2021 NFL Mock Draft: Predicting Round 1 of the NFL Draft (V5)

The phrase “best prospect since Andrew Luck” has been tired for a while, but stylistically Lawrence is reminiscent of Luck. He’s massive, athletic, has a huge arm with very good accuracy, and is a smart player. He looks for chunk plays effectively and routinely challenges tight passing windows.

The Jaguars added a ton of depth in free agency and should have one of the better secondaries in the league thanks to key additions. Their draft should continue to bolster the trenches on both sides of the ball to lock-in the foundation of the roster.

The Jets have reportedly been taking calls for Sam Darnold for good reason. New coach Robert Saleh doesn’t want to be picking this high ever again, and this quarterback class is special. He’ll have his pick between either Ohio State’s Justin Fields and BYU’s Wilson.

Wilson continues to be the name most linked with the Jets. The creative passer is coming from a similar scheme as to what the Jets’ offense will run under new offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. His arm and ability to create outside of the pocket give him great potential.

Miami has their pick of four very different skill sets at receiver here. TE Kyle Pitts might be the best overall receiving talent, but doesn’t create the separation of his peers. Jaylen Waddle is similar to Miami’s newly-signed playmaker Will Fuller. DeVonta Smith is a great fit since he can play inside and out, but it’s Chase who’s been getting linked to this pick more often from league insiders.

Chase has excellent hands, toughness, route-running, and burst near the catch point. He’s not the best overall athlete, but is the most complete receiver. He’d round out an excellent young corps of playmakers for Tua.

Atlanta just restructured Matt Ryan’s contract to go through 2022 with huge guaranteed money so the veteran is in Atlanta for the foreseeable future. Their cap limitations also meant their free agency options were whittled down to spare parts. Spending this premier pick on a quarterback makes little sense.

Instead, Atlanta needs an impactful defensive star. The Virginia tech product is a speedy and physical cornerback in Farley. Farley, Kendall Sheffield, and Isaiah Oliver would be a talented young trio to build around.

The Bengals have their franchise quarterback but they have to keep him healthy. Burrow was hit 79 times, and sacked 47 times in his 10 games. Signing Riley Reiff gives Cincinnati the option to go after a top receiver here but the goal must revolve around protecting Burrow still.

Pairing tackle Jonah Williams with Penei Sewell as bookends and Reiff as a guard would solidify this line to be more than acceptable in 2021. It’s a deep receiver class so expect the Bengals to dip into the array of options on Day 2.

The Eagles were able to get a great return for Carson Wentz, and then ownership mandated the organization build around Jalen Hurts for 2021. Hurts needs playmakers to be successful, and the most pro-ready of the bunch who can create production in a variety of roles is Smith.

Smith is a more complete receiver than 2020 first-rounder Jalen Reagor and able to move across the formation. His quick separation would help Hurts more than Jaylen Waddle’s deep speed and Pitts’s catch radius.

The Lions were able to land a ton in its trade of Matthew Stafford, a veteran who couldn’t help this team overcome the hump and be a consistent winner. Jared Goff is also limited, but really good when kept clean from pressure. This allows the Lions to play the value game with this pick.

There’s not a great edge-rusher in this range, so that leaves taking a wide receiver. Alabama speedster Waddle is my top receiver thanks to his game-breaking upside. Goff would have a respectable cast of pass catchers if free agent signings Breshad Perriman and Tyrell Williams can stay healthy.

Carolina seems destined to trade up for a quarterback after they’ve been linked to veterans all off-season. It’s clear they view Teddy Bridgewater as a short-term starter. Landing either Fields or Trey Lance would give them a high-upside prospect to develop in 2021.

Fields would be the top quarterback in most classes and projections with him sliding beyond the top few picks are misguided. He’s extremely athletic and smart, with a plus arm and great accuracy. He’d be a perfect fit in Joe Brady’s system.

Denver wasn’t able to address the concern at quarterback behind Drew Lock, but their free agency was otherwise productive. Keeping Justin Simmons, Shelby Harris, and Von Miller was huge. Then adding both Kyle Fuller and Ronald Darby completed an overhaul at cornerback.

They could opt to move up for a quarterback but, short of that, taking an impact front-seven defender would be beneficial. Parsons can play either the edge spot or linebacker. With no clear heir to Miller, and an opening at linebacker, Parsons offers versatility.

The Cowboys made a huge mistake when they let Byron Jones walk last offseason. The cornerbacks left on the roster are all replaceable, and have contributed to why Dallas was such a disappointment last season. They have tough decisions to make on how to proceed forward with this staff, Dak Prescott’s contract situation, and how to manage an expensive roster after wasting a year.

Adding an impact cornerback is tough to do, and the last time Dallas picked in the top 10, they could’ve had Jalen Ramsey instead of Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott is a good back, but clearly they made the wrong decision. They can somewhat rectify their need for secondary help by adding Surtain.

Surtain is adept in both man and zone, and adds needed length and playmaking to this unit.

The Giants did well to add Kenny Golladay in free agency but the loss of Kevin Zeitler is painful. It’s imperative Daniel Jones has time to utilize his weapons this season, or else he and general manager Dave Gettleman could be on the outs. Taking a top blocker would help fill the biggest question mark on the unit, right guard.

Northwestern’s Slater has the size to play either tackle or guard. With Andrew Thomas and Nate Solder outside already, Slater could complete the unit at right guard. He’s an excellent pass blocker and athletic run blocker.

The 49ers are another team that fell short of their goal to land a new quarterback. However, after a solid free agency that filled most of their needs, they can justify trading up for the position. Lance may not last this late but he’d be a great target for coach Kyle Shanahan.

A strong, powerful passer and runner, Lance has sky-high potential. He’s raw in terms of running a full offense and his accuracy isn’t yet consistently good so sitting behind Jimmy Garoppolo can help considerably. No other team could offer Lance a better long-term situation.

The Chargers were one of free agency’s biggest winners thanks to shrewd signings. Solidifying the offensive line helps tremendously, and keeping Michael Davis at corner was critical. They can go best player available here.

The Florida tight end is as good as any receiver in this class if he’s viewed as an outside pass-catcher, but still retains elite value as a tight end. His insane hand strength, catch radius and movement ability for his size will make him the next Darren Waller. He’d fit wonderfully on an offense with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.

Minnesota could use help all over their roster so this pick is all about filling a valuable need with the best overall player. The offensive line class is strong thanks to its depth and versatility. USC’s Vera-Tucker has been climbing up boards because of his ability to play in any scheme as a tackle or guard.

Suddenly Minnesota would have one of the youngest but most athletic lines in the NFL. Losing Riley Reiff’s veteran savvy will sting but Vera-Tucker can be a legitimate left tackle right away.

Bill Belichick splurged like a madman in free agency in a shocking manner. Retaining Cam Newton on backup money was smart and gave the team flexibility heading into the draft. Their lack of faith in Jarrett Stidham is justified and investing into a better rookie is needed.

Alabama’s championship-winning quarterback is one of the toughest evaluations of the last few years. He’s accurate, smart, and confident, which makes him a higher floor player. But his lack of experience, big arm, and mobility could push him even into Day 2 despite some belief he’ll go top 10.

There’s a lot of needs on the Arizona Cardinals roster and limited money to make some of the holes disappear. It’s shocking to see general manager Steve Keim still in position after so many missed picks and signings. He and Kliff Kingsbury are facing the heat after a disappointing end to 2020.

Deciding between an edge rusher and cornerback will be a tough call. Patrick Peterson looked done last year—now he’s in Minnesota—and Dre Kirkpatrick isn’t worth his bloated salary. Getting a premier cornerback on the roster can help tremendously. The South Carolina stud has everything needed to contribute right away. He has elite length, instincts, and ball skills.

The Raiders boldly moved on from two standout veteran offensive linemen in order to cut costs. They were active in signing numerous depth pieces, and smartly snagged John Brown and Yannick Ngakoue but need more help. Reinvesting into the tackle position can solidify Jon Gruden’s offense.

Jenkins is more physical and technical than some of the other options on the board here. Don’t confuse more pro-ready with having a lower ceiling. He can slide into the right tackle spot right away.

The Dolphins could double down on Alabama playmakers by taking Najee Harris but it’s a great running back class. Waiting allows them to address the huge hole for an edge-rusher. Getting faster and more athletic at the edge spot is a must for Brian Flores.

Michigan’s Paye stands out instantly on film thanks to a blend of strength in the run game and quickness off the edge on passing plays. Miami can develop him into a major contributor without asking him to start thanks to some veteran depth.

Ron Rivera’s Football Team did well to make the best of a tough veteran quarterback market. Ryan Fitzpatrick can bring monstrous performances to help win unlikely battles, and will help his young receivers put up serious numbers. The Washington defense can get an uplift with the offense more settled.

Versatile and rangy safety Moehrig can unlock a talented defense and take them to the next level. Landon Collins is more of a box safety and linebacker, and Moehrig can play single-high to protect his corners.

Chicago had a tough free agency after veteran quarterbacks opted for greener pastures elsewhere. Andy Dalton brings more competence to their offense but a limited upside. Losing Kyle Fuller will sting badly and the possibility of Akiem Hicks walking as well would be incredibly painful.

Adding an instant contributor to the defense looks necessary after their offseason. Taking advantage of a great talent in Phillips falling this far is what good general managers do. Phillips is the best pure pass rusher in the class.

Free agency was a massive bust for the Colts after trading for Carson Wentz. Despite over $40 million in cap space, the team decided to play the bargain-bin hunting game. This pick should’ve been a best-player-available decision, but now must be used for a need.

An explosive receiver, Moore can replace TY Hilton’s speed and versatility. If Parris Campbell comes back healthy, no team in the league will have as good of a top-three receiving corps all on rookie deals.

The Titans underwent some serious change this offseason. Losing Corey Davis and Adoree’ Jackson left major holes in their long-term planning. Giving quarterback Ryan Tannehill a legitimate second receiving target will be a must.

Minnesota’s star receiver gained steam when he blazed a sub-4.4 40-yard dash at his pro day but he showed on tape how talented he is. Much like Davis, Bateman can play inside or out, and wins with his size as much as his speed.

The Jets follow up the Wilson pick with another key decision at No. 23. Adding another pass-rusher to go with Carl Lawson is huge for the defense. The speedy and athletic Ojulari would be a steal here.

Ojulari has average size but the burst to give blockers headaches all game long. It’s not a surprise his pro day was so impressive. The Georgia product was a force all season long in 2020.

Change hit the Steelers this offseason thanks to being cap-strapped, but it wasn’t as bad as it could’ve been. Retaining JuJu Smith-Schuster was a nice surprise, and they mitigated the need to reach for a blocker here. However, the board fell perfectly to get a great tackle prospect.

Darrisaw has tremendous upside thanks to his athleticism. The Hokies’ product has great feel for the position yet needs refinement with his hand usage and pass protection sets. Pittsburgh’s track record with blockers is good enough to trust.

Urban Meyer has a lot of options with his second first-round pick. The Jags could take a receiver or look to bolster a defense with several needs. Going with the best overall player makes too much sense.

The defense still could use another stud next to Josh Allen after pass-rusher after K’Lavon Chaisson disappointed in 2020. Rousseau is an athletic and long body who needs good coaching, but Meyer’s shown throughout his career he can get the most out of this type of athlete.

The Browns were another big free agency winner as they reinforced their defense with great value deals. The secondary is more trustworthy and the depth along the roster is as good as we’ve seen. Finding value at the edge position is now important.

Basham, a Wake Forest standout, can immediately step into a complimentary role and produce. He’s a powerful body with good hands. A platoon with Takk McKinley and Basham would give Myles Garrett needed support.

Baltimore has a big need for a receiver, so adding both a veteran and a high-end rookie only makes sense. Their cap situation makes it imperative that a contributor be found immediately. A rising name is Moore out of Ole Miss.

Moore is a terror from the slot, boasting great size and pure speed. He’ll give Lamar Jackson and this offense needed consistency and explosiveness. They’ll have to get creative to land a reliable veteran with their cap limitations but Moore at least gives a boost to one starting spot.

The Saints went through massive changes as expected thanks to being in cap hell. The offense needs a receiver to look more threatening, but waiting until Day 2 might make more sense because of how short the class is on impact defenders. It also helps Sean Payton’s squeezed production out of no-name receivers in the past.

A speedy and physical cornerback, Campbell would be a perfect running mate for Marshon Lattimore. The Saints can continue having one of the best secondaries in the league with the right second corner. Campbell gives the unit a big body to throw against a deep array of receivers in the NFC South.

Help is needed around Aaron Rodgers after a disappointing end to their season. We saw enough dropped passes and lack of open receivers against Tampa Bay to know this team needs to go all-in this off-season. Failing to sign a veteran due to cap space means that the draft offers the answer.

A downfield presence like Marshall gets the nod in this mock. The 6’3”, 200-pound speedster has had two great seasons at LSU, and is a big-play threat every pass. He’s already capable of winning on vertical routes and everything that plays off go routes, like curls, comebacks, and dig routes, meaning he can play right away.

The Bills had a fantastic breakout season thanks. The defense has taken a step back and there’s a huge need for a cornerback across from Tre’Davious White, but ensuring the offense remains a strength is critical. Josh Allen needs competent blocking and the run game can’t be forgotten as part of their identity.

Taking an offensive lineman would make sense but the running backs are also an issue for the unit. Alabama’s Harris is an awesome talent and able to fix the lack of explosiveness in the backfield. Simply, Zack Moss and Devin Singletary are too limited to overcome any type of disadvantageous situation they face.

Harris is a great all-around playmaker. The Bills can ask less of Allen in 2021 with Harris in the backfield to take pressure off the passing game.

Credit has to be given to the Chiefs for how they quickly revamped their offensive line. Injuries and high cap numbers forced changed, and the Chiefs took the challenge on quickly. They almost landed left tackle Trent Williams to go with Kyle Long and Joe Thuney.

Lucas Niang is in line to take the left tackle spot with Williams going back to San Francisco. That leaves one lone hole at center. Oklahoma center Humphrey is a star at the position and fits perfectly in Andy Reid’s zone attack.

The rich get even richer. Keeping both Shaquill Barrett and Chris Godwin was impressive and it’s possible more veterans enter back into the fray. They can truly go best player available here if they choose to.

Ndamukong Suh and William Gholston are aging and need depth behind him, if not outright replace one of the veterans due to cap reasons. Iowa’s defensive lineman is an explosive interior presence who can replicate Suh’s game at a fraction of the cost.