By Evan Orris

We are officially less than 1 month away from the NFL Draft. Even with all the uncertainty in the world, the NFL has announced that the draft will continue. Albeit with some major alternatives. So let’s dive into how the draft might go.

1. Cincinnati Bengals -Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

This pick has been locked in ever since Burrow won the Heisman and the National Championship. Burrow is coming off one of the most sensational seasons in recent memory. He threw for 5,671 yds, 60 TDs, and only 6 INTs season. At 6’4″ Burrow has the size to withstand pressure in the pocket, but he can also scramble when needed, as he rushed for 400 yards and 5 TDs. The Ohio native seems like the perfect franchise QB, and the Bengals are the winners of the losers.

2. Washington Redskins- Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State

A defensive monster, Young accounted for 16.5 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles. Even though the Redskins could use a left tackle for the future, or another WR for Haskins, Young is one of the best defensive line prospects that scouts have seen in years. He has a wide variety of pass rush moves, and could also be a factor in the run game. He could play in either a 4-3 scheme as an edge rusher, or he could stand up and play OLB in a 3-4 scheme.

3. Miami Dolphins (via DET)- Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Bama

There has been mumbles around the league that the Dolphins might be interested in a trade-up with the Bengals, or might even prefer Herbert over Tua, but I think that is all smoke. Tua is a way more talented QB to Herbert, and if it wasn’t due to a midseason hip-injury, he would be in talks to be the number 1 overall pick. I predict the Phins trading uo Tua had 33 touchdowns, and only 3 interceptions in only 9 games. He has elite accuracy, and when healthy he can scramble and stretch plays á la Russell Wilson. With both Ryan Fitzpatrick and Josh Rosen still on the roster, this could allow Tua to sit a year and get fully healthy.

4. New York Giants – Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

First of all, seeing Simmons listed as a linebacker doesn’t due him justice. He has logged snaps as a safety, linebacker, and a nickel corner. He’s the type of player that makes a Swiss-Army Knife look useless. At 6’4″ 238 pounds, Simmons ran a 4.39 40-yard dash. Even though the Giants signed linebackers Blake Martinez and Kyler Fackrell in free agency, Simmons can help complete the unit while also addressing needs at other positions. He ended the season with 7 sacks, 3 interceptions, and 67 tackles.

5. Detroit Lions- Jeffery Okudah, CB, Ohio State

After trading away star corner Darius Slay to the Eagles, the Lions have a big hole in their secondary. Enter Okudah. He has the type of personality to be a top corner, and backs it up with his play. Okudah had 3 interceptions along with 9 pass deflections last season. He more annoying than a gnat on a humid, summer night.

6. Los Angeles Chargers- Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

With Phillip Rivers moving on to the Colts, their is a new opening at the QB position in LA. Tyrod Taylor is a more than capable back-up, but he has twice lost his job to incoming rookies. History should repeat itself here. LA is the perfect place for a pretty-boy like Justin Herbert. The 6’6″ 236 pound QB with long, dirty-blonde hair and a rocket arms hould fit in perfectly. Herbert threw for 3, 471 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. It is rumored that Chargers HC Anthony Lynn prefers a QB that can utilize his legs. Herbert showed he can do just that as he rushed for 3 TDs in the Rose Bowl.

7. Carolina Panthers- Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn

Many people around the league believe that the Panthers are setting themselves up to tank for Trevor Lawrence next year. They also have the position filled short term with recent-signee Teddy Bridgewater. The Panthers will draft the best player available. In this case, it is Derrick Brown. Brown is a 6’5″ 315 lbs monster who can clog up run lanes and get to the passer. Brown had 11.5 TFL to go along with 4 sacks at Auburn last season. He will instantly replace Gerald McCoy who they lost in free agency.

8.Arizona Cardinals- Jedrick Wills, OT, Bama

After trading for star WR DeAndre Hopkins, the Cardinals need to improve their offensive line. Last year, Kyler Murray was sacked 50 times in the season. They need to give him some time to let him get the ball in Hopkins hands. Enter Jedrick Wills, who I think is the best offensive tackle prospect in the draft. Wills only played right tackle at Bama, but that’s okay because the Cardinals signed LT D.J Humphries to an extension. Wills is a polished player in both the running and passing game. He has great footwork, and is a force at 6’5″ 320 lbs. He started 26 games at Alabama, the experience is very important for rookie offensive tackles too.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars- Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina

The Jaguars recently had a fire sale. They traded away CB A.J Bouye and DE Calais Campbell. On top of that, they have been rumored to be trading away DE Yannick Ngakoue. The Jags are going to need to rebuild the Sacksonville defense. Kinlaw has been soaring up draft boards as of late. Kinlaw racked up a total of 10 career sacks and 17 TFL. Even though the numbers aren’t there, his potential is sky-high. He had a great showing at the Senior Bowl, and even withdrew mid-way through the week. Not due to injury, just due to the way he dominated practice. He will instantly take the place of Campbell, and be a nice compliment to last years first-round pick Josh Allen.

10. Cleveland Browns- Tristian Wirfs, OT, Iowa

Baker Mayfield took a step back in his development, but that is to be expected as the opposing teams had a total of 41 sacks last season. So, Mayfield had realistically no time to throw. The Browns already spent big money on free agent tackle Jack Conklin, but they still have a ways to go to fix that line. Wirfs has the abilities on the field to warrant a top-10 pick, but he also opened scouts eyes at the combine. The 6’5″ 320 lbs mauler not only put up 24 reps on the bench press, but also ran a 4.85 40-yard dash and leaped for a 36.5 vertical jump. For a man of that size that is impressive!

11. New York Jets- CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

This is my first curveball of the draft. The Jets need an offensive line, but have made some band-aid signings in free agency. Lamb is not my first-ranked WR, but that doesn’t mean he is not talented. Lamb was ranked 6th in the nation with 1,327 total receiving yards. and 5th in touchdowns with 14. Lamb is a deep-ball threat. He also has the ability, at 6’2″, to leap over defenders. That is something the Jets need for young QB Sam Darnold especially since top wideout Robby Anderson dipped in free agency. Lamb could be Darnolds favorite target for years to come, and they can address the offensive line in other rounds of the draft.

12. Las Vegas Raiders- Henry Ruggs III, WR, Bama

GM Mike Mayock showed he wasn’t afraid to make a splash last year when he picked Clellin Ferrell 4th overall when many thought that was a reach. He also showed he likes to take players from top programs that can produce. Ruggs took a back seat to Jerry Jeudy at Alabama, but still put up solid numbers with 40 catches for 746 yards and 7 TDs. Ruggs is a very fast man, and ran a 4.27 40-yard dash. The blend of speed and ability could be too much to pass up on for the Raiders.

13. San Fran 49ers (via IND)- Jerry Jeudy, WR, Bama

Kyle Shanahan’s mouth should be watering seeing Jeudy still on the board. Jeudy is my top receiver prospect, and for good reason. He caught 77 passes for 1,163 yards and 10 TDs as Alabama’s top receiving option. He has been compared to Odell in terms of play-making and route running, and that is a very fair comparison. Get the ball in Jeudy’s hands and good things happen. The 49ers lost Emmanuel Sanders from last season and need another weapon for Jimmy G besides Kittle and Deebo Samuel. Jeudy should enjoy Shanahan’s west coast style offense.

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

The Buccs hit the lottery this off-season when they signed Tom Brady. A player as special as Brady makes the whole team better. Now they hit the lottery again. Mekhi Becton is what they call a “hog mollie.” That is the only way to describe him. At 6’7″ 369 lbs, Becton uses his strength to maul people in the run game. His footwork is decent, but needs some work. He also is sneakily athletic. He ran a 5.1 40-yard dash, and 10-yard splits of 1.80 and 1.77 which is extremely impressive for someone of his size. This “hog mollie” would give Brady an ample amount of time in the pocket.

15.Denver Broncos -Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

The Broncos signed Graham Glasgow to help bolster their o-line, but even that is not enough. Their o-line allowed 41 sacks the previous year. With a developing QB in Drew Lock (who was surprisingly good), they need to give him time in the pocket. Andrew Thomas is a rare specimen at 6’5″ 320 LBs. He can be the starting left tackle for the Broncos on day 1. He can give Lock the time needed to find his WRs, and he will also open up running lanes for newly-signed RB Melvin Gordon.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars (via ATL)- K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE, LSU

In this mock draft the Atlanta Falcons trade their first-round pick, and maybe more, for DE Yannick Ngakoue. Falcons need more help defensively and Ngakoue is an established young player. Meanwhile, the Jags are in full rebuild and trade away a player who doesn’t want to be there. The Jags then replace him with Chaisson, who I think has a similar play-style to Ngakoue. Chaisson uses his fast first step to blow past tackles. . He only had 6 sacks, but he is raw and has a lot of potential. With the right player development staff in place, Chaisson could become a problem in the NFL.

17. Dallas Cowboys- C.J Henderson, CB, Florida

The Cowboys just lost their best corner, Byron Jones, in free agency. They signed safety Ha-Ha Clinton-Dix in free agency, but they still need secondary help. Henderson is a lengthy corner, who can use his quickness and athleticism to disrupt passes. Henderson ended his Florida career with 20 pass deflections and 6 interceptions. He needs to improve on his tackling ability and footwork, but he can be a top corner in this league with good coaching.

18. Detroit Lions (via MIA)- Zack Baun, EDGE, Wisco

The Lions get this pick as part of the Tua deal. Lions defense still needs improvement. The Lions only had 28 sacks as a team. They need to do a better job putting pressure on the QB. Baun had 12.5 sacks this season to go along with 19.5 TFLs. He has shoot up draft boards for good reason. He’s a force in the passing game, and equally as good in the run game. He uses an explosive first step and an array of pass rush moves to sack the QB.

19. Las Vegas Raiders- Jordan Love, QB, Utah State

There have been some rumors that HC Jon Gruden is not completely sold on Derrek Carr as his QB. Yes, I know they signed Marcus Mariotta, but is he really the answer? Love is an intriguing prospect. He has the arm strength and athleticism, that has drawn comparisons to Bills QB Josh Allen, and even Patrick Mahommes at some points. Love impressed many scouts and coaches at the Senior Bowl. He only threw for 3,402 yards, 20 TDs, and 17 interceptions. Scouts are going to look at the talent, and coaching turnover that took place at Utah State though and pick Love based off his raw potential. I think Gruden will also use the blueprint that the Chiefs set oout for Mahommes, and let Love sit behind Carr for a year, or two, to let him learn the playbook and how to read NFL defenses. Las Vegas would be a good landing spot for Love.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars- Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU

After trading away Jalen Ramsey mid-season, and A.J Bouye in the offseason, the Jaguars have an extreme need at the cornerback position. Gladney is quick, has great footwork, and is extremely athletic. He can keep up with many of the elite WRs. He ran for a 4.48 40-time, and a over 10″ broad jump. Gladney is also not afraid to do the dirty work in the run game, and get to the QB on blitz packages. He has had 37 career pass deflections to go with 5 interceptions.

21. Philadelphia Eagles- Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

Nelson Agholor left in free agency, Desean Jackson is aging, and Alshon Jeffery can not stay on the field an entire season. Jefferson made a bunch of noise in the College Football Playoff. He had 14 catches for 227 yards, and 4 TDs in the semi-finals. He followed that up with a 9 catch, 106 yard game en-route to a championship win. He is Nelson Agholor, but with hands that can actually catch a football. Jefferson is blazing fast, and great agility. Get the ball in his hands and he can make plays. His only issue is his route running ability. Sometimes he has trouble shaking defenders, but with the right coaching in place he can easily improve on it.

22. Minnesota Vikings (via BUF)- Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn

The Vikings acquired this pick from the Bills by trading Pro Bowl receiver Stefon Diggs. Receiver could be a need, but they still have Adam Thielen holding down the fort. The Vikings secondary allowed around 350 passing yards per game. They also lost a majority of their secondary. Igbinoghene had 18 pass deflections as a two-year starter at Auburn. He’s a bit raw, but is strong and can press receivers. Something the Vikings love to do. He is a great fit for a team redefining their secondary.

23. New England Patriots- Josh Jones, OT, Houston

The Patriots are always a wild card in the draft, and after losing Tom Brady, they could draft their QB for the future. However, Jarrett Stidham impressed the coaches in preseason last year, and personally I think he has a similar play style to Brady. And he’s more mobile which is a plus. The Pats need some help at the tackle position to protect their future QB. Jones had a good showing at the Senior Bowl, and really improved his draft stock. He’s shown explosive athleticism, but is very raw. With the Patriots great coaching he could be a special player.

24. New Orleans Saints- Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

Last mock draft I had the Saints going after a receiver, however they recently signed Emmanuel Sanders. There’s not many holes on the Saints, but they could use an upgrade at the linebacker position. Kenneth Murray is my second ranked linebacker next to Isaiah Simmons. Similar to Simmons, Murray is a freak athlete. He is a typical sideline-to-sideline linebacker, who will chase down anyone. He also has great play recognition, and is solid in coverage. Murray had 102 tackles, 17 TFLs, and 4 sacks last season at Oklahoma. He also had 4 pass deflections. He will be everywhere on the field a Saints defense.

25. Minnesota Vikings- Yetur Gross-Metos, EDGE, Penn State

The Vikings released Everson Griffin in the offseason, and outside of Danielle Hunter they don’t have a good pass rusher. Gross-Metos would be the perfect partner for Hunter. Both use their speed, and quickness, t get off the line and blow past tackles. Gross-Matos was able to produce 94 tackles, 34.5 tackles for loss and 17 sacks in his two seasons at Penn State. He would be an instant upgrade for the Vikings who only have one double-digit sack artist on the roster.

26.Miami Dolphins- Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisco

The Phins were able to get their franchise QB, and have signed multiple play makers on the defensive side of the field. Now they just need weapons. The Dolphins have been trying to establish the run game the past couple years; they have been using a running back by committee approach that hasn’t quite worked out. Taylor is an instant upgrade for them. He was one of the premier backs in CFB. In his 6,174 yards and 50 TDs in his 3-year college career. He runs hard, and isn’t afraid to run over defenders. He’s great in-between the tackles, and can eat up yards if he gets to the next level. And he’s very fast. Like a bowling ball picking up speed down the lane. He has question marks with his hands, and scouts are unsure if he will be able to improve on those skills. But, that is the only issue.

27.Seattle Seahawks- A.J Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa

Jadeveon Clowney remains unsigned, and no one knows if the Seahawks will bring him back. Even if he is back they could use more help on the defensive line. Epenesa was thought to be a top-10 pick at times this season, but his stock dropped after a poor combine showing. He is long, and mean. However, often times he relies on his length instead of his footwork. He had 11.5 sacks last year. The Seahawks love power rushers, and would take a risk on someone with Epenesa’s production.

28. Baltimore Ravens- Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

The Ravens linebacking core hasn’t been the same since C.J Mosely left. Queen is another sideline-to-sideline linebacker. He has a high football IQ, and plays extremely sound football. Towards the back-end of the season he showed up in big games against big time programs. He ended the season with 12 TFLs, and 3 sacks. He is also a good coverage linebacker, and has the speed to keep up with the leagues top tight ends.

29. Tennessee Titans- Austin Jackson, OT, USC

After losing Jack Conklin to the Browns, the Titans have a glaring hole on their line. If they plan to keep feeding Derrick Henry the ball, they need to get him blockers to open up the run game. Jackson does a good job to allow the RB to get to the sideline, and he is strong in the passing game. His footwork needs to improve, but with Taylor Lewan at LT, playing RT would be a perfect fit.

30. Green Bay Packers- Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson

Aaron Rodgers has always needed help at the wide receiver position, and the Packers front office always neglects it. Not this draft though. This is the draft they finally realize Rodgers career is winding down, and they get him his help. Higgins is a bigger receiver at 6’4″. He has the height and catch radius to go up and high-point the football. Not only can he go up and get the ball, but he also has the speed and release to make down field plays. He reminds me of Devante Adams, and he could certainly turn into a player of his caliber. If he can not at least be the type of player Adams is, at least he will be a red zone target for Rodgers. Higgins caught 13 TDs last year for Clemson.

31. San Fran 49ers- Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

San Francisco lost to the Chiefs in the Super Bowl. On multiple occasions their corners got burned worst than toast. They need an upgrade opposite of Richard Sherman. Fulton has allowed a 40% completion rate since 2018, and had 14 pass deflections last season. His pressing ability mirrors that of Shermans’. He’s had issues off the field, in 2017 he was suspended for falsifying specimen for a drug test. But, if he stays out of trouble he could be a potential steal for the 49ers.

32. Kansas City Chiefs- D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia

The Chiefs offense was more explosive when they were able to get the run game going. They ranked 4th this season in total offense compared to 1st last season when they had Pro Bowl running back Kareem Hunt. Swift has a great blend of speed, power, and balance. He reminds me of Alvin Kamara in regards to his abilities to bounce-off defenders, and stay on his feet. Swift accounted for 1,218 yards, and 7 TDs last season at Georgia. He would open up the field to let Patty Mahomes sling it down field.

By Evan Orris

Last off-season the Minnesota Timberwolves missed their chance to land All-Star D’Angelo Russell. They refused to let Russell slip through their grasp a second time.

Hours before the trade deadline closed, the Minnesota Timberwolves shipped former number one pick Andrew Wiggins, a 2021 first-round pick, and a 2021 second-round pick to the Warriors in exchange for PG D’Angelo Russell.

D-Lo played only 33 games in a Warriors uniform. Golden State acquired Russell this off-season in a sign-and-trade deal that sent All-Star Kevin Durant to Brooklyn. Russell, who is only 23, will be on his fourth team in four years. The former Ohio State Buckeye made the All-Star team last year with the Nets, and his averaging 23 points per game to go with 6 assists this season.

Russell will be joining his good friend Karl-Anthony Towns in Minnesota. The two have been playing together since the AAU circuits when they were teenagers. They also were in the same draft class, and were the top two picks. Towns going number one to Minnesota, and Russell going number two overall to the Lakers.

“To wake up and see the situation that I’m in and feel the love of somebody wanting me to be here … it’s a surreal moment for me right now.” Russell said about playing with Towns.

The two of them will offer up a lethal pick-and-roll, or pick-and-pop, combo. Russell will also be the main floor general for this team. The Wolves will look to both him and KAT to be the main source of offense for the team.

The Timberwolves also acquired Omari Spellman and Jacob Evans in the same trade. Evans’ specialty is his defense. He has the ability to defend both the guard and wing positions. He’s lengthy, and can clog up passing lanes. His numbers won’t stand out on paper, but if he improves his offensive play, he can be a key-contributor for the Wolves. Meanwhile, Spellman is a stretch big. He can shoot it from the outside, or post up on the inside. His shooting percentages have improved so far this season. He is shooting around 40-percent from 3-point range and 50-percent from the field, while averaging around 8 points per game and 4.5 rebounds per game.

Wolves’ GM Gersson Rosas seems to have a true vision for this team now. With the team towards the bottom of the league in 3-point percentage and overall field-goal percentage, Rosas needed to surround Russell and KAT with the necessary talent that they needed. Not only did they trade for Russell, but they also received James Johnson, Juan Hernangomez, and Malik Beasley in the trade that sent Robert Covington to the Rockets. All these players are versatile, and can shoot the three and attack the lane.

Many Wolves fans may have mixed feelings seeing Andrew Wiggins leave. Originally drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers, the T-Wolves acquired Wiggins in 2014 in the famous Kevin Love trade. Wiggins has been on the Wolves his whole career up until now. Wiggins has often been criticized for never reaching his full potential, but he his far from a bust. Recently, Wiggins has been a surprise this season, and has looked like a new player at times. Wiggins will look to adjust to the Warriors system, and play along Steph Curry and Klay Thompson next season.

“We’re gonna ask [Wiggins] to play a role, to play alongside a group of players who have been really successful, and to slide into a role that’s kind of cut out for him, to be honest, at that small forward spot,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. ” … It all looks good, you know, the puzzle looks good. But now it’s our job and it’s Andrew’s job to try to make this work.”

At almost the mid-way point of the season, the Timberwoves own a 16-35 record, and are in 14th place in the Western conference. The Timberwolves finally snapped a 13-game losing streak last night, even without the newly acquired Russell, who sat out with a quad injury. The win and the restructured roster have given many Minneapolis citizens hope for the future of the team.

By Evan Orris

With the Senior Bowl wrapped up, many players saw their draft stock decline, or improve. Now starts the long road to the draft. Let’s take a look at the draft landscape, and where players might potentially end up.

1.Cincinnati Bengals- Joe Burrow, LSU, Qb

The first step to building a team is to always get a franchise QB that can lead your team. Joe Burrow is a 6’4″, 214 Lbs, Heisman Trophy winner. He is fresh off a 5,671 yds, 60 TDs, and 6 INTs season. He can make every throw in the book, and showed off his deep-throw accuracy in the College Football Playoffs, when he connected for a 52-yard touchdown to Ja’Marr Chase. He is also from Ohio, so this seems like a perfect fit on paper.

2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, the Ohio State University

A defensive monster, Young accounted for 16.5 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles. Even though the Redskins could use a left tackle for the future, Young is one of the best defensive line prospects that scouts have seen in years. He has a wide variety of pass rush moves, and could also be a factor in the run game. He could play in either a 4-3 scheme as an edge rusher, or he could stand up and play OLB in a 3-4 scheme.

3. Detroit Lions- Jeffrey Okudah, CB, the Ohio State University

Okudah projects to be a lockdown corner. He has the speed, physicality, and fluidity to keep up with the top wide receivers. Okudah had 3 interceptions along with 9 pass deflections last season.

The Lions defense was banged up last year, and they need talent all over the board. Adding a young, confident player like Okudah could give them the identity that they’ve been lacking on defense.

4. New York Giants- Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

The Giants might need an offensive tackle more, and that might be the Dave Gettleman pick, but they can not afford to pass up on a stud like Simmons. He brings the type of leadership, and playmaking ability that the Giants need. And with new head coach Joe Judge coming to town, he might want a defensive chess piece that can play multiple positions.

Simmons can play nickel corner, safety, outside linebacker, or inside linebacker as he logged many snaps in each position this season. He ended the season with 7 sacks, 3 interceptions, and 67 tackles, and had a good showing in the championship game.

5. Miami Dolphins- Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Bama

Tua was in the running to be the number one pick this year before injuring his hip. The Dolphins have been looking for a franchise quarterback ever since Dan Marino, and there are even talks that the Phins might trade up to secure him.

Tua had 33 touchdowns, and only 3 interceptions. He leans more on his accuracy and less on his arm strength, but he gets by with that along with his high football IQ. Tua would become the face of the Phins rebuilding process, and be a fan-favorite in Miami.

6. Los Angeles Chargers- Justin Herbert, Oregon, QB

Justin Herbert is fresh off of an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl. He even won the MVP of the game. The Chargers also announced that they are finally moving on from Phillip Rivers.

Herbert, who was a four year starter at Oregon, has experience which is crucial for the quarterback position. Herbert threw for 3, 471 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. He would be a perfect fit in LA.

7. Carolina Panthers- Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn

I could see the Panthers possibly trading up to find a franchise QB, however I think they should stick with Cam Newton for at least one more season. Coming off a season of rest and rehab, Newton should hopefully be healthy and hungry for next season.

If that’s the case the Panthers need help on the defensive end. Brown is a 6’5″ 315 lbs monster who can clog up run lanes and get to the passer. Brown had 11.5 TFL to go along with 4 sacks at Auburn last season.

8. Arizona Cardinals- Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

The Cardinals need to protect Kyler Murray. Last year, Murray was sacked 50 times this season. The O-line needs to improve to give Murray more time to be the playmaker that he is.

Andrew Thomas is a rare specimen at 6’5″ 320lbs. Not only would Thomas give Murray more time to throw, but he would also aid in opening up running lanes for the running backs.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars- Jerry Jeudy, WR, Bama

After seeing players at the top of their board (Simmons, Thomas) be taken, the Jaguars get a new toy for Gardner Minshew. Although the Jags have D.J Chark, who just made his first Pro-Bowl, Jeudy is the best player on my big board.

Jeudy cemented himself as the draft’s number one WR when he had 6 catches, 204 yards, and a touchdown vs Michigan. He has been compared to Odell Beckham Jr., and that is a fair comparison. They both have the speed to make a game-changing plays.

10. Cleveland Brown- Jedrick Willis Jr., OT, Bama

Baker Mayfield took a step back in his development, but that is to be expected as the opposing teams had a total of 41 sacks this season. So, Mayfield had realistically no time to throw. Willis is the left tackle they need.

Wills is a polished player in both the running and passing game. He has great footwork, and is a force at 6’5″ 320 lbs. He started 26 games at Alabama. Most of those starts came as a RT, but he can transition to the left side if necessary.

11. New York Jets- Tristian Wirfs, OT, Iowa

Wirfs is a RT, who could come in and help the Jets from day 1. The Jets need as much talent on that offensive line as they can get. Not only to protect QB Sam Darnold, but also to open up running lanes for Le’Veon Bell.

The Jets were ranked last in total yards per game, 29th in passing yards per game, and 31st in rushing yards per game. Wirfs can help them tremendously.

12. Los Vegas Raiders- CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

The Raiders true offensive weapons in the passing game are Tyrell Williams, and Darren Waller. Behind them they don’t have many other weapons.

Lamb was ranked 6th in the nation with 1,327 total receiving yards. and 5th in touchdowns with 14. Lamb is a deep-ball threat. He also has the ability, at 6’2″, to leap over defenders. He also can work magic when he can get the ball in space.

13. Indianapolis Colts- Jordan Love, QB, Utah

The Colts still have QB Jacoby Brissett for another 2 years. However, there are reports that the front office is not yet sold on him as a franchise QB. Love is an intriguing prospect. He has the arm strength and athleticism, that has drawn comparisons to Bills QB Josh Allen.

Love also had an impressive outing at the senior bowl. He will also test well at the combine which will help his stock. He threw for 3,402 yards, 20 TDs, but with 17 interceptions. Scouts are going to look at the talent, and coaching, turnover that took place at Utah State though.

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Grant Delpit, S, LSU

Delpit is a ball-hawk. He regressed a little bit this season, but has a career total of 8 interceptions. He can also get to the passer, and even has 7 career sacks. Delpit is a freak-athlete, who will test well in the combine, and make a team like the Buccs fall in love with him.

15. Denver Broncos- Henry Ruggs III, WR, Bama

Ruggs took a backseat to Jerry Jeudy this past season. He finished with 746 yards and 6 TDs. Those stats don’t do justice to the type of player he is.

Ruggs is expected to run around a 4.40 for his 40-yard dash. He has been compared to Tyreek Hill in regards to his speed and playmaking ability. Get the ball into Ruggs’ hands and he can make something from nothing. He can also sprint past any safety and corner, and take you deep. He would be the perfect weapon for a developing Drew Lock, and his rocket arm.

16. Atlanta Falcons- A.J Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

The Falcons are set to lose OLB Vic Beasley in free agency. They also need a boost on the edge after only having 28 sacks this past season. Epenesa can play in a 3-4, or 4-3 scheme on the line. He is long, and mean. However, often times he relies on his length instead of his footwork. He had 11.5 sacks last year. He has the potential too be a problem in the league.

17. Dallas Cowboys- Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

The Cowboys have two starting cornerbacks set to become free agents. They also have two other corners in the final year of their contracts. Fulton is a big corner who specializes in man defense. He has the athleticism and footwork to keep up with the top wide receivers. He needs to improve on his tackling, and run defense, but he would give the Cowboys more depth at the position.

18. Miami Dolphins- Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

Mekhi Becton is what they call a “hog mollie.” That is the only way to describe him. At 6’7″ 369 lbs, Becton uses his strength to maul people in the run game. His footwork is decent, but needs some work.

The Dolphins need a LT to protect their new QB. Especially if they plan on taking Tua, who is rehabbing from a hip injury. Becton might start his career at RT, but he could eventually slide over to the left side.

19. Oakland Raiders- C.J Henderson, CB, Florida

Henderson has the athleticism necessary to keep up with the faster wide receivers. He is also long, and can challenge them on a jump ball. The Raiders love to draft athletes. They also love to draft players from a winning college football program. Last year, they took Clellin Ferrell, from Clemson, at 4. Henderson played at Florida, who finished ranked 6th in the country. The Raiders secondary struggled throughout most of the season last year. Henderson is the perfect prospect for GM Mike Mayock.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars- K’Lavion Chaisson, Edge, LSU

The Jaguars have a big decision here. Should Edge Yannick Ngakoue leave in free agency, they might want to replace him with Chaisson.

Chaisson uses his fast first step to blow past tackles. He reminds me a lot of Ngakoue in terms of play style. He only had 6 sacks, but he is raw and has a lot of potential. With the right player development staff in place, Chaisson could become a problem in the NFL.

21. Philadelphia Eagles- Laviska Shenhault Jr., WR, Colorado

The Eagles were decimated by injuries at the wr position. Desean Jackson, Alshon Jeffery, and Nelson Agholor all missed significant time with injuries. Agholor is also expected to leave the team via free agency.

Shenhault can fill that hole. He has the speed necessary to take over Agholor’s plays in the playbook. He also is a better route runner, and has better hands than Agholor.

22. Buffalo Bills- Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson

Higgins is a bigger receiver at 6’4″. He has the height and catch radius to go up and high-point the football. Not only can he go up and get the ball, but he also has the speed and release to make down field plays.

The Bills could use an upgrade at WR, too. Although Cole Beasley and John Brown had productive seasons, neither of them could be the leading receiver for a super bowl contending team. target for Josh Allen.

23. New England Patriots- Thaddeus Moss, TE, LSU

The last name Moss should sound familiar in New England. Thaddeus is the son of former New England Patriot Randy Moss. He made a name for himself in the College Football Playoff. He accounted for 135 yards and 3 touchdowns in just a 2-game span. He’s quick for a tight end, and has exceptional hands.

The Pats really missed Rob Gronkowski this year, and it showed. The Pats offense really looked lost at times with no weapons in the middle of the field. Moss can fix that.

24. New Orleans Saints- Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

Back-to-back LSU players! Similar to Moss, Jefferson also made a bunch of noise in the College Football Playoff. He had 14 catches for 227 yards, and 4 TDs in the semi-finals. He followed that up with a 9 catch, 106 yard game en-route to a championship win.

Both those games were played in the Superdome, that is where the Saints play every home game. They also could use another WR to partner with Michael Thomas. QB Drew Brees, if he returns, would have 2 great weapons to throw to.

25. Minnesota Vikings- Treveon Diggs, CB, Bama

Diggs is the brother of Vikings WR Stefon Diggs. He is a corner who specializes in zone coverage. That is what the Vikings like to run most of the time. He also has footwork, and hands, to stick with receivers. Although he needs to work on his tackling.

Xavier Rhodes had a really bad year, and the group was depleted by injuries. Diggs can offer depth, and he could develop into a top corner.

26. Miami Dolphins- Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin

Taylor runs hard, and isn’t afraid to run over defenders. He’s great in-between the tackles, and can eat up yards if he gets to the next level. He has question marks with his hands, and scouts are unsure if he will be able to improve on those skills.

The Dolphins have been trying to establish the run game the past couple years; they have been using a running back by committee approach that hasn’t quite worked out. Taylor is an instant upgrade for them.

27. Seattle Seahawks- Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina

The Seahawks are rumored to be looking to trade back. They have multiple needs, and not enough picks. They also have many large contracts on the book, which may stop them from being major players in free agency. With this pick they could take Javon Kinlaw. The DT would give them an upgrade on the D-line.

Kinlaw racked up a total of 10 career sacks and 15 TFL. He had a great showing at the Senior Bowl, and even withdrew mid-way through the week. Not due to injury, just due to the way he dominated practice.

28. Baltimore Ravens- Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State

Gross-Matos is quick, and long. A team will fall in love with his potential. Often times he looks like a Day 2 guy to his poor play recognition, but his physical abilities will improve his stock. Gross-Matos was able to produce 94 tackles, 34.5 tackles for loss and 17 sacks in his two seasons at Penn State.

The Ravens might lose Matthew Judon, and outside of that they don’t have much of a pass rush. Gross-Matos could fill that void if they choose to fix the hole through the draft.

29. Tennessee Titans- Austin Jackson, OT, USC

Starting RT Jack Conklin is set to be a free agent, and so is Derrick Henry. The Titans are projected to have $48 Million in cap space, they could potentially retain both. But, if Conklin leaves Jackson could be a possible replacement.

Jackson does a good job to allow the RB to get to the sideline, and he is strong in the passing game. His footwork needs to improve, but with Taylor Lewan at LT, playing RT would be a perfect fit.

30. Green Bay Packers- Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

Murray is a FREAK! He’s a sideline-to-sideline linebacker, who will chase down anyone. He also has great play recognition, and is solid in coverage. Murray will slide in next to Blake Martinez. The combo will provide good coverage, and be a force in the run game. Murray had 102 tackles, 17 TFLs, and 4 sacks last season at Oklahoma. He also had 4 pass deflections.

31. San Francisco 49ers- Xavier McKinney, S, Bama

He’s a typical zone safety. He can read plays, and swoop in for an interception, or deflection. He ins’t necessarily the fastest, or the the biggest, but he has a natural instinct on the field. He produced at Alabama; he accounted for 59 tackles, 4 forced fumbles, 3 interceptions, and 5 pass deflections. He would be a day 1 starter for the 49ers, and give a boost to the secondary.

32. Kansas City Chiefs- D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia

The Chiefs offense was more explosive when they were able to get the run game going. They ranked 4th this season in total offense compared to 1st last season when they had Pro Bowl running back Kareem Hunt. Swift has a great blend of speed, power, and balance. He reminds me of Alvin Kamara. In regards to his abilities to bounce-off defenders, and stay on his feet. Swift accounted for 1,218 yards, and 7 TDs last season at Georgia. He would open up the field to let Patty Mahomes sling it down field.