2021 NFL Mock Draft: Predicting Round 1 of the NFL Draft (V6)

We thought we had a good idea of how the 2021 NFL Draft would play out until two major trades last week changed the landscape. Miami’s move down then move up completely rearranged how the board will play out. The early blockbuster move up by San Francisco to No. 3 will be under the microscope until they’re on the clock. With the order now fully shook up, we’re only one month away from the NFL Draft. Who knows what’s about to happen over these next 30 days, but there will surely be plenty of rumors to keep everyone entertained.

Our latest mock draft reflects what we’ve seen thus far in free agency and projects who fits where the best. We’ll break down all 32 picks and give some of the latest intel from around the league.

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.

It’s hard to imagine the 49ers would move three first round picks for someone with limited arm strength and tape (Mac Jones) or as raw as any gifted physical specimen as we’ve seen in the last decade (Trey Lance). It’s possible, but both GM John Lynch and coach Kyle Shanahan’s careers will be defined by this pick. They need to blend upside with refined skill set to hit on this selection.

Luckily for them, Fields is the perfect fit. Fields will thrive with more defined reads than the receiver-option-heavy system at Ohio State, and he has the physical tools to be the best overall playmaker in the class. Expect him to push Jimmy Garoppolo for the starting job sooner than later.

Everyone wants to give the Falcons a quarterback but their offseason hasn’t allowed the luxury of taking a player who will contribute in two years. Atlanta has added exclusively depth guys in free agency due to cap limitations. This roster has to get an impactful starter in Round 1 to hope their 2021 will be different than 2020.

The best overall talent is Pitts. The versatile pass-catcher can be whatever Atlanta needs him to be, and can be the future of the franchise with Calvin Ridley as Julio Jones ages. A playmaker corps of Jones, Ridley, Pitts, Hayden Hurts, and running back Mike Davis is a fantastic group for Matt Ryan.

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 offensive lineman 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 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.

Miami has their pick of three very different skill sets at receiver here. Jaylen Waddle is similar to 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.

he 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.

The Panthers must be sweating right now after seeing the 49ers move up for a quarterback. They’ve made it no secret they want their franchise passer this offseason, and it may be an arm’s race to land the fourth quarterback in the first-round. It wouldn’t be surprising to see a move up on draft day.

Lance is the best potential playmaker left here, and it makes sense he’d find a home in Carolina behind Teddy Bridgewater. Lance thrives in rhythm plays, a strength of Joe Brady, and has the upside to be so much more. He’s the biggest wildcard of the class with his athletic ability.

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 pro day season has been kind to all of the top cornerbacks but we’ve seen Horn really separate himself. The 6’1”, 205-pounder posted elite numbers across the board, reinforcing his excellent tape and perceived upside. Horn can be a phenomenal starter early in his career.

Dallas needs exactly that after botching the position the last few seasons. They’ve seen little production and playmaking in the secondary. Horn can help turn that trend around.

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 Eagles were able to get a great return for Carson Wentz, and then again by moving down with Miami. Quarterback Jalen 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 Waddle’s deep speed and Pitts’ catch radius.

Arguably the biggest winner of the offseason to this point has been the Chargers. They’ve successfully rebuilt their woeful offensive line for Justin Herbert, and have a healthy slew of picks and cap room moving forward. Addressing the few holes they have left is now critical.

Another outside cornerback can take the defense to an elite level. Losing Casey Hayward as a cap casualty is a big one, but Surtain has the pro-readiness and measurables to be a top corner quickly. Brandon Staley will love Surtain’s versatility and ball skills.

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 Jones 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, and Dre Kirkpatrick isn’t worth his bloated salary. Getting a premier cornerback on the roster can help tremendously.

Virginia Tech’s Farley is a great prospect, and could go as high as the top-six. He’s physical and as fast as any corner in the class. Landing a potential CB1 in this range is a major steal.

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 offensive 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.

The Colts sat out free agency to the chagrin of many. They’re now left with several key holes despite sitting on a ton of cap space. It’s key they protect Carson Wentz, because we’ve seen how poorly he plays when protection is anything but great.

Cosmi had good tape but an even better pro day. He tested as an elite athlete at tackle. We’ve seen how well this unit has been coached up, and Cosmi can ascend to franchise blindside blocker with the Colts.

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 Robert Saleh’s 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 but 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.

The 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 Ole Miss’ Elijah Moore.

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.

After a tremendous breakout 2020 season, the Bills have flexibility with this pick. They could take a top running back and complete the offense. Or they can look to lock in the defense, which took a step back last year and should be better.

Getting a great second corner would be a big boost for the unit. Newsome is a perfect fit into their Cover 2 base, boasting great length and physicality. The Bills would instantly have a top-tier secondary.

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 and Mike Remmers could take the tackle positions, leaving center as the lone need. But if the Chiefs don’t view Niang as the immediate answer, getting a left tackle for 2021 is imperative. Alabama’s Leatherwood is a plug-and-play starter who can be at least serviceable if not solid.

The Bucs have the ability to take the best available player thanks to their solid roster construction. Running back is possible but re-signing Leonard Fournette keeps the position set for now. They should take a flier on a high-upside prospect like Jayson Oweh.

Oweh had little production (seven career sacks and none in 2020) but a legendary pro day. He ran like Calvin Johnson, sporting a sub-4.4 40-yard dash at 252 pounds. His speed and size must be harnessed into a third-down role, but he could be the next Danielle Hunter if he reaches his athletic upside.