2020 B.E.S.T. NFL MOCK DRAFT

By NickGuarisco on March 4, 2020

Welcome to the 2020 edition of the annual B.E.S.T. NFL Mock Draft!

Last April, I hit on 11 picks, correctly mocking 11 players to the teams that drafted them. I also had 2 additional picks that were slotted correctly (right pick number but wrong team). Among my misses, I correctly listed the right player on that team’s “Short List” for 10 teams. That means 23/32 picks of my 2019 B.E.S.T. NFL Mock Draft were either mocked to the correct team, slotted in the correct spot, or were listed as an alternative target for the correct team. Finally, only 5 picks that I mocked in the first round were not selected in Round 1.

Overall, last year’s B.E.S.T. NFL Mock Draft graded as one of the most accurate mock drafts in the nation, finishing T-3rd among 138 NFL Draft Experts in FantasyPros.com’s Accuracy Rankings with 166 points in its new scoring format. In addition, my 13 correct picks (team match + pick match) was tied for the most recorded in 2019! In short, last year’s draft was a dream come true for me (yes, I realize I’m a huge nerd about this stuff)!

You can check out my MOCK DRAFT HISTORY AND EXPERT ACCURACY to see how I’ve done over the years, and you can compare the results with the experts in the industry.

It’s certainly nice to hit on picks, but as always, my MAIN GOAL for this exercise is to MINIMIZE THE SURPRISES on draft night for the readers. In other words, the fewer times you say “wow I did not see that coming!” after reading this mock, the better I feel I did my job. After all, the NFL Draft is largely variable (though it’s not as impossibly unpredictable as many think).

I must caveat all of that by warning readers that COVID-19’s disruption of the usual draft process will make this year’s NFL Draft one of the most unpredictable drafts ever. At this year’s NFL Scouting Combine, when rumors and leaks begin to spread, linking teams to certain prospects, the focus of the league was on the NFL CBA. In fact, most scouts weren’t able to attend the Combine. Teams also don’t have full medical evaluations on many of these players because teams cannot visit with the players at their facilities, and the media are not able to gather as much intel due to the lack of Pro Days at each school. Furthermore, the Top-10, which is supposed to be the most “predictable” portion of the standard draft, appears to be more chaotic than usual this year. The Lions (pick 3) and Giants (pick 4) have publicly stated they are trying to trade out of those picks, which could ruin a lot of mocks right off the bat. Moreover, after Joe Burrow presumably at #1, the two teams picking in the top-8 that need a quarterback (Chargers and Dolphins at picks 5-6) cannot bring in any QB to their building to meet in person, work out, get a full medical evaluation, etc. Imagine choosing the QB to lead your franchise for the next 5-10 years based on a virtual, SKYPE interview! The fact that the interests of the QB-needy teams at the top are unclear makes this exercise even more challenging. All of this is to say: collectively, we could see some of the lowest mock draft scores ever this year.

Nevertheless, as usual I’ll spend countless hours studying this year’s draft class, analyzing team needs, and researching all kinds of draft-related rumors in order to determine possible first round fits. Accordingly, this Mock Draft will be updated and modified almost daily up until the draft. Round 1 of the NFL Draft (a.k.a. my Christmas) kicks off on Thursday, April 23rd.

(Last Updated: 4/19/2020)

ROUND 1

1. CINCINNATI BENGALS – Joe Burrow (QB – LSU) – Burrow hasn’t exactly given a ringing endorsement to Cincinnati drafting him, but the Bengals have spent a lot of time with him (virtually), and as long as there is no Eli Manning funny business, he should be the pick. Burrow’s magical 2019 season was the greatest in college football history.
Short List: Joe Burrow

2. WASHINGTON REDSKINS – Chase Young (ED – OSU) – They’ll get calls to trade down with teams that want Tua, and maybe the new regime will consider taking Tua themselves, but ultimately I believe they’ll settle with the OSU pass rusher with the 2nd pick just like the 49ers did with Nick Bosa last year. New head coach Ron Rivera has prioritized his front-seven both in Carolina and in Chicago. The addition of Young gives Washington one of the best front-sevens in the NFL. Edge rusher Ryan Kerrigan is also entering the final year of his contract.
Short List: Chase Young

3. DETROIT LIONS – ** TRADE DOWN TO PICK #5** Jeffery Okudah (CB – OSU) – The Lions are prime candidates to move back with a QB-needy team like the Dolphins or Chargers. They will try to sell this pick in order to recoup a 3rd round pick, or more. If no one bites, you have to think Matt Patricia would love to insert do-it-all LB/S Isaiah Simmons into his hybrid defense. Cornerback Jeff Okudah is a very clean prospect who would fill a huge hole after the departure of semi-shutdown cornerback Darius Slay. I think Detroit is considering DT Derrick Brown here too, and based on the trade requests, the Lions likely have all three players graded very similarly. Honestly, any of the top four defenders in this class make sense for Detroit, and apart from Chase Young, the Lions’ targets could well be available at pick 5 or 6… It’s worth noting that at the 2018 NFL Combine, Matt Patricia said he likes to build his defense from the ball, out. The Lions were 28th in run defense per Football Outsiders DVOA, and they finished 29th in sacks. This leads me to believe that it’s closer to a 50/50 call on Jeff Okudah / Derrick Brown than mockers (who have Okudah 90% of the time)… If the Lions are able to trade down, CB C.J. Henderson could be the target… If the Lions take Derrick Brown in Round 1, I’d expect them to take a cornerback like Trevon Diggs or Kristian Fulton early in Round 2.
Short List: Chase Young, TRADE DOWN… Jeff Okudah, Derrick Brown, Isaiah Simmons… C.J. Henderson

4. NEW YORK GIANTS – Tristan Wirfs (OT – Iowa) – Isaiah Simmons fits their defense (and any defense) so well and will be popularly mocked here, but GM Dave Gettleman may elect to protect his two biggest investments, QB Daniel Jones and RB Saquon Barkley, by taking his favorite “hog molly” (as he eloquently puts it). If I had to guess on which OT, the Giants would take, I’d say either Tristan Wirfs, because he’s the only one of the “big four” offensive tackles that the Giants have NOT visited with, which I find a little suspicious, or Jedrick Wills, because head coach Joe Judge has connections with Wills’ college coach, Nick Saban. Connections like these will be vital for teams because they can’t get as much information on prospects as they prefer during the COVID-19-impaired draft process. It’s worth not that reliable beat writer Jordan Ranaan has reported that the Giants have loved Tristan Wirfs throughout the draft process and has not wavered despite recent buzz from plugged-in NFL Network guys like Peter Schrager and Daniel Jeremiah that the Giants may be leaning toward Wills now… OT Andrew Thomas could be also be a target if the Giants are able to move down. Mekhi Becton would be my fourth and final guess for the Giants… I’m assuming the Giants are hoping that interior O-Lineman Cesar Ruiz or Boise St. pass rusher Curtis Weaver makes it to them in Round 2.
Short List: Jedrick Wills, Tristan Wirfs… TRADE DOWN: Andrew Thomas, Mekhi Becton.

5. MIAMI DOLPHINS – ** TRADE UP TO PICK 3 ** Tua Tagovailoa (QB – ‘Bama) – There are several conflicting reports on which franchise quarterback the Dolphins favor. Whether Miami prefers Tua Tagovailoa or Justin Hebert, they may have to trade up to pick #3 to ensure the Chargers don’t leap frog them. Typically, teams don’t like trading up for and spending assets on players who carry significant injury risks. Tua is one of the riskiest picks in recent years because of the lack of clear medical information teams have thanks to COVID-19. Miami’s recent rumored interest in Herbert could be legitimate leaks in the building, or it could be a smokescreen to hide their infatuation with Tua, which, if believed, would prevent other teams from feeling to need to move in front of Miami, allowing them to stay put at pick #5. There’s definitely some gamesmanship going on between the Dolphins and Chargers. I’m tossing and turning choosing between Tua and Herbert, but for now I’m going with my gut… IF the Dolphins feel Tua is too risky from a medical standpoint and they don’t LOVE Herbert enough to take him at 5 (they have picks 18 and 26 in Round 1 as well), then my dark horse for this pick is UGA LT Andrew Thomas. The ‘Fins O-Line is an abject disaster – the worst in the NFL.
Short List: Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert… Andrew Thomas, Jedrick Wills, Tristian Wirfs

6. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS – Justin Herbert (QB – Oregon) – Trading Russell Okung creates a vacancy at left tackle, and the team has met virtually with tackles Andrew Thomas, Mekhi Becton, and Josh Jones, but QB has to be a strong consideration here. This is a team that 1) just lost its long-time cornerstone, Philip Rivers; 2) is moving to a new stadium in Los Angeles next season; and 3) is desperate for establishing some resemblance of a fan base. A new face of the franchise is necessary. I WANT to mock QB here because QB makes the most sense. However, many insiders believe the Chargers aren’t sold on Justin Herbert or Jordan Love. Could they secretly covet Jalen Hurts later on? I could see that. Could they make a play for Tua? I can easily see that, too. In my experience of mocking the draft, the Chargers are one of the teams that keep their cards close to their vest, making them more unpredictable (except when they took Melvin Gordon a few years ago). It’s difficult to narrow down the short list as a result; LAC could realistically take any one of the top 4 OTs (though I reckon Tristan Wirfs and Andrew Thomas are their favorites), 2 QBs, or the best available defensive player. If there is any pattern in GM Tom Telesco’s drafting in Round 1, it’s that he typically selects players from big football programs. His first round picks’ schools since 2013: Alabama, Wisconsin, Ohio St., Clemson, FSU, TCU, and Notre Dame.
Short List: Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert… Andrew Thomas, Tristan Wirfs… Isaiah Simmons, Jeff Okudah, Derrick Brown… Mekhi Becton

7. CAROLINA PANTHERS – Derrick Brown (DT – Auburn) – A new coaching regime makes Carolina a wildcard. I’m of the opinion they are rebuilding, but I don’t think they would admit it. Either way, this puts them in a position to go BPA (best player available, regardless of position) or probably preferably, trade down and acquire additional draft capital. The emphasis this offseason under Matt Rhule has been to acquire speed, but he also said he wants toughness, so take that for what it’s worth… I’m betting the Panthers wait to see if a premier defensive talent (Okudah, Simmons or Brown) falls to them, and if not, they’ll try to move this pick. Assuming Okudah is not there, the tea leaves suggest that Carolina would select Derrick Brown. Carolina allowed 5.2 YPC and a whopping 31 TDs on the ground last season, and they lost several DTs in free agency.
Short List: Jeff Okudah, Isaiah Simmons, Derrick Brown… TRADE DOWN: C.J. Henderson

8. ARIZONA CARDINALS – Isaiah Simmons (LB – Clemson) – The Cardinals made a big splash to steal DeAndre Hopkins from the Texans. In theory, this will allow them to bypass a WR1 like CeeDee Lamb or Jerry Jeudy here. Conventional wisdom says Arizona will lock on to a plug-and-play right tackle like Jedrick Wills, Tristan Wirfs, or Andrew Thomas. However, the connections with WR CeeDee Lamb are tough to ignore. Lamb played with QB Kyler Murray at Oklahoma. His best attributes include his ability to get open on short-area routes and doing damage after the catch; he’s a perfect fit for Kliff Kingsbury, who is not shy about 4-WR sets in his spread offense. Hopkins, Lamb, and Christian Kirk could be a lethal trio for years to come. I’ve also heard Kirk may be on the trade block, which would give more credence to this theory… For this pick, it appears like I’ll be deciding (and wavering) between 5 specific players: OTs Tristan Wirfs and Andrew Thomas, WR CeeDee Lamb, LB Isaiah Simmons, and DT Derrick Brown. If I had to guess, coach Kliff Kingsbury is banging the table for Lamb, and GM Steve Keim wants to take a tackle or bring aide to a horrible defense in LB/S Isaiah Simmons or DT Derrick Brown. The Cardinals were by far the worst team in the NFL at covering TEs last season, making Isaiah Simmons more attractive. Arizona’s pass defense was 27th per Football Outsiders DVOA metrics, and the team ranked 27th in sack rate. If I was confident Isaiah Simmons or Derrick Brown were going to be on the board for Arionza’s pick, I’d be more confident about mocking them to Arizona… Let’s say they is not, however; in that case, I could easily see Arizona taking an OT (Wirfs, Thomas) or trading out of this spot to the 11-16 range. Lamb, C.J. Henderson, K’Lavon Chaisson, Jerry Jeudy, and Kenneth Murray could be targets in that scenario.
Short List: Derrick Brown, Isaiah Simmons, Tristan Wirfs, Andrew Thomas… CeeDee Lamb, Jedrick Wills… TRADE DOWN: C.J. Henderson, K’Lavon Chaisson, Jerry Jeudy, Kenneth Murray

9. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS – C.J. Henderson (CB – Florida) – Jacksonville’s plethora of needs on a rebuilding roster makes this pick quite unpredictable for now. It doesn’t help that Jags GM Dave Caldwell is notoriously secretive. Like Carolina or Arizona, I can easily foresee the Jags seeking to trade out of this spot if Derrick Brown is not available. For example, maybe the Jets want to move up to secure an offensive tackle; or conversely, a team like Tampa Bay or Denver wants to move in front of tackle-needy teams like CLE and NYJ at picks 10-11. Perhaps the Broncos need to jump in front of the Jets, Raiders, and 49ers to grab a WR. Maybe this is the team Atlanta moves up with to take a corner… If Jacksonville stays put, DT Derrick Brown is the heavy favorite if available. DT Javon Kinlaw would be a possible back-up plan (he should be there due to medical red flags with his knee), and CB C.J. Henderson and OT Andrew Thomas wouldn’t be far behind. All three are actually in play even if the Jags stay at 9… If one of Miami or Los Angeles bypasses a QB like Tua or Herbert, the Jaguars should pounce on the opportunity… Want a surprise pick? New OC Jay Gruden has a pass-first mentality and could desire his “A.J. Green,” re: Jerry Jeudy or CeeDee Lamb.
Short List: Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert… Derrick Brown, Jeff Okudah, Isaiah Simmons… TRADE DOWN… Javon Kinlaw, C.J. Henderson, Andrew Thomas.

10. CLEVELAND BROWNS – ** TRADE DOWN TO 18 ** Ezra Cleveland (OT – Boise St.) – The Browns selecting an offensive tackle with this pick feels obvious. Luckily, this is a strong OT class; a prospect like Wills, Wirfs, Thomas, or Becton may not normally fall to pick 10. Wirfs’ mobility makes him a great fit for new HC Kevin Stefanski’s zone-blocking scheme, but the Browns will likely have to be patient and take whoever is remaining; odds are it’s Mekhi Becton or Andrew Thomas. I think Cleveland likes Thomas more. It’s worth noting that the Browns are reportedly very high on OT Ezra Cleveland, who I’m expecting to go between picks 25-45. The Browns have the 41st pick. If they decide to wait, and make a play for Cleveland, adding legitimate pass rushing threat opposite of Myles Garrett is paramount. Cleveland could also decide to trade down and take… Cleveland.
Short List: Tristan Wirfs, Andrew Thomas, Jedrick Wills, Mekhi Becton… TRADE DOWN: Ezra Cleveland

11. NEW YORK JETS – Mekhi Becton (OT – Louisville) – The Jets may be the only team in the NFL to have five (5!) new starters along the O-Line next season, so I expect them to hit OL heavily in free agency as well. They would love for Jedrick Wills, Andrew Thomas, or Tristan Wirfs to last until pick 11. Mekhi Becton is a sweet consolation prize… If they miss out on the OT run, expect Gang Green to grab an alpha receiver for Sam Darnold. I’d rank them as Jerry Jeudy > CeeDee Lamb > Henry Ruggs for the Jets… I would not be the least bit surprised if the Jets trade down with a team like the Philadelphia Eagles, who would be looking to move up for an elite WR. In that case, the Jets could target K’Lavon Chaisson, Kenneth Murray, or Cesar Ruiz.
Short List: Jedrick Wills, Tristan Wirfs, Andrew Thomas, Mekhi Becton… Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb, Henry Ruggs… TRADE DOWN: K’Lavon Chaisson, Kenneth Murray, Cesar Ruiz

12. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS – CeeDee Lamb (WR – Oklahoma) – I’m not – and never have been – sold that the Raiders view Derek Carr as their quarterback of the future. The Raiders brought in Marcus Mariota, but I don’t think that bars them from selecting a QB if one falls; they can always trade Carr. Is Mariota a smokescreen or a stopgap starter slash mentor? While Jordan Love may be considered a reach here (they can always take him at 19), I do think the Raiders would pounce on Justin Herbert or Tua Tagovailoa if either slid. Keep an eye on Tua if Miami passes on him… CB C.J. Henderson and Javon Kinlaw are defensive options for any team picking between 9-17. The Raiders don’t have a 2nd round pick, so this is another team that could want to move down… WRs Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb, and Henry Ruggs also stand out here. I’ve heard Mike Mayock likes CeeDee Lamb the most, but I could see Jon Gruden drooling over their own version of Tyreek Hill (Henry Ruggs). Regardless of whether Carr is the future, this offense desperately needs a bonafide “X” receiver… Finally, sources indicate that the Raiders love LB Kenneth Murray, but I believe they can grab him with their second first round pick (#19); of course, that didn’t stop them from taking Clelin Ferrell 4th overall last year! Many believe the Raiders would take CB C.J. Henderson if available. I don’t think it’s likely he is available, so I think the better bet is Vegas going CB at 19 overall.
Short List: Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert… CeeDee Lamb, Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs, C.J. Henderson… TRADE DOWN: Kenneth Murray, Jordan Love

13. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS – Jerry Jeudy (WR – ‘Bama) – The 49ers wouldn’t have traded one of the best defenders in the league in DeForest Buckner for this pick unless they had a game-changing plan. I believe this could be a calculated decision to land one of the “Big 3” alpha wide receiver prospects in this draft: CeeDee Lamb, Jerry Jeudy, and Henry Ruggs. Pick #13 happens to be a prime spot to do just that. Henry Ruggs stated that the teams he’s heard from most throughout the draft process have been Vegas, San Francisco, and Denver (picks 12, 13, 15, respectively). Ruggs could be a super flexed-up version Taylor Gabriel / Marquise Goodwin in Kyle Shanahan’s offense, a staple of which is having a speedy wide receiver run deep post patterns to clear out the middle of the field… It’s worth noting that the 49ers do not have a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th round pick in this draft, so they could also look to move down a few spots to acquire capital… There’s a big need at cornerback (C.J. Henderson), too, but I expect their second selection in Round 1 (pick #31) is a nice place to take a corner… DT Javon Kinlaw is popularly mocked here because he’s a logical replacement for DeForest Buckner, the player the team traded to acquire this pick… Lastly, offensive tackle makes sense if the rumors about longtime LT Joe Staley possibly retiring this offseason are true. If one of the “Big 4” OTs makes it here, San Francisco should swipe them up.
Short List: Andrew Thomas, Jedrick Wills, C.J. Henderson… Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb, Henry Ruggs… Javon Kinlaw, Mehki Becton.

14. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS – Jedrick Wills (OT – ‘Bama) – In what I believe is one of the surest bets of 2020 NFL Draft, Tampa Bay will hope and pray that one of the consensus top-four offensive tackles – Wills, Wirfs, Becton, or Thomas – will fall to this pick. I’ve mentioned a few teams that may want to trade down (DET, CAR, JAX, LVR, SF). The Bucs are a team that may want to trade UP, in order to secure a better OT. It seems like Tampa Bay is pigeon-holed into taking the best OT available, however. If they miss out on the “big 4” OTs at 14, I expect them to reach for Tier 2 OTs such as Josh Jones or Austin Jackson… If Tampa is patient and it backfires (i.e. all “Big 4” OTs are scooped up before 14), C.J. Henderson, Javon Kinlaw, and K’Lavon Chaisson are non-OL options… I expect the Bucs to draft a running back in Round 2 (think: J.K. Dobbins, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Zack Moss).
Short List: TRADE UP: Tristan Wirfs, Andrew Thomas, Jedrick Wills… Mekhi Becton… C.J. Henderson, Javon Kinlaw… Josh Jones, Austin Jackson

15. DENVER BRONCOS – Henry Ruggs, III. (WR – ‘Bama) – Early draft rumors indicated that Denver views Henry Ruggs very favorably. Ruggs complements Courtland Sutton perfectly. There are a number of receiver-needy teams that pick right before Denver (NYJ, LVR, SF) that may force them to be aggressive and move up a few spots to select one of the Alabama WRs – either Ruggs or Jerry Jeudy, who Denver is also reportedly high on… If Denver stays patient and it backfires, I expect them to reach for a WR like Justin Jefferson or Denzel Mims. If I had to rank Denver’s interest in WRs, it would be: Jeudy > Ruggs > Lamb.
Short List: Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs, CeeDee Lamb… Justin Jefferson, Denzel Mims

16. ATLANTA FALCONS – Javon Kinlaw (DT – S.C.) – Rumor mill has it that the Falcons are interested in trading up to select a cornerback – watch out for this if Jeff Okudah slips, but the more likely scenario is C.J. Henderson… Vic Beasley and Adrian Clayborn are impending free agents, leaving Takk McKinley and all-pro DT Grady Jarrett as the only building blocks on this D-Line, a unit that defensive-minded head coach Dan Quinn always prioritizes. The Falcons ranked 31st in sack rate last season… If Atlanta stays patient, I could see DT Javon Kinlaw falling to 16 due to medical concerns, and the Falcons should immediately submit their draft card (virtually)… DE K’Lavon Chaisson should be their Plan B… A.J. Epenesa fits their mentality but I think most teams view him as a Round 2 target.
Short List: C.J. Henderson, Javon Kinlaw, K’Lavon Chaisson… A.J. Epenesa

17. DALLAS COWBOYS – K’Lavon Chaisson (ED – LSU) – The Cowboys are bleeding defensively thanks to all of the key contributors who walked in free agency (DEs Robert Quinn, Kerry Hyder, and Michael Bennett; DTs Maliek Collins and Christian Covington; CB Byron Jones; and SS Jeff Heath). Complicated matters is that Cowboys seem to be transitioning to more of a 3-4 defensive front and would need players that fit that system… Dallas would likely be keen on DE K’Lavon Chaisson, DT Javon Kinlaw, or CB C.J. Henderson here. If not, maybe they trade down, or maybe they reach for their favorite corner in the next tier – there are a number of good CBs who I expect to go between picks 19-35. I’ve heard Dallas views Trevon Diggs, Kristian Fulton, and A.J. Terrell favorably… Three sleepers for this pick: Michigan interior offensive lineman Cesar Ruiz, linebacker Kenneth Murray, and pass rusher Zack Baun. Ruiz could slide into the vacancy at center created by Travis Frederick’s sudden retirement. Murray is ranked very high on the Cowboys board compared to other teams, per intel. His selection should signal health concerns from Leighton Vander Esch’s neck. Baun would be a pass rushing linebacker hybrid… Lastly, I’ve seen rumors about Dallas possibly trading back into Round 1 later on to select their top graded safety, either ‘Bama’s Xavier McKinney or LSU’s Grant Delpit, so that’s something to keep an eye on. WR Jalen Reagor has stated that the team he’s talked to most is the Dallas Cowboys, so that’s another “trade back into Round 1” possibility.
Short List: Javon Kinlaw, K’Lavon Chaisson, A.J. Terrell… Kenneth Murray, Kristian Fulton, Trevon Diggs, Cesar Ruiz, Zack Baun… Xavier McKinney, Grant Delpit, Jalen Reagor

18. MIAMI DOLPHINS – ** TRADE UP TO 10 ** Andrew Thomas (OT – UGA) – I’m inclined to believe that securing a franchise QB and upgrading the offensive line are the first two things on Miami’s checklist for this draft. The ‘Fins can’t expect one of the top-4 offensive tackles to slide, so they should either trade up into the Top-10 (which they’ve reportedly inquired about) or be doing their homework on guys like Cesar Ruiz, Josh Jones, Austin Jackson, and Ezra Cleveland. The is Miami’s favorite of the bunch in my estimation… If one of the elite WR prospects are loitering, however, I believe Miami would wait until their next pick (#26) to address OL… Miami has visited with QB Jordan Love twice, probably as a fallback plan in case something unexpected or unfavorable happens with Tua or Herbert. That’s what they’ll likely do if they pass on those QBs at 5… A.J. Epenesa has been linked to three teams with Patriots-like backgrounds and defensive schemes: Brian Flores’s Dolphins, Mike Vrabel’s Titans, and Belichick’s Patriots.
Short List: TRADE UP: Jedrick Wills, Andrew Thomas… Cesar Ruiz, Ezra Cleveland, Josh Jones, Austin Jackson… A.J. Epenesa, Jordan Love

19. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS – A.J. Terrell (CB – Clemson) – Everything stated about Derek Carr and Jordan Love at pick 12 above still stands here… The need for a linebacker slash defensive captain was clear before the Raiders signed Cory Littleton and Nick Kwiatowski. The Raiders under GM Mike Mayock prioritize character highly, and I still think Kenneth Murray is high on their board. No one would argue with a CB or WR either… C.J. Henderson may be tempting at pick 12, but CBs who fit Mike Mayock’s mold include A.J. Terrell and Jaylon Johnson.
Short List: C.J. Henderson, Kenneth Murray, A.J. Terrell, Jaylon Johnson… Jalen Reagor… Ezra Cleveland… Jordan Love

20. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS – Kristan Fulton (CB – LSU) – This is CB C.J. Henderson’s floor… Last year’s sixth round pick, Gardner Minshew, proved he has a place in the league, but why should we be convinced the Jaguars are perfectly content on building around him? If Jacksonville has the opportunity to take a QB like Justin Herbert at pick #9 or Jordan Love at 20, they should not hesitate. Worst case: Minshew and Love compete for the starting job, and if Love is too raw right now, Minshew has proven he can at least hold down the fort temporarily… There are a number of Tier 2 CBs that Jacksonville good invest in here: Kristian Fulton, Jaylon Johnson, Jeff Gladney, and A.J. Terrell, to name a few… A wide receiver like Denzel Mims or Justin Jefferson would also make sense here too. This is one of the tougher picks to predict.
Short List: C.J. Henderson, Jordan Love… A.J. Terrell, Justin Jefferson, Jaylon Johnson, Kristian Fulton, Denzel Mims

21. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES – Justin Jefferson (WR – LSU) – Watching “All or Nothing” with the Philadelphia Eagles makes it clear the Eagles plan to address WR and CB this offseason. After trading for Darius Slay and signing NCB Nickell Robey-Coleman, Philly seems poised to go wide out in Round 1. Don’t be shocked if GM Howie Roseman makes a splash to move up to get Henry Ruggs, Jerry Jeudy or CeeDee Lamb if they last until the mid-to-late teens. One possible trade partner I’ve heard: the New York Jets at 11… There are plenty of options after the top three: Jalen Reagor, Denzel Mims, Justin Jefferson, and Brandon Aiyuk. I’ve heard the Eagles like Mims and Jefferson most of that bunch. Mims stated on an interview that the team that’s shown him the most interest is the Eagles. Brandon Aiyuk had his core muscle surgery in Philadelphia… If the Eagles bypass WR, a few other names I’ve seen linked to iOL Cesar Ruiz, a New Jersey native whom the Eagles have spoken with several times. The Eagles have not historically prioritized the linebacker position in Round 1 (that’s an understatement to be honest), but the cupboard is barren at LB, so I can’t help but include Murray and Queen from a team-need perspective.
Short List: TRADE UP: Henry Ruggs… Justin Jefferson, Denzel Mims, Jalen Reagor, Brandon Aiyuk… Kenneth Murray, Patrick Queen, Cesar Ruiz

22. MINNESOTA VIKINGS – Jaylon Johnson (CB – Utah) – The Vikings were extremely thin at cornerback due to injuries to close out 2019, and the release of Xavier Rhodes, as well as the fact that Trae Waynes and Mackensie Alexander hit free agency – only emphasizes this priority. Minnesota has met with C.J. Henderson twice, Jeff Gladney virtually, and they interviewed Trevon Diggs (brother of Stefon Diggs) and Kristian Fulton at the NFL Combine… Wide receiver is obviously in play now after trading Stefon Diggs. Denzel Mims and Jalen Reagor (more likely Mims) fit the bill… The Vikings’ offensive line is not a finished product. OTs Mekhi Becton, Josh Jones and Ezra Cleveland are all possibilities.
Short List: Jaylon Johnson, A.J. Terrell, Kristian Fulton… Justin Jefferson, Denzel Mims… Jalen Reagor… Josh Jones, Ezra Cleveland

23. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS – A.J. Epenesa (ED – Iowa) – While the rest of the league considers A.J. Epenesa a “tweener” and struggles to figure out where he fits, causing him to slide in the draft, the Pats may appreciate his versatility and put him in a position to feature his strengths. There are some coaching connections with Epenesa… New England has to be interested in versatile defenders Xavier McKinney and Patrick Queen, too. The Patriots have visited with OT Josh Jones multiple times. And we cannot ignore their biggest need, which is quarterback, surprisingly… There’s been some talk about the Patriots reaching for Notre Dame’s TE Cole Kmet. I don’t see it, but the Pats are desperate at that position, so I’ll include him.
Short List: Josh Jones, A.J. Epenesa, Patrick Queen… Xavier McKinney, Jordan Love, Cole Kmet

24. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS – Jalen Reagor (WR – TCU) – The Saints needed an athletic WR who can create separation and take advantage of the extra defensive attention on Michael Thomas, and Emmanuel Sanders certainly fits the bill. Sanders is 33 years old, however, and the Saints may find themselves intrigued with late first round receiver options in an outstanding WR class such as Denzel Mims, Jalen Reagor, Brandon Aiyuk, and of course, Justin Jefferson. I could see Sean Payton falling in love with Aiyuk and Mims, specifically. I’m also assuming Justin Jefferson will be taken before this pick… For the last two seasons, the Saints have seen their pass rush disappear after an injury to DT Sheldon Rankins late in the year, and last season this problem was exacerbated by a late-season injury to DE Marcus Davenport. New Orleans could use one more player, preferably a rotational speed rusher (think: Bobby McCray from our Super Bowl season), who can bring the heat when called upon. Whether that’s adding a veteran like Cam Wake, or drafting one here, bolstering pass rush is always a priority. Perhaps Wisconsin’s Zack Baun or Penn State’s Yetur Gross-Matos can fill that role… With all of that said, perhaps the team’s most pressing need on paper is outside linebacker. Demario Davis is outstanding in the middle, but A.J. Klein is in Buffalo, Alex Anzalone can’t be relied upon to stay healthy, and Kiko Alonso – who showed some promise late – is recovering from a major knee surgery. In this draft, the Saints should be coveting a rangy, athletic linebacker who can cover. LSU’s Patrick Queen or Oklahoma’s Kenneth Murray would be a perfect fits in New Orleans… There will be a lot of talk about the Saints taking Drew Brees’ successor (re: Jordan Love), as there is annually, but it feels like the Saints want to go “all in” for one last season with Brees. Still, Love’s athleticism and upside could entice Payton.
Short List: Kenneth Murray, Patrick Queen… Justin Jefferson, Denzel Mims, Brandon Aiyuk… Jordan Love, Jalan Reagor… Yetur Gross-Matos, Zack Baun, Jordyn Brooks

25. MINNESOTA VIKINGS – Denzel Mims (WR – Baylor) – The Vikings were razor thin at cornerback due to injuries to close out 2019, and the release of Xavier Rhodes, as well as the fact that Trae Waynes and Mackensie Alexander are entering free agency – only emphasizes this priority. Wide receiver is obviously in play now after trading Stefon Diggs. The Vikings would love for Justin Jefferson to fall here, but they may have to settle with Denzel Mims, another WR they like… The Vikings’ offensive line is not a finished product.
Short List: Jaylon Johnson, A.J. Terrell, Jeff Gladney, Kristian Fulton… Denzel Mims, Justin Jefferson… Jalen Reagor, Josh Jones, Ezra Cleveland

26. MIAMI DOLPHINS – D’Andre Swift (RB – UGA) – The Dolphins may eye their favorite running back in this draft class here (they have done their homework on Jonathan Taylor, D’Andre Swift, and J.K. Dobbins)… However, Offensive linemen Josh Jones, Austin Jackson, Ezra Cleveland, and Cesar Ruiz are other helpful picks who would start immediately… Again, QB Jordan Love could be the failsafe plan for QB.
Short List: Josh Jones, Austin Jackson, Ezra Cleveland, Isaiah Wilson, Cesar Ruiz… D’Andre Swift, Jordan Love

27. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS – Austin Jackson (OT – USC) – Seattle will almost certainly try to trade down; in fact, I’d put odds at greater than 50/50 that they do not end up making a first round selection. In fact, the Seahawks have traded down in Round 1 in EIGHT consecutive drafts. Seattle usually falls in love with gifted athletes who are viewed by others as longterm projects. Defensive end, right tackle, and cornerback could stand to be upgraded… With the injuries to RBs Chris Carson and Rashad Penny, could the run-obsessed Seahawks take another Round 1 RB in Jonathan Taylor? I’m kidding. I think. Chris Carson is entering the final year of his contract.
Short List: Zack Baun, Yetur Gross-Matos, Trevon Diggs, Kristian Fulton, Isaiah Wilson, Ross Blacklock, Jonathan Taylor

28. BALTIMORE RAVENS – Kenneth Murray (LB – Oklahoma) – If LBs Patrick Queen or Kenneth Murray are available, I expect either to be the pick. I believe Murray is the apple of their eye, so much so that I wouldn’t be surprised to see them move up in front of the Saints at pick 24 to grab him. Fun Fact to keep in mind for Draft Day: the Baltimore Ravens have NEVER drafted a player from LSU (re: Patrick Queen)… A wide receiver like Justin Jefferson (again, LSU) would be a steal… Someone needs to fill the shoes of longtime all-pro guard, Marshal Yanda (Cesar Ruiz).
Short List: Kenneth Murray, Patrick Queen, Cesar Ruiz, Yetur Gross-Matos

29. TENNESSEE TITANS – Isaiah Wilson (OT – UGA) – Upgrading the defensive end and cornerback spots should be the two main areas of focus for Tennessee. Despite the late pick this year, I think they sit in nice spot for getting value at those two positions in this draft. CBs Jeff Gladney and Kristian Fulton have the Titans’ interest.. Offensively, giving RT Dennis Kelly some competition, or finding a longterm solution there after the departure of Jack Conklin, seems like something on Mike Vrabel’s agenda. Josh Jones, Austin Jackson, and UGA’s Isaiah Wilson are appealing picks if they make it this far… This is a make-or-break year for WR Corey Davis, and the Titans may be giving up one year early. Tennessee has conducted virtual visits with WRs Denzel Mims and Jalen Reagor… Lastly, the Titans appear to be interested in DTs Ross Blacklock and Marlon Davidson despite drafting Jeffery Simmons in Round 1 last year (they did trade Jurrell Casey this offseason).
Short List: Kristian Fulton, Jeff Gladney, Josh Jones, Austin Jackson, Isaiah Wilson, A.J. Epenesa… Ross Blacklock, Marlon Davidson… Denzel Mims, Jalen Reagor

30. GREEN BAY PACKERS – Patrick Queen (LB – LSU) – Replacing NCB Tramon Williams will not be an easy task. The Packers have to add a cornerback in this draft. Kristian Fulton, Jeff Gladney, and Jaylon Johnson are projected to land around this spot… The addition of Devin Funchess doesn’t cure their WR woes opposite of Davante Adams. Assuming Justin Jefferson is long gone, Denzel Mims and Jalen Reagor would be cool picks here. I think the Packers like Mims a lot… LSU LB Patrick Queen and OT Josh Jones have other favorites of Green Bay during the draft process… I would be surprised if the Packers went after QB Jordan Love, but the hype will exist. It seems too soon to think about the future after Aaron Rodgers, but that’s what many thought when they selected Rodgers… The Packers have valued athleticism in recent drafts, so I’ll be mocking them someone with a high SPARQ / Athletic Score.
Short List: Josh Jones, Patrick Queen, Denzel Mims… Kristian Fulton, Jaylon Johnson, Jeff Gladney, Antoine Winfield… Jalen Reagor, Tee Higgins, Brandon Aiyuk… Jordan Love… Ezra Cleveland, Ross Blacklock

31. SAN FRANCISCO 49ers – Josh Jones (OT – Houston) – It’s worth noting that the 49ers do not have a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th round pick in this draft, so they could look to move down a few spots to acquire capital… Cornerback and wide receiver, depending on what happens at pick #13, are two positions to focus on bolstering. QBs Jordan Love and Jacob Eason have the upside of someone Kyle Shanahan could want to develop, making him a dark horse for San Francisco if Love slides… If the 49ers keep this selection, WRs Denzel Mims and Jalen Reagor, as well as OTs Ezra Cleveland, Josh Jones, and Austin Jackson (LT Joe Staley may retire soon) are prospective picks. I’ll even throw guard Cesar Ruiz in the mix too because this is about the range where he should land.
Short List: Jordan Love, Denzel Mims, Jalen Reagor… Josh Jones, Ezra Cleveland, Austin Jackson, Cesar Ruiz… Ross Blacklock, Yetur Gross-Matos.

32. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS – Ross Blacklock (DT – TCU) – Running back would be fun here, particularly D’Andre Swift. However, considering starters Bashaud Breeland and Kendall Fuller have expiring contracts, addressing the secondary is a better call… There usually is a team or two that wants to trade back into Round 1 to draft a QB so they can get the 5th year option that comes with first round picks. The Chiefs would likely bite at that because they only have five picks as it stands. Similar to the Niners pick prior to this one, look for the Chiefs to try to trade out of this spot…Lastly, the Chiefs did make a play for free agent Andrus Peat, so don’t be surprised if they address the O-Line with this pick. Andy Reid has rarely shied away from considering linemen in his past… My bold prediction for this pick: LSU RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
Short List: Patrick Queen, Jaylon Johnson, Jeff Gladney, Ross Blacklock, Xavier McKinney, Antoine Winfield Jr… Cesar Ruiz, Lloyd Cushenberry, D’Andre Swift, Clyde Edwards-Helaire

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Other First Round Possibilities: