Travdogg's post FA 2 round mock draft (1 Viewer)

[travdogg]

I'm gonna operate under the assumption that Rodgers/Wilson end up in Pittsburgh/NY Giants. Not sure which will be which, but ideally Rodgers in Pittsburgh and Wilson in NY. Anyway, without further ado, here's my post FA 2 round mock, with height/weight/40 in parenthesis. Non 40 participants are listed with estimates marked with a question mark.

Round 1:

1. Tennessee=Cam Ward QB Miami (6-1 219 4.80?) the more I watch him, the more I can see the rich man's Jordan Love comps. Boom/bust, but the boom could be big. Titans haven't shown any real interest in veteran QBs, which suggests this is the plan.

2. Cleveland=Abdul Carter DE Penn State (6-3 252 4.50?) isn't quite the elite athlete Garrett is, but is a top prospect. Maybe Will Anderson level? Combining him with Garrett gives them possibly the best pass rush in the NFL.

3. NY Giants=Travis Hunter CB Colorado (6-0 188 4.35?) is a great WR prospect but has best CB in the NFL upside. Easier to play CB and have some WR snaps, than play WR and have some CB snaps. In a division with AJ, Lamb, Smith, McLaurin, and now Deebo, an elite CB holds extra value. I think he's the best player in the class.

4. New England=Will Campbell OT LSU (6-6 319 4.98) filled a lot of holes, but LT remains the biggest one, especially in regard to helping Maye develop. I think Campbell can absolutely play LT and won't need to move inside, despite shorter than ideal arms.

5. Jacksonville=Mason Graham DT Michigan (6-3 296 5.10?) Jags need a lot of help inside. Graham reminds me a bit of Byron Murphy last year, but better. Graham is a former wrestler, which I always like to see in OL/DL.

6. Las Vegas=Matthew Golden WR Texas (5-11 191 4.29) no, I'm not being possessed by the ghost of Al Davis. I think he's the best fit for the Raiders, as a deep complement to Bowers. I also think with Chip Kelly on board, Jeanty is probably a pass, as there are 2 Ohio St guy likely available in round 2, the WR equivalent is likely considered more of a dropoff.

7. NY Jets=Armand Membou OT Missouri (6-4 332 4.91) got the long-term LT last year, get the long-term RT this year. I think they will prioritize OL over WR, and I could still see them signing a vet WR.

8. Carolina=Jalon Walker DE Georgia (6-1 243 4.50?) pass rush was awful last year. Walker is a bit raw but has loads of upside and versatility. I get a bit of a rich man's Nik Bonitto vibe from him.

9. New Orleans=Jahdae Barron CB Texas (5-11 194 4.39) I think he's flying up draft boards. CB is McKinstry and that's basically it. Barron has inside/outside versatility and compares to 2024 favorite Cooper DeJean.

10. Chicago=Ashton Jeanty RB Boise State (5-8 211 4.45?)Bears have filled a lot of holes this offseason and need a gamechanger. Jeanty is a great fit here in Ben Johnson's offense. He's as can't miss as it gets at RB, and while smaller, he reminds me of Nick Chubb. Maybe not a better mix of need and fit.

11. San Francisco=Kelvin Banks OT Texas (6-5 315 5.16) can start at G and eventually replace Trent Williams. 49ers don't have a lot of needs, they just need to be healthier, so I think they can afford a pick for the future here.

12. Dallas=Tetairoa McMillan WR Arizona (6-4 219 4.50?) desperately need another WR, and this is a best-case scenario for them. I feel like the Drake London comps are accurate, but I think he has more big play ability than him.

13. Miami=Derrick Harmon DT Oregon (6-4 313 4.95) interesting prospect who used to be 360 pounds, lost weight and gained a ton of explosiveness. Now he's a big-time gap shooter. If you squint, you can see some Chris Jones.

14. Indianapolis=Tyler Warren TE Penn State (6-5 256 4.70?) Indy has needed a TE for a long time, and now they get one. The Gronk comps are VERY unrealistic, but Warren is still a great prospect, with a very high floor. TJ Hockenson is more in line with what I see.

15. Atlanta=Mykel Williams DE Georgia (6-5 260 4.65?) DE has been their biggest weakness for a while now, Williams is only 20 and is a great run stopper. George Karlaftis has been a comp I've seen, and I can get on board with that.

16. Arizona=Kenneth Grant DT Michigan (6-3 331 4.90?) a physical freak who I think Jonathan Gannon will love. Will erase run games. Very similar to Jordan Davis, who Gannon also coached.

17. Cincinnati=Nick Emmanwori S South Carolina (6-3 220 4.38) a bit of a S/LB tweener, but freakish athlete who any DC will love. Bengals have never really replaced Jessie Bates.

18. Seattle=Colston Loveland TE Michigan (6-6 248 4.7?) new OC will run more 2-TE sets, and Noah Fant is nothing special. Loveland reminds me a lot of Sam LaPorta. I think he has a higher ceiling than Warren, but maybe not as safe. Better route runner, but not as good at contested catches.

19. Tampa Bay=Jihaad Campbell LB Alabama (6-3 235 4.52) could be another Zack Baun, as he also made the DE to LB transition. Excels at blitzing and covering, which is more of what Todd Bowles asks. A year to learn alongside Lavonte David, as the torch is passed.

20. Denver=Omarion Hampton RB North Carolina (6-0 221 4.46) is a 3-down RB, who played in a very shotgun/RPO heavy offense. Better pass catcher than his numbers suggest in my opinion. He's basically the prospect Jonathan Brooks was if he never had the knee injuries.

21. Pittsburgh=Will Johnson CB Michigan (6-2 194 4.45?) I think there enough questions about his athletic traits that he drops a bit. Perfect fit for Pittsburgh though opposite Porter. CB has been a sore spot for a bit, but really fell off last year, and was probably team's biggest weakness.

22. LA Chargers=Mike Green DE Marshall (6-3 251 4.55?) Mack is old, and Bosa is gone, meaning this might be the biggest need, and Green is a solid fit. Had 17 sacks last year, and it wasn't just competition based as he tore up national champs Ohio State. Relentless motor is something Harbaugh will love.

23. Green Bay=Emeka Egbuka WR Ohio State (6-1 202 4.35?) I know they don't take WRs in round 1, but need has maybe never been this big. They arguably just have a #3 WRs, not even a #2. I think there is some prospect fatigue with Egbuka, he's been a future 1st rounder for like 3 years now. I think he's JSN, but faster, and could/should instantly be the Packers #1.

24. Minnesota=Malaki Starks S Georgia (6-1 197 4.50) a team leader since his freshman year, Starks is a good athlete with elite instincts. Personally, I think he should go ahead of Emmanwori, but unlikely given combine results. Long-term Harrison Smith replacement, who absolutely would see snaps this year.

25. Houston=Tyler Booker G Alabama (6-4 321 5.38) completely bombed combine, but tape shows dominant run blocker. New OC seems to want more of a power run, deep shot offense, well, here's your power, for the OL makeover.

26. LA Rams=Grey Zabel C North Dakota State (6-6 312 5.30?) played every spot in college, but like Graham Barton last season, I think Center is the spot. Rams brought back Coleman Shelton, but Zabel could easily make short work of him.

27. Baltimore=Walter Nolen DT Mississippi (6-4 296 4.90?) feels like a Ravens type, as a twitchy gap shooter. Very BPA pick. Ravens have few holes.

28. Detroit=Donovan Jackson G Ohio State (6-3 315 5.20?) feels like a guy Dan Campbell would love. Played T after Josh Simmons injury but is a G at heart. Versatility is a plus though. Lions have lost Jonah Jackson and Kevin Zeitler in back-to-back years, so a G addition is need.

29. Washington=James Pearce DE Tennessee (6-5 245 4.47) has the talent to go higher, but seems like a bit of a knucklehead, including forgetting his combine shirt, which is like the one thing you need to remember combine day. Sky high athlete who can get pushed around in the run game. Somewhat similar profile to Nolan Smith.

30. Buffalo=Maxwell Hairston CB Kentucky (5-11 183 4.28) surprisingly good in run support given size. Bills secondary was a strength a few years ago but is one of the NFL's worst right now. Help is desperately needed.

31. Kansas City=Shemar Stewart DE Texas A&M (6-5 267 4.59) combine was impressive in a lot of ways, though he came in WAY smaller than expected. Very little production to go with great tools. Feels like a project, and one who I don't think goes as highly as people expect. Somewhat similar prospect to Chop Robinson from last year.

32. Philadelphia=Josh Simmons OT Ohio State (6-5 317 5.15?) without the patella tear, he doesn't fall past NO. Unfortunately, he's likely a bit of a redshirt in 2025. That matters less for Philly, who can let him heal up, and be Lane Johnson's eventual replacement.

 

[travdogg]

Round 2:

33. Cleveland=Shedeur Sanders QB Colorado (6-1 212 4.70?) yes, I think the fall takes him all the way to round 2. He doesn't have good physical traits at all and honestly will probably remind a lot of the NFL of Bryce Young, even though he's taller. Smart player, who can start week 1. This is a good landing spot for him I think, as Watson's replacement, with Pickett to maybe be a bridge.

34. NY Giants=Jaxson Dart QB Mississippi (6-2 223 4.80?) a rawer Bo Nix type in my opinion. Mississippi ran a very gimmicky offense, where they were never under center. Sneaky good athlete. I think sitting as a rookie would be necessary for him.

35. Tennessee=Donovan Ezeiruaku DE Boston College (6-2 248 4.60?) undersized speed rusher, nonetheless fills a big need for the Titans. Reminds me of Will McDonald a couple years ago.

36. Jacksonville=Luther Burden WR Missouri (6-0 206 4.41) Jags need help at WR, though they are paying 23 million for scrubs like Gabe Davis and Dyami Brown. They should feel like they need a WR. Comps to Deebo Samuel are silly, Deebo is 1 of 1, but Burden is a strong YAC WR, with difference making ability. Rashee Rice springs to my mind as a comp. I think he's underrated and could be the Godwin to Brian Thomas' Evans in this offense.

37. Las Vegas=TreVeyon Henderson RB Ohio State (5-10 202 4.43) this is a guy I think is pretty overrated. I think he's a real weapon in the passing game, and can hit big plays through wide holes, but I question his ability to be more than a COP/3rd down RB. I think he'll wear down with big workloads. I do think Chip Kelly will know how to use him best though, so this is the best fit. Does fit the theme of getting more explosive on offense. More Swift than Gibbs in my opinion.

38. New England=Elic Ayomanor WR Stanford (6-2 206 4.44) great release, and sneaky big play ability for his size. Inside/outside versatility. Patriots have an opening for a #1 WR. Big time blocker, which Vrabel and co. will like.

39. Chicago=Josh Conerly OT Oregon (6-4 311 5.05) Braxton Jones is a FA next offseason and may not be in the long-term plans. Conerly is a higher upside prospect anyway. Ceiling is sky high but likely needs a year to get stronger. Was a RB in High School.

40. New Orleans=Jalen Milroe QB Alabama (6-2 217 4.50?) Derek Carr is likely year to year with NO, and I could see Kellen Moore seeing some Hurts in Milroe's game. It will obviously help NO if they can get cheap at QB anytime in the near future. Milroe is a very boom/bust prospect who absolutely would benefit from sitting for a year.

41. Chicago=Joshua Farmer DT Florida State (6-3 305 5.11) somewhat raw, he's a nice gap shooter who is inconsistent against the run. Can learn behind FA addition Grady Jarrett.

42. NY Jets=Trey Amos CB Mississippi (6-1 195 4.43) doesn't play as fast as his 40 time but is a strong blend of everything you'd want from a CB. Kind of reminds me of a lesser version of Terrion Arnold, which in theory, should appeal to Aaron Glenn. A better DJ Reed replacement than Brandon Stephens.

43. San Francisco=Azareye'h Thomas CB Florida State (6-1 197 4.50?) secondary has taken some hits and replacements are needed. Really smart player who wins more with instincts than speed.

44. Dallas=Quinshin Judkins RB Ohio State (5-11 221 4.48) 40 time came as a surprise. I was looking at Judkins as a smaller Najee Harris type up until that point. He does get caught from behind and struggle with lateral agility, but he's also a better pass catcher than assumed. I think he has 3-down ability but is likely best used like he was at Ohio State.

45. Indianapolis=Carson Schwesinger LB UCLA (6-2 242 4.65?) Colts have been missing a LB like this since Leonard fell off. Excels at coverage and tackling. Just adds energy to a defense. Kind of like Payton Wilson a year ago, but without the laundry list of injuries.

46. Atlanta=Darius Alexander DT Toledo (6-4 305 4.95) probably would be a 1st round pick, except he's already 25. So strong, and a sneaky good 1st step. Makes for a solid Grady Jarrett replacement.

47. Arizona=Landon Jackson DE Arkansas (6-6 264 4.68) moving up boards after great Senior Bowl and combine. Better pass rusher than run stuffer, he adds to the Cardinals defensive front overhaul.

48. Miami=Mason Taylor TE LSU (6-5 251 4.65?) might not seem like a big need, but Jonnu is in a contract year, and I think they increase 2-TE sets this year anyway. Taylor does a lot of the same things Warren does, though probably not as good. I've seen comps to Pat Freiermuth, and I can get behind that.

 

[travdogg]

49. Cincinnati=Benjamin Morrison CB Notre Dame (6-0 193 4.45?) rebuilding the secondary is priority #1 in my eyes, and this adds to Emmanwori. Morrison has some issues with penalties and is coming off a season-ending hip injury, but he's been consistently solid.

50. Seattle=Jack Bech WR TCU (6-1 214 4.50?) he's an off the radar pick, but I think the NFL views him higher than the media does. I do too. Struggled with injuries but has elite highlight reel. Really has a good feel for route running. If you squint, you can see some similarity to Kupp.

51. Denver=Jack Sawyer DE Ohio State (6-4 260 4.65?) looks like a #2 DE to me, jack of all trades master of none type. Will be 23 as a rookie. Solid counterpart for Bonitto.

52. Seattle=Marcus Mbow OL Purdue (6-4 303 5.25) some debate about whether he's a G or T, I think Seattle would be happy with either. Really good run blocker, especially at getting to the 2nd level.

53. Tampa Bay=Nic Scourton DE Texas A&M (6-3 257 4.70?) versatile DE/DT tweener, was better in 2023 at Purdue. Inconsistent but shows upside and is only 20. Had a good game against Will Campbell. Plays a little bigger than his size. Tampa needs a long-term option, can hopefully learn from FA signing Reddick.

54. Green Bay=Shavon Revel CB East Carolina (6-2 194 4.35?) freak of nature athlete, coming off a torn ACL. Played mostly cover 2 and is an aggressive jammer at the line. Some Tariq Woolen to his game, as long as the ACL hasn't cost him his elite makeup speed. Lots of upside here, but maybe not the most 2025 contributor. Packers CB need is evergreen.

55. LA Chargers=Elijah Arroyo TE Miami (6-5 250 4.60?) very different prospect than the other top TEs, Arroyo is a pumped up WR, ala Kyle Pitts but not as freakish (who is?). He's a seam stretcher who should be a nice compliment to what McConkey does and is different enough from Dissly that he should earn specialized snaps/targets right away.

56. Buffalo=TJ Sanders DT South Carolina (6-4 297 (4.90?) high motor gap shooter, who struggles against the run. Probably worth the tradeoff though, as he creates a lot of interior pressure. FA signing Ogunjobi (vastly overrated his entire career) has a 6-game PED suspension to start the year, and Sanders could easily make it so they never really need him.

57. Carolina=Jayden Higgins WR Iowa State (6-4 214 4.47) I think the fantasy community likes him more than the NFL does. He was mentioned as a Nico Collins like prospect at the combine, and I think that's crazy, Nico is infinitely better after the catch. Higgins profiles somewhere more on the Courtland Sutton/Tim Patrick spectrum. Which is still very fine in round 2, but his lack of separation lowers his ceiling to me. Good release and routes though. I think he's a career #2. He could blow by Xavier Leggette in Carolina though, who needs someone to step up besides Thielen.

58. Houston=Charles Grant OT William & Mary (6-5 311 5.15?) raw prospect, but with lots to like. Only started playing football in 2019. Was an all-state wrestler. Has outstanding agility for the position, TE-like. Big jump from the FCS, likely not a starter right away, and needs work on technique. Some may want a WR, but I think Kirk may be enough, and I wouldn't rule out Diggs coming back.

59. Baltimore=Will Howard QB Ohio State (6-4 235 4.80?) I had this before the Cooper Rush signing, but I'm not gonna change it even if its probably unlikely. Side note, the Cowboys offense still being ok with Rush at QB, is my go-to when people say Mike McCarthy can't hack it, because Rush isn't good at all. Which brings me to this pick, Lamar is in harm's way as much as any QB (he's been MVP candidate or injured his entire career) and I love the idea of getting a long-term backup QB on a rookie deal. Howard is a great system fit and has underrated mobility, with a good arm and good mechanics, just pretend the Michigan game didn't happen.

60. Detroit=Aireontae Ersery OT Minnesota (6-6 331 5.01) continuing to keep the OL a strength. Ersery is depth/potential long-term Decker replacement. 3-year starter at LT for the Gophers, allowed 5 sacks in 3 years in the Big Ten.

61. Washington=Kaleb Johnson RB Iowa (6-1 224 4.57) vision really stands out, its the best in the class as far as I'm concerned. His issue for me is explosiveness. In some ways, he's not that dissimilar from Brian Robinson, but I think he has a bit more power, though probably less receiving ability. I've always thought Robinson was a pretty good pass catcher though, tough to beat out Ekeler there is all. I think they prefer more of a power RB to punish defenses and then using Daniels on read options as a COP. Somewhat similar to the old RG3/Morris dynamic. I would love Skattebo here, but I don't think the NFL likes him as much as I do.

62. Buffalo=Xavier Watts S Notre Dame (6-0 204 4.45?) converted WR, who may surprise and end up being the best Safety in this class. That conversion shows up as he excels at reading routes and making plays on the ball. Not as strong in the run game, but that's not as big of a concern for Buffalo, as McDermott has always stressed coverage 1st.

63. Kansas City=Terrance Ferguson TE Oregon (6-5 247 4.63) Travis Kelce is likely in his last season, and who knows if Noah Gray is really the heir apparent? Ferguson needs work on his blocking, though he has the size for it, but his real value is his YAC. He averaged 9 YAC last year, which is a ton for a guy who averaged 13 YPC, as he was targeted a lot on short passes, and asked to make things happen. That feels like a Reid type to me.

64. Philadelphia=Harold Fannin TE Bowling Green (6-3 241 4.71) led the NCAA in receiving last season, not among TEs, but overall. Philly is likely needing a Goedert replacement soon, I think he stays 1 more year, and Fannin could use a year of seasoning making the jump from a small school. Fannin accelerates quickly but isn't as good a route runner as you'd expect given his production. He's also a surprisingly good blocker given his size, including some solid reps against Abdul Carter. I think he compares a lot to Jonnu Smith.

 

[Anarchy99]

38. New England=Elic Ayomanor WR Stanford (6-2 206 4.44) great release, and sneaky big play ability for his size. Inside/outside versatility. Patriots have an opening for a #1 WR. Big time blocker, which Vrabel and co. will like.

Ayomanor's name came up in the NE team thread. Most draft / prospect rating sites have him as a very late 3rd round pick to an early Day 3 pick. Things working against him are a prior knee injury that caused him to red shirt a season, not blazing speed, not a ton of separation, and way too many drops. He's listed as a developmental project that could take a year or two to get up to speed and could someday make a decent NFL WR2. I've seen him rated as WR15 in this draft class and not in the Top 100. Why would NE want to take him at Pick 38? They don't need a blocking WR . . . they need a WR1 / high impact guy that can start right away. That doesn't sound like Ayomanor.

 

[Deamon]

Yaaaaaaas, been waiting for this. Thank you!

 

[Donnybrook]

59. Baltimore=Will Howard QB Ohio State (6-4 235 4.80?) I had this before the Cooper Rush signing, but I'm not gonna change it even if its probably unlikely. Side note, the Cowboys offense still being ok with Rush at QB, is my go-to when people say Mike McCarthy can't hack it, because Rush isn't good at all. Which brings me to this pick, Lamar is in harm's way as much as any QB (he's been MVP candidate or injured his entire career) and I love the idea of getting a long-term backup QB on a rookie deal. Howard is a great system fit and has underrated mobility, with a good arm and good mechanics, just pretend the Michigan game didn't happen.

Very odd.

 

[JetMaxx]

Awesome stuff. If that plays out like you project, I could see the Eagles do a 2018 redux (Lamar to Ravens) and trade 32 to a QB needy team so they can secure a 5th year option.

 

[travdogg]

Awesome stuff. If that plays out like you project, I could see the Eagles do a 2018 redux (Lamar to Ravens) and trade 32 to a QB needy team so they can secure a 5th year option.

While logically you'd think it would make some sense, I've found the 5th year option is basically meaningless, especially for QBs.

 

[Stoneworker]

51. Denver=Jack Sawyer DE Ohio State (6-4 260 4.65?) looks like a #2 DE to me, jack of all trades master of none type. Will be 23 as a rookie. Solid counterpart for Bonitto.

The Rd 1 selection of RB Hampton to Denver is a good one, but just not seeing Sawyer in Rd 2 unless he's crazy high on the draft board.

EDGE Jonathon Cooper just signed a 4-yr contract last November and racked up 10.5 sacks across from Bonitto.

Behind those two the Broncos have solid depth, with last year's 3rd round rookie Jonah Ellis and USFL standout Dondrea Tillman combining for another 10 sacks.

IMO they'll be most likely adding to offensive skill positions (e.g. a WR/TE that falls) or interior O-line (e.g. center)

 

[travdogg]

38. New England=Elic Ayomanor WR Stanford (6-2 206 4.44) great release, and sneaky big play ability for his size. Inside/outside versatility. Patriots have an opening for a #1 WR. Big time blocker, which Vrabel and co. will like.

Ayomanor's name came up in the NE team thread. Most draft / prospect rating sites have him as a very late 3rd round pick to an early Day 3 pick. Things working against him are a prior knee injury that caused him to red shirt a season, not blazing speed, not a ton of separation, and way too many drops. He's listed as a developmental project that could take a year or two to get up to speed and could someday make a decent NFL WR2. I've seen him rated as WR15 in this draft class and not in the Top 100. Why would NE want to take him at Pick 38? They don't need a blocking WR . . . they need a WR1 / high impact guy that can start right away. That doesn't sound like Ayomanor.

I don't know what you are looking at, but I've rarely seen Ayomanor falling past pick 50 in mocks. I've seen him in the first round (NBC/Rotoworld) he's a high 2nd on PFF, and a mid-2nd on mock draft database (which is a composite) I see him going slightly higher than average due to pressing need.

The knee injury was 3 years ago, when he was 19. It means nothing. He's been Stanford's entire offense the last 2 years. He had 575 more yards than anyone else in 2023, and 300 more yards than anyone else in 2024. I don't think he's a developmental project at all. I think he's a week 1 starter. I was just adding the blocking thing as another point in his favor, its not like its his only skill.

 

[travdogg]

51. Denver=Jack Sawyer DE Ohio State (6-4 260 4.65?) looks like a #2 DE to me, jack of all trades master of none type. Will be 23 as a rookie. Solid counterpart for Bonitto.

The Rd 1 selection of RB Hampton to Denver is a good one, but just not seeing Sawyer in Rd 2 unless he's crazy high on the draft board.

EDGE Jonathon Cooper just signed a 4-yr contract last November and racked up 10.5 sacks across from Bonitto.

Behind those two the Broncos have solid depth, with last year's 3rd round rookie Jonah Ellis and USFL standout Dondrea Tillman combining for another 10 sacks.

IMO they'll be most likely adding to offensive skill positions (e.g. a WR/TE that falls) or interior O-line (e.g. center)

I think its a bit of a BPA selection. Also, they love to rotate DL, and Sawyer is a better run stopper than any of those guys. I can't really see Denver taking a TE that high after signing Engram, and I don't see a WR as a fit/also think they like their young WRs (Mims, Franklin, Vele) to step up.

If they don't go RB in round 1, I think round 2 could be their pick. If Hampton wasn't the pick or was gone, I was thinking about Zabel in round 1. I do agree Center is a spot they could upgrade.

I think Denver is a really sneaky Super Bowl pick for next season, so I feel like BPA is something they can afford to do.

 

[Stoneworker]

51. Denver=Jack Sawyer DE Ohio State (6-4 260 4.65?) looks like a #2 DE to me, jack of all trades master of none type. Will be 23 as a rookie. Solid counterpart for Bonitto.

The Rd 1 selection of RB Hampton to Denver is a good one, but just not seeing Sawyer in Rd 2 unless he's crazy high on the draft board.

EDGE Jonathon Cooper just signed a 4-yr contract last November and racked up 10.5 sacks across from Bonitto.

Behind those two the Broncos have solid depth, with last year's 3rd round rookie Jonah Ellis and USFL standout Dondrea Tillman combining for another 10 sacks.

IMO they'll be most likely adding to offensive skill positions (e.g. a WR/TE that falls) or interior O-line (e.g. center)

I think its a bit of a BPA selection. Also, they love to rotate DL, and Sawyer is a better run stopper than any of those guys. I can't really see Denver taking a TE that high after signing Engram, and I don't see a WR as a fit/also think they like their young WRs (Mims, Franklin, Vele) to step up.

If they don't go RB in round 1, I think round 2 could be their pick. If Hampton wasn't the pick or was gone, I was thinking about Zabel in round 1. I do agree Center is a spot they could upgrade.

I think Denver is a really sneaky Super Bowl pick for next season, so I feel like BPA is something they can afford to do.

It would be tough to pass on Hampton, but if Denver went Zabel/RB in the first two rounds that would be phenomenal.

Insightful of you to match Zabel to the Broncos' needs. Potentially Quinn Meinerz 2.0.

 

[rockaction]

38. New England=Elic Ayomanor WR Stanford (6-2 206 4.44) great release, and sneaky big play ability for his size. Inside/outside versatility. Patriots have an opening for a #1 WR. Big time blocker, which Vrabel and co. will like.

Ayomanor's name came up in the NE team thread. Most draft / prospect rating sites have him as a very late 3rd round pick to an early Day 3 pick. Things working against him are a prior knee injury that caused him to red shirt a season, not blazing speed, not a ton of separation, and way too many drops. He's listed as a developmental project that could take a year or two to get up to speed and could someday make a decent NFL WR2. I've seen him rated as WR15 in this draft class and not in the Top 100. Why would NE want to take him at Pick 38? They don't need a blocking WR . . . they need a WR1 / high impact guy that can start right away. That doesn't sound like Ayomanor.

I don't know what you are looking at, but I've rarely seen Ayomanor falling past pick 50 in mocks. I've seen him in the first round (NBC/Rotoworld) he's a high 2nd on PFF, and a mid-2nd on mock draft database (which is a composite) I see him going slightly higher than average due to pressing need.

The knee injury was 3 years ago, when he was 19. It means nothing. He's been Stanford's entire offense the last 2 years. He had 575 more yards than anyone else in 2023, and 300 more yards than anyone else in 2024. I don't think he's a developmental project at all. I think he's a week 1 starter. I was just adding the blocking thing as another point in his favor, its not like its his only skill.

I agree with travdogg on this one and have seen similar stuff to him regarding Ayomanor. It happens that I think highly of him, but I'm not on an island on this one. This seems like the right place and the right team. He has a 9.78 RAS, which is very good. He's most likely going to go in the first two rounds, why not to the Patriots, who can't seem to recruit a WR or OL if their life depended on it?

 

[BigJim®]

Appreciate your effort doing this, a very fun read.

On 24, i can definitely see the logic of safety. Have to think they’ll trade down, with only 4 picks currently. Personally, I’d hope for an impact DL, to really push that unit to the next level.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Trenches are always a good idea when trying to predict who Brad Holmes might select, but IMO #28 and #60 have a better chance of being DL. Last year the Lions suffered no fewer than 250 missed games due to injuries on their defense.

Spoiler: freaking unreal

I don't know what the normal # is supposed to be, but just for context, missed games due to injuries on the offense:

• QB/HB - 3 Montgomery - replaced by Gibbs, "the backup" on most first series
• WR/TE - 4 two of those were a Jamo suspension for meds & peds
• OL - 6 Decker three games three other guys 1 game each

21 defensive players on IR >250 missed games from injuries
vs
8 injuries for a total of 13 missed games on the other side of the LOS

That is so freaking crazy

Anyway, they do need 1-2 IOL this year to round out the bench but they are super thin on the DL. Alim McNeil is expected to start the year on the PUP, and the current starting Edge opposite Hutch has played less than 100 snaps /yr the last two seasons.

 

[Anarchy99]

38. New England=Elic Ayomanor WR Stanford (6-2 206 4.44) great release, and sneaky big play ability for his size. Inside/outside versatility. Patriots have an opening for a #1 WR. Big time blocker, which Vrabel and co. will like.

Ayomanor's name came up in the NE team thread. Most draft / prospect rating sites have him as a very late 3rd round pick to an early Day 3 pick. Things working against him are a prior knee injury that caused him to red shirt a season, not blazing speed, not a ton of separation, and way too many drops. He's listed as a developmental project that could take a year or two to get up to speed and could someday make a decent NFL WR2. I've seen him rated as WR15 in this draft class and not in the Top 100. Why would NE want to take him at Pick 38? They don't need a blocking WR . . . they need a WR1 / high impact guy that can start right away. That doesn't sound like Ayomanor.

I don't know what you are looking at, but I've rarely seen Ayomanor falling past pick 50 in mocks. I've seen him in the first round (NBC/Rotoworld) he's a high 2nd on PFF, and a mid-2nd on mock draft database (which is a composite) I see him going slightly higher than average due to pressing need.

The knee injury was 3 years ago, when he was 19. It means nothing. He's been Stanford's entire offense the last 2 years. He had 575 more yards than anyone else in 2023, and 300 more yards than anyone else in 2024. I don't think he's a developmental project at all. I think he's a week 1 starter. I was just adding the blocking thing as another point in his favor, its not like its his only skill.

I agree with travdogg on this one and have seen similar stuff to him regarding Ayomanor. It happens that I think highly of him, but I'm not on an island on this one. This seems like the right place and the right team. He has a 9.78 RAS, which is very good. He's most likely going to go in the first two rounds, why not to the Patriots, who can't seem to recruit a WR or OL if their life depended on it?

Clearly he's getting mixed reviews . . . who knows how that plays out in mocks or ultimately when he gets drafted.

NFL.com - WR15, 102nd overall
CBS - WR7, 77th overall
ESPN - WR9, 86th overall
Fox - WR9, 71st overall
Tankathon - WR9, 59th overall
Athlon - WR10, 79th overall
NFLdraftbuzz - WR6, 56th overall
Draft Network - Not in Top 14 WR or Top 100
Walter Football - Late 2nd or early 3rd
24/7 - 3rd round
FantasyPros - 3rd round
Profooballnetwork - Early 3rd round
A to Z - 2nd to 3rd round
MSN - Likely 3rd day pick
sportskeedia - Day 2 pick

 

[rockaction]

38. New England=Elic Ayomanor WR Stanford (6-2 206 4.44) great release, and sneaky big play ability for his size. Inside/outside versatility. Patriots have an opening for a #1 WR. Big time blocker, which Vrabel and co. will like.

Ayomanor's name came up in the NE team thread. Most draft / prospect rating sites have him as a very late 3rd round pick to an early Day 3 pick. Things working against him are a prior knee injury that caused him to red shirt a season, not blazing speed, not a ton of separation, and way too many drops. He's listed as a developmental project that could take a year or two to get up to speed and could someday make a decent NFL WR2. I've seen him rated as WR15 in this draft class and not in the Top 100. Why would NE want to take him at Pick 38? They don't need a blocking WR . . . they need a WR1 / high impact guy that can start right away. That doesn't sound like Ayomanor.

I don't know what you are looking at, but I've rarely seen Ayomanor falling past pick 50 in mocks. I've seen him in the first round (NBC/Rotoworld) he's a high 2nd on PFF, and a mid-2nd on mock draft database (which is a composite) I see him going slightly higher than average due to pressing need.

The knee injury was 3 years ago, when he was 19. It means nothing. He's been Stanford's entire offense the last 2 years. He had 575 more yards than anyone else in 2023, and 300 more yards than anyone else in 2024. I don't think he's a developmental project at all. I think he's a week 1 starter. I was just adding the blocking thing as another point in his favor, its not like its his only skill.

I agree with travdogg on this one and have seen similar stuff to him regarding Ayomanor. It happens that I think highly of him, but I'm not on an island on this one. This seems like the right place and the right team. He has a 9.78 RAS, which is very good. He's most likely going to go in the first two rounds, why not to the Patriots, who can't seem to recruit a WR or OL if their life depended on it?

Clearly he's getting mixed reviews . . . who knows how that plays out in mocks or ultimately when he gets drafted.

NFL.com - WR15, 102nd overall
CBS - WR7, 77th overall
ESPN - WR9, 86th overall
Fox - WR9, 71st overall
Tankathon - WR9, 59th overall
Athlon - WR10, 79th overall
NFLdraftbuzz - WR6, 56th overall
Draft Network - Not in Top 14 WR or Top 100
Walter Football - Late 2nd or early 3rd
24/7 - 3rd round
FantasyPros - 3rd round
Profooballnetwork - Early 3rd round
A to Z - 2nd to 3rd round
MSN - Likely 3rd day pick
sportskeedia - Day 2 pick

The Athletic's latest mock for New England.

Pick 38, New England, Elic Ayomanor

"Something about the Patriots and drafting wide receivers is just off, and yet they can’t give up trying since the free-agent class was so weak and the trade options at the position don’t want to come here. So their attention turns instead to the draft, where this class of wide receivers is also widely viewed as weak. Ayomanor was explosive at the NFL Scouting Combine and has the size (6-foot-2, 206 pounds) and traits (38.5-inch vertical jump, 4.47*** second 40) of a good pro receiver. The Canadian from small-town Alberta was Stanford’s leading receiver for the last two years and is still just 21."

Trav's pick is so on-brand and within the realm of possibility, I'd be fired up if he missed it. Like I said in the other thread: no alpha receiver wants to play in New England. It's cold, it's turf, it's in the middle of nowhere in Massachusetts, it's a high-tax state, the ownership is prohibitively old, the coach is a coach's coach, there's no Belichick to make the team a winner or have branding as a winner, and all the endorsement deals went out the window with Tom Brady gone. It's a nowhere place to play. New England is drafting OL/WR with the first two picks or they're the dumbest organization on the planet. Unless Hunter falls to them and they're coy about calling him a corner. That's the only way they're not walking out of the first two rounds without an OL or a WR.

Patriots mock draft: How did free agency change New England’s plans?

Left tackle and wide receiver remain huge needs for the Patriots, so how can they address them early in the NFL Draft?

www.nytimes.com

*** The Athletic screwed up. Ayomanor ran a 4.44 forty according to both what I watched and the NFL.com's combine results. We're right and The Athletic is wrong. They added .03 of forty time to his forty. It's even better than they report.

eta* According to PlayerProfiler, the guy has an 84th percentile forty, an 89th percentile speed score because of his weight, an 85th percent burst score because of his jumps, and a 73 percent catch radius. There's not a below average thing about his athletic testing. The Pats are lucky if he falls to 38.

eta2* That's him in the thumbnail, in case anyone missed it or didn't know. Ayomanor was fine pick in this mock.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

59. Baltimore=Will Howard QB Ohio State (6-4 235 4.80?) I had this before the Cooper Rush signing, but I'm not gonna change it even if its probably unlikely. Side note, the Cowboys offense still being ok with Rush at QB, is my go-to when people say Mike McCarthy can't hack it, because Rush isn't good at all. Which brings me to this pick, Lamar is in harm's way as much as any QB (he's been MVP candidate or injured his entire career) and I love the idea of getting a long-term backup QB on a rookie deal. Howard is a great system fit and has underrated mobility, with a good arm and good mechanics, just pretend the Michigan game didn't happen.

This would shock me, but Baltimore's shocked me before with their draft picks. Assuming your 1st round selection comes to happen, they still need OL & DB depth badly.

 

[Snotbubbles]

Eagles needs: DE, S, DT, TE, OL

I assume the Eagles will take BPA at one of those positions in the first round. Hoping one of the tight ends or safeties fall.

 

[SoBeDad]

1.13 Miami=Derrick Harmon DT Oregon (6-4 313 4.95) interesting prospect who used to be 360 pounds, lost weight and gained a ton of explosiveness. Now he's a big-time gap shooter. If you squint, you can see some Chris Jones.

DT is a huge need and both Harmon and Kenneth Grant are athletic big men. Grier uses athleticism in his assessment (except at QB!). Grant has been more consistent and most mocks have him going earlier, but Harmon's 2024 season was great. CB Will Johnson might be BPA the way your mock went. If I'm Grier and want one of those 3, I roll the dice and trade down for another pick. Miami needs to get younger and cheaper.

At 2.16, I think Miami would go CB or safety, Revel, Harrison, Watts. TE is a need, but before that I would draft oline.

I'm intrigued by anthother TE with Miami connections, Oronde Gadsen II, 4.55 forty, projected to go 5th round. A flex TE to start, how much weight can he add to his 6'5" frame.

 

[travdogg]

59. Baltimore=Will Howard QB Ohio State (6-4 235 4.80?) I had this before the Cooper Rush signing, but I'm not gonna change it even if its probably unlikely. Side note, the Cowboys offense still being ok with Rush at QB, is my go-to when people say Mike McCarthy can't hack it, because Rush isn't good at all. Which brings me to this pick, Lamar is in harm's way as much as any QB (he's been MVP candidate or injured his entire career) and I love the idea of getting a long-term backup QB on a rookie deal. Howard is a great system fit and has underrated mobility, with a good arm and good mechanics, just pretend the Michigan game didn't happen.

This would shock me, but Baltimore's shocked me before with their draft picks. Assuming your 1st round selection comes to happen, they still need OL & DB depth badly.

I'm fully expecting the Ravens to sign one of those 2nd tier FA Guards, like Brandon Scherff, Dalton Risner, or Will Hernandez. Could see that happening at CB too with a vet ring chaser like Stephon Gilmore or Mike Hilton.

ETA: Kendall Fuller is another vet that would sense and wouldn't affect the comp pick formula.

 

[travdogg]

Trenches are always a good idea when trying to predict who Brad Holmes might select, but IMO #28 and #60 have a better chance of being DL. Last year the Lions suffered no fewer than 250 missed games due to injuries on their defense.

Spoiler: freaking unreal

I don't know what the normal # is supposed to be, but just for context, missed games due to injuries on the offense:

• QB/HB - 3 Montgomery - replaced by Gibbs, "the backup" on most first series
• WR/TE - 4 two of those were a Jamo suspension for meds & peds
• OL - 6 Decker three games three other guys 1 game each

21 defensive players on IR >250 missed games from injuries
vs
8 injuries for a total of 13 missed games on the other side of the LOS

That is so freaking crazy

Anyway, they do need 1-2 IOL this year to round out the bench but they are super thin on the DL. Alim McNeil is expected to start the year on the PUP, and the current starting Edge opposite Hutch has played less than 100 snaps /yr the last two seasons.

The Lions (like the Ravens) I think are a good candidate for some ring chasing vets. Calais Campbell would be a great move for them. Maybe Matthew Judon?

 

[travdogg]

Appreciate your effort doing this, a very fun read.

On 24, i can definitely see the logic of safety. Have to think they’ll trade down, with only 4 picks currently. Personally, I’d hope for an impact DL, to really push that unit to the next level.

Certainly the most likely trade down team. I just hate mocking trades. Mocks are already somewhat of an exercise in futility, adding trades just muddles it further.

If Harmon or Grant fall to Minnesota I think they are absolutely on the radar. I also think Zabel could be as a G, but preferred Starks, as the better prospect.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

59. Baltimore=Will Howard QB Ohio State (6-4 235 4.80?) I had this before the Cooper Rush signing, but I'm not gonna change it even if its probably unlikely. Side note, the Cowboys offense still being ok with Rush at QB, is my go-to when people say Mike McCarthy can't hack it, because Rush isn't good at all. Which brings me to this pick, Lamar is in harm's way as much as any QB (he's been MVP candidate or injured his entire career) and I love the idea of getting a long-term backup QB on a rookie deal. Howard is a great system fit and has underrated mobility, with a good arm and good mechanics, just pretend the Michigan game didn't happen.

This would shock me, but Baltimore's shocked me before with their draft picks. Assuming your 1st round selection comes to happen, they still need OL & DB depth badly.

I'm fully expecting the Ravens to sign one of those 2nd tier FA Guards, like Brandon Scherff, Dalton Risner, or Will Hernandez. Could see that happening at CB too with a vet ring chaser like Stephon Gilmore or Mike Hilton.

ETA: Kendall Fuller is another vet that would sense and wouldn't affect the comp pick formula.

I hear (read) you, but I don't see them taking QB in the 2nd. They'll cherry-pick vets - they always do - though I think they are gonna go bulldozer on OL/DL/DB.

 

[TheDirtyWord]

Shedeur certainly has become a polarizing player. We're all on the outside looking in with regard to what NFL clubs might be thinking, but count me as someone who thinks the negative noise has gotten a bit much on him. 2nd round QB's since 2006...I think he's a better prospect than this. Obviously some hits (Hurts, Carr, Geno), but alot of these guys never got out of the starting blocks NFL wise.

Will Levis
Kyle Trask
Jalen Hurts
Drew Lock
DeShone Kizer
Christian Hackenberg
Derek Carr
Jimmy Garoppolo
Geno Smith
Brock Osweiler
Andy Dalton
Colin Kaepernick
Jimmy Clausen
Pat White
Brian Brohm
Chad Henne
Kevin Kolb
John Beck
Drew Stanton
Kellen Clemens
Tarvaris Jackson

 

[BobbyLayne]

Trenches are always a good idea when trying to predict who Brad Holmes might select, but IMO #28 and #60 have a better chance of being DL. Last year the Lions suffered no fewer than 250 missed games due to injuries on their defense.

Spoiler: freaking unreal

I don't know what the normal # is supposed to be, but just for context, missed games due to injuries on the offense:

• QB/HB - 3 Montgomery - replaced by Gibbs, "the backup" on most first series
• WR/TE - 4 two of those were a Jamo suspension for meds & peds
• OL - 6 Decker three games three other guys 1 game each

21 defensive players on IR >250 missed games from injuries
vs
8 injuries for a total of 13 missed games on the other side of the LOS

That is so freaking crazy

Anyway, they do need 1-2 IOL this year to round out the bench but they are super thin on the DL. Alim McNeil is expected to start the year on the PUP, and the current starting Edge opposite Hutch has played less than 100 snaps /yr the last two seasons.

The Lions (like the Ravens) I think are a good candidate for some ring chasing vets. Calais Campbell would be a great move for them. Maybe Matthew Judon?

One would think, I know they pursued Calais two years ago, still a great player at 36(?)

Judon would fit their overall philosophy of finding value in short term vet deals to plug holes - DeMarcus Lawrence‘s three-year, $40MM deal with the Cowboys or Cameron Jordan‘s two-year, $27.5MM deal with the Saints might be benchmarks

 

[Timmay]

17. Cincinnati=Nick Emmanwori S South Carolina (6-3 220 4.38) a bit of a S/LB tweener, but freakish athlete who any DC will love. Bengals have never really replaced Jessie Bates.

49. Cincinnati=Benjamin Morrison CB Notre Dame (6-0 193 4.45?) rebuilding the secondary is priority #1 in my eyes, and this adds to Emmanwori. Morrison has some issues with penalties and is coming off a season-ending hip injury, but he's been consistently solid.

I don't mind the Bengals to go this route. I keep seeing a lot of people throwing Xavier Watts name around as the Safety they target. Most likely similar to the Morrison Notre Dame - Al Golden connection. A lot obviously depends on the outcome to the Hendrickson signing or being traded but I struggle to see a route where the Bengals don't target a DL, whether that be a DE or DT in one of the first 2 rounds of this draft regardless. Bengals do need LB and G help too.

Very well thoughtout list as a whole. Was a great read, thanks for doing this.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Trenches are always a good idea when trying to predict who Brad Holmes might select, but IMO #28 and #60 have a better chance of being DL. Last year the Lions suffered no fewer than 250 missed games due to injuries on their defense.

Spoiler: freaking unreal

I don't know what the normal # is supposed to be, but just for context, missed games due to injuries on the offense:

• QB/HB - 3 Montgomery - replaced by Gibbs, "the backup" on most first series
• WR/TE - 4 two of those were a Jamo suspension for meds & peds
• OL - 6 Decker three games three other guys 1 game each

21 defensive players on IR >250 missed games from injuries
vs
8 injuries for a total of 13 missed games on the other side of the LOS

That is so freaking crazy

Anyway, they do need 1-2 IOL this year to round out the bench but they are super thin on the DL. Alim McNeil is expected to start the year on the PUP, and the current starting Edge opposite Hutch has played less than 100 snaps /yr the last two seasons.

It's obvious enough I would expect some sort of move before the draft, also followed up by a draft pick.

 

[travdogg]

Shedeur certainly has become a polarizing player. We're all on the outside looking in with regard to what NFL clubs might be thinking, but count me as someone who thinks the negative noise has gotten a bit much on him. 2nd round QB's since 2006...I think he's a better prospect than this. Obviously some hits (Hurts, Carr, Geno), but alot of these guys never got out of the starting blocks NFL wise.

Will Levis
Kyle Trask
Jalen Hurts
Drew Lock
DeShone Kizer
Christian Hackenberg
Derek Carr
Jimmy Garoppolo
Geno Smith
Brock Osweiler
Andy Dalton
Colin Kaepernick
Jimmy Clausen
Pat White
Brian Brohm
Chad Henne
Kevin Kolb
John Beck
Drew Stanton
Kellen Clemens
Tarvaris Jackson

An interesting note, that slightly changes the narrative a bit, is if you change the 2006 cutoff to 2011 (not an arbitrary cutoff, as its when the rookie pay scale changed) the hit rate actually gets a lot higher. Its basically 50-50 that a round 2 QB pans out.

Compare that to round 1 QBs during that span:

2011: Cam Newton, Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert, Christian Ponder
2012: Andrew Luck, RG3, Ryan Tannehill, Brandon Weeden
2013: EJ Manuel
2014: Blake Bortles, Johnny Manziel, Teddy Bridgewater
2015: Jameis Winston, Marcus Mariota
2016: Jared Goff, Carson Wentz, Paxton Lynch
2017: Mitch Trubisky, Pat Mahomes, DeShaun Watson
2018: Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Josh Allen, Josh Rosen, Lamar Jackson
2019: Kyler Murray, Daniel Jones, Dwayne Haskins
2020: Joe Burrow. Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert, Jordan Love
2021: Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, Trey Lance, Justin Fields, Mac Jones
2022: Kenny Pickett
2023: Bryce Young, CJ Stroud, Anthony Richardson
2024: Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Michael Penix, JJ McCarthy, Bo Nix

That's 47 1st round QBs, its probably unfair to count the 2024 class yet, so if we throw them out, its 41. Of that 41, we have some elite QBs (higher than any of the round 2 guys), but a much lower hit rate than round 2 QBs. I'm not really trying to make a point here, I just think its interesting.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Trenches are always a good idea when trying to predict who Brad Holmes might select, but IMO #28 and #60 have a better chance of being DL. Last year the Lions suffered no fewer than 250 missed games due to injuries on their defense.

Spoiler: freaking unreal

I don't know what the normal # is supposed to be, but just for context, missed games due to injuries on the offense:

• QB/HB - 3 Montgomery - replaced by Gibbs, "the backup" on most first series
• WR/TE - 4 two of those were a Jamo suspension for meds & peds
• OL - 6 Decker three games three other guys 1 game each

21 defensive players on IR >250 missed games from injuries
vs
8 injuries for a total of 13 missed games on the other side of the LOS

That is so freaking crazy

Anyway, they do need 1-2 IOL this year to round out the bench but they are super thin on the DL. Alim McNeil is expected to start the year on the PUP, and the current starting Edge opposite Hutch has played less than 100 snaps /yr the last two seasons.

It's obvious enough I would expect some sort of move before the draft, also followed up by a draft pick.

Yeah I'm kind of hoping the Edge approach this year is similar to how they handled CB last season (their weak link in 2023.0 Traded a 3rd rounder for Carlton Davis + signed Amik Robertson + traded up to get the CB they wanted + what-the-heck let's double down and take another CB in the 2nd. Would be great if they signed one more solid rotational vet and then drafted 2-3 DL.

 

[pinkstapler]

Thanks for this. I wouldn't mind this becoming a reality from a dynasty standpoint as someone with multiple first round picks and a love for this years RB class. Some great landing spots for the big names.

Don't ding Kaleb too much for receiving ability. They primarily used him for screens, swings, and check downs; but he showed some good route running chops the few times he got the opportunity. And he's definitely a weapon in the open field. I think if he wound up in Washington, he'd get that usage. Maybe not as much year 1, as to your point they still have BRob and Ekeler, but I think that'll eventually shift to his workload in the following years.

As fun as it would be for Skattebo to land there; I think it could be just as much fun to see him go to a "wait a year" team that's a great situation. Seen a few mocks of him to KC in the third and I'd jump all over that. Pacheco is an UFA after this year, and I think Cam could do what he does and likely do it even better.

 

[travdogg]

Thanks for this. I wouldn't mind this becoming a reality from a dynasty standpoint as someone with multiple first round picks and a love for this years RB class. Some great landing spots for the big names.

Don't ding Kaleb too much for receiving ability. They primarily used him for screens, swings, and check downs; but he showed some good route running chops the few times he got the opportunity. And he's definitely a weapon in the open field. I think if he wound up in Washington, he'd get that usage. Maybe not as much year 1, as to your point they still have BRob and Ekeler, but I think that'll eventually shift to his workload in the following years.

As fun as it would be for Skattebo to land there; I think it could be just as much fun to see him go to a "wait a year" team that's a great situation. Seen a few mocks of him to KC in the third and I'd jump all over that. Pacheco is an UFA after this year, and I think Cam could do what he does and likely do it even better.

I think Skattebo is a good candidate as a power complement for Jaylen Warren in Pittsburgh in round 3, though I don't know if they'll feel they need a RB that highly, as they don't have a 2 now due to the DK deal.

I think KC might be more of a Dylan Sampson spot. Someone who can provide more big play ability. That's just a hunch though, as they basically got nothing in the way of big plays from the running game last year.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Miami Dolphins Draft'25

-Appreciate the effort and two areas of real need for the Miami Dolphins include both the OL and DL. Armstead-LT is still thinking about retirement
Miami resigned Liam Eichenberg, one of the worst rated OL-LG in the NFL. They brought in James Daniels-RG coming off an Achilles tear. Jackson-RT has missed 24 games over past 3 yrs
Jackson is Tua's blindside protection, he's never there.

Obviously I feel Miami has a lot of needs along the OL, all of them are replaceable for a variety of reasons
Brewer, the Center rates OK but he's small and gets overpowered on short yardage situations
An improved OL would help every skill player on this roster, Miami has a lot of speed but cannot utilize it right now

-If I were the Miami GM I would hand in my resignation but if I were appointed as the NEW GM, I would work on trading down not up.
Miami sends their #13 pick to Denver and gets back the No 20 and 51 picks which would give them a lot more ammo this year.
Miami is actively suffering from a 1st and 3rd round penalty/forfeit over the past couple seasons due to Stephen Ross' incompetence as an owner which cripples this team

At No 20 I would take Grey Zabel who they can use at either OG/OT his rookie season and then roll him out to one of the two Tackle spots his 2nd season
He can either push Armstead to retirement and save Miami a nice chunk on the cap or he can move Austin Jackson on his way. AJ is costing Miami $10M vs the cap and he has almost no guaranteed money left, I would like to see Miami trade him after this season for whatever they can recoup, 3rd/4th/5th, whatever

I also like Simmons and Jackson fro OSU especially where you have them projected at the end of the 1st
That's another sweet spot Miami could trade down and get much needed additional picks to overhaul this roster

At No 48 would take TJ Sanders before Buffalo snags him a few picks later, Miami already lost out on Bosa to Buffalo, this would make it worse if they land Sanders 2nd Rd
Miami has nothing at their IDL right now, if they stay put at No 13, I think they grab Kenny Grant, 335 lbs of beef inside is what they need but I would rather combo Zabel and Sanders.
Sanders is an excellent DT/IDL in a fairly deep IDL class, hard to miss and that's why I want Miami to trade down and push off the DT/NT spot.

The OL dry up pretty fast after the 1st/Mid 2nd, granted there are prospects in the later rounds for depth and some Guard spots but there aren't a lot of upside guys at the Tackle spots after the first 50-75 picks, I find the talent level drops off quickly.

Assuming Miami traded down and has the No 51 pick in their back pocket, I could make a case for another OL/IDL around here but since you have this guy on my list high up on yours as well, I figure I will mention him here. Elijah Arroyo is the best Tight End nobody seems to have heard of. Deep TE class, 2 going in the 1st round likely and several in the 2nd. You have Miami taking a TE anyways and I feel Arroyo is way better than Mason Taylor but I also have watched every snap Arroyo has played at the Univ of Miami so I'm a little biased

-I cheated because I shaped a trade into my projection
I saw a fake report where they had Miami trading up to No 10 w/Bears, I absolutely DO NOT want Miami trading up, they have holes everywhere and need the picks
They could Draft 1-2 strong OL prospects and another 1-2 along the IDL, they have 10 picks thus far, several of them late in the Draft but they have a lot of needs

 

[travdogg]

-If I were the Miami GM I would hand in my resignation but if I were appointed as the NEW GM, I would work on trading down not up.
Miami sends their #13 pick to Denver and gets back the No 20 and 51 picks which would give them a lot more ammo this year.
Miami is actively suffering from a 1st and 3rd round penalty/forfeit over the past couple seasons due to Stephen Ross' incompetence as an owner which cripples this team

Assuming Miami traded down and has the No 51 pick in their back pocket, I could make a case for another OL/IDL around here but since you have this guy on my list high up on yours as well, I figure I will mention him here. Elijah Arroyo is the best Tight End nobody seems to have heard of. Deep TE class, 2 going in the 1st round likely and several in the 2nd. You have Miami taking a TE anyways and I feel Arroyo is way better than Mason Taylor but I also have watched every snap Arroyo has played at the Univ of Miami so I'm a little biased

Why would Denver trade up to #13?

I personally like Arroyo more than Taylor, but I think Taylor goes higher because he has a more well-rounded game.

 

[Shrek]

I appreciate when anyone takes this much time and effort to do a mock this close to the draft. Good read, thanks for doing this.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

-If I were the Miami GM I would hand in my resignation but if I were appointed as the NEW GM, I would work on trading down not up.
Miami sends their #13 pick to Denver and gets back the No 20 and 51 picks which would give them a lot more ammo this year.
Miami is actively suffering from a 1st and 3rd round penalty/forfeit over the past couple seasons due to Stephen Ross' incompetence as an owner which cripples this team

Assuming Miami traded down and has the No 51 pick in their back pocket, I could make a case for another OL/IDL around here but since you have this guy on my list high up on yours as well, I figure I will mention him here. Elijah Arroyo is the best Tight End nobody seems to have heard of. Deep TE class, 2 going in the 1st round likely and several in the 2nd. You have Miami taking a TE anyways and I feel Arroyo is way better than Mason Taylor but I also have watched every snap Arroyo has played at the Univ of Miami so I'm a little biased

Why would Denver trade up to #13?

I personally like Arroyo more than Taylor, but I think Taylor goes higher because he has a more well-rounded game.

You ask a good question so rather than deep dive into just Denver, I'll expand it to teams that might have made the Playoffs last season picking in the 20s
Think back to when the Atlanta Falcons made the Playoffs, were on the come up and moved up from the 20s to select Julio Jones, it was a bold move
The Falcons knew they weren't likely to be picking in the Top 5-10 in the future with the way their team was heading. They wanted more pop in their offense and they got it
Most of what is good value in the late 1st are typically OL and IDL, both things that Miami needs. I see them as an easy trading partner, Grier likes to play poker/gamble
I don't know that any one player has bedazzled those teams just yet but the opportunity to move up and get a better prospect or someone on their Board that they can go get
Sometimes that temptation is too much to pass up and especially if someone in their Top 5-7 is still on the board at 13 when Miami selects.
There are rumors Miami is trading Tyreek Hill and they are just that, rumors. But it makes sense on Draft Day if they make a move and add additional picks, they need them

I view Miami as a team at 13 that could slide down into the 20 somewhere and pick up another 2nd round pick
Miami needs a lot of help on the IOL, possibly Tackle as well. Miami is fortunate that IDL is pretty deep, they should find a NT in the 2nd round they can plug n play

 

[Tau837]

I just ran across this thread in the similar threads section under the ongoing FBG mock draft. A few comments:

22. LA Chargers=Mike Green DE Marshall (6-3 251 4.55?) Mack is old, and Bosa is gone, meaning this might be the biggest need, and Green is a solid fit. Had 17 sacks last year, and it wasn't just competition based as he tore up national champs Ohio State. Relentless motor is something Harbaugh will love.

I completely agree with your assessment on the Edge need for the Chargers. In addition to what you wrote, Dupree is currently their Edge #3, and he is 31. Tulipulotu is fine to start opposite Mack, and Dupree is fine as a rotation guy, but Bosa is vacating 503 defensive snaps from last season, and it seems more likely than not that Mack and Dupree will play fewer snaps combined. That leaves a lot of snaps to be filled in 2025 and a potential need for a starter as soon as 2026.

That said, it has been a while since I can recall the Chargers spending high draft capital on a player with possible character issues off the field, as has been reported for Green. I couldn't name the last Chargers first rounder with such concerns. Hortiz and Harbaugh are relatively new to the Chargers, so not much of a track record yet... but I'm not sure Green fits the mold of a Harbaugh guy. I will be fine if they take him, because I will assume they have determined the character issues are not a concern.

If they aren't willing to take him, based on the board here at 1.22, I think they should take Nolen. IDL is a close second to Edge in terms of Chargers needs. Consider who the Chargers have currently in their IDL group competing for roster spots:

• Tart - bargain bin free agent in 2024 and again in 2025t; 2020 UDFA
• Hand - bargain bin 2025 free agent; 2018 4th round pick
• Jones - bargain bin 2025 free agent; 2021 UDFA
• Ogbonnia - 2022 5th round pick
• Matlock - 2023 6th round pick who mainly plays FB
• Eboigbe - 2024 4th round pick; played 26 defensive snaps in 2024 as a rookie
• Hinton - 2022 UDFA; has played 147 defensive snaps in his career, 0 in 2024
• Collins - 2024 UDFA; has never played a defensive snap

That group might be the IDL group with the lowest draft capital investment in the entire league. It is screaming out for an investment of a premium draft pick, and, given it is a deep class, maybe a double dip on day 3.

Given how the Chargers prioritize OL, it wouldn't be a huge surprise to see them take Booker or Zabel, but I hope not. I don't think those guys return close to the best value for 1.22.

55. LA Chargers=Elijah Arroyo TE Miami (6-5 250 4.60?) very different prospect than the other top TEs, Arroyo is a pumped up WR, ala Kyle Pitts but not as freakish (who is?). He's a seam stretcher who should be a nice compliment to what McConkey does and is different enough from Dissly that he should earn specialized snaps/targets right away.

I don't think this is out of the question, but I hope they don't go this way, and I doubt they will. I think their signing of Conklin is enough that they will only feel compelled to use premium (day 1-2) draft capital on TE if Warren or Loveland falls to them at 1.22. They have too many other urgent needs, most notably a starting caliber Edge and a starting IDL, as discussed above.

ETA: Thanks for putting the effort into this!

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

Strong effort. Very thoughtful mock.

I’m betting things go sideways almost immediately. It’s a weird year, and kind of a weird draft.

These picks all make too much sense to happen. lol

 

[drummer]

Strong effort. Very thoughtful mock.

I’m betting things go sideways almost immediately. It’s a weird year, and kind of a weird draft.

These picks all make too much sense to happen. lol

49ers are going ED or DT in the first round. They purged a lot of money off the books and defensive line was part of it. I would not be surprised if they go ED and DT for the first two picks. The 49er offense is fine, it was the defense that fell from 3rd in PA in 2023 to 29th in 2024. Second and third level defense, they are fairly solid and don't need to spend a lot of draft capital there. But the first two picks are going D-Line or CB.

 

[rockaction]

-If I were the Miami GM I would hand in my resignation but if I were appointed as the NEW GM, I would work on trading down not up.
Miami sends their #13 pick to Denver and gets back the No 20 and 51 picks which would give them a lot more ammo this year.
Miami is actively suffering from a 1st and 3rd round penalty/forfeit over the past couple seasons due to Stephen Ross' incompetence as an owner which cripples this team

Assuming Miami traded down and has the No 51 pick in their back pocket, I could make a case for another OL/IDL around here but since you have this guy on my list high up on yours as well, I figure I will mention him here. Elijah Arroyo is the best Tight End nobody seems to have heard of. Deep TE class, 2 going in the 1st round likely and several in the 2nd. You have Miami taking a TE anyways and I feel Arroyo is way better than Mason Taylor but I also have watched every snap Arroyo has played at the Univ of Miami so I'm a little biased

Why would Denver trade up to #13?

I personally like Arroyo more than Taylor, but I think Taylor goes higher because he has a more well-rounded game.

I was debating this in our other mock. Arroyo hit 21.4 MPH at one point during the season, which is ridiculous.