills – Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU
The Bills are still a dark horse to move into the top 10 and pursue a receiver like Rome Odunze. However, they would be thrilled if a talent like Thomas fell to them. It’s unlikely this happens in real life, but the depth of receiver talent in this class will have someone talented fall to this spot. Thomas has mutant length, great top-end speed, and will track Josh Allen’s deep balls very well.
29. Detroit Lions- Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama
The Lions desperately need help at cornerback. McKinstry isn’t my top corner available, but he’s a smart and efficient man coverage corner who will bring stability and confrontation skills to Detroit’s secondary. The Lions already benefited from getting Brian Branch last year and this Alabama alum will add more help with his press skills.
30. *TRADE: Denver Broncos- Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
The Broncos go all-in on this pick… which is a mistake but one within the realm of reality. Sean Payton isn't a young coach and expressed frustration with last year's lack of wins. He and Mickey Loomis never had patience with their Saints rosters, and you shouldn’t expect it here. So, they trade a mountain for an accurate and mobile game manager to be their signal-caller.
As for why Baltimore would do this deal? It is always looking to move back or add future assets. It also gets a talented pass-rusher in Nik Bonitto, who fits its defensive scheme. The former Sooner has yet to reach his potential but has shown flashes.
Trade Details…
Ravens Receive: Pick No. 76, Denver’s 2025 first-round pick, and Nik Bonitto
Broncos Receive: Pick No. 30
31. San Francisco 49ers- Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas
Is this scenario likely to happen? Maybe not. However, it makes more sense than many want it to. The 49ers have yet to secure a long-term deal with Brandon Aiyuk, and no matter how much they want to ignore this reality, they have to consider Deebo Samuel a one-year rental. Mitchell is a supremely talented player with good hands and elite route running, which are traits Kyle Shanahan loves.
Note: Building buzz that the 49ers really may trade Brandon Aiyuk makes this player/team match more likely since his route running and size scream Shanahan. San Francisco could use a pick from an Aiyuk deal to ensure it gets Mitchell earlier than here, knowing his only flaws are the same that Shanahan reportedly “fixed” with Aiyuk a year ago.
32. Kansas City Chiefs- Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas
We are back to the most predictable player for the Chiefs. There is still buzz that Worthy could go way higher than this, but that buzz is dying a bit, given how deep this receiver class is and how heavy an early tackle run could be. This is about where Worthy should go, and it's a great fit.
Round 2
33. Carolina Panthers- Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon
Austin Corbett allowed four sacks and 16 pressures in just four games. He has injury and performance concerns. He’s also costly. Jackson Powers-Johnson is the best center in this class and would immediately improve Carolina’s run game. He’s one of the better values left.
34. New England Patriots- Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina
If the Patriots want Drake Maye to succeed, they must use all their draft picks to surround him with talent. While Ladd McConkey is higher on my board and fits what New England has always wanted in a receiver, it may prefer keeping Demario Douglas in the slot and adding a big outside weapon with the speed to make deep plays. Legette offers something it doesn’t have.
35. Arizona Cardinals- T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State
Arizona needs multiple starters in its secondary, so don’t be surprised if it uses multiple early picks to address that need. Remember that every division rival in the NFC West has at least two stud wide receivers. Tampa is a long and aggressive corner who is active in all phases and will be a quality starter if he can temper back the penalty-worthy plays.
36. Washington Commanders- Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU
The Commanders’ current options at left tackle are Braeden Daniels and Cornelius Lucas. Daniels is a former fourth-round pick with no experience, and Lucas is a poor run-blocker. Suamataia is extremely raw. His handwork borders on negligence. However, his flaws can all be fixed with good coaching if he's open to it. You cannot teach his length, size, or movement ability.
37. Los Angeles Chargers- Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona
If the Chargers make the right call and take Marvin Harrison Jr. at No. 5 (if he is available), that could set off a chain reaction where a high-end run-blocking right tackle doesn’t reach them in the second round. However, Morgan is good enough to be a long-term answer at right tackle. He is a solid athlete with good core strength and movement skills.
38. Tennessee Titans – Payton Wilson, LB, North Carolina State
Titans leadership comes from a 49ers team whose defense is led by an elite linebacker who can do everything well, particularly as a processor and in coverage. The Titans signed Kenneth Murray Jr., but he isn't close to the Fred Warner mold. Wilson has health concerns, but he's a premium athlete who can do everything and is a better processor than Edgerrin Cooper, making him the pick.
39.*Carolina Panthers- Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
Franklin isn’t the top receiver available, but he fits what the Panthers need. This regime reached on Jonathan Mingo last year, so he’s likely to get at least one more shot at being their possession receiver. Franklin would offer a deep threat and playmaking option with better size than Ricky Pearsall and more speed than Keon Coleman, so he’s the pick but not the best value.
40. *Washington Commanders- Darius Robinson, DE, Missouri
The Commanders unloaded their starting defensive ends last year and now they have a massive need at a position that was once a strength. Robinson isn’t a fast player who plays with bend, but his power rush is incredibly effective.
41. *Green Bay Packers- Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M
The Packers have several needs on defense, especially with their move to a 4-3 scheme. One of those needs is depth at linebacker as their two outside linebackers from last year move to full-time defensive end roles. Cooper is a supreme athlete who can thrive in coverage and as a pass-rusher. He can fill whatever role Green Bay needs.
42.*Houston Texans- Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan
This is a bit high for Sainristil, but the Texans need a young developmental player who can provide depth and replacement potential for Desmond King II and Jimmie Ward. Sainristil is a former receiver with terrific burst, recognition, and good ball skills. He is an ideal long-term replacement for Ward's role in this defense.
43. Atlanta Falcons- Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri
The Falcons have one corner locked down with A.J. Terrell, but they still need help at the other post. Rakestraw is a very aggressive man coverage corner who loves to tackle. He is best suited to play second fiddle to an elite cover corner who shadows No. 1 receivers. Rakestraw can lock down an opponent's second option and provide significant run support.
44.*TRADE: Pittsburgh Steelers- Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia
Pittsburgh doubles down on its offensive line need with this pick, leaning into Arthur Smith's run-first mentality. Mason Cole was a below-average blocker for Pittsburgh last year, while Frazier is a thick, experienced menace in run support. With two picks, the Steelers arguably improve at four spots on their offensive line in this mock.
Trade Details…
Raiders Receive: Picks No. 51 and No. 119
Steelers Receive: Pick No. 44
45. New Orleans Saints- Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
The Saints' top two receivers are both speed-oriented. There are no quality possession receivers on the roster, which is why they throw so often to mediocre tight ends. Coleman has very good play speed, tremendous size, and some of the best hands in the class. The Saints can use him as a possession weapon and let their current speedsters focus on deep throws.
46. Indianapolis Colts- Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida
Alec Pierce hasn't worked out as Indy's deep threat, so they still need someone to tap into Anthony Richardson's massive arm. Pearsall has good play speed, makes highlight-quality grabs, and offers enough versatility that he and Josh Downs can participate in gadget plays. Pearsall isn't just a slot receiver; he showed in college that he can make big plays downfield.
47.*New York Giants- Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia
The Giants have massive holes on their offensive line, but their receiving weapons are also some of the worst in the NFL. Things could get even worse if Darren Waller retires, which is something he is pondering. With that in mind, New York could consider adding more than one receiver in this deep class. In this scenario, Nabers is the big-play lead, while McConkey is the chain-moving slot.
48. Jacksonville Jaguars- Ja'Lynn Polk, WR, Washington
While Trent Baalke has a poor history of drafting receivers, they must pull the trigger to get more weapons for Trevor Lawrence. Polk is a big-bodied receiver who can play inside or out. He is excellent on short-area routes and has the length and strong hands to win 50-50 balls on the regular. This pick would give the Jags a deep threat (Gabe Davis), a slot (Christian Kirk), and a possession guy (Polk).
49. Cincinnati Bengals- Ruke Orhorhoro, DT, Clemson
The Bengals lost both of their starting defensive tackles in free agency. While some veteran depth was added, Orhorhoro has more upside and length than anyone on the roster. The Clemson product has tremendous length and good run support, which Cincinnati typically wants from its interior defensive linemen.
50.*TRADE BACK: Chicago Bears- Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State
With multiple needs on its defensive front, Fiske fits the bill. Chicago should love his athleticism and pass-rush profile. Fiske dominated his position at the Combine and produced sacks at two colleges. He adds to what is becoming a strong defensive line for the Bears.
51.*TRADE BACK: Las Vegas Raiders- Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia
Lassiter isn't a speedster, and he won't impress with his testing numbers, but he's a smart defender who keeps receivers in his back pocket and knows how to read the quarterback pre-snap. Opponents only targeted him three times per game last year despite him covering their top weapon most of the time.
52. Los Angeles Rams- Andru Phillips, CB, Kentucky
The Rams need help at multiple positions on defense, including cornerback. Phillips is one of many strong tacklers in this cornerback class. He has good instincts in the zone and is good in press coverage. He can do various things that should suit the Rams well. Plus, Los Angeles knows that a quality corner won’t likely fall to its next pick. Too many other teams are in need.
53. Philadelphia Eagles – Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan
There continue to be rumors that Philly is interested in adding another receiver with a high pick in this class. Wilson bursts off the line and has good long speed. Despite his slighter frame, he does well in the red zone and contested-catch situations. Wilson could play the slot for the Eagles or switch outside if they lost one of their stars.
54. Cleveland Browns- Trey Benson, RB, Florida State
Benson isn’t the top back on my board, nor is he second or third. However, it is abundantly clear why he will likely be the first back off the board. He has good speed, contact balance, and soft hands. His film isn’t thrilling because he leaves a lot of yards on the field, but he has a three-down profile that would help Cleveland transition from the injured and aging Nick Chubb.
55. Miami Dolphins- Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan
With Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips recovering from torn ACLs and Andrew Van Ginkel leaving in free agency, pass-rush depth is an underrated need for Miami. On film, Kneeland is predominantly a power-rusher with a thick frame, so he isn’t the first player who comes to mind to play outside linebacker in a 3-4. However, he did play some standing up in college and did it surprisingly well.
56. Dallas Cowboys- Jonathon Brooks, RB, Texas
Everything Dallas has done this offseason at the running back position suggests it plans on drafting a running back early. Brooks was the most well-rounded back on film this year and is reportedly on pace to play in Week 1. He’s also a local product. It’s hard to imagine Jerry Jones passing on the top back from the local school when they have such a need.
57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Khyree Jackson, CB, Oregon
Jackson isn’t the best value at this spot, but he remains an ideal fit for a Bucs team that traded away their best cornerback (Carlton Davis III) this offseason. Jackson is a long and physical press corner, fitting the mold of who Tampa has started at its outside corner spots for the past five years.
58. Green Bay Packers – Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota
Despite signing Xavier McKinney in free agency, the Packers still need another starting safety. Their defensive coordinator had lauded the benefits of having multiple safeties who can play multiple roles. Nubin has very good ball skills, breaks on timing throws early, and can play slot corner in a pinch.
59. Houston Texans- Junior Colson, LB, Michigan
DeMeco Ryans is another person who is painfully aware of what Fred Warner does for the 49ers in his system. Ryans needs that kind of leadership and intelligence to lead his defense. Azeez Al-Shaair is a fine player familiar with Ryans’ scheme, but Colson has an extremely high football IQ and feel for zone coverage. He’s a good fit for the Texans’ scheme.
60. Buffalo Bills – Jaden Hicks, S, Washington State
The Bills lost two starting safeties this offseason, both of whom played versatile roles in their unit. Hicks can replace one of those losses. He is a good tackler who has experience in the box and slot. He can do a lot of the pre-snap communication that was lost in free agency.
61. Detroit Lions- Christian Haynes, G, Connecticut
Detroit lost Jonah Jackson in free agency, which is massive. The signing of Kevin Zeitler is a stopgap measure at best. Haynes has a strong lower body that generates power and is good at getting out on pulls. The Husky also plays with a mean streak, which will sit well with Dan Campbell.
62. Baltimore Ravens- Adisa Isaac, DE, Penn State
With their trade out of the first round, the Ravens addressed a need by adding Nik Bonitto. That alone doesn’t solve their need on the edge, though. Isaac is a polished pass-rusher with tremendous hands. He would give Baltimore a deep rotation on the edge to draw from, especially if Odafe Oweh and David Ojabo don’t take the next step.
63. San Francisco 49ers- Patrick Paul, OT, Houston
Offensive tackle is easily the most obvious place the 49ers could improve, yet they seem comfortable with Colton McKivitz starting at right tackle. Adding Paul would give San Francisco a long, raw tackle it can develop on the bench for a year. Then, they could use him at left tackle if Trent Williams were to retire or use him to replace McKivitz. Paul’s size and length are tantalizing.
64. Kansas City Chiefs – Roger Rosengarten, OT, Washington
Both Super Bowl participants have the same plan in this mock. They add a quality receiver from Texas in the first round for security and upside. Then, they add an athletic but raw tackle in the second round to develop and turn them into eventual starters. Both teams have significant needs at offensive tackle in particular. Rosengarten's agility and bend could help Kansas City for a decade.
Round 3
65. Carolina Panthers- Javon Bullard, S, Georgia
The Panthers could throw a dart and hit a player who fills a need on their roster. Bullard is best used as a starting nickel, but he can also help at safety. Carolina has needs at both, so it should value this dynamic leader with two national championships under his belt.
66.*TRADE BACK: Atlanta Falcons- Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan
With Calais Campbell still a free agent and Grady Jarrett aging, Atlanta could use more help on the interior. Jenkins is a stalwart in run support with an incredibly powerful anchor and arms. He moves up and down the line well and identifies run lanes quickly. The Wolverine would improve the Falcons’ run defense immediately.
67. Washington Commanders- Chris Braswell, DE, Alabama
The Commanders have a massive need for edge pressure, so they will likely draft multiple edge-rushers in this draft. They already added Darius Robinson, and now they draft another SEC hustle monster. Braswell isn't an elite athlete and he doesn't have overwhelming size, but he was productive, creating pressure at Alabama with effort, decent burst, and active hands.
68. New England Patriots- Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale
The Patriots continue building around Drake Maye in this mock. Amegadjie was fairly dominant against inferior competition in the Ivy League, and he has good size that moves well on pulls. His frame and athletic profile project as a potential starting tackle. New defensive-minded head coach Jerod Mayo may not love all these offensive picks, but Maye won’t succeed without them.
69. Los Angeles Chargers- Ben Sinnott, TE, Kansas State
Jim Harbaugh’s 49ers teams relied heavily on the athletic Vernon Davis at tight end. Greg Roman’s relied on Mark Andrews in Baltimore. Sinnott is not the athlete Davis was, and he isn’t as long as Andrews. However, Sinnott is a willing blocker who tested well at the Combine, has similar size to George Kittle coming out of Iowa, and he moves well.
70. New York Giants- Mason McCormick, G, South Dakota State
In this mock, New York has passed on its considerable need for offensive line help. McCormick is an underrated yeoman blocker who does a lot of things very well. He can plug in as a starting guard immediately for Big Blue.
71. Arizona Cardinals- Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee
James Conner will be 29 this season and has a history of injuries. He is the only noteworthy back the Cardinals have had on their roster for years. Arizona has tried to add cheap backups or low-round draft picks to develop behind Conner, but it hasn't worked. Now, the Cards have so many draft picks that they can afford to invest a quality pick in the position. Wright is the most explosive back in the class.
72. New York Jets- Blake Fisher, OT, Notre Dame
The Jets added multiple starters to their offensive line through free agency. Pretty much all of them have age and injury concerns. Gang Green cannot leave this draft without adding at least one quality swing tackle to back up Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses. Fisher can offer quality reserve snaps and develop into a starter.
73. Detroit Lions- Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky
The Lions have done considerable research on this receiver class, suggesting they could draft one higher than this. They will be very grateful if they wait and Corley falls to them. The player some of us call "Baby Deebo" is a tackle-breaking monster. He can play inside and out. He will fit the mold of tough and resilient players that Detroit has targeted since Dan Campbell came on board.
74. Atlanta Falcons- Brandon Dorlus, DT, Oregon
Dorlus is a 'tweener, but he has the length and snap anticipation to become a productive weapon in the NFL on the right defense. Given the scheme Raheem Morris ran in Los Angeles, he has the size to play 5-tech and 3-tech, which is versatility they should need.
75. Chicago Bears- Devontez Walker, WR, North Carolina
The Bears should strongly consider adding more help for Caleb Williams in this draft. However, the way this mock fell had them taking defensive linemen with their first two picks. Those were just great values at positions of need, so they had to make those moves. Now, they select a long-striding deep threat with drop issues, who is a better prospect than Tyler Scott was.
76.*TRADE BACK: Baltimore Ravens- Javon Baker, WR, UCF
The Ravens trading out of the first round is risky, given they are a contender with a few needs. However, the move pays off in this mock. Baker would be an early second-round pick in many draft classes, and he fills a need. He has good size, length, speed, and his yards per catch in 2023 was third in the nation despite his healthy size. Baker is one of my favorite prospects in this class.
77. Las Vegas Raiders- Brandon Coleman, OL, TCU
The Raiders need help at multiple spots on their offensive line. While some have Coleman as a right tackle prospect, he could be a good guard. He has a large frame and a strong grip. His lower body can be limber, but his upper body is a bit stiff. Las Vegas could try him at right tackle, as a swing tackle, or put him at guard.
78. Washington Commanders- Max Melton, CB, Rutgers
Washington has a lot of needs and a lot of picks in this class. Melton fills another hole on this roster. He would have been a Day 3 pick had he come out last year. The Rutgers alum improved his stock this year, showing good ball skills, adequate tackling, and the ability to stick to the best receivers in his conference.
79. Atlanta Falcons- Jalen McMillan, WR, Washington
The Falcons could focus their draft on defense for the first time under this current regime, but they still need to add another receiving option at some point. McMillan is predominantly a slot weapon with nuanced route running and good hands. He has the height to play outside, though. He’s better than Atlanta’s current WR2, Darnell Mooney.
80. Cincinnati Bengals- Malik Washington, WR, Virginia
The Bengals have used a lot of three-receiver sets with Tyler Boyd in the slot. Boyd is not on the roster, though. Washington is a thick slot weapon who breaks tackles and has shown he can withstand a heavy workload. The Virginia product is an ideal replacement for Boyd at a good price.
81. Seattle Seahawks- Jonah Elliss, EDGE, Utah
Seattle's new head coach was a defensive coordinator who ran a 3-4 scheme in Baltimore. The Seahawks don't have the depth of personnel to support that move effectively right now. Elliss is a polished edge who lacks size. His ideal fit is as a rotational pass- rusher in a 3-4 scheme.
82. Indianapolis Colts- MarShawn Lloyd, RB, USC
The Colts lost Zack Moss this offseason, leaving uninspiring options behind Jonathan Taylor. The team must add a quality backup to its roster, given Taylor's injury history and punishing style. Lloyd has fumbling issues but is an explosive runner. Taylor also had fumbling issues but was an explosive runner when coming out of Wisconsin, which did not deter this regime.
83. Los Angeles Rams- Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina
The Rams have good veteran depth at quarterback, but they know Matthew Stafford is getting older and has injury concerns. Meanwhile, Jimmy Garoppolo has proven he is not a quality starting quarterback in the NFL for various reasons. Rattler has an above-average arm and mobility. It isn't a big loss if he doesn't work out. If he does, it's a bargain.
84. Pittsburgh Steelers- Brenden Rice, WR, USC
The Steelers have shown a strong interest in improving at receiver, but the way this mock fell, they had to invest in their porous offensive line. Adding Rice here gives Pittsburgh a thick and sturdy route runner who made plenty of plays for Caleb Williams this past year. The son of Jerry Rice could develop into a quality WR2, playing second fiddle to George Pickens.
85. Cleveland Browns- Michael Hall Jr., DT, Ohio State
Hall is a quality athlete and pass-rusher, but he's also an undersized tweener who could struggle to find an every-down position in the NFL. However, his film is too good to fall further than this. He would add quality depth and upside to an already good Browns defensive line.
86. Houston Texans- Bralen Trice, DE, Washington
Trice isn't a particularly athletic player, but he has good size and is productive with his bull rush. He also has shown the ability to play back in coverage when needed. His frame suggests he could play a versatile role similar to what Arik Armstead did for DeMeco Ryans in San Francisco, alternating inside and out.
87. Dallas Cowboys- Jermaine Burton, WR, Alabama
The Cowboys need depth at receiver. Burton is more popular on other boards than he is on mine. He is a diverse route runner with a good release off the line and the ability to win deep. In my book, he isn't a WR1 prospect, but he could turn into a quality WR2 at some point. That's what Dallas needs out of him.
88. Green Bay Packers- Dominick Puni, OL, Kansas
The Packers got great production from their starting offensive tackles last year, but edge depth and competition inside are both areas of need. Puni can start at right guard for the Packers while acting as a swing tackle if either of Green Bay's starters goes down. Puni is a strong player who can move people off the line in the run game.
89. *TRADE: Los Angeles Chargers- Blake Corum, RB, Michigan
For various reasons, I am concerned about how well Blake Corum fits in Jim Harbaugh's scheme. I discussed this at length in my Top 100 Prospects article, pointing out how inefficient Corum was in this scheme with very good blocking. That said, Harbaugh knows and likes this player. It makes sense that they'd want him to compete in their backfield.
Trade Details…
Chargers Receive: Pick No. 89 overall and Tampa's fifth-round pick in 2025
Buccaneers Receive: Picks No. 105 and No. 110 overall
90. Arizona Cardinals- Austin Booker, EDGE, Kansas
Booker has amazing length, and his testing numbers are off the charts. He is an inexperienced and raw pass-rusher with limited moves, though. Booker's profile will always merit an investment in this range. For example, Byron Young had a similar athletic profile out of Tennessee last year. He outperformed his third-round cost in 2023, which is something I predicted.
91. Green Bay Packers- Jarvis Brownlee Jr., CB, Louisville
The Packers are one of three teams with an immense number of draft picks in the first three rounds of this draft. So, they can afford to fill many needs for starters and depth. Brownlee Jr. is an aggressive corner who plays a well-rounded game. He can be a starter in time but should immediately offer depth and slot options.
92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Cooper Beebe, G, Kansas State
The Buccaneers are another team in need of interior blockers. Beebe has played every position on the offensive line for Kansas State, showing plus awareness transitioning from double-teams to blitz pickup. He has good size and knows what to do with his hands.
93. Baltimore Ravens- Kamren Kinchens, S, Miami (FL)
The Ravens have starters in the secondary but lost Geno Stone in free agency. Stone was one of the best in Baltimore at creating turnovers, and he allowed them to play three safeties regularly. Kinchens was a similar turnover machine in college, he’s a quality tackler, and can play in the slot. He would offer a ton of quality depth and allow the Ravens to keep their defense consistent.
94. San Francisco 49ers- Mohamed Kamara, DE, Colorado State
Kamara gets knocked to the ground too often but is tenacious and plays with power. He was also incredibly productive in the sack department at Colorado State. Kamara would add quality depth to a 49ers defensive line that is used to having a deep rotation of pass-rushers.
95. Kansas City Chiefs- Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
Travis Kelce won’t be around forever. In fact, he won’t be around too much longer. The Chiefs would love to add someone who can sit behind Kelce and grow into a quality starter. Sanders isn't a blocker. He is a good route runner with solid hands and a feel for zone. He would be a logical heir to the Chiefs' current superstar tight end.
96. Jacksonville Jaguars- Calen Bullock, S, USC
Bullock could drop much further than this due to his lack of interest in tackling. Some team will likely value his ball skills and draft him in this range, though. Bullock can potentially be a deep safety or cover corner, which is the profile Trent Baalke likes.
97. Cincinnati Bengals- Christian Mahogany, G, Boston College
With this pick, the Bengals add quality depth to the inside of their offensive line. Mahogany is a powerful player who could turn into a starter in time. For now, the Bengals will appreciate his ability to upgrade the quality of their bench.
98. Pittsburgh Steelers- Jalyx Hunt, EDGE, Houston Christian
Hunt is a very good athlete with good size, which you've heard a lot about in this mock. He's incredibly raw, though. Since he's a converted offensive player, he needs time to sit and develop an understanding of what playing defense means. Hunt has the potential to become a dangerous standup pass-rusher, and he has more talent than any cornerback available here.
99. Los Angeles Rams- Javon Solomon, EDGE, Troy
With Aaron Donald gone, the Rams could use multiple pass-rushers to replace his unreplaceable production. Solomon is undersized but would fit very well as a standup pass-rusher in the Rams system.
100. Washington Commanders- Jared Wiley, TE, TCU
The Commanders added Zach Ertz as their starting tight end, but he's obviously aging. Wiley is a willing but underwhelming blocker. He makes something out of nothing across the middle and in the red zone. He would be a fine protégé under Ertz and eventually become a quality starter.
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