Four more teams had their seasons end this weekend, so I’ll take a look at each and what to expect moving forward.

GREEN BAY PACKERS: The Packers seemed to have the clearest path to the Super Bowl. Every game would have to be played in frigid Lambeau Field and Aaron Rodgers was playing at an MVP level and seemed intent on thumbing his nose at all the detractors and the media.

Then they laid an egg in the postseason once again. The special teams were as bad as we’ve ever witnessed, but the vaunted offense was pretty pathetic too. Rodgers looked nothing like an MVP. Only the defense showed up, but when it mattered they couldn’t stop the run, giving up a first down on third and seven, which effectively won the game for San Francisco.

Where do the Packers go from here? First, the obvious, they’ll have a new special teams coordinator next season.

Then there’s the Aaron Rodgers situation. Will he return? Will he force a trade? Will he retire? One thing is for certain, the drama won’t last the entire off season this year.

Maybe even more concerning is the salary cap situation. Green Bay is way, way over the cap for next year and Davante Adams is a free agent. I think the Adams situation and the Rodgers situation are closely linked. Neither will return without the other, can the Packers front office get it done?

TENNESSEE TITANS: I really like how the Titans are built. They’re an old school, smash mouth football team. Play great defense, run the football. They had a QB that didn’t make mistakes, key word is had. Ryan Tannehill was quite simply awful against Cincinnati, no other way to put it. Tennessee lost because of his mistakes.

The Titans have a championship caliber roster, only some minor tweaks needed, except for QB. There’s not much they can do, they could explore a trade for an Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson. Maybe sign a younger QB with a little upside, Mitch Trubisky, perhaps? Jameis Winston?

Tennessee should be the favorite to win the AFC South next season, but can they make the next step with Tannehill as the QB?

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Was this Brady’s last dance? I doubt it, but you never know. Tampa Bay was decimated by key injuries and other issues (Antonio Brown), yet they still nearly pulled off a miracle.

Brady is ageless. He doesn’t appear to have lost a thing, I don’t see a reason for him to call it quits now. The question is, can they build around him? Chris Godwin is coming off an ACL injury and is a free agent. The secondary was an issue all season and the offensive line was shaky against the Rams.

The Bucs are also likely to lose at least one of their coordinators.

If Brady returns, just some minor tweaks are needed, if not, full rebuild mode.

BUFFALO BILLS: As I’m writing this I’m still catching my breath from that epic clash with the Chiefs. I feel crushed for the Bills and their fans. Josh Allen was everything he was supposed to be, and Patrick Mahomes denied him, again.

It will take awhile to get over this loss, but Buffalo can be secure in a bright future. Allen is a superstar. They’re always going to have a chance if he’s on the field.

They’ll lose OC Brian Daboll, for sure, maybe even DC Leslie Frazier. They need some upgrades along the O-Line, and on defense to try to slow down the Chiefs, but this is a team on the verge of greatness.

After going 6-0 in Wildcard weekend, I fell back to earth in the Divisional Round, going 1-3. Oddly, my only win was the biggest upset of the weekend, San Francisco over Green Bay.

All my Super Bowl picks are now eliminated, so I get to start fresh.

CINCINNATI @ KANSAS CITY

I love the Bengals story, and the Burrow/Chase connection is fun to watch, but NINE SACKS! They’re extremely lucky to be here, and we’re talking Patrick Mahomes and the juggernaut Chiefs.

I wasn’t picking Cincy in this one, even if Buffalo had one. No way. Great story, but they’re just not ready yet.

CHIEFS 38 Bengals 20

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS @ LOS ANGELES RAMS

I want, with all my heart, to pick the Niners. I love George Kittle. I love Robbie Gould. I even love Jimmy Garrapolo, but sheesh, he was pretty bad for most of Saturday night.

I had questions about Matthew Stafford and his ability to make plays when it mattered. He answered those against Tom Brady and the Buccaneers. LA nearly gave it away by continually shooting themselves in the foot, but in the end Stafford, and Cooper Kupp, made the play.

Niners have owned the Rams. Kyle Shanahan has had McVay’s number, but I really think LA gets over that hump this time.

RAMS 24 49ers 16

Now that Wild Card Weekend is over and six more teams have seen their seasons end, I’ll assess those teams and where they go from here.

ARIZONA CARDINALS- The Cardinals are Kyler Murray. When he’s one hundred percent healthy and he has his full complement of weapons, the Arizona offense is virtually unstoppable. The problem is, Murray doesn’t seem to be able to stay completely healthy.

It’s a combination of factors, including his style of play and his smaller stature, but we’ve seen over the last 2 seasons, when Kyler isn’t fully healthy he just doesn’t have the magic.

The Cardinals do need to upgrade the offensive line, maybe that would help keep Murray from taking so many dangerous risks with his body? Another go to WR wouldn’t hurt either.

Upgrades at every level of the defense are also in order.

DALLAS COWBOYS- A promising season goes down in flames, once again.

The biggest problem in Dallas, besides Jerry Jones’ ego, is head coach Mike McCarthy. I’ve been critical of McCarthy for years, I feel he’s been the most overrated coach in the NFL for years. He made, and won, one Super Bowl in all his years in Green Bay with Aaron Rodgers.

Yes, he was at the helm of a good turnaround this year, but that was mainly due to the healthy return of Dak Prescott and Dan Quinn improving the defense.

Almost all of Dallas’ losses this season had a head scratching coaching decision and the loss to SF was no different. Calling a QB draw with 14 seconds on the clock and no timeouts is baffling. Kicking a 51 yard field goal, which is no guarantee, instead of going for it on a manageable fourth down while down 16 in the fourth quarter, was also questionable.

The Cowboys were in a position to possibly take a Hail Mary shot not because of McCarthy’s coaching but because of Kyle Shanahan’s penchant for getting overly conservative with a sizable lead.

Bottom line, Jones should strongly consider moving on from McCarthy but he probably won’t. It could cost him one or both of his coordinators, who have more to do with Dallas’ success than the HC.

The Cowboys actually have a pretty sound team that should be a contender next season. Ezekiel Elliot is probably washed up and they should focus their running game more on Tony Pollard. The offensive line is aging and could stand an injection of youth. The defense was much improved but could always use some more pieces.

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS- The Raiders have already relieved their GM of his duties and all signs point to a coaching change. That would be a shame. Rich Bisaccia did a magnificent job navigating a sea of adversity to get the Raiders to the playoffs, he deserves a full season at the helm.

I think we can finally put to bed the whispers of whether Vegas will move on from QB Derek Carr. The guy is a winner and just needs more help.

I expect LV to be players for high profile WRs, O-Lineman and defense in free agency.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS- I’ve never witnessed a Bill Belichick defense get as thoroughly dominated as it was by Buffalo. You can believe that will be addressed in the off-season.

It was a pretty remarkable run for the Patriots this season. Mac Jones had his growing pains down the stretch, but NE has found their next franchise QB.

The Patriots were uncharacteristically major spenders in free agency last year, I expect them to revert to form this year and merely nibble at the edges, shopping for hidden gems.

A true number one WR wouldn’t be out of the question. Nor would a tinkering of the defense to counteract Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES- Philly had to be feeling pretty good about their season heading into their Wildcard game, then they played the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Now, they have to question whether Jalen Hurts is the future at QB. They can seriously consider moving on because they’re equipped with THREE first round draft picks. They can leverage those picks to upgrade at QB, either by moving up in the draft, though the QB class is rather underwhelming, or perhaps by prying a disgruntled veteran away from his current team.

Obviously, it would be ideal if Hurts could be the Eagles franchise QB and they could use those picks to add talent to other areas of the team. Hurts’ performance against Tampa, however, opens the door for questions.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS- While not yet official, it sure seems like Ben Roethlisberger has taken his last NFL snap. That leaves Pittsburgh with a huge void to fill.

The Steelers have Mason Rudolph and Dwayne Haskins under contract, but neither inspires much confidence. This QB draft class is quite underwhelming, and it’s doubtful that any clear upgrades on Rudolph/Haskins will be available on the free agent market.

Elsewhere, Pittsburgh could still use upgrades along the offensive line and on defense. They’re also likely to lose WR Juju Smith-Schuster in free agency.

The Pittsburgh Steelers seem poised for a rebuilding year, for the first time in two decades.

I went 6-0 with my Wild Card weekend picks, which leaves me in a bit of a quandary for the Divisional Round. Buffalo-Kansas City is an absolute toss up for me, and even though it’s in KC, I was incredibly impressed with Josh Allen and the Bills offense.

In the NFC, SF is one of those teams capable of going into Lambeau and winning, but I don’t wholly trust Kyle Shanahan to win a big game. I seriously reconsidered my Super Bowl pick because of how impressive the Rams looked, but I absolutely do not trust Matthew Stafford in a big game.

Thus, my picks for the Divisional Round Playoffs:

TITANS 24 Bengals 17

49ERS 27 Packers 24

BUCCANEERS 24 Rams 17

BILLS 38 Chiefs 31

With the regular season over, I thought I’d take a quick look at the teams that didn’t make the playoffs, where I think they are, what I think they need to do, in some cases who they should target.

I’ll go division by division starting with the AFC East:

MIAMI DOLPHINS- Totally surprised by the firing of Brian Flores as head coach. Apparently he lost a power struggle with the GM, in my opinion Dolphins ownership made the wrong call.

I’m wondering whether the rift had anything to do with their pursuit of Deshaun Watson? I think it would be a mistake to trade for Watson and all his baggage, especially since Tua showed some impressive growth down the stretch.

The roster is decent, capable of being a playoff team next year with a few tweaks. I like Miami to target one of the higher end RBs in free agency, as well as a second tier WR.

Top Free Agent Target: James Conner, RB

NEW YORK JETS- Rough first year for head coach Robert Saleh and QB Zach Wilson, but I think the Jets are on the right track.

They need to be patient and not do the totally Jets thing of overpaying in free agency for what are essentially luxury items for a rebuilding team.

Allen Robinson would be a reasonably priced WR that would help Wilson’s development, unless, of course, he’d prefer a more immediate contender.

BALTIMORE RAVENS- If John Harbaugh wasn’t the safest head coach south of New England, he might be on the hot seat for his decision to go for 2 instead of a tie against both Pittsburgh and Green Bay, both games they ultimately lost which ultimately cost them a playoff berth. Personally, I loved the move, especially against Pittsburgh, but a coach is always second guessed when a risk fails.

Honestly, this season might have been one of Harbaugh’s best coaching jobs. The Ravens lost their top 2 RBs before the season even started, and also Marcus Peters. Lamar Jackson missed the last month plus and Baltimore still came within a whisper of the playoffs.

As long as at least one of the RBs are ready to go for the start of next season, I don’t think Baltimore needs to make any major moves.

Top Free Agent Target: Akiem Hicks, DL

CLEVELAND BROWNS- The Browns were this season’s biggest disappointment, for me anyway, since I picked them to make the Super Bowl.

They need to make a decision on an extension for Baker Mayfield. I wouldn’t pay him franchise QB money, which is what it would take to retain him. I don’t think he’s worth it, but he’s a starting caliber QB and that’s the price of doing business in the NFL. Cleveland would be better served in the long run by letting him walk, kicking the tires on possible trades and keeping a sharp eye on the college ranks.

For next season, I like the Browns to target a top tier WR, Davante Adams might not be available, Chris Godwin is coming off an ACL tear and likely will miss half the season, but Allen Robinson would be a nice fit too.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS- The Colts are a very good team with a very big problem. Carson Wentz is a bottom tier starter, at best.

This is a playoff team with a better QB, a Super Bowl contender with the right one. Can they find one?

Top Free Agent Target: Mike Williams, WR

HOUSTON TEXANS- The 2021 season started as a dumpster fire in Houston, it ended as something not quite that bad. The Deshaun Watson situation is still a mess and needs to be resolved one way or another. They need to figure out if Davis Mills is the future and if so, give him the reins.

This is maybe the least talented roster in the NFL. They should only be bargain shopping in free agency and stockpiling younger players and draft picks. The playoffs are still out of the question next season.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS- The Jags were a clown show most of the season, but a lot of that relates to Urban Meyer. He’s gone, but Jacksonville needs to get this right this time. I like Doug Pedersen or Brian Daboll. Both have a track record of helping a young QB grow.

The Jaguars should be all about Trevor Lawrence and giving him everything he needs to succeed. They have cap space, so a couple splash moves in free agency isn’t out of the question.

Top Free Agent Target: Re-signing Cam Robinson, OT

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS- LA challenges Cleveland for most disappointing, at least LA had a shot at the playoffs in Week 18. I’m scratching my head trying to figure out how they even found themselves in that position.

In my view, the Chargers have everything needed to be a contender, what went wrong I have no idea.

Top Free Agent Target: Nate Solder, OT

DENVER BRONCOS- Broncos are in a similar situation as Indianapolis, a roster close to contention, held back by subpar QB play.

First things first, though, they have to find a new coach. Denver has always had different parameters for a head coach than most teams, so it’s difficult to predict where they might turn. I like the idea of Nathaniel Hackett if they want to try to pry Aaron Rodgers out of Green Bay.

I could see them bringing back Von Miller in free agency, especially if they’re able to land Rodgers.

WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM- Well, I guess they’ll have a new name come February. Beyond that, not sure what they’ll do.

They could use help everywhere, but they don’t have any gaping holes. A QB upgrade would be nice, but I’m not sure it’s available on the open market. I see them being minor players in free agency, picking up bits and pieces at discount prices.

Top Free Agent Target: Re-signing Brandon Scherff, OT

NEW YORK GIANTS- The Giants cleaned house with the firing of Joe Judge and Dave Gettleman’s retirement. They also need to make a decision on QB Daniel Jones.

I have an interesting idea for NY, bringing in Brian Daboll as head coach and signing Mitchell Trubisky to compete with Jones. Daboll worked with Trubisky this year, he knows his offense and he’d not only push Jones, but likely supplant him as starter.

Added bonus, after four years in Chicago, Trubisky knows how to handle a hostile press and fan base.

CHICAGO BEARS- Da’ Bears also cleaned house in the front office and head coach. They need a GM in place before making a final decision on coach.

Chicago has some attractiveness with Justin Fields in place as QB. As a fan, I really like the idea of Brian Flores or Todd Bowles as head coach.

Top Free Agent Target: JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR

DETROIT LIONS- The Lions flirted with being the first 0-17 team in NFL history, they ultimately showed some fight and improvement under first year coach Dan Campbell.

Outside Houston, Detroit has one of the least talented rosters in the NFL. Jared Goff is no franchise QB, but they may be able to remedy that in the draft.

I normally mock lesser teams for making a big splash in free agency, but I think Detroit is one team that can afford to pay Chris Godwin and have him miss half the season recovering from his torn ACL.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS- Sean Payton did one of his better coaching jobs this season, having to use 4 starting QBs, not having Michael Thomas all season and Alvin Kamara missing some time.

The defense is top notch, they have pieces on offense, they need to decide if Jameis Winston will recover fully from his torn ACL for next season. If so, they can do worse than bringing him back.

Top Free Agent Target: Re-signing Terron Armstead, if possible.

ATLANTA FALCONS- The Falcons are a team in limbo, not quite good enough to contend, not bad enough to tear it down and rebuild.

They’re bringing back Matt Ryan at QB, he’s a better than average option at this point in his career. The biggest question mark is the status of Calvin Ridley. Should he return and return to form, Ryan should have sufficient weapons to work with.

The defensive side of the ball should still be Atlanta’s focus.

Top Free Agent Target: Haason Reddick, EDGE

CAROLINA PANTHERS- 2022 will be a make or break season for head coach Matt Rhule. I don’t think he’s a bad coach, but his offense has underwhelmed. The fragility of Christian McCaffery hasn’t helped. Nor has subpar QB play. They gave up assets for Sam Darnold so they might be stuck with him for next season.

In desperation, I can see Carolina overpaying for a WR like Zay Jones.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS- As of now, Pete Carroll is still head coach and Russell Wilson is still their QB, I don’t see this lasting into next season.

Seattle is about to embark on a rebuild, with or without both Carroll and Wilson. As the oldest coach in the league, does Carroll have it in him? Does Russ have the patience to waste his prime on a rebuild?

The defense could use some work, but most importantly they need to better protect Wilson.

Top Free Agent Target: Terron Armstead, OT

Now, for my playoff predictions. I picked Cleveland to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl, that’s obviously out. Until beaten, the AFC still runs through Kansas City, but I like Tennessee to rise up with the return of Derrick Henry.

In the NFC, I picked Tampa Bay, I’ll stick with that only because Brady is the only QB I trust to win in Green Bay and I cannot pick the Packers.

I’ll pick Tampa Bay to repeat as Super Bowl champions.

As for this weekend’s Wild Card games:

BENGALS 31 RAIDERS 27

BILLS 19 PATRIOTS 14

BUCCANEERS 27 EAGLES 17

49ERS 24 COWBOYS 20

CHIEFS 42 STEELERS 17

RAMS 38 CARDINALS 35

You can’t accurately judge a draft class for a couple of years. Players we thought would be stars become complete busts, while players we overlooked become stars.

But, we all do instant analysis and I’m no different. I’ll take a look at all 32 teams.

ARIZONA CARDINALS

#16 Zaven Collins, LB, Tulsa

#49 Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue

#136 Marco Wilson, CB, Florida

#210 Victor Dimukeje, EDGE, Duke

#223 Tay Gowan, CB, Central Florida

#243 James Wiggins, S, Cincinnati

#247 Michael Menet, IOL, Penn State

Best Pick: Rondale Moore- He’ll be an electric slot receiver in this offense.

Biggest Reach: Zaven Collins- Had him pegged for late first or second round. Great player, just went earlier than I thought.

Biggest Steal: Tay Gowan- Some mocks had him as high as the second round. Getting him in the sixth is great value.

GRADE: B

Focused heavily on defense, which was smart, but I think they should have addressed the O-Line with more than their last pick.

ATLANTA FALCONS

#4 Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

#40 Richie Grant, S, Central Florida

#68 Jalen Mayfield, OT, Michigan

#108 Darren Hall, CB, San Diego State

#114 Drew Dalman, IOL, Stanford

#148 Ta’quon Graham, IDL, Texas

#182 Adetokunbo Ogundeji, EDGE, Notre Dame

#183 Avery Williams, CB, Boise State

#187 Frank Darby, WR, Arizona State

Best Pick: Kyle Pitts- He’s simply a generational talent. NFC South DC’s will have sleepless nights because of him.

Biggest Reach: Darren Hall- CB was an area of need, but there were plenty of players I had ranked higher.

Biggest Steal: Jalen Mayfield- Some had him as a late first rounder, definitely in the second.

GRADE: B-

Pitts was a slam dunk, and Mayfield was great value, but I’m not sure they did enough to improve their defense.

BALTIMORE RAVENS

#27 Rashod Bateman, WR, Minnesota

#31 Odafe Oweh, EDGE, Penn State

#94 Ben Cleveland, IOL, Georgia

#104 Brandon Stephens, CB, SMU

#131 Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State

#160 Shaun Wade, CB, Ohio State

#171 Daelin Hayes, EDGE, Notre Dame

#184 Ben Mason, FB, Michigan

Best Pick: Rashod Bateman- Lamar Jackson finally has a reliable, go-to receiver.

Biggest Reach: Brandon Stephens- I had plenty of CBs ranked higher.

Biggest Steal: Shaun Wade- Could end up starting as a rookie.

GRADE: B-

Overall a good class, but they didn’t address right tackle after trading away Orlando Brown.

BUFFALO BILLS

#30 Gregory Rousseau, EDGE, Miami-Fl

#61 Carlos Basham Jr, EDGE, Wake Forest

#93 Spencer Brown, OT, Northern Iowa

#161 Tommy Doyle, OT, Miami-Ohio

#203 Marquez Stevenson, WR, Houston

#212 Damar Hamlin, S, Pittsburgh

#213 Rachad Wildgoose, CB, Wisconsin

#236 Jack Anderson, IOL, Texas Tech

Best Pick: Spencer Brown- Needs time to develop, but could be a star left tackle.

Biggest Reach: Gregory Rousseau- The Edge they took in the second round might be better.

Biggest Steal: Rachad Wildgoose- Will probably see significant playing time as a rookie.

GRADE: A-

Very good class, would have liked to see them add another RB, but solid class of players.

CAROLINA PANTHERS

#8 Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina

#59 Terrace Marshall Jr, WR, LSU

#70 Brady Christensen, OT, BYU

#83 Tommy Tremble, TE, Notre Dame

#126 Chuba Hubbard, RB, Oklahoma State

#158 Daviyon Nixon, IDL, Iowa

#166 Keith Taylor, CB, Washington

#193 Deonte Brown, IOL, Alabama

#204 Shi Smith, WR, South Carolina

#222 Thomas Fletcher, LS, Alabama

#233 Phil Hoskins, IDL, Kentucky

Best Pick: Terrace Marshall Jr- A stud WR that was overshadowed by his LSU teammate, he’ll be Carolina’s go-to in the red zone.

Biggest Reach: Thomas Fletcher- Did they really draft a long snapper?

Biggest Steal: Keith Taylor- Had him going much higher.

GRADE: C+

I actually do like this class, except the long snapper, but I think they’ll regret passing on Justin Fields.

CHICAGO BEARS

#11 Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State

#39 Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State

#151 Larry Borom, IOL, Missouri

#217 Khalil Herbert, RB, Virginia Tech

#221 Dazz Newsome, WR, North Carolina

#228 Thomas Graham Jr, CB, Oregon

#250 Khyiris Tonga, IDL, BYU

Best Pick: Justin Fields- Seriously, a franchise QB, and they only gave up one future first.

Biggest Reach: Larry Borom- Solid pick, but I had him as a sixth or seventh rounder.

Biggest Steal: Fields, but for sake of argument, Khalil Herbert- This guy will give the Bears some wow moments.

GRADE: A+

I’m a Bears fan, so I’m a bit biased, but Fields alone would make this an A, Jenkins in the second is another home run. Every single pick should contribute sooner rather than later.

CINCINNATI BENGALS

#5 Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU

#46 Jackson Carman, OT, Clemson

#69 Joseph Ossai, EDGE, Texas

#111 Cameron Sample, EDGE, Tulane

#122 Tyler Shelvin, IDL, LSU

#139 D’Ante Smith, OT, East Carolina

#149 Evan McPherson, K, Florida

#190 Trey Hill, IOL, Georgia

#202 Chris Evans, RB, Michigan

#235 Wyatt Hubert, EDGE, Kansas State

Best Pick: Joseph Ossai- Fringe first round talent in the third round.

Biggest Reach: Evan McPherson- Would have had a hard time picking Cincy’s biggest reach until they took a kicker in the fifth round!

Biggest Steal: Trey Hill- Could claim the starting center job.

GRADE: F

Passing on the best tackle for a WR was a huge mistake. Traded back in the second and missed out on some other quality tackles, then took one that is probably best suited for guard. Then to add insult to Joe Burrow’s next injury, they drafted a kicker and in the fifth round. What the heck are they doing?

CLEVELAND BROWNS

#26 Greg Newsome II, CB, Northwestern

#52 Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame

#91 Anthony Schwartz, WR, Auburn

#110 James Hudson, OT, Cincinnati

#132 Tommy Togiai, IDL, Ohio State

#153 Tony Fields II, LB, West Virginia

#169 Richard LeCounte III, S, Georgia

#211 Demetric Felton, WR, UCLA

Best Pick: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah- Mocked him to the Browns in the first, they got him in the second.

Biggest Reach: Anthony Schwartz- I had him as a later round pick, his speed is enticing.

Biggest Steal: Tommy Togiai- Should anchor their D-Line for years to come.

GRADE: A

Great draft, even if they got lucky that Owusu-Koramoah was still there in the second. Even their reach of Schwartz adds an element their offense was lacking.

DALLAS COWBOYS

#12 Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State

#44 Kelvin Joseph, CB, Kentucky

#75 Osa Odighizuwa, IDL, UCLA

#84 Chauncey Golston, EDGE, Iowa

#99 Nahshon Wright, CB, Oregon State

#115 Jabril Cox, LB, LSU

#138 Josh Ball, OT, Marshall

#179 Simi Fehoko, WR, Stanford

#192 Quinton Bohanna, IDL, Kentucky

#227 Israel Mukuamu, CB, South Carolina

#238 Matt Farniok, IOL, Nebraska

Best Pick: Micah Parsons- Once the top two CBs were off the board, they trade down 2 spots and still got maybe the best defensive player in the draft.

Biggest Reach: Nahshon Wright- CB was a need, but nobody had Wright this high.

Biggest Steal: Jabril Cox- Could have been a second rounder.

GRADE: B-

I like that they focused on defense, but I question some of the players. If Josh Ball doesn’t pan out, they may regret not going O-Line earlier.

DENVER BRONCOS

#9 Patrick Surtain II, CB, Alabama

#35 Javonte Williams, RB, North Carolina

#98 Quinn Meinerz, IOL, Wisconsin-Whitewater

#105 Baron Browning, LB, Ohio State

#152 Caden Stearns, S, Texas

#164 Jamar Johnson, S, Indiana

#219 Seth Williams, WR, Auburn

#237 Kary Vincent Jr, CB, LSU

#239 Jonathon Cooper, EDGE, Ohio State

#253 Marquiss Spencer, EDGE, Mississippi State

Best Pick: Quinn Meinerz- Small school kid could be a pro bowl center or guard.

Biggest Reach: Caden Stearns- Had him ranked lower than the safety they took later.

Biggest Steal: Jamar Johnson- This safety. Had a third round grade on him.

GRADE: C

They grabbed some quality players, but they passed on QBs. Are they seriously running with Lock/Bridgewater?

DETROIT LIONS

#7 Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon

#41 Levi Onwuzurike, IDL, Washington

#72 Alim McNeill, IDL, North Carolina State

#101 Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB, Syracuse

#112 Amon-Ra St Brown, WR, USC

#113 Derrick Barnes, LB, Purdue

#257 Jermar Jefferson, RB, Oregon State

Best Pick: Penei Sewell- They got lucky that he fell to them, but they didn’t miss.

Biggest Reach: Derrick Barnes- Not a huge reach, but they did trade up for him.

Biggest Steal: Amon-Ra St Brown- Number one receiver ability in the fourth round.

GRADE: C+

It was a nice draft haul, but only one WR? Doubled up on IDL, one of the strengths of their D already.

GREEN BAY PACKERS

#29 Eric Stokes, CB, Georgia

#62 Josh Myers, IOL, Ohio State

#85 Amari Rodgers, WR, Clemson

#142 Royce Newman, IOL, Mississippi

#173 Tedarrell Slaton, IDL, Florida

#178 Shemar Jean-Charles, CB, Appalachian State

#214 Cole Van Lanen, OT, Wisconsin

#220 Isaiah McDuffie, LB, Boston College

#256 Kylin Hill, RB, Mississippi State

Best Pick: Amari Rodgers- Not only did they draft a WR, they drafted a slot WR that they’ve lacked. Now, will ARodgers catch passes from ARodgers?

Biggest Reach: Josh Myers- Left better centers on the board.

Biggest Steal: Shemar Jean-Charles- Will contribute in sub packages early on.

GRADE: C

Not a bad draft haul, but was it enough to appease their disgruntled franchise QB?

HOUSTON TEXANS

#67 Davis Mills, QB, Stanford

#89 Nico Collins, WR, Michigan

#147 Brevin Jordan, TE, Miami- Fl

#170 Garret Wallow, LB, TCU

#195 Roy Lopez, IDL, Arizona

Best Pick: Nico Collins- Big, physical receiver they’ve been missing.

Biggest Reach: Davis Mills- Not having a pick until the third round, having many holes to fill and they use their first pick on a QB?

Biggest Steal: Brevin Jordan- He was the number 3 TE on my board, went later than expected.

GRADE: D

The Mills pick is head scratching. What’s up with Deshaun Watson? No offensive lineman is questionable, too.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

#21 Kwity Paye, EDGE, Michigan

#54 Dayo Odeyingbo, EDGE, Vanderbilt

#127 Kylen Granson, TE, SMU

#165 Shawn Davis, S, Florida

#218 Sam Ehlinger, QB, Texas

#229 Mike Strachan, WR, Charleston-WV

#248 Will Fries, IOL, Penn State

Best Pick: Kwity Paye- Edge rusher with tremendous upside.

Biggest Reach: Kylen Granson- Had him no higher than a sixth round pick.

Biggest Steal: Shawn Davis: Good value on a safety that should contribute early.

GRADE: D

Didn’t address the offensive line until their last pick, and no tackle. Good edge rushing prospects, but no corner.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

#1 Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson

#25 Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson

#33 Tyson Campbell, CB, Georgia

#45 Walker Little, OT, Stanford

#65 Andre Cisco, S, Syracuse

#106 Jay Tufele, IDL, USC

#121 Jordan Smith, EDGE, UAB

#145 Luke Farrell, TE, Ohio State

#209 Jalen Camp, WR, Georgia Tech

Best Pick: Trevor Lawrence- Generational QB talent.

Biggest Reach: Travis Etienne- Passed on higher ranked players at positions of more urgent need.

Biggest Steal: Jay Tufele- Late second to third round grade on this fourth rounder.

GRADE: A

It was going to be hard to get less than an A with Lawrence, even with a couple reaches or misses. Their first five or six picks should all play significant roles in their rebuild.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

#58 Nick Bolton, LB, Missouri

#63 Creed Humphrey, IOL, Oklahoma

#144 Joshua Kaindoh, EDGE, Florida State

#162 Noah Gray, TE, Duke

#181 Cornell Powell, WR, Clemson

#226 Trey Smith, IOL, Tennessee

Best Pick: Creed Humphrey- Some had him as the top center in the draft.

Biggest Reach: Joshua Kaindoh- Had him as much later pick.

Biggest Steal: Trey Smith- Don’t be surprised if he wins one of the starting guard spots.

GRADE: B+

Watching Patrick Mahomes take a beating in the Super Bowl told you what KC needed to do, they addressed the line and found 2 future starters. Would have liked to see them find some secondary help.

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS

#17 Alex Leatherwood, OT, Alabama

#43 Trevon Moehrig, S, TCU

#79 Malcolm Koonce, EDGE, Buffalo

#80 Divine Deablo, S, Virginia Tech

#143 Tyree Gillespie, S, Missouri

#167 Nate Hobbs, CB, Illinois

#230 Jimmy Morrissey, IOL, Pittsburgh

Best Pick: Trevon Moehrig- Best safety in the class.

Biggest Reach: Alex Leatherwood- Passed on higher rated tackles for a second round talent best suited for guard.

Biggest Steal: Moehrig- Should have been a first rounder.

GRADE: C+

In a division with Mahomes, going heavy on secondary isn’t a bad idea. The reach on Leatherwood and minor reach on Koonce drag the grade down.

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS

#13 Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern

#47 Asante Samuel Jr, CB, Florida State

#77 Josh Palmer, WR, Tennessee

#97 Tre’ McKitty, TE, Georgia

#118 Chris Rumph II, EDGE, Duke

#159 Brenden Jaimes, OT, Nebraska

#185 Nick Niemann, LB, Iowa

#198 Larry Rountree III, RB, Missouri

#241 Mark Webb, S, Georgia

Best Pick: Rashawn Slater- Got lucky he fell to them, but they didn’t miss on protection for the franchise QB.

Biggest Reach: Tre’ McKitty- Went much higher than predicted.

Biggest Steal: Slater, but for sake of argument Asante Samuel Jr- Fringe first round CB.

GRADE: A-

First 2 picks were as good as it gets, other solid picks throughout the draft.

LOS ANGELES RAMS

#57 Tutu Atwell, WR, Louisville

#103 Ernest Jones, LB, South Carolina

#117 Bobby Brown III, IDL, Texas A&M

#130 Robert Rochell, CB, Central Arkansas

#141 Jacob Harris, WR, Central Florida

#174 Earnest Brown IV, EDGE, Northwestern

#233 Jake Funk, RB, Maryland

#249 Ben Skowronek, WR, Notre Dame

#252 Chris Garrett, EDGE, Concordia-St Paul

Best Pick: Robert Rochell- Small school CB with tremendous potential.

Biggest Reach: All three seventh rounders- Seriously, these guys could all have been UDFA.

Biggest Steal: Earnest Brown IV- Could be an impactful Edge rusher.

GRADE: D

Focused too much on WR, neglected the offensive line.

MIAMI DOLPHINS

#6 Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama

#18 Jaelan Phillips, EDGE, Miami-Fl

#36 Jevon Holland, S, Oregon

#42 Liam Eichenberg, OT, Notre Dame

#81 Hunter Long, TE, Boston College

#231 Larnel Coleman, OT, Massachusetts

#244 Gerrid Doaks, RB, Cincinnati

Best Pick: Jaylen Waddle- They might have preferred Kyle Pitts, but Waddle should be special.

Biggest Reach: Hunter Long- TE wasn’t a need, and he went earlier than expected.

Biggest Steal: Jaelan Phillips- If he stays healthy, he’s the best Edge rusher in the class.

GRADE: A-

Their first four picks should all become starters at key positions.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

#23 Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech

#66 Kellen Mond, QB, Texas A&M

#78 Chazz Surratt, LB, North Carolina

#86 Wyatt Davis, IOL, Ohio State

#90 Patrick Jones II, EDGE, Pittsburgh

#119 Kene Nwangwu, RB, Iowa State

#125 Camryn Bynum, CB, California

#134 Janarius Robinson, EDGE, Florida State

#157 Ihmir Smith-Marsette, WR, Iowa

#168 Zach Davidson, TE, Central Missouri

#199 Jaylen Twyman, IDL, Pittsburgh

Best Pick: Christian Darrisaw- Traded back and still landed the third ranked OT in the class.

Biggest Reach: Kene Nwangwu- A little early to add a third RB to the depth chart.

Biggest Steal: Wyatt Davis- He could start at guard immediately.

GRADE: A+

Top to bottom a great draft class. 4-5 future starters at minimum, and a possible successor to Kirk Cousins.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

#15 Mac Jones, QB, Alabama

#38 Christian Barmore, IDL, Alabama

#96 Ronnie Perkins, EDGE, Oklahoma

#120 Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, Oklahoma

#177 Cameron McGrone, LB, Michigan

#188 Joshua Bledsoe, S, Missouri

#197 Will Sherman, OT, Colorado

#242 Tre Nixon, WR, Central Florida

Best Pick: Christian Barmore- Best defensive tackle in the class.

Biggest Reach: Mac Jones- I’m just not convinced Jones is a franchise caliber QB.

Biggest Steal: Cameron McGrone- Could wind up manning an inside linebacker spot for years.

GRADE: B+

The class hinges on Jones, if he’s the long term answer at QB, which I’m not convinced he is, this could easily be an A.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

#28 Payton Turner, EDGE, Houston

#60 Pete Werner, LB, Ohio State

#76 Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford

#133 Ian Book, QB, Notre Dame

#206 Landon Young, OT, Kentucky

#255 Kawaan Baker, WR, South Alabama

Best Pick: Paulson Adebo- Potential starting CB.

Biggest Reach: Payton Turner- Third round grade, passed on higher ranked Edge rushers.

Biggest Steal: Landon Young- Potential starting tackle in the sixth round.

GRADE: D

Their draft class has some potential, but no sure fire locks.

NEW YORK GIANTS

#20 Kadarius Toney, WR, Florida

#50 Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia

#71 Aaron Robinson, CB, Central Florida

#116 Elerson Smith, EDGE, Northern Iowa

#196 Gary Brightwell, RB, Arizona

#201 Rodarius Williams, CB, Oklahoma State

Best Pick: Azeez Ojulari- Could be the next great Giants pass rusher.

Biggest Reach: Kadarius Toney- Number 20 was a little higher than I had him pegged.

Biggest Steal: Ojulari- Should have been a first round pick.

GRADE: A-

Slight reach on Toney. Not high on Brightwell. The rest of the class is rock solid, plus they got a good haul to trade back in the first round.

NEW YORK JETS

#2 Zach Wilson, QB, BYU

#14 Alijah Vera-Tucker, IOL, USC

#34 Elijah Moore, WR, Mississippi

#107 Michael Carter, RB, North Carolina

#146 Jamien Sherwood, S, Auburn

#154 Michael Carter II, CB, Duke

#175 Jason Pinnock, CB, Pittsburgh

#186 Hamsah Nasirildeen, S, Florida Statej

#200 Brandin Echols, CB, Kentucky

#207 Jonathan Marshall, IDL, Arkansas

Best Pick: Alijah Vera-Tucker- One of my favorite offensive lineman in the draft. Have to protect the new franchise QB.

Biggest Reach: Michael Carter II- Higher ranked CBs available.

Biggest Steal: Hamsah Nasirildeen- Had him as a third round talent. Should challenge for starting safety spot.

GRADE: B+

Would have liked to see more than one OL, some more weapons and an Edge instead of using 5 picks on the secondary. Quality players, though.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

#10 DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama

#37 Landon Dickerson, IOL, Alabama

#73 Milton Williams, IDL, Louisiana Tech

#123 Zech McPhearson, CB, Texas Tech

#150 Kenneth Gainwell, RB, Memphis

#189 Marlon Tuipulotu, IDL, USC

#191 Tarron Jackson, EDGE, Coastal Carolina

#224 JaCoby Stevens, S, LSU

#234 Patrick Johnson, EDGE, Tulane

Best Pick: DeVonta Smith- They finally have a true number one WR.

Biggest Reach: Milton Williams- Just watch the video, not even the Eagles draft room was sure about this pick.

Biggest Steal: Patrick Johnson- Will have a role in the Eagles pass rushing rotation, not bad for your last pick.

GRADE: B+

Solid class, but I question only one WR, one O-Lineman and no TE.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

#24 Najee Harris, RB, Alabama

#55 Pat Freiermuth, TE, Penn State

#87 Kendrick Green, IOL, Illinois

#128 Dan Moore Jr, OT, Texas A&M

#140 Buddy Johnson, LB, Texas A&M

#156 Isaiahh Loudermilk, EDGE, Wisconsin

#216 Quincy Roche, EDGE, Miami-Fl

#245 Tre Norwood, CB, Oklahoma

#254 Pressley Harvin III, P, Georgia Tech

Best Pick: Kendrick Green- He’ll take over at center from retired legend Maurkice Pouncey.

Biggest Reach: Pressley Harvin III- A punter? Even with one of the last picks in the draft, this is a reach.

Biggest Steal: Quincy Roche- Solid edge rushing prospect in the sixth round.

GRADE: C-

I think they should have gone OL and Edge earlier than they did, but they may have found some gems. Punter? Really? There wasn’t another offensive lineman available?

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

#3 Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State

#48 Aaron Banks, IOL, Notre Dame

#88 Trey Sermon, RB, Ohio State

#102 Ambry Thomas, CB, Michigan

#155 Jaylon Moore, OT, Western Michigan

#172 Deommodore Lenoir, CB, Oregon

#180 Talanoa Hufanga, S, USC

#194 Eli Mitchell, RB, Louisiana-Lafayette

Best Pick: Trey Lance- Should reach his full potential under Kyle Shanahan.

Biggest Reach: Aaron Banks- Went much higher than most expected, and not sure of the fit.

Biggest Steal: Ambry Thomas- Could end up locking down a starting corner spot.

GRADE: B+

Lance will be great with Shanahan’s coaching. Banks was a big reach. Rest of the class is solid.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

#56 D’Wayne Eskridge, WR, Western Michigan

#137 Tre Brown, CB, Oklahoma

#208 Stone Forsythe, OT, Florida

Best Pick: Stone Forsythe- Starting potential in the sixth round.

Biggest Reach: D’Wayne Eskridge- Did they really need another WR?

Biggest Steal: Forsythe- See above.

GRADE: D

Only had three picks, not much they could do. WR with first pick is curious.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

#32 Joe Tryon, EDGE, Washington

#64 Kyle Trask, QB, Florida

#95 Robert Hainsey, OT, Notre Dame

#129 Jaelon Darden, WR, North Texas

#176 K.J. Britt, LB, Auburn

#251 Chris Wilcox, CB, BYU

#259 Grant Stuard, LB, Houston

Best Pick: Kyle Trask- Perfect understudy for Tom Brady.

Biggest Reach: Robert Hainsey- A few rounds earlier than expected.

Biggest Steal: Jaelon Darden- Serious speed. Should contribute as a punt returner right away.

GRADE: B+

Defending champs are running everyone back so they have few holes. A couple reaches, but I really like the Trask and Darden picks.

TENNESSEE TITANS

#22 Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech

#53 Dillon Radunz, OT, North Dakota State

#92 Monty Rice, LB, Georgia

#100 Elijah Molden, CB, Washington

#109 Dez Fitzpatrick, WR, Louisville

#135 Rashad Weaver, EDGE, Pittsburgh

#205 Racy McMath, WR, LSU

#215 Brady Breeze, S, Oregon

Best Pick: Dillon Radunz- May need some pro seasoning, but this kid is a beast.

Biggest Reach: Caleb Farley- Has injury concerns and Greg Newsome II was still on the board.

Biggest Steal: Brady Breeze- Will be a solid special teamer and possible contributor to their secondary.

GRADE: A

I really like this class, I only question the gamble on Farley’s health.

WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM

#19 Jamin Davis, LB, Kentucky

#51 Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas

#74 Benjamin St-Juste, CB, Minnesota

#82 Dyami Brown, WR, North Carolina

#124 John Bates, TE, Boise State

#163 Darrick Forrest, S, Cincinnati

#225 Camaron Cheeseman, LS, Michigan

#240 William Bradley-King, EDGE, Baylor

#246 Shaka Toney, EDGE, Penn State

#258 Dax Milne, WR, BYU

Best Pick: Samuel Cosmi- He’ll be starting at tackle before the end of his rookie season.

Biggest Reach: Camaron Cheeseman- Love the name, but seriously, a long snapper?

Biggest Steal: Shaka Toney- He’ll contribute and produce as a pass rush specialist.

GRADE: C

Already had a great defense but spent a lot of picks there. Only one offensive lineman, one WR. No RBs, no developmental QB. And, they used a draft pick on a long snapper.

ARIZONA CARDINALS: Day One (B-)

#49 Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue: A

Day Two (A) Moore is going to be scary in this offense.

Overall (B+)

ATLANTA FALCONS: Day One (B)

#40 Richie Grant, S, Central Florida: C

#68 Jalen Mayfield, OT, Michigan: A

Day Two (B) Mayfield was a steal in the third round.

Overall (B)

BALTIMORE RAVENS: Day One (A)

#94 Ben Cleveland, IOL, Georgia: B

#104 Brandon Stephens, CB, SMU: D

Day Two (C-) Cleveland is a fine value pick. Stephens feels like a reach.

Overall (B-)

BUFFALO BILLS: Day One (B)

#61 Carlos Basham Jr, EDGE, Wake Forest: B-

#93 Spencer Brown, OT, Northern Iowa: A

Day Two (B+) Basham was good value, but they went Edge in the first too. Brown is raw, but comes with major upside.

Overall (B)

CAROLINA PANTHERS: Day One (C)

#59 Terrace Marshall Jr, WR, LSU: A+

#70 Brady Christensen, OT, BYU: A

#83 Tommy Tremble, TE, Notre Dame: B

Day Two (A) Marshall is a home run. Christensen should be solid value. Tremble was a bit of a reach.

Overall (B)

CHICAGO BEARS: Day One (A+)

#39 Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State: A+

Day Two (A+) I was mocking Jenkins to Chicago at 20. Pace is on fire in this draft.

Overall (A+)

CINCINNATI BENGALS: Day One (C-)

#46 Jackson Carman, OT, Clemson: F

#69 Joseph Ossai, EDGE, Texas: A

Day Two (D+) Passed on a much needed stud OT in the first, then reaches on one in the second. Ossai in the third is a steal.

Overall (D)

CLEVELAND BROWNS: Day One (B)

#52 Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame: A+

#91 Anthony Schwartz, WR, Auburn: C-

Day Two (A) I liked Owusu-Koramoah to them in the first, so they got a steal in the second. Schwartz is a reach, but packs some serious speed.

Overall (A)

DALLAS COWBOYS: Day One (B-)

#44 Kelvin Joseph, CB, Kentucky: B+

#75 Osa Odighizuwa, IDL, UCLA: B-

#84 Chauncey Golston, EDGE, Iowa: A

#99 Nahshon Wright, CB, Oregon State: D

Day Two (B-) They’re addressing D, which is the right move, but not necessarily picking the right guys. Wright was a major reach.

Overall (B-)

DENVER BRONCOS: Day One (C-)

#35 Javonte Williams, RB, North Carolina: B+

#98 Quinn Meinerz, IOL, Wisconsin-Whitewater: A+

#105 Baron Browning, LB, Ohio State: B

Day Two (B+) Williams is a great RB, but not a real need. Meinerz is one of my favorite players in the draft. Browning could be a nice find.

Overall (B)

DETROIT LIONS: Day One (A)

#41 Levi Onwuzurike, IDL, Washington: A

#72 Alim McNeill, IDL, North Carolina State: D

#101 Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB, Syracuse: C

Day Two (C-) All three guys will help, but taking a second IDL and no WR is head scratching.

Overall (C)

GREEN BAY PACKERS: Day One (C)

#62 Josh Myers, IOL, Ohio State: D

#85 Amari Rodgers, WR, Clemson: B

Day Two (C-) I think they left better talent on the board to take Myers. Rodgers feels like all their other WRs not named Davante Adams.

Overall (C-)

HOUSTON TEXANS: Day One (NA)

#67 Davis Mills, QB, Stanford: F

#89 Nico Collins, WR, Michigan: B

Day Two (D) Not an indictment on Mills as a player, more an indictment of the Houston organization. Texans are a mess. Collins was a nice pick.

Overall (F)

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Day One (A)

#54 Dayo Odeyingbo, EDGE, Vanderbilt: D

Day Two (D) Double dipping at Edge with a guy that won’t play at all this season is curious.

Overall (C)

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: Day One (B)

#33 Tyson Campbell, CB, Georgia: B

#45 Walker Little, OT, Stanford: A-

#65 Andre Cisco, S, Syracuse: B

Day Two (B) Solid picks. Just question their passing on Moehrig.

Overall (B)

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Day One (NA)

#58 Nick Bolton, LB, Missouri: B+

#63 Creed Humphrey, IOL, Oklahoma: A-

Day Two (B+) Good, quality picks.

Overall (A)

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS: Day One (D)

#43 Trevon Moehrig, S, TCU: A+

#79 Malcolm Koonce, EDGE, Buffalo: C

#80 Divine Deablo, S, Virginia Tech: B-

Day Two (B) Raiders rebounded nicely. Moehrig is a slam dunk, though Koonce was a bit of a reach.

Overall (B)

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS: Day One (A)

#47 Asante Samuel Jr, CB, Florida State: A+

#77 Josh Palmer, WR, Tennessee: B-

#97 Tre’ McKitty, TE, Georgia: D

Day Two (B-) Chargers looked poised to dominate this draft. Palmer was a bit of a reach and McKitty was a major reach.

Overall (B+)

LOS ANGELES RAMS: Day One (NA)

#57 Tutu Atwell, WR, Louisville: C

#103 Ernest Jones, LB, South Carolina: D

Day Two (C-) I like Atwell, but they don’t need him. Jones fits a need, but was a reach.

Overall (C-)

MIAMI DOLPHINS: Day One (A)

#36 Jevon Holland, S, Oregon: B

#42 Liam Eichenberg, OT, Notre Dame: A

#81 Hunter Long, TE, Boston College: D

Day Two (B-) I just don’t get the Long pick. TE was not a need at all.

Overall (A-)

MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Day One (A+)

#66 Kellen Mond, QB, Texas A&M: B

#78 Chazz Surratt, LB, North Carolina: B

#86 Wyatt Davis, IOL, Ohio State: A

#90 Patrick Jones II, EDGE, Pittsburgh: B

Day Two (B+) Vikings are having a good draft. Bit surprising they went Mond over Mills, but not that they went QB.

Overall (A)

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Day One (A)

#38 Christian Barmore, IDL, Alabama: A+

#96 Ronnie Perkins, EDGE, Oklahoma: A

Day Two (A+) Barmore is a great pick. Perkins is a major steal in the third.

Overall (A)

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Day One (D)

#60 Pete Werner, LB, Ohio State: B-

#76 Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford: B-

Day Two (B-) Saints didn’t reach as much on day 2.

Overall (C)

NEW YORK GIANTS: Day One (B-)

#50 Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia: A+

#71 Aaron Robinson, CB, Central Florida: B

Day Two (A) Ojulari is a major steal.

Overall (A-)

NEW YORK JETS: Day One (A)

#34 Elijah Moore, WR, Mississippi: A+

Day Two (A+) Moore brings a speed element to Zach Wilson’s receiving corps.

Overall (A+)

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Day One (A+)

#37 Landon Dickerson, IOL, Alabama: B+

#73 Milton Williams, IDL, Louisiana Tech: D

Day Two (C-) Dickerson is fine, but OT would have been a better pick. Haven’t addressed the secondary yet.

Overall (B-)

PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Day One (C)

#55 Pat Freiermuth, TE, Penn State: F

#87 Kendrick Green, IOL, Illinois: B+

Day Two (D+) TE pick makes no sense. Green is a good pick when they finally address OL.

Overall (D+)

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Day One (B)

#48 Aaron Banks, IOL, Notre Dame: D

#88 Trey Sermon, RB, Ohio State: C

#102 Ambry Thomas, CB, Michigan: B

Day Two (C) Really reached on Banks. Sermon is a luxury not a need. Thomas has upside.

Overall (B-)

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: Day One (NA)

#56 D’Wayne Eskridge, WR, Western Michigan: D

Day Two (D) Another WR? No OL, no D?

Overall (D)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Day One (B)

#64 Kyle Trask, QB, Florida: B

#95 Robert Hainsey, OT, Notre Dame: C-

Day Two (B-) Bucs are drafting like defending champs. Like the Trask fit, Hainsey was a reach.

Overall (B)

TENNESSEE TITANS: Day One (C+)

#53 Dillon Radunz, OT, North Dakota State: A

#92 Monty Rice, LB, Georgia: B-

#100 Elijah Molden, CB, Washington: B+

Day Two (B+) I love Radunz. Molden could be a steal.

Overall (B)

WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM: Day One (A-)

#51 Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas: A+

#74 Benjamin St-Juste, CB, Minnesota: B-

#82 Dyami Brown, WR, North Carolina: A

Day Two (A) Solid picks. Love the fit of Brown and Cosmi.

Overall (A)

I correctly predicted Trevor Lawrence to Jacksonville at #1 and Zach Wilson to the NY Jets at #2, but everyone called those two.

I also predicted that the LA Chargers would land Rashawn Slater at #13, Jaelan Phillips to Miami at #18 and Jayson Oweh to Baltimore at #31. I also picked Alijah Vera-Tucker to go 14th overall, but he went to the Jets not the Vikings as I predicted.

Now I’ll try my hand at day two, rounds three and four:

ROUND THREE

33. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS- Trevon Moehrig, S, TCU

34. NEW YORK JETS- Asante Samuel Jr, CB, Florida State

35. ATLANTA FALCONS- Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia

36. MIAMI DOLPHINS- Christian Barmore, IDL, Alabama

37. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES- Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame

38. CINCINNATI BENGALS- Walker Little, OT, Stanford

39. CAROLINA PANTHERS- Elijah Moore, WR, Mississippi

40. DENVER BRONCOS- Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State

41. DETROIT LIONS- Terrace Marshall Jr, WR, LSU

42. NEW YORK GIANTS- Dillon Radunz, OT, North Dakota State

43. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS- Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue

44. DALLAS COWBOYS- Carlos Basham Jr, EDGE, Wake Forest

45. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS- Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas

46. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS- Jevon Holland, CB, Oregon

47. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS- Pat Freiermuth, TE, Penn State

48. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS- Nick Bolton, LB, Missouri

49. ARIZONA CARDINALS- Alim McNeill, IDL, North Carolina State

50. MIAMI DOLPHINS- Landon Dickerson, IOL, Alabama

51. WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM- Dyami Brown, WR, North Carolina

52. CHICAGO BEARS- Liam Eichenberg, OT, Notre Dame

53. TENNESSEE TITANS- Ronnie Perkins, EDGE, Oklahoma

54. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS- Jackson Carman, OT, Clemson

55. PITTSBURGH STEELERS- Quinn Meinerz, IOL, Wisconsin-Whitewater

56. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS- Wyatt Davis, IOL, Ohio State

57. LOS ANGELES RAMS- Jabril Cox, LB, LSU

58. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS- Joseph Ossai, EDGE, Texas

59. CLEVELAND BROWNS- Rashad Weaver, EDGE, Pittsburgh

60. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS- Aaron Robinson, CB, Central Florida

61. BUFFALO BILLS- Javonte Williams, RB, North Carolina

62. GREEN BAY PACKERS- Creed Humphrey, IOL, Oklahoma

63. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS- Amon-Ra St.Brown, WR, USC

64. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS- Elijah Molden, S, Washington

ROUND THREE

65. JAGUARS- Kendrick Green, IOL, Illinois

66. VIKINGS- Richie Grant, S, Central Florida

67. HOUSTON TEXANS- Kyle Trask, QB, Florida

68. FALCONS- Ar’Darius Washington, S, TCU

69. BENGALS- Dayo Odeyingbo, EDGE, Vanderbilt

70. EAGLES- Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB, Syracuse

71. BRONCOS- Pete Werner, LB, Ohio State

72. LIONS- Andre Cisco, S, Syracuse

73. PANTHERS- Levi Onwuzurike, IDL, Washington

74. WASHINGTON- Brady Christensen, OT, BYU

75. COWBOYS- Kelvin Joseph, CB, Kentucky

76. GIANTS- Stone Forsythe, OT, Florida

77. CHARGERS- Tay Gowan, CB, Central Florida

78. VIKINGS- Trey Smith, IOL, Tennessee

79. RAIDERS- Jamar Johnson, S, Indiana

80. RAIDERS- Thomas Graham Jr, CB, Oregon

81. DOLPHINS- Michael Carter, RB, North Carolina

82. WASHINGTON- Davis Mills, QB, Stanford

83. BEARS- Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State

84. COWBOYS- Tommy Tremble, TE, Notre Dame

85. TITANS- Ben Cleveland, IOL, Georgia

86. VIKINGS- Tommy Togiai, IDL, Ohio State

87. STEELERS- Cameron Sample, EDGE, Tulane

88. RAMS- Patrick Johnson, EDGE, Tulane

89. BROWNS- Marvin Wilson, IDL, Florida State

90. VIKINGS- Kellen Mond, QB, Texas A&M

91. BROWNS- Chazz Surratt, LB, North Carolina

92. PACKERS- Nico Collins, WR, Michigan

93. BILLS- Osa Odighizuwa, IDL, UCLA

94. RAVENS- Chris Rumph II, EDGE, Duke

95. BUCCANEERS- Daviyon Nixon, IDL, Iowa

THIRD ROUND COMPENSATORY PICKS

96. PATRIOTS- Tutu Atwell, WR, Louisville

97. CHARGERS- Barron Browning, LB, Ohio State

98. SAINTS- Tyson Campbell, CB, Georgia

99. COWBOYS- Divine Deablo, S, Virginia Tech

100. TITANS- Ambry Thomas, CB, Michigan

101. LIONS- Monty Rice, LB, Georgia

102. DOLPHINS- Tyler Shelvin, IDL, LSU

103. RAMS- Deonte Brown, IOL, Alabama

104. RAVENS- Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford

105. SAINTS- Trey Sermon, RB, Ohio State

ROUND ONE GRADES

JACKSONVILLE: (B)– Lawrence is a slam dunk, Etienne was a reach and not a position of need.

NY JETS: (A)– A case can be made that Wilson was not the number 2 QB in the draft, but he was the Jets guy. Trading up for Vera-Tucker was a great move.

SAN FRANCISCO: (B)– I like Lance but SF better pray he hits his potential after what it cost them.

ATLANTA: (B)– Pitts is a generational talent, but the Falcons really need defense not offensive weapons.

CINCINNATI: (C-)– In a deep WR class the smarter move would have been going OT and protecting the franchise QB. Bengals better hope they land a quality tackle on day 2.

MIAMI: (A)– Waddle was probably their third choice, but he could be dynamite. Phillips is the most talented Edge in the class.

DETROIT: (A)– Sewell at 7 is a bit of a steal, Lions still need pass catchers.

CAROLINA: (C)– Horn is a great CB, but they passed on Fields for Sam Darnold? I think they’ll regret that.

DENVER- (C-)– Much like Carolina, but worse because they’re running with Lock and a Panthers cast off over Fields.

PHILADELPHIA: (A+)– Savvy use of one of their plethora of picks to nab a true number one WR.

CHICAGO: (A+)– Patience and timely aggressiveness paid off. Fields outside the top ten is a steal. Finally, a franchise QB in Chicago.

DALLAS: (B-)– Good trade back, but LB was the one area of the defense that didn’t need much help.

LA CHARGERS: (A)– Slater falling to 13 was lucky, but LA didn’t miss.

NEW ENGLAND: (A)- Jones wasn’t a first rounder in my opinion, but I knew he’d go in the first. Perfect landing spot for him.

ARIZONA: (B-)– Collins was a bit of a surprise, but a great fit for the Cardinals defense.

LAS VEGAS: (D)– Leatherwood was the reach of the first round. Left quality tackles on the board for a day 2 talent.

WASHINGTON: (A-)– Davis went higher than I expected, but his tape is exciting.

NY GIANTS: (B-)– They got a good return to move down, but I think Toney was a reach.

INDIANAPOLIS: (A)– Paye has some serious upside, decent value selection.

TENNESSEE: (C+)– CB was the right position, but Farley is a gamble with his medical history.

MINNESOTA: (A+)– Traded back and landed a bookend tackle. Great day one.

PITTSBURGH: (C)– Harris is a great RB, but who’s going to block for him?

CLEVELAND: (B)- Newsome is a good CB and will fill a need, but I think passing on Owusu-Koramoah could be a mistake.

BALTIMORE: (A)– Ravens needed a go to WR, they got one. They needed an Edge rusher, they got one with huge upside.

NEW ORLEANS: (D)– Turner was one of the two biggest reaches. I had him as a third rounder.

GREEN BAY: (C)– CB was a need, but with the breaking Rodgers news, you’d think the Packers would have tried to appease the franchise QB.

BUFFALO: (B)– Can never have too many Edge rushers, I just question if Rousseau was the right one.

TAMPA BAY: (B)- See above. Tampa had no pressing needs, I think there were better players out there.

The final 2021 edition, maybe. Barring another trade involving a first round pick before Thursday, this should be my final mock draft.

There’s picks I’m extremely confident in, others that I’ve gone back and forth on, and still others that I’ve just basically thrown a dart on.

The top two picks are set in stone. They’ve been the same for weeks, and it would absolutely set the draft board on fire if either would end up differently.

After that, the Falcons at #4, Detroit at #7 and Carolina at #8 are the teams to watch as what they do will shape the draft. Stay put or trade down? Take a QB of the future if they’re there (which, in Atlanta’s case, one certainly will be)?

What teams will be willing to pay the price to move up for a QB, especially the fourth or fifth one off the board? The Niners gave up 2022 & 2023 first round picks to swap this year’s first round picks with Miami (#12 to #3), I think that’s the ballpark we’re looking at to move up to 4, slightly less to 7 or 8.

I’ll try to answer some of those questions in this mock. Here we go:

1. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS- Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson: This is the Peyton Manning of this class of QBs. Not only is Lawrence the consensus number one, he’s the generational talent that has been pegged as a number one overall pick since he set foot on Clemson’s campus.

2. NEW YORK JETS- Zach Wilson, QB, BYU: The Jets have been locked in on Wilson nearly as long as Jacksonville has been on Lawrence. In my opinion he might not even be the second best QB in this class, but he’s still a pretty solid choice and should have a great pro career.

3. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS- Mac Jones, QB, Alabama: Has the talk linking Jones to the Niners been nothing but a smokescreen? That’s not unheard of during draft season but my question is why the need for deception? Nobody can get in front of San Fran, everyone knows that Lawrence is going to Jacksonville and Wilson will head to New York. There is literally zero need for a smokescreen.

The latest reports say head coach Kyle Shanahan prefers Jones, while the scouting department prefers Trey Lance. In the end, I think the coach gets what he wants.

It’s not my choice, but SF has a championship caliber roster and Jones probably needs less pro seasoning than the others, even if his ceiling is considerably lower.

4. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (From Atlanta)- Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State: Nobody wants SF to take Mac Jones more than the Atlanta Falcons. The price for their number 4 pick will shoot through the roof.

In addition to NE, QB needy teams like Denver, Washington & Chicago should be willing to mortgage their future. Even teams like Pittsburgh and New Orleans that aren’t as desperate may kick the tires. There’s probably even some under the radar teams like Las Vegas or Tennessee that could be in the mix.

Justin Fields is worth it. I have him as the number two QB in the class, no offense to Zach Wilson. Watch his destruction of Clemson from January or some of the jaw dropping throws he made at his pro day. Lawrence and Wilson might be more can’t miss, but Fields’ ceiling is just as high.

The Patriots have been uncharacteristically aggressive this offseason. Missing the playoffs in the first post-Brady season will do that. They’ve upgraded the roster, but Belichick cannot put all his chips on Cam Newton. A couple first rounders plus other picks from an organization that hasn’t exactly been a draft day juggernaut doesn’t seem like too big a risk.

5. CINCINNATI BENGALS- Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon: Lots of chatter about reuniting Joe Burrow with Ja’Marr Chase or grabbing the best non QB talent in the class, Kyle Pitts, but Cincy needs to play this smart.

Burrow’s promising rookie season was cut short because of a knee injury. A knee injury he sustained because his offensive line was a sieve. Protecting the franchise QB has to be their top priority, the receiver class is deep, they can get weapons later.

6. MIAMI DOLPHINS- Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida: After trading down from #3 to #12, Miami traded back up to #6. All this means they’ve targeted someone they know won’t be available at 12.

There’s three players that fit this bill: Sewell, Ja’Marr Chase and Pitts.

Chase is generally considered the top WR in the class, but he’s not head and shoulders above the Alabama duo, at least one of which should be available at 12.

Sewell is considered the top tackle, but tackle isn’t a huge need for Miami, and there’s not much gap between him and the next couple tackles that they’d surely be able to land at 12.

Pitts is different. There is no other TE even in his universe, let alone orbit. TE isn’t a huge need for the Dolphins, they have Mike Gesicki after all, but Pitts is generational. He’s Jimmy Graham from his New Orleans days. A WR in a tight end’s body. A match up nightmare that will keep defensive coordinators up all night.

7. DETROIT LIONS- Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU: The Lions are a bit of a wild card here, with one first round worthy QB still on the board.

For starters, Jared Goff is not a franchise QB, so it may be tempting to get one. Even if they decide not to, there’s teams that would be eager to jump ahead of Denver.

Ultimately, I think the combination of value, need and talent will lead Detroit to take Chase. They lost both starting WRs in free agency, and Chase could be their new Calvin Johnson.

8. WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM (From Carolina)- Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State: First things first, Carolina did not trade for Sam Darnold only to immediately draft his replacement, so they’re out of the QB mix.

They could stay here and take an OT like Rashawn Slater or one of the Bama WRs, or hope that Pitts somehow slips to them, but the draft capital they could recoup is too good to pass up.

The market for this pick won’t be as robust as it was for Atlanta, but there should still be multiple teams bidding, ultimately I think Washington wins out.

They signed the ultimate bridge QB in Ryan Fitzpatrick who can hold the reins and lead this team back to the playoffs, while grooming Lance to lead the franchise into the future.

9. DENVER BRONCOS- Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State: Denver misses out on a QB because they balk at the steep price they’d have to pay. They’ll gamble that Drew Lock can take a step forward this season.

Parsons could be the QB for head coach Vic Fangio’s defense. It might be a bit of a surprise pick, but it wasn’t long ago that Parsons was considered a top five talent.

One final note, if SF passes on Mac Jones, this is the likely landing spot for him, in my opinion.

10. DALLAS COWBOYS- Patrick Surtain II, CB, Alabama: Jerry Jones is said to be enamored with Kyle Pitts, but Dallas has no chance of landing him. Upgrading the offensive line has to be considered, but Dallas’ Achilles heel has been defense, particularly pass defense.

Surtain is a lock down corner that will vastly improve their secondary and take some pressure off the rest of the defense.

Outside the top two picks, this is as confident as I am about any of my picks.

11. NEW YORK GIANTS- Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama: The Giants brought in Kenny Golloday, but they still lack that game breaking, take the top off the defense WR they haven’t had since shipping out OBJ.

Waddle is that guy. I think he may be the most dynamic WR in the class. He’ll give opposing DCs nightmares.

Daniel Jones will have no excuses if he doesn’t take the next step this season.

12. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES- Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina: Philly fans are going to hate this pick, since Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith is still on the board, but this is the smarter play.

The WR class is deep, and Philly has a ton of picks, they’ll get a good one.

The NFC East has some talented pass catchers that the Eagles will have to deal with six times every season. Pairing Horn with Darius Slay could give Philly one of the best corner tandems in the NFL.

13. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS- Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern: LA should be ecstatic about how this board has fallen. I’ve mocked Slater to LA in every single mock draft, and there were times I thought they’d have to move up to secure him.

Much like Cincy, the Chargers have found their franchise QB in Justin Herbert, now they need to keep him upright. They can add weapons later.

14. MINNESOTA VIKINGS- Alijah Vera-Tucker, IOL, USC: Part of me thinks Mike Zimmer is more inclined to draft defense here, particularly an edge rusher, but offensive line should be a higher priority.

Vera-Tucker excelled at tackle this past season, but he’s better suited to the interior, making him the top IOL in the class. This matches what should be considered the Vikings biggest need.

Don’t count out Minnesota trading down from this spot and going defense.

15. ATLANTA FALCONS (From New England)- Kwity Paye, EDGE, Michigan: The Falcons get a substantial haul to move down 11 spots.

CB is a bigger need, but with Surtain and Horn off the board, the value isn’t there. Atlanta goes with the top Edge rusher instead. Who that is is open to interpretation.

Paye is an athletic freak with tremendous upside. His athletic profile could make him very enticing to a team in desperate need of defensive help.

16. ARIZONA CARDINALS- DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama: The Cardinals get the gift of the first round as size concerns push the Heisman Trophy winner down the board.

Arizona has other, more pressing needs but pairing Smith with DeAndre Hopkins would make Kliff Kingsbury’s offense very scary.

17. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS- Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech: The Raiders could go several directions here, Edge or LB are certainly possibilities but Darrisaw represents the best value at this spot.

Jon Gruden wants an old school, smash mouth offense. That starts in the trenches. Darrisaw will step right into the spot vacated by Trent Brown.

18. MIAMI DOLPHINS- Jaelan Phillips, EDGE, Miami-Fl: Dolphins fans would probably prefer Najee Harris here, and I’ve mocked him to Miami several times. But, they added a weapon earlier in the draft, now they’ll shift focus to defense.

Talent wise, Phillips is the top Edge in the draft, probably a top ten talent, but injury issues push him down the board.

The Dolphins will accept that risk and bring him across town from the U.

19. CAROLINA PANTHERS (From Washington)- Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech: Farley is another player that slips down the board because of injury concerns. Arguably the top CB in the class, and a top ten selection, if not for his offseason back surgery.

In an NFC South with multiple Pro-Bowl WRs, Farley’s talent is worth taking a risk on.

Carolina adds at least one future first rounder to move down 11 spots.

20. CHICAGO BEARS- Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State: There is a better than average chance Chicago doesn’t pick in this spot. They are certainly in the mix to trade up for a QB, and they’re also a candidate to trade down seeking better value.

If they truly covet Jenkins, and as a fan I believe they should, they may even need to move up a couple spots to secure him.

The fit is perfect. Jenkins is a right tackle, which is the Bears weakest spot on the OL. He’d solidify it for the next decade and bring a mean streak to the offensive line they’ve lacked since Kyle Long’s departure.

There are some that would prefer a CB or WR at this spot, but Jenkins is the best fit and value without trading back.

21. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS- Rashod Bateman, WR, Minnesota: The Colts likely covet Teven Jenkins to replace Anthony Costanza, but Chicago scooped him up.

I’m not sure there’s another tackle worth taking at this spot. CB or Edge are possibilities, but I think Indy will opt to give Carson Wentz another weapon.

Bateman is a tier below the top three WRs, but I’ve compared him favorably to Allen Robinson in past mocks. Colts fans would not be disappointed.

22. TENNESSEE TITANS- Greg Newsome II, CB, Northwestern: Tennessee could have eyes for Bateman, or an Edge rusher here, but they’ll gladly scoop up Newsome, whose been one of the rising talents at CB.

This pick and the two previous picks are pretty interchangeable. I could see any of Jenkins, Bateman or Newsome landing in Chicago, Indy or Tennessee.

23. NEW YORK JETS- Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia: Jets fans probably prefer another offensive weapon for new franchise QB Zach Wilson, but new head coach Robert Saleh is a defensive guy.

The Jets have an early round two selection to go RB, WR or even OL, they’ll add an Edge rusher here.

I’ve had Ojulari as the first Edge off the board in a couple of mocks and this is about as far down the board as I’ve had him. He might not have the pure talent of Phillips or the huge upside of Paye, but his leadership qualities along with above average athleticism and talent make him a quality get.

24. PITTSBURGH STEELERS- Landon Dickerson, IOL, Alabama: Pittsburgh needs to fix their offensive line, first and foremost. Longtime center and line anchor, Maurkice Pouncey, retired and Dickerson is the best center in the class.

He comes with injury concerns, but he’s tough as nails and a natural fit for the Steelers.

25. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS- Trevon Moehrig, S, TCU: I’ve mocked Moehrig to Jacksonville almost as long as I’ve had Trevor Lawrence there. The fit, value and talent are just perfect.

Jacksonville picks first in the second round where they’ll easily be able to grab a WR or OT.

26. CLEVELAND BROWNS- Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame: I was really tempted to put Alabama IDL Christian Barmore here, but Owusu-Koramoah is too talented to pass up.

He’s a hybrid LB/S that NFL DCs have started to embrace. He could help take Cleveland’s defense to the next level.

27. BALTIMORE RAVENS- Terrace Marshall Jr, WR, LSU: I’ve mocked an Edge rusher to Baltimore in almost every mock draft I’ve done. It is their biggest need since they lost both of their starters in free agency. But, they’ve acquired KC’s first round pick in the Orlando Brown trade, so now they have options.

Getting Lamar Jackson some more weapons is another priority, and Marshall would instantly become his number one.

He’s been overshadowed the past couple of years by Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase, but Marshall is supremely talented and has a nose for the end zone.

28. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS- Zaven Collins, LB, Tulsa: Saints are a hard team to pin down. They could go in several different directions with this pick. I’ve finally settled on them taking a tone setter on defense.

Collins is a throwback linebacker. Big and bruising. The Saints could use some more physicality on their defense.

29. GREEN BAY PACKERS- Dillon Radunz, OT, North Dakota State: Packers fans would rather see a WR here, but it isn’t happening. Green Bay simply doesn’t take WRs in the first round. A corner is a possibility, but I’m going with improving Aaron Rodgers’ protection.

Radunz is a bit of a surprise first rounder, but he’s got all the makings of a foundational left tackle.

30. BUFFALO BILLS- Najee Harris, RB, Alabama: Buffalo was a win away from the Super Bowl last year and they’ve got a pretty solid roster with few holes.

Adding a workhorse RB, who is also an adept pass catcher, would take the Josh Allen led offense to another level.

31. BALTIMORE RAVENS- Jayson Oweh, EDGE, Penn State: Baltimore gets their Edge rusher with their second first rounder, acquired from Kansas City in the Orlando Brown trade.

Oweh is raw, but athletically gifted. He could, and should develop into the Ravens next great Edge rusher.

32. MIAMI DOLPHINS (From Tampa Bay)- Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson: Some team always trades back into the back end of the first round to get that fifth year option on another player. A lot of analysts think that could be a team like Chicago to get the sixth QB off the board, but there’s no rule saying it has to be a QB.

Miami makes this move for several reasons. First, Etienne is a talented runner and receiver and they’d get a fifth year option on him. Second, they’ve got the third pick in round two so it won’t cost much to move up, and they’ve got picks to burn. And finally, Dolphins fans will really love that it screws the Jets, who have to be eyeballing Etienne early in the second round.

Tampa Bay is the defending champions and they brought everyone back from that squad. They can afford to trade out of the first round and add picks.

RECAP

Jacksonville and the New York Jets are locked in at #1 & #2, I’m supremely confident those are the picks.

I’m not so sure on San Francisco at #3. I would go Fields there, but everything I’m hearing says otherwise.

I’ve never been a believer that Atlanta would take a QB at #4, I think the smart play would be to trade down.

Cincinnati at #5 and the Los Angeles Chargers at #13 are in similar positions, second year franchise QBs they need to protect. I think Cincy should definitely go OT, though they could go WR. The Chargers might not have the choice depending on how the board breaks, but if they have a shot at Slater or Darrisaw they should take it.

I think Miami at #6 is focused on three players, Pitts, Chase and Sewell. Pitts is the priority, with the other two as fall back options.

Detroit at #7 and Carolina at #8 will both be fielding calls about their picks with at least one QB still on the board. Either could move down if the price is right. If Carolina stays put, I could see them taking Slater or one of the Alabama WRs at that spot.

Denver is certainly in the mix when it comes to QBs, but I think they’d prefer not to pay a premium and hope one falls to them at #9. They could also be in play for Teddy Bridgewater or Gardner Minshew if they strike out on first round QBs.

I’m locked on Dallas taking Surtain if he’s on the board at #10.

The Giants could go in several directions depending on how the board goes. They’re in play for Slater, Parsons or an Edge rusher at #11 as well as WR.

Eagles fans want a WR at #12, but I don’t think they’ll burn a first round pick on a WR in back to back drafts. CB is the right move, but Edge or OT is another possibility.

Vera-Tucker is a perfect fit for Minnesota at #14, I’d be more confident in that pick if Mike Zimmer wasn’t so defense oriented, and the Vikings D took a big step back last year.

New England has been super aggressive this offseason and I’d be very surprised if they stay at 15. If they don’t land a QB, one of the Alabama WRs could be their target.

I have little confidence in my picks for Arizona at #16 or Las Vegas at #17. Both teams could go in multiple directions.

Miami is a bit of a wildcard not only at #18, but for the whole draft. They have the ability to land a bunch of talent in this draft.

Washington at #19 and Chicago at #20 are in similar positions. Both could move up for a QB, both could be in the OT or WR market. Chicago could also go CB.

Indianapolis at #21 and Tennessee at #22 are probably looking at the same group of players and what they do really depends on what Chicago does and who is left on the board.

The Jets are much like the Dolphins in that they have enough picks to add some serious talent in this draft. They’re in play to take the first RB off the board at #23.

I feel Pittsburgh has to go OL at #24, but an Edge to replace Bud DuPree is a possibility.

I’m nearly as confident in Jacksonville’s pick at #25 as I am in their pick at #1. It just makes too much sense.

Cleveland at #26 and Buffalo at #30 both have pretty solid rosters that just need minor tweaks, best player available is apt for both.

Baltimore at #27 and #31 will almost surely take at least one Edge rusher, they could possibly double dip at the position.

New Orleans at #28 and Green Bay at #29 could both go WR or CB if the value is there.

Tampa Bay at #32 is certainly in best player available mode, and could very well trade out of the first round.

That’s it for now. Can’t wait for Thursday!

This will be my final Chicago Bears focused mock draft of 2021. I considered several factors, and debated whether to post several different mocks with different scenarios.

Like any mock draft, a Bears mock draft hinges on the QB position. I wish I knew the mind of Ryan Pace and Matt Nagy. I wish I knew exactly how much leeway the Bears ownership has given their football brain trust in what could be their final draft together.

Will the Bears go all in on a move up in the first round to acquire a possible franchise QB? Will they bide their time and make a less significant, albeit still a major investment on the fourth or fifth QB off the board? Will they wait and take a chance on a day two QB?

I don’t honestly have the answer to any of those questions. All I can offer is what I hope they will do. I’ll add a couple caveats before presenting my final Bears mock draft.

First, everything depends on what San Francisco does with the #3 pick. If the 49ers do what many insiders believe they will and take Alabama QB Mac Jones at that spot, I think it would be in the Bears interest to be on the phone with the Atlanta Falcons about the number four pick.

The cost to move from #20 to #4 will be steep. You can bank on it costing both 2022 & 2023’s first round picks, and probably additional picks. SF paid that to Miami to move from 12 to 3, Atlanta will expect a similar haul. To complicate matters, and raise the price, Chicago will not be alone in this pursuit. Denver, New England and Washington could all be in the market and all have earlier picks than Chicago, if any are willing to add that third first rounder, Chicago will be forced to up the ante.

Is the price worth it? Maybe only for one guy. In my opinion, Justin Fields is the number 2 QB in this class, no disrespect to Zach Wilson. I’d be willing to sacrifice our first round picks until 2024 to get him. I would rather not lose our second and third rounders this year, but any other additional picks I’d consider. I think Fields is the Deshaun Watson of this class, he has the proven track record but for some reason is not given to respect I feel he deserves.

If the Niners pass on Fields at #3, Chicago should do everything in their power to move up to grab him.

If, on the other hand, San Francisco selects Fields or Chicago is outbid for the #4 pick, there is still a scenario where I’d be okay with the Bears trading up for a QB.

That scenario would involve Trey Lance falling out of the top ten. This could happen if SF takes Jones and Denver trades up to #4 for Fields. Cincinnati & Miami at 5 & 6 aren’t taking QBs, and likely aren’t trading out of those spots. Detroit at 7 and Carolina at 8 may take Lance if he’s there, but I’m doubtful. Detroit has Jared Goff and a dozen holes. They would be better served filling those needs than taking a QB this year. As for Carolina, they made the move for Sam Darnold and they have other needs as well. I see them going in a different direction.

Atlanta at 9 (after trading with Denver) is intriguing. I still think their biggest needs are on the defensive side of the ball, and that Matt Ryan has some good football left in him. They could look to trade down again or take the top defensive player in the draft. For the sake of speculation, we’ll assume they do the latter.

We’re now to number 10. Dallas has signaled a willingness to trade down, and I think it’s more likely if Atlanta poaches Alabama CB Patrick Surtain II, who I believe the Cowboys have their sights set on. The Giants at #11 and Philly at 12 could also be willing trade partners. The key would be getting ahead of New England.

A move like this would still cost us next year’s first rounder, but probably not much more. If we can land Lance with a pick swap and 2022’s first, I’m all in.

I would not support a trade up for Mac Jones nor would I likely take him if he’s available at #20 for our pick. I’ve never been on board the Jones train, and I don’t see much difference between him and the next tier of QBs. Personally, I’d prefer to pass on Jones in the first and focus on OT or CB, I’d look to day two of the draft to find a QB to groom behind Andy Dalton.

And now, my final Chicago Bears seven round mock draft:

ROUND ONE, Pick #20- Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State: None of the trade up scenarios I mentioned came to pass, and I had some trade down offers but none that blew me away. I’ve zeroed in on Jenkins for awhile now, and would dearly love to add him to our offensive line.

He may strictly be a right tackle, but that is our biggest need on the line and he would solidify that spot for years to come. He plays with a mean streak our line has lacked since Kyle Long’s departure. I couldn’t be happier with this pick.

ROUND TWO, Pick #64- Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue: Chicago has the 52nd pick currently, but I wasn’t enamored with anyone on the board and was open to trading back. It actually took a couple moves to end up at #64, but along the way I added a third rounder (#92) and fifth rounder (#176) this year, plus Kansas City’s 2022 fourth round pick. In addition to the 52nd pick, I sacrificed pick #204 and next year’s fifth rounder.

The big key for me was adding that extra third round pick, I was thinking it might come in handy in my pursuit of a QB.

After finally landing at #64, I found Rondale Moore just sitting there. I’ll be frank, I was targeting a CB in round two, but Moore is too enticing to pass up. A slot receiver with home run potential. The Tyreek Hill that Matt Nagy has been missing.

ROUND THREE, Pick #83- Kellen Mond, QB, Texas A&M: I’ve had my eye on Mond for awhile. Of the second tier of QBs, I feel Mond has the most upside. He’s got a strong arm and good athleticism. He’s been seasoned against the best competition in college football in the powerful SEC and has never looked outmatched. If we’re not getting a first round QB, Kellen Mond should be our next target.

ROUND FOUR, Pick #115- Ambry Thomas, CB, Michigan: As it turned out, I didn’t need that extra third rounder to land my QB, so I moved down from #92 to #115. I was able to add a seventh round pick this year (#238) and Denver’s 2022 fourth rounder. I sacrificed next year’s seventh round pick as part of this move.

I wanted to address CB earlier, but the board didn’t work that way. Thomas is a pretty solid day three selection though. Had he not opted out of the 2021 season due to COVID concerns, he could have easily found himself going in the first 2 rounds. The lack of recent game tape slides him down the board, and Ryan Pace could have himself another day three gem.

ROUND FIVE, Pick #164- Michael Menet, C, Penn State: Sam Mustipher did a great job for us down the stretch in 2020, and he deserves the chance to lock down the starting gig, but it would be smart to bring in some competition. At the least, it could save us from moving Cody Whitehair or James Daniels to center because of injury. Both have been much better as guards. Menet possesses starting upside.

ROUND FIVE, Pick #176- Zech McPhearson, CB, Texas Tech: The Bears parted ways with both Kyle Fuller and Buster Skrine this offseason. They signed Desmond Trufant to man the outside, but he’s merely a place holder. Thomas could eventually take that spot. Slot corner is a different story. Our current options in the slot are underwhelming, to say the least. McPhearson is strictly a slot corner, with some impressive traits. Worth using the extra fifth we picked up from TB earlier.

ROUND SIX, Pick #208- Frank Darby, WR, Arizona State: We picked up a dynamic slot receiver earlier, so our starting receiver corps is set. This pick is about depth and a contingency should we not lock up Allen Robinson long term. Darby has the upside to eventually move into a starting role on the outside.

In all honesty, after selecting Moore in the second round, it was my plan to find an X receiver later, I had my eye on Illinois WR Josh Imatorbhebhe, but he was selected before I got the chance. Darby offers enough potential to be a fine consolation prize.

ROUND SIX, Pick #221- Patrick Johnson, EDGE, Tulane: I wanted to come out of this draft with another Edge rushing prospect, if for no other reason than to add depth. I’ve looked closely at later round edge prospects and Johnson has stood out to me, mainly but not limited to the fact that he’s a true 3-4 outside linebacker. We won’t have to try to force a square peg into a round hole. He’ll offer value as a designated pass rusher early on and could eventually become an every down player.

ROUND SIX, Pick #228- Isaiah McDuffie, LB, Boston College: LB is probably Chicago’s area of least need. Roquan Smith and Danny Trevathan comprise one of the better inside linebacker duos in the NFL and they have decent depth. Trevathan has lost a step over the years and Smith has yet to play a full season without missing some time, however. McDuffie adds depth and can be a solid, if unspectacular, pursuit LB if needed. If nothing else, he brings special teams value.

ROUND SEVEN, Pick #238- Cary Angeline, TE, NC State: Bears don’t currently have a seventh round pick, I acquired this from Dallas earlier.

Another tight end drafted by Ryan Pace?! Yes, I’m afraid so. Matt Nagy’s offense utilizes different types of TEs, and neither Cole Kmet nor Jimmy Graham offer the blocking skills that Angeline brings. He’s also an adept short yardage pass catcher.

In summary, it’s probably not realistic to think Chicago has much chance to move up to grab Justin Fields. Trey Lance probably isn’t falling out of the top ten, and I’m not willing to pay the price to move up as far as it would take. That’s not to say Ryan Pace isn’t willing to, but I hope not.

If Jenkins had been off the board at #20, I’d have probably explored a trade down more closely. Texas OT Samuel Cosmi or Virginia Tech CB Caleb Farley would be my late first round targets.

If we don’t land a tackle in round one, I’d look for North Dakota State OT Dillon Radunz or Notre Dame OT Liam Eichenberg in round two. Florida State CB Asante Samuel Jr. is another round two target.

Depending on how the draft goes, Chicago may need to use their second rounder on QB. If we miss out on Mond, Stanford’s Davis Mills or Florida’s Kyle Trask are options, though I’d only take Trask in the third round.

I would have liked to add some defensive line depth, but the board never really worked out for that. Texas A&M IDL Bobby Brown III & BYU IDL Khyiris Tonga are later round names to watch.

I considered a second OT with a late sixth rounder or that acquired seventh round selection. Josh Ball of Marshall is a name to watch there.

In every previous Bears mock draft, I’ve had them taking a safety at some point, but that was before they re-signed Tashaun Gipson. At the right value, it could happen, but safety is one of Chicago’s lower priorities now.

I passed on some interior offensive lineman because I’d rather find one capable of playing center. I think Whitehair and Daniels are fine, capable guards, with Whitehair especially having Pro-Bowl capabilities. Other day three centers I’ve looked at include Jimmy Morrissey of Pittsburgh and Stanford’s Drew Dalman.

Running back isn’t a need, but there are some intriguing day three possibilities. If Virginia Tech RB Khalil Herbert makes it there, he would be worth a pick. Michigan RB Chris Evans and Oregon State RB Jermar Jefferson would also be fine day three picks.

Finally, I already mentioned Josh Imatorbhebhe, but there are two other day three WRs that interested me. Tamorrion Terry of Florida State & UAB’s Austin Watkins.

That’s it for the Chicago focused mock draft. Feel free to comment and give me your ideas for your own teams. I’ll put out my final first round mock before Thursday, until then… BEAR DOWN!

For my first, and only, full seven round mock draft I am not considering any trades. This would simply be too time consuming. For this reason, especially in the first round, the picks are not what I think will actually happen, just simply what would happen if those teams stayed where they are.

Also, unlike my previous mock drafts, I will not comment on every single pick, not even in the first round. I’ll only comment on what I deem to be important or noteworthy picks.

Stay tuned for my final mock draft sometime next week. For now, I present my only seven round mock draft of 2021, a true labor of love.

ROUND ONE

1. Jacksonville Jaguars- Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson

2. New York Jets- Zach Wilson, QB, BYU

3. San Francisco 49ers- Mac Jones, QB, Alabama: Jones isn’t who I would pick, but all signs point to him being the choice of the 49ers.

4. Atlanta Falcons- Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State: I fully expect Atlanta to trade down, but if they stay here it’s only because they love a QB. Lance makes more sense because he’d need a year of seasoning learning from a consummate pro like Matt Ryan.

5. Cincinnati Bengals- Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon

6. Miami Dolphins- Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

7. Detroit Lions- Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU

8. Carolina Panthers- Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern

9. Denver Broncos- Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State: Denver won’t get this lucky on draft night. If they want a QB, they’re probably going to need to move up.

10. Dallas Cowboys- Patrick Surtain II, CB, Alabama

11. New York Giants- Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State

12. Philadelphia Eagles- Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina: Been mocking WRs to Philly all year, but I’m getting the sense CB might be a higher priority.

13. Los Angeles Chargers- Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech

14. Minnesota Vikings- Alijah Vera-Tucker, IOL, USC

15. New England Patriots- Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama: The Patriots are one of the prime teams to watch for trading up for a QB, especially if SF doesn’t take Jones.

16. Arizona Cardinals- Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson

17. Las Vegas Raiders- Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame

18. Miami Dolphins- Najee Harris, RB, Alabama

19. Washington Football Team- DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama: WFT is another team to watch for trading up for a QB.

20. Chicago Bears- Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State: As a Bears fan, I have to state this would be a perfect scenario in round one.

21. Indianapolis Colts- Greg Newsome II, CB, Northwestern

22. Tennessee Titans- Jaelan Phillips, EDGE, Miami-Fl

23. New York Jets- Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia

24. Pittsburgh Steelers- Javonte Williams, RB, North Carolina

25. Jacksonville Jaguars- Trevon Moehrig, S, TCU

26. Cleveland Browns- Kwity Paye, EDGE, Michigan

27. Baltimore Ravens- Jayson Oweh, EDGE, Penn State

28. New Orleans Saints- Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech

29. Green Bay Packers- Rashod Bateman, WR, Minnesota: As a Bears fan, I have to say I hate this scenario.

30. Buffalo Bills- Eric Stokes, CB, Georgia

31. Kansas City Chiefs- Jamin Davis, LB, Kentucky

32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Christian Barmore, IDL, Alabama

ROUND TWO

33. Jaguars- Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas

34. Jets- Kadarius Toney, WR, Florida

35. Falcons- Nick Bolton, LB, Missouri

36. Dolphins- Elijah Moore, WR, Ole Miss

37. Eagles- Terrace Marshall Jr, WR, LSU: Perfect scenario for Philly, lock down corner in the first, stud WR in the second.

38. Bengals- Landon Dickerson, IOL, Alabama

39. Panthers- Baron Browning, LB, Ohio State

40. Broncos- Dillon Radunz, OT, North Dakota State

41. Lions- Levi Onwuzurike, IDL, Washington

42. Giants- Joe Tryon, EDGE, Washington

43. 49ers- Creed Humphrey, IOL, Oklahoma

44. Cowboys- Liam Eichenberg, OT, Notre Dame

45. Jaguars- Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue

46. Patriots- Kelvin Joseph, CB, Kentucky

47. Chargers- Ronnie Perkins, EDGE, Oklahoma

48. Raiders- Alex Leatherwood, OT, Alabama

49. Cardinals- Wyatt Davis, IOL, Ohio State

50. Dolphins- Gregory Rousseau, EDGE, Miami-Fl: Possible steal here. I’ve had Rousseau going in the first round in several mocks.

51. Washington- Jalen Mayfield, OT, Michigan

52. Bears- Asante Samuel Jr, CB, Florida State: Again, as a Bears fan, I couldn’t be happier with this pick.

53. Titans- Amari Rodgers, WR, Clemson

54. Colts- Daviyon Nixon, IDL, Iowa

55. Steelers- Brady Christensen, OT, BYU

56. Seattle Seahawks- Carlos Basham Jr, EDGE, Wake Forest

57. Los Angeles Rams- Zaven Collins, LB, Tulsa

58. Ravens- Joseph Ossai, EDGE, Texas: Ravens double dip at Edge, but they did lose both starting Edge rushers in free agency.

59. Browns- Aaron Robinson, CB, Central Florida

60. Saints- Dyami Brown, WR, North Carolina

61. Bills- Pat Freiermuth, TE, Penn State

62. Packers- Jabril Cox, LB, LSU

63. Chiefs- Milton Williams, IDL, Louisiana Tech

64. Buccaneers- Quinn Meinerz, IOL, Wisconsin-Whitewater

ROUND THREE

65. Jaguars- Brevin Jordan, TE, Miami-Fl

66. Jets- Elijah Molden, CB, Washington

67. Houston Texans- Tommy Togiai, IDL, Ohio State

68. Falcons- Tommy Tremble, TE, Notre Dame

69. Bengals- Nico Collins, WR, Michigan

70. Eagles- Jevon Holland, S, Oregon

71. Broncos- Pete Werner, LB, Ohio State

72. Lions- Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB, Syracuse

73. Panthers- Josh Myers, IOL, Ohio State

74. Washington- Jamar Johnson, S, Indiana

75. Cowboys- Richie Grant, S, Central Florida

76. Giants- Tyson Campbell, CB, Georgia

77. Chargers- D’Wayne Eskridge, WR, Western Michigan

78. Vikings- Janarius Robinson, EDGE, Florida State

79. Raiders- Payton Turner, EDGE, Houston

80. Raiders- Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford

81. Dolphins- Chazz Surratt, LB, North Carolina

82. Washington- Davis Mills, QB, Stanford: If WFT doesn’t trade up for a QB in the first round, Mills is a likely target. Can learn the ropes from veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick.

83. Bears- Kellen Mond, QB, Texas A&M: Bears are taking a QB in this draft, and without a fourth round pick they need to do it here to get anyone with the upside to possibly take over the starting role.

84. Eagles- Jackson Carman, OT, Clemson

85. Titans- Spencer Brown, OT, Northern Iowa

86. Jets- Michael Carter, RB, North Carolina: Potential home run pick for the new look Jets offense. Offers skills in the passing game as well as running the ball.

87. Steelers- Quincy Roche, EDGE, Miami-Fl

88. Rams- Stone Forsythe, OT, Florida

89. Browns- Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR, USC: One of my favorite non-first round WRs. Could eventually replace OBJ, if Cleveland were to part ways with the mercurial star.

90. Vikings- Hamsah Nasirildeen, S, Florida State: Another pick I hate, in my capacity as a Bears fan.

91. Browns- Trey Smith, IOL, Tennessee

92. Packers- Olaijah Griffin, CB, USC

93. Bills- Tylan Wallace, WR, Oklahoma State

94. Chiefs- Benjamin St-Juste, CB, Minnesota

95. Buccaneers- Kenneth Gainwell, RB, Memphis

*96. Patriots- Trey Sermon, RB, Ohio State

*97. Chargers- Hunter Long, TE, Boston College

*98. Saints- Marlon Tuipulotu, IDL, USC

*99. Cowboys- Jay Tufele, IDL, USC

*100. Titans- Robert Rochell, CB, Central Arkansas

*101. Lions- Cameron McGrone, LB, Michigan

*102. 49ers- Keith Taylor Jr, CB, Washington

*103. Rams- Ben Cleveland, IOL, Georgia

*104. Ravens- James Hudson, OT, Cincinnati

*105. Saints- Jordan Smith, EDGE, UAB

ROUND FOUR

106. Jaguars- Tyler Shelvin, IDL, LSU

107. Jets- Deonte Brown, IOL, Alabama

108. Falcons- Tyree Gillespie, S, Missouri

109. Texans- Victor Dimukeje, EDGE, Duke

110. Browns- Alim McNeill, IDL, NC State

111. Bengals- Hamilcar Rashed Jr, EDGE, Oregon State

112. Lions- Ar’Darius Washington, S, TCU

113. Panthers- Trill Williams, CB, Syracuse

114. Broncos- Jaylen Twyman, IDL, Pittsburgh

115. Cowboys- Cameron Sample, EDGE, Tulane

116. Giants- Aaron Banks, IOL, Notre Dame

117. 49ers- Andre Cisco, S, Syracuse

118. Chargers- Divine Deablo, S, Virginia Tech

119. Vikings- Israel Mukuamu, CB, South Carolina

120. Patriots- Kyle Trask, QB, Florida: I fully expect the Patriots to be in the mix for a first round QB, if they miss out, Trask could be their guy.

121. Raiders- Marvin Wilson, IDL, Florida State

122. Patriots- Derrick Barnes, LB, Purdue

123. Eagles- Kendrick Green, IOL, Illinois

124. Washington- Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, Oklahoma

125. Vikings- Chatarius Atwell, WR, Louisville

126. Titans- JaCoby Stevens, S, LSU

127. Colts- Dayo Odeyingbo, EDGE, Vanderbilt

128. Steelers- David Moore, IOL, Grambling

129. Seahawks- D’Ante Smith, OT, East Carolina

130. Jaguars- Patrick Jones II, EDGE, Pittsburgh

131. Ravens- Talanoa Hufanga, S, USC

132. Browns- Dylan Moses, LB, Alabama

133. Saints- Robert Hainsey, OT, Notre Dame

134. Vikings- Osa Odighizuwa, IDL, UCLA

135. Packers- Adetokunbo Ogundeji, EDGE, Notre Dame

136. Chiefs- Frank Darby, WR, Arizona State

137. Buccaneers- Daelin Hayes, EDGE, Notre Dame

*138. Cowboys- Kylin Hill, RB, Mississippi State

*139. Patriots- James Wiggins, S, Cincinnati

*140. Steelers- Shaun Wade, CB, Ohio State

*141. Rams- Tre Brown, CB, Oklahoma

*142. Packers- Walker Little, OT, Stanford: An absolute steal getting Little late in the fourth round. I hate the Packers!

*143. Vikings- Rodarius Williams, CB, Oklahoma State

*144. Chiefs- Rashad Weaver, EDGE, Pittsburgh

ROUND FIVE

145. Jaguars- Seth Williams, WR, Auburn

146. Jets- Ambry Thomas, CB, Michigan

147. Texans- Marco Wilson, CB, Florida

148. Falcons- Chauncey Golston, EDGE, Iowa

149. Bengals- Richard LeCounte III, S, Georgia

150. Eagles- Jonathon Cooper, EDGE, Ohio State

151. Panthers- Joshuah Bledsoe, S, Missouri

152. Broncos- Elerson Smith, EDGE, Northern Iowa

153. Lions- Dez Fitzpatrick, WR, Louisville

154. Jets- Kenny Yeboah, TE, Ole Miss

155. 49ers- Chuba Hubbard, RB, Oklahoma State

156. Dolphins- Caden Stearns, S, Texas

157. Vikings- Monty Rice, LB, Georgia

158. Texans- Dazz Newsome, WR, North Carolina

159. Chargers- Kary Vincent Jr, CB, LSU

160. Cardinals- Bryce Thompson, CB, Tennessee

161. Bills- Javian Hawkins, RB, Louisville

162. Raiders- Jamien Sherwood, S, Auburn

163. Washington- Charles Snowden, LB, Virginia

164. Bears- Anthony Schwartz, WR, Auburn

165. Colts- Brendan Jaimes, OT, Nebraska

166. Titans- Tedarrell Slaton, IDL, Florida

167. Raiders- Marlon Williams, WR, Central Florida

168. Vikings- Shaka Toney, EDGE, Penn State: I keep giving the Bears’ division rivals players I like.

169. Browns- Darrick Forrest, S, Cincinnati

170. Jaguars- Thomas Graham Jr, CB, Oregon

171. Ravens- Shi Smith, WR, South Carolina

172. 49ers- Josh Imatorbhebhe, WR, Illinois

173. Packers- Khyiris Tonga, IDL, BYU

174. Bills- Patrick Johnson, EDGE, Tulane

175. Chiefs- Trey Hill, IOL, Georgia

176. Buccaneers- Shakur Brown, CB, Michigan State

*177. Patriots- Wyatt Hubert, EDGE, Kansas State

*178. Packers- Sadarius Hutcherson, IOL, South Carolina: Another player I like to a team I hate. Ugh.

*179. Cowboys- Kylen Granson, TE, SMU

*180. 49ers- Malcolm Koonce, EDGE, Buffalo

*181. Chiefs- John Bates, TE, Boise State

*182. Falcons- Deommodore Lenoir, CB, Oregon

*183. Falcons- Pooka Williams, RB, Kansas

*184. Ravens- Bobby Brown III, IDL, Texas A&M

ROUND SIX

185. Chargers- Khalil Herbert, RB, Virginia Tech: Absolute home run. Will give LA a great one-two punch in the backfield.

186. Jets- Simi Fehoko, WR, Stanford

187. Falcons- Tony Fields II, LB, West Virginia

188. Patriots- Drew Dalman, IOL, Stanford

189. Eagles- Tommy Kraemer, IOL, Notre Dame

190. Bengals- Rachad Wildgoose Jr, CB, Wisconsin

191. Broncos- Cornell Powell, WR, Clemson

192. Cowboys- Jack Anderson, IOL, Texas Tech

193. Panthers- Tre’ McKitty, TE, Georgia

194. 49ers- Adrian Ealy, OT, Oklahoma

195. Texans- Brady Breeze, S, Oregon

196. Giants- Demetric Felton, WR, UCLA

197. Patriots- Joshua Kaindoh, EDGE, Florida State

198. Chargers- Drake Jackson, IOL, Kentucky

199. Vikings- Jamie Newman, QB, Georgia: Newman has the physical tools to develop into a starter, but may end up a career back up.

200. Raiders- Jermar Jefferson, RB, Oregon State

201. Giants- Tariq Thompson, S, San Diego State

202. Bengals- Chris Evans, RB, Michigan

203. Texans- Joshua Ross, LB, Michigan

204. Bears- Damar Hamlin, S, Pittsburgh

205. Titans- Quintin Morris, TE, Bowling Green

206. Colts- Ihmir Smith-Marsette, WR, Iowa

207. Chiefs- Dan Moore, OT, Texas A&M

208. Bears- Austin Watkins, WR, UAB

209. Rams- Jaelon Darden, WR, North Texas

210. Ravens- Tay Gowan, CB, Central Florida

211. Browns- Avery Williams, CB, Boise State

212. Texans- Jaylon Moore, OT, Western Michigan

213. Bills- Christian Uphoff, S, Illinois State

214. Packers- Manny Rugamba, CB, Miami-OH

215. Titans- Sage Surratt, WR, Wake Forest

216. Steelers- Cade Johnson, WR, South Dakota State

*217. Buccaneers- Michael Strachan-Charleston, WR, West Virginia

*218. Saints- Justin Hilliard, LB, Ohio State

*219. Falcons- Brandon Smith, WR, Iowa

*220. Packers- Paris Ford, S, Pittsburgh

*221. Bears- Tristen Hoge, IOL, BYU

*222. Panthers- Josh Palmer, WR, Tennessee

*223. Cardinals- Garret Wallow, LB, TCU

*224. Eagles- Naquan Jones, IDL, Michigan State

*225. Eagles- Pro Wells, TE, TCU

*226. Jets- Drew Himmelman, OT, Illinois State

*227. Cowboys- Camryn Bynum, CB, California

*228. Bears- Chris Rumph II, EDGE, Duke

ROUND SEVEN

229. Saints- Miller Forristall, TE, Alabama

230. 49ers- Alaric Jackson, OT, Iowa

231. Dolphins- Tarron Jackson, EDGE, Coastal Carolina

232. Titans- Brady White, QB, Memphis

233. Texans- Brady Davis, QB, Illinois State

234. Eagles- Ernest Jones, LB, South Carolina

235. Bengals- Tre Norwood, CB, Oklahoma

236. Bills- Josh Ball, OT, Marshall: Huge player with high upside. Could be a steal.

237. Broncos- DJ Daniel, CB, Georgia

238. Cowboys- Sam Ehlinger, QB, Texas: Cowboys take a flyer on a home state QB.

239. Broncos- Aashari Crosswell, S, Arizona State

240. Eagles- Tim Jones, WR, Southern Mississippi

241. Chargers- Shemar Jean-Charles, CB, Appalachian State

242. Patriots- Samuel Cooper- Merrimack, IOL, Maine

243. Cardinals- Dax Milne, WR, BYU

244. Washington- Chris Wilcox, CB, BYU

245. Steelers- Rakeem Boyd, RB, Arkansas

246. Washington- Zach Davidson, TE, Central Missouri

247. Cardinals- Earnest Brown IV, EDGE, Northwestern

248. Colts- Nick Pickett, S, Oregon

249. Jaguars- Trevon Grimes, WR, Florida

250. Seahawks- Tamorrion Terry, WR, Florida State

251. Buccaneers- Kayode Awosika, OT, Buffalo

252. Rams- Jamar Watson, EDGE, Kentucky

253. Broncos- Robert Jones, IOL, Middle Tennessee

254. Steelers- Shane Buechele, QB, SMU

255. Saints- Feleipe Franks, QB, Arkansas

256. Packers- Elijah Mitchell, RB, Louisiana: Mr. Irrelevant 2021.

* denotes compensatory pick

Putting out my first April mock a little earlier than I had planned because two things have happened that have me rethinking things.

First, the New York Jets pulled the trigger and traded Sam Darnold to the Carolina Panthers. It was a forgone conclusion that the Jets were taking a QB at number 2, with or without Darnold on the roster. This trade doesn’t change that at all.

What this trade does do is possibly take the Panthers out of the QB market and certainly out of the bidding war for the number 4 pick. Sure, Carolina could still select a QB if one falls to eight, but I’m inclined to think they’re rolling with Darnold for now.

The question that lingers is what happens with Teddy Bridgewater? Where does he wind up and does it take that team out of the QB derby? It’s too early to tell, right now.

The second thing that happened that has caused me to rethink things is that Adam Schefter reported that San Francisco is locked in on Mac Jones at #3. In my opinion this is a mistake, but Kyle Shanahan did attend Jones’s pro day instead of Justin Fields’s. I trust Schefter, if he’s reporting it there has to be some validity.

So, what that means is the draft really starts with the fourth pick, currently held by the Atlanta Falcons. The phones are probably already ringing off the hook in Atlanta and they should be answering. Unless they are absolutely in love with Fields or Trey Lance, they should recoup a hefty haul of draft picks to move down.

I now present my first mock draft of April, 3 weeks until draft day.

1. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson

2. NEW YORK JETS: Zach Wilson, QB, BYU- Lock this one in now.

3. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Mac Jones, QB, Alabama- While I disagree with the pick, and the price paid to acquire him, Jones is probably the most NFL ready of the QBs. His upside is lower, but he could step in if Jimmy G goes down with injury again, and the Niners could still be a Super Bowl contender.

4. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (From Atlanta): Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State- After missing the playoffs in their first post-Brady season, New England spent big in free agency. They brought back Cam Newton, but Bill Belichick can’t feel overly comfortable that he can get back to the playoffs with him.

Lance is raw, but packs some serious upside. Fields might be the safer pick, but I think New England will trust Josh McDaniels to develop Lance.

THE TRADE: NE acquires #4 from ATL in exchange for #15 & #46 in this draft plus their 2022 first & 2023 first.

5. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon- I just feel that Cincy needs to protect Joe Burrow before giving him more weapons, besides the WR class is deep.

6. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida- Miami traded back up to sixth because there is someone they covet that won’t be there at #12. There are other solid tackles after Sewell, there’s not a lot of separation between the top three WRs, but there is only one Pitts. A WR in a TE’s body. Best TE prospect in a long time.

7. DETROIT LIONS: Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU- Lions are a sleeper to take a QB, Fields offers much more upside than Jared Goff, but Detroit has many more pressing needs. None more so than receiver, as they lost their top two WRs in free agency.

8. WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM (From Carolina): Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State- Ryan Fitzpatrick is the QB you get to groom your next franchise guy. WFT makes the move to get that guy.

THE TRADE: WFT acquires #8 from CAR in exchange for #19 & #51 in this draft plus their 2022 first.

9. DENVER BRONCOS: Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State- Denver doesn’t pay the premium to ensure they land one of the top five QBs, and they could be a potential landing spot for Bridgewater or Jimmy Garrapolo should SF move him. Alex Smith is also a possibility.

Either way, Denver pivots to defense and gets Vic Fangio a quarterback for his D.

10. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS (From Dallas): Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern- I’ve mocked Slater to the Chargers in every one of my mocks, but I think they’ll have to move up to make it happen. The Giants at #11 may be looking at him, and there are teams behind them that could leapfrog LA for him. Need to protect Justin Herbert.

THE TRADE: LAC acquires #10 from DAL in exchange for #13, #47 & #118 in this draft.

11. NEW YORK GIANTS: Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia- With Slater off the board, the Giants go Edge rusher. Ojulari offers the best combination of athleticism, potential and polish among the top players at his position.

12. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama- This could be a CB, and probably should be, but I feel like Philly has got to find a true number one receiver. Waddle isn’t as polished as his Crimson Tide teammate, DeVonta Smith, but he is bigger and more dynamic.

13. DALLAS COWBOYS (From LA CHARGERS): Patrick Surtain II, CB, Alabama- Smart play for the Cowboys, who need to address their D. Trade down 3 spots, get the top corner in the draft.

14. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Alijah Vera-Tucker, IOL, USC- Tucker excelled playing tackle at USC, but he’s better suited at guard, making him the top guard in the class and fitting Minnesota’s biggest need on offense.

15. ATLANTA FALCONS (From New England): Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina- Atlanta recouped a HAUL to move down 11 spots, then adds a potential lockdown corner to their porous defense.

16. CAROLINA PANTHERS (From Arizona): DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama: Carolina uses picks acquired from WFT to move up and grab the Heisman Trophy winner.

THE TRADE: CAR acquires #16 from ARZ in exchange for #19 & #51 in this draft.

17. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS: Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech- Jon Gruden gets a replacement for Trent Brown.

18. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Najee Harris, RB, Alabama- Nothing helps a young QB more than a solid running game. Harris reunites with college teammate Tua Tagovailoa.

19. ARIZONA CARDINALS (From Washington through Carolina): Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame- Arizona adds an extra second rounder to move back three spots. Cardinals feel like a perfect landing spot for this hybrid LB/S.

20. CHICAGO BEARS: Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State- Bears just don’t have the firepower to move up for a QB. WR & CB are possibilities but Chicago can’t pass up Jenkins. He’ll bring a mean streak to the OL that’s been missing since Kyle Long retired (since returned to KC).

21. PITTSBURGH STEELERS (From Indianapolis): Kwity Paye, EDGE, Michigan- Pittsburgh jumps a couple teams in the Edge rusher market to land the raw, but physically gifted Paye to replace Bud DuPree.

THE TRADE- PIT acquires #21 from IND in exchange for #24 & #87 in this draft.

22. TENNESSEE TITANS: Greg Newsome II, CB, Northwestern- The Titans add a rising CB prospect to their shakiest unit.

23. NEW YORK JETS: Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson- Etienne can be for the Jets and Zach Wilson what Le’Veon Bell was supposed to be for Sam Darnold. A complete, three down back.

24. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (From Pittsburgh): Rashod Bateman, WR, Minnesota- Colts add a third rounder to move down three spots and grab the top WR on the board.

25. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: Trevon Moehrig, S, TCU- Been mocking Moehrig to Jacksonville almost as long as Lawrence. Like the fit and value for the top safety in the class.

26. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Jaelan Phillips, EDGE, Miami-Fl- Injury history prevents Phillips from being the top Edge rusher in the class. If healthy, he’ll make a scary combo with Myles Garrett.

27. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Jayson Oweh, EDGE, Penn State: Baltimore might look at OT or WR here, but they lost both starting Edge rushers to free agency and Oweh is an athletic freak , if raw.

28. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech- Farley falls down the board because of injury concerns, New Orleans happily scoops him up.

29. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas- I go back and forth with the Packers’ pick. Protect Rodgers or give him another weapon. I’m leaning OT right now because the receiver class is deep.

30. BUFFALO BILLS: Eric Stokes, CB, Georgia- Buffalo addresses their biggest area of concern.

31. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Jamin Davis, LB, Kentucky- I’ve had KC going offensive line in every mock up until now. The OL value just isn’t there and KC could use an explosive run stuffing linebacker on their defense.

32. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Christian Barmore, IDL, Alabama- This is a case of best player available actually filling a ‘need’, not that the defending champs need much.