Football 2024 PGSF NFL mock draft--Complete.

[NoleLizards]

NOTE: I would like to thank Lance Zierlein of nfl.com for the analyses of the picks made throughout this mock.


Round 1:

1. Chicago Bears (NoleinATL)--Caleb Williams QB, USC ✓
2. Washington Commanders (NoleLizards)--Jayden Daniels QB, LSU ✓
3. New England Patriots (NoleinATL)--Drake Maye QB, North Carolina ✓
4. Arizona Cardinals (NoleLizards)--Marvin Harrison Jr. WR, Ohio State ✓
5. Los Angeles Chargers (NoleinATL)--Joe Alt OT, Notre Dame ✓
6. New York Giants (NoleLizards)--Malik Nabers WR, LSU ✓
7. Tennessee Titans (NoleinATL)--Olu Fashanu OT, Penn State
8. Atlanta Falcons (NoleLizards)--Dallas Turner Edge, Alabama
9. Chicago Bears (NoleinATL)--Jared Verse DE, The Florida State University
10. New York Jets (NoleLizards)--Rome Odunze WR, Washington
11. Minnesota Vikings (NoleinATL)--J.J. McCarthy QB, Michigan ✓
12. Denver Broncos (NoleLizards)--Bo Nix QB, Oregon ✓
13. Las Vegas Raiders (NoleinATL)--Quinyon Mitchell CB, Toledo
14. New Orleans Saints (NoleLizards)--J.C. Latham OT, Alabama
15. Indianapolis Colts (NoleinATL)--Terrion Arnold CB, Alabama
16. Seattle Seahawks (NoleLizards)--Troy Fautanu G/OT, Washington
17. Jacksonville Jaguars (NoleinATL)--Brian Thomas Jr. WR, LSU ✓
18. Cincinnati Bengals (NoleLizards)--Taliese Fuaga OT/G, Oregon State
19. Los Angeles Rams (NoleinATL)--Byron Murphy II DT, Texas
20. Pittsburgh Steelers (NoleLizards)--Amarius Mims OT, Georgia
21. Miami Dolphins (NoleinATL)--Laiatu Latu Edge, UCLA
22. Philadelphia Eagles (NoleLizards)--Nate Wiggins CB, Clemson
23. Minnesota Vikings (NoleinATL)--Kool-Aid McKinstry CB, Alabama
24. Dallas Cowboys (NoleLizards)--Graham Barton C/OT, Duke
25. Green Bay Packers (NoleinATL)--Tyler Guyton OT, Oklahoma
26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NoleLizards)--Chop Robinson Edge, Penn State
27. Arizona Cardinals (NoleinATL)--Cooper DeJean CB, Iowa
28. Buffalo Bills (NoleLizards)--Keon Coleman WR, Florida State ✓
29. Detroit Lions (NoleinATL)--Darius Robinson Edge, Missouri
30. Baltimore Ravens (NoleLizards)--Kingsley Suamatia OT, BYU
31. San Francisco 49ers (NoleinATL)--Adonai Mitchell WR, Texas
32. Kansas City Chiefs (NoleLizards)--Brock Bowers TE, Georgia


Round 2:

33. Carolina Panthers (NiA)--Xavier Worthy WR, Texas
34. New England Patriots (Liz)--Ladd McConkey WR, Georgia
35. Arizona Cardinals (NiA)--Braden Fiske DT, Florida State
36. Washington Commanders (Liz)--Kamari Lassiter CB, Georgia
37. Los Angeles Chargers (NiA)--Troy Franklin WR, Oregon
38. Tennessee Titans (Liz)--Kris Jenkins DE, Michigan
39. Carolina Panthers (NiA)--Jackson Powers-Johnson C, Oregon
40. Washington Commanders (Liz)--Edgerrin Cooper LB, Texas A&M
41. Green Bay Packers (NiA)--Chris Braswell Edge, Alabama
42. Houston Texans (Liz)--Jer'Zhan Newton DT, Illinois
43. Atlanta Falcons (NiA)--Ennis Rakestraw Jr. CB, Missouri
44. Las Vegas Raiders (Liz)--Michael Penix Jr. QB, Washington
45. New Orleans Saints (NiA)--Bralen Trice Edge, Washington
46. Indianapolis Colts (Liz)--Peyton Wilson LB, N.C. State
47. New York Giants (NiA)--Xavier Legette WR, South Carolina
48. Jacksonville Jaguars (Liz)--Max Melton CB, Rutgers
49. Cincinnati Bengals (NiA)--Malachi Corley WR, Western Kentucky
50. Philadelphia Eagles (Liz)--Zach Frazier C, West Virginia
51. Pittsburgh Steelers (NiA)--Ja'Lynn Polk WR, Washington
52. Los Angeles Rams (Liz)--Adisa Isaac Edge, Penn State
53. Philadelphia Eagles (NiA)--Patrick Paul OT, Houston
54. Cleveland Browns (Liz)--Michael Hall Jr. DT, Ohio State ✓
55. Miami Dolphins (NiA)--Marshawn Kneeland Edge, Western Michigan
56. Dallas Cowboys (Liz)--Trey Benson RB, Florida State
57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NiA)--T.J. Tampa CB, Iowa State
58. Green Bay Packers (Liz)--T'Vondre Sweat NT, Texas
59. Houston Texans (NiA)--Javon Bullard S, Georgia
60. Buffalo Bills (Liz)--Cam Hart CB, Notre Dame
61. Detroit Lions (NiA)--Maason Smith DL, LSU
62. Baltimore Ravens (Liz)--Roman Wilson WR, Michigan
63. San Francisco 49ers (NiA)--Jeremiah Trotter Jr. LB, Clemson
64. Kansas City Chiefs (Liz)--Roger Rosengarten OT, Washington


Round 3:

65. Carolina Panthers (NiA)--Christian Mahogany G, Boston College
66. Arizona Cardinals (Liz)--Chau Smith-Wade CB, Washington State
67. Washington Commanders (NiA)--Ja'Tavion Sanders TE, Texas
68. New England Patriots (Liz)--Jordan Morgan OT, Arizona
69. Los Angeles Chargers (NiA)--Jonathon Brooks RB, Texas
70. New York Giants (Liz)--Zak Zinter G, Michigan
71. Arizona Cardinals (NiA)--Ricky Pearsall WR, Florida
72. New York Jets (Liz)--Blake Fisher OT, Notre Dame
73. Detroit Lions (NiA)--Christian Haynes G, Connecticut
74. Atlanta Falcons (Liz)--Tyler Nubin S, Minnesota
75. Chicago Bears (NiA)--Devontez Walker WR, North Carolina
76. Denver Broncos (Liz)--Jermaine Burton WR, Alabama
77. Las Vegas Raiders (NiA)--Brenden Rice WR, USC
78. Washington Commanders (Liz)--Kiran Amegadjie OT, Yale
79. Atlanta Falcons (NiA)--Austin Booker Edge, Kansas
80. Cincinnati Bengals (Liz)--Cooper Beebe G, Kansas State
81. Seattle Seahawks (NiA)--Javon Solomon OLB/Edge, Troy
82. Indianapolis Colts (Liz)--Javon Baker WR, UCF
83. Los Angeles Rams (NiA)--Ruke Orhorhoro DT, Clemson
84. Pittsburgh Steelers (Liz)--Mike Sainristil CB, Michigan
85. Cleveland Browns (NiA)--Jaylen Wright RB, Tennessee
86. Houston Texans (Liz)--Dominick Puni OT/G, Kansas
87. Dallas Cowboys (NiA)--Junior Colson LB, Michigan
88. Green Bay Packers (Liz)--Cole Bishop S, Utah
89. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NiA)--Mason McCormick, G, South Dakota State
90. Arizona Cardinals (Liz)--Blake Corum RB, Michigan
91. Green Bay Packers (NiA)--Renardo Green CB/S, Florida State
92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Liz)--Cedrick Gray LB, North Carolina
93. Baltimore Ravens (NiA)--Jonah Elliss OLB/Edge, Utah
94. San Francisco 49ers (Liz)--Matt Goncalves OT/G, Pittsburgh
95. Kansas City Chiefs (NiA)--Christian Jones OT, Texas
96. Jacksonville Jaguars (Liz)--Sedrick Van Pran-Granger C, Georgia
97. Cincinnati Bengals (NiA)--Mekhi Wingo DT, LSU
98. Pittsburgh Steelers (Liz)--Brandon Dorlus DE, Oregon
99. Los Angeles Rams (NiA)--Audric Estime RB, Notre Dame
100. Washington Commanders (Liz)--Gabriel Murphy Edge, UCLA


Round 4:

101. Carolina Panthers (NiA)--Cade Stover TE, Ohio State
102. Seattle Seahawks (Liz)--Spencer Rattler QB, South Carolina
103. New England Patriots (NiA)--Mohamed Kamara OLB/DE, Colorado State
104. Arizona Cardinals (Liz)--Jalyx Hunt Edge, Houston Christian
105. Los Angeles Chargers (NiA)--Garret Greenfield OT, South Dakota State
106. Tennessee Titans (Liz)--Ray Davis RB, Kentucky
107. New York Giants (NiA)--Calen Bullock S, USC
108. Minnesota Vikings (Liz)--DeWayne Carter DT, Duke
109. Atlanta Falcons (NiA)--Johnny Wilson WR, Florida State
110. Los Angeles Chargers (Liz)--Kamren Kinchens S, Miami (Fla.)
111. New York Jets (NiA)--Luke McCaffrey WR, Rice
112. Las Vegas Raiders (Liz)--MarShawn Lloyd RB, USC
113. Baltimore Ravens (NiA)--Leonard Taylor III DT, Miami (Fla.)
114. Jacksonville Jaguars (Liz)--Kris Abrams-Draine CB, Missouri
115. Cincinnati Bengals (NiA)--McKinnley Jackson DL, Texas A&M ✓
116. Jacksonville Jaguars (Liz)--Malik Washington WR, Virginia
117. Indianapolis Colts (NiA)--Theo Johnson TE, Penn State
118. Seattle Seahawks (Liz)--Ben Sinnott TE, Kansas State
119. Pittsburgh Steelers (NiA)--Javon Foster OT, Missouri
120. Philadelphia Eagles (Liz)--Isaac Guerendo RB, Louisville
121. Denver Broncos (NiA)--Kamari Thrash WR, Louisville
122. Chicago Bears (Liz)--Tommy Eichenberg LB, Ohio State
123. Houston Texans (NiA)--Trevin Wallace LB, Kentucky
124. San Francisco 49ers (Liz)--Jarrian Jones DB, Florida State
125. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NiA)--Will Shipley RB, Clemson
126. Green Bay Packers (Liz)--Elijah Jones CB, Boston College
127. Houston Texans (NiA)--Caelen Carson CB, Wake Forest
128. Buffalo Bills (Liz)--Jalen McMillan WR, Washington
129. Minnesota Vikings (NiA)--Bucky Irving RB, Oregon
130. Baltimore Ravens (Liz)--James Williams LB, Miami (Fla.)
131. Kansas City Chiefs (NiA)--Justin Eboigbe
DL, Alabama
132. San Francisco 49ers (Liz)--Brandon Coleman G/OT, TCU
133. Buffalo Bills (NiA)--Jacob Cowing WR, Arizona
134. New York Jets (Liz)--Jaheim Bell TE, Florida State
135. San Francisco 49ers (NiA)--Dadrion Taylor-Demerson S, Texas Tech


Round 5:

136. Denver Broncos (Liz)--Tyler Davis DL, Clemson
137. New England Patriots (NiA)--Beaux Limmer G/C, Arkansas
138. Arizona Cardinals (Liz)--Sataoa Laumea G, Utah
139. Washington Commanders (NiA)--Myles Cole DE, Texas Tech
140. Los Angeles Chargers (Liz)--Khristian Boyd DL, Northern Iowa
141. Carolina Panthers (NiA)--Jaylan Ford LB, Texas
142. Carolina Panthers (Liz)--Tyrone Tracy Jr. RB, Purdue
143. Atlanta Falcons (NiA)--Jaden Hicks S, Washington
144. Buffalo Bills (Liz)--Kitan Oladapo S, Oregon State
145. Denver Broncos (NiA)--Nelson Ceaser Edge, Houston
146. Tennessee Titans (Liz)--Beau Brade S, Maryland
147. Denver Broncos (NiA)--Frank Gore Jr. RB, Southern Mississippi
148. Las Vegas Raiders (Liz)--Caedan Wallace OT/G, Penn State
149. Cincinnati Bengals (NiA)--Nehemiah Pritchett CB, Auburn
150. New Orleans Saints (Liz)--Michael Pratt QB, Tulane
151. Indianapolis Colts (NiA)--Malik Mustapha S, Wake Forest
152. Washington Commanders (Liz)--D.J. James CB, Auburn
153. Jacksonville Jaguars (NiA)--Tanor Bortolini C, Wisconsin
154. Los Angeles Rams (Liz)--Dominique Hampton S, Washington
155. Los Angeles Rams (NiA)--Walter Rouse OT, Oklahoma
156. Cleveland Browns (Liz)--Brennan Jackson DE, Washington State
157. Minnesota Vikings (NiA)--Isaiah Adams IOL, Illinois
158. Miami Dolphins (Liz)--Hunter Nourzad C, Penn State
159. Kansas City Chiefs (NiA)--Josh Newton CB, TCU
160. Buffalo Bills (Liz)--Andru Phillips CB, Kentucky
161. Philadelphia Eagles (NiA)--Sione Vaki S, Utah
162. Arizona Cardinals (Liz)--Xavier Thomas Edge, Clemson ✓
163. Buffalo Bills (NiA)--Gabe Hall DT, Baylor
164. Detroit Lions (Liz)--Khyree Jackson CB, Oregon
165. Baltimore Ravens (NiA)--Kalen King CB, Penn State
166. New York Giants (Liz)--Jarvis Brownlee Jr. CB, Louisville
167. Minnesota Vikings (NiA)--Kamal Hadden CB, Tennessee
168. New Orleans Saints (Liz)--Anthony Gould WR, Oregon
169. Green Bay Packers (NiA)--Edefuan Ulofoshio LB, Washington
170. New Orleans Saints (Liz)--M.J. Devonshire CB, Pittsburgh
171. Philadelphia Eagles (NiA)--Tykee Smith S, Georgia
172. Philadelphia Eagles (Liz)--Myles Harden CB, South Dakota
173. Kansas City Chiefs (NiA)--Dillon Johnson RB, Washington
174. Dallas Cowboys (Liz)--Ainias Smith WR, Texas A&M
175. New Orleans Saints (NiA)--Dallin Holker TE, Colorado State
176. San Francisco 49ers (Liz)--Willie Drew CB, Virginia State

Round 6:​

177. Minnesota Vikings (NiA)--Erick All TE, Iowa
178. Pittsburgh Steelers (Liz)--Jalen Sundell C/OL, North Dakota State
179. Seattle Seahawks (NiA)--Jordan Magee LB, Temple
180. New England Patriots (Liz)--Jared Wiley TE, TCU
181. Los Angeles Chargers (NiA)--Cornelius Johnson WR, Michigan
182. Tennessee Titans (Liz)--Tahj Washington WR, USC
183. New York Giants (NiA)--Marist Liufau OLB, Notre Dame
184. Miami Dolphins (Liz)--Jaden Crumedy DL, Mississippi State
185. New York Jets (NiA)--Fabien Lovett DL, Florida State
186. Arizona Cardinals (Liz)--Jordan Travis QB, Florida State
187. Atlanta Falcons (NiA)--Tyler Keegan G, Michigan
188. Houston Texans (Liz)--Blake Watson RB, Memphis
189. Houston Texans (NiA)--Javion Cohen IOL, Miami (Fla.)
190. New Orleans Saints (Liz)--Jordan Jefferson DT, LSU
191. Indianapolis Colts (NiA)--Curtis Jacobs LB, Penn State
192. Seattle Seahawks (Liz)--Jaylin Simpson DB, Auburn
193. New England Patriots (NiA)--Dylan Laube RB, New Hampshire
194. Cincinnati Bengals (Liz)--Kimani Vidal RB, Troy
195. Pittsburgh Steelers (NiA)--Jha'Quan Jackson WR, Tulane
196. Los Angeles Rams (Liz)--Kedon Slovis QB, BYU
197. Atlanta Falcons (NiA)--Javontae Jean-Baptiste Edge, Notre Dame
198. Miami Dolphins (Liz)--Ryan Flournoy WR, Southeast Missouri State
199. New Orleans Saints (NiA)--Logan Lee DT, Iowa
200. Buffalo Bills (Liz)--Marcus Harris DT, Auburn
201. Detroit Lions (NiA)--Layden Robinson G, Texas A&M
202. Green Bay Packers (Liz)--Braelon Allen RB, Wisconsin
203. Denver Broncos (NiA)--Johnny Dixon CB, Penn State PICK TRADED TO N.Y. JETS FOR #256
204. Buffalo Bills (Liz)--Joe Milton QB, Tennessee
205. Detroit Lions (NiA)--Decamerion Richardson CB, Mississippi State
206. Cleveland Browns (Liz)--Josh Proctor S, Ohio State
207. Denver Broncos (NiA)--Braiden McGregor Edge, Michigan
208. Las Vegas Raiders (Liz)--Tip Reiman TE, Illinois
209. Los Angeles Rams (NiA)--Jaylen Harrell Edge, Michigan
210. Philadelphia Eagles (Liz)--Zion Tupuola-Fetui Edge, Washington
211. San Francisco 49ers (NiA)--Dwight McGlothern CB, Arkansas
212. Jacksonville Jaguars (Liz)--Rasheen Ali RB, Marshall
213. Los Angeles Rams (NiA)--Tyrice Knight LB, UTEP
214. Cincinnati Bengals (Liz)--Tory Taylor P, Iowa
215. San Francisco 49ers (NiA)--Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint WR, Georgia
216. Dallas Cowboys (Liz)--Delmar Glaze G, Maryland
217. Los Angeles Rams (NiA)--Nate Lee C, Miami (Fla.)
218. Baltimore Ravens (Liz)--Julian Pearl OT, Illinois
219. Green Bay Packers (NiA)--Brevyn Spann-Ford TE, Minnesota
220. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Liz)--Qwan'tez Stiggers CB, Toronto Argonauts (CFL)

Round 7:​

221. Kansas City Chiefs (NiA)--Eric Watts Edge, Connecticut
222. Washington Commanders (Liz)--Cedric Johnson Edge, Ole Miss
223. Las Vegas Raiders (NiA)--Travis Glover OT, Georgia State
224. Cincinnati Bengals (Liz)--Darius Muasau LB, UCLA
225. Los Angeles Chargers (NiA)--A.J. Barner TE, Michigan
226. Arizona Cardinals (Liz)--Sundiata Anderson Edge, Grambling State
227. Tennessee Titans (NiA)--C.J. Hanson IOL, Holy Cross
228. Baltimore Ravens (Liz)--Cody Schrader RB, Missouri
229. Las Vegas Raiders (NiA)--Ty'Ron Hopper LB, Missouri
230. Minnesota Vikings (Liz)--Bub Means WR, Pittsburgh
231. New England Patriots (NiA)--Jordan Whittington WR, Texas
232. Minnesota Vikings (Liz)--Trente Jones OL, Michigan
233. Dallas Cowboys (NiA)--Jowon Briggs DL, Cincinnati
234. Indianapolis Colts (Liz)--Isaiah Davis RB, South Dakota State
235. Seattle Seahawks (NiA)--J.D. Bertrand LB, Notre Dame
236. Jacksonville Jaguars (Liz)--Joshua Karty K, Stanford
237. Cincinnati Bengals (NiA)--Tanner McLachlan TE, Arizona ✓
238. Houston Texans (Liz)--Amin Dankwah OT, Howard
239. New Orleans Saints (NiA)--Giovanni Manu OT, British Columbia
240. Carolina Panthers (Liz)--Keith Randolph Jr. DL, Illinois
241. Miami Dolphins (NiA)--Tyler Owens S, Texas Tech
242. Tennessee Titans (Liz)--Kalen DeLoach LB, Florida State
243. Cleveland Browns (NiA)--Brady Latham G/C, Arkansas
244. Dallas Cowboys (Liz)--Travis Clayton OT, England
245. Green Bay Packers (NiA)--LaDarius Henderson G, Michigan
246. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Liz)--Bayron Matos OT, Dominican Republic
247. Houston Texans (NiA)--Steele Chambers LB, Ohio State
248. Buffalo Bills (Liz)--Jase McClellan RB, Alabama
249. Detroit Lions (NiA)--Isaiah Williams WR, Illinois
250. Baltimore Ravens (Liz)--Gottlieb Ayedze G, Maryland
251. San Francisco 49ers (NiA)--Emani Bailey RB, TCU
252. Tennessee Titans (Liz)--Terrell Allen Edge, Tennessee State
253. Los Angeles Chargers (NiA)--Tatum Bethune LB, Florida State
254. Los Angeles Rams (Liz)--Nathaniel Watson LB, Mississippi State
255. Green Bay Packers (NiA)--Jalen Coker WR, Holy Cross
256. New York Jets (Liz)--Devin Leary QB, Kentucky PICK TRADED TO DENVER FOR #203
257. New York Jets (NiA)--Akeem Dent CB/S, Florida State

 

[NoleinATL]

100% in

Anyone who wants to join, pick your team, and the OP will update the list until we start. If you want two teams, go ahead and list each one, as we will not get 32 people

2024 NFL Draft Order

1. Chicago Bears
2. Washington Commander
3. New England Patriots
4. Arizona Cardinals
5. Los Angeles Chargers
6. New York Giants
7. Tennessee Titans
8. Atlanta Falcons
9. Chicago Bears
10. New York Jets
11. Minnesota Vikings
12. Denver Broncos *
13. Las Vegas Raiders *
14. New Orleans Saints
15. Indianapolis Colts
16. Seattle Seahawks
17. Jacksonville Jaguars
18. Cincinnati Bengals
19. Los Angeles Rams
20. Pittsburgh Steelers
21. Miami Dolphins
22. Philadelphia Eagles
23. Houston Texans
24. Dallas Cowboys
25. Green Bay Packers
26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
27. Arizona Cardinals
28. Buffalo Bills
29. Detroit Lions
30. Baltimore Ravens
31. San Francisco 49ers
32. Kansas City Chiefs

 

[NoleinATL]

So we are starting Friday, pick your team if you want to be a part of the draft

 

[NoleLizards]

The first pick will be on the clock at noon on Wednesday 3/20 in order to allow for free agency to shake out. Hopefully some of you sign up so it's not just @NoleinATL and me making the selections. If anyone does so, we'll go over the (rather simple) rules at that point.

You'll have until Tuesday evening if you wish to join. You'll have at least 24 hours to make your pick(s) before possibly getting skipped. I'll provide more details if anyone besides NiA and I are participating.

 

[NoleLizards]

@fsu67810 Da Bears have the first and ninth overall pick if you're interested in joining. 😎

 

[NoleinATL]

@NoleLizards

Word on the street is the Bears may have concerns with Williams, he seems to support guys who fall apart in the 4th quarter.

 

[NoleLizards]

The 2024 PGSF NFL Mock Draft is now officially open. @NoleinATL You are on the clock, sir.

Good luck!

 

[NoleinATL]

With the first pick in the 2024 PGSF NFL Mock Draft The Chicago Bears select:

The Bears go with the #1 overall prospect Caleb Williams, easy choice and the team is making moves to put him in a position to win. Noticed Keenan Allen at his pro day today, so hard to believe it will be any other pick.

write up from

Daniel Jeremiah'​

Williams has average height and a thick/muscular build. He is a natural thrower and delivers the ball with accuracy/velocity from a variety of platforms and arm angles. He can power the ball into tight windows while stationary or on the move. He can also finesse the ball when needed. He has lightning-quick hands in the RPO game. He’s a dynamic runner and makes defenders look silly in space. He can run by you, through you or make you miss. He did fall into some bad habits at USC during the 2023 season. He hunts big plays and always looks to exhaust plays with his legs instead of taking checkdowns. Also, he can get too loose with the ball when creating, swinging it wildly, which leads to fumbles. His creativity makes him special, but he will need to play more on schedule at the next level. Overall, Williams has areas in which he needs to improve, but he has franchise-altering upside.

 

[NoleLizards]

With the second pick, the Washington Commanders select:

Jayden Daniels QB, LSU.

It was already assumed that under a new regime and with having the #2 pick that Washington would draft a new franchise quarterback. This became a virtual certainly with last season's starter Sam Howell being traded. The only remaining question is which signal-caller would be selected. The acquisition of Marcus Mariota to be the new backup provides a hint that new OC Kliff Kingsbury prefers the more mobile option as opposed to the more classic pocket passer in Drake Maye.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst

Overview​

With five seasons of starting experience under his belt, Daniels possesses a rare blend of playmaking talent and command from the pocket. He’s tall but slender, so there will be concerns about durability, considering how often he ran in college. However, teams must also recognize that he has no issues sitting in the pocket and working through progressions as a platform thrower with good mechanics and footwork. Daniels possesses the football intelligence to get himself protected and take care of the football with quality decision-making. He’s an accurate passer over the first two levels and throws with anticipation to slice and dice zone coverages. He had noticeable issues putting deep throws on faster receivers in stride, though. He lacks ideal size and arm talent, but he’s much more capable as a runner and passer than most of the quarterbacks who have moved on to the next level lately. Daniels is positioned to become a very good NFL starter in a spread-based passing attack.

Strengths​

• Game is marked by command of the field and football intelligence.
• Recognizes pre-snap pressure and has a plan to counter it.
• Gets everyone on the same page when setting up protection.
• Full-field reader with good rhythm through his progressions.
• Willing to plant his flag and attack defenses from the pocket.
• Maintains passing platform when sliding around the pocket.
• Has made footwork as a passer a priority during his career.
• Anticipatory thrower with accuracy and feel for attacking zone windows.
• Has the running talent to turn scrambles into back-breaking plays.
• Has the speed to keep defenses honest with zone-read concepts.

Weaknesses​

• Slender frame will lead to durability concerns.
• Lack of zip creates danger for him outside the numbers.
• Will drop his eyes in the pocket to scan for exits.
• Below-average push and placement on deep throws.
• Substantially more accurate on rollouts than as a scrambling passer.
• Has a tendency to fall off of fade throws, leaving them short.

@NoleinATL You're up, buddy.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 3rd pick, The New England Patriots select :

Drake Maye EB UNC

While raw, the guy has all the tools to develop into a top-tier quarterback, and the Pats need a reboot after two rough years and a coaching change. A veteran QB to give Maye a year to learn the NFL game would be ideal,


By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst

Overview​

Challenging evaluation with top-flight measurables and tools but inconsistencies that create a lower floor. Maye’s size and arm talent jump off the tape immediately. He can make every throw, but he will try to make throws that he shouldn’t have attempted. The gunslinger mentality creates a fearlessness that can turn into interceptions, but it will also allow him to win in tight windows and make splash throws that get crowds (and evaluators) on their feet. He leaves too many throws on the back shoulder or hip and needs to learn when to take some sauce off the throw to make it more catchable. There is an undeniable energy to Maye’s game that can create momentum or turn chaotic when plays come off-schedule for him. The combination of traits and tape make him a boom/bust prospect who might need patient management and coaching to help shepherd him toward his potential.

Strengths​

• Two years of starting experience and still very moldable.
• Two-time team captain with prototypical size and frame.
• Ball comes off his hand with tight spiral and good velocity.
• Can expedite operation time and release when pressure closes in.
• Unquestionable arm talent to connect from challenging angles.
• Fearless passer with the guts and arm to whip the ball into tight windows.
• Quick pocket climber with discipline to continue searching for targets.
• Mobility to slide free of pocket traffic and toughness to go get needed yards.
• Showed flashes of the clutch gene during his career.

Weaknesses​

• Struggles with the chess match against pressure looks.
• Inefficient throwing motion creates inconsistencies in accuracy.
• Receivers had to chase too many intermediate throws into the turf.
• Leaves the ball behind crossing routes and RPO targets.
• Can get uncomfortable when initial reads aren’t clear and clean.
• Sixteen career interceptions were mostly earned with poor decisions or throws.

Sources Tell Us​

“He’s big and mobile and can sling it around but he didn’t play consistent football (in 2023). I thought his processing was a problem but it was hard to tell sometimes because of how his line played in front of him.” - AFC personnel director

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 4th pick, the Arizona Cardinals select Marvin Harrison Jr. WR, Ohio State.

IRL this seems like a prime spot for a trade down (but there are no trades in this PGSF mock). The Cardinals' roster needs work throughout, and there are a handful of teams who would be interested moving up to this fourth position in order to choose a QB. Here, Arizona stays put and gives Kyler Murray a new #1 receiver with an uber-talented 6'4" stud who has been groomed since childhood to play the position at the highest level.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
CeeDee Lamb

Overview​

Harrison comes from impressive NFL bloodlines and possesses similarities that made his father, Pro Football Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, special. Harrison can run but isn’t a burner. What makes him tough to handle is his consistent play speed paired with quality salesmanship in his routes. He’s able to uncover no matter where he’s aligned or which part of the field his assignment takes him to, and he is capable of finishing catches in a crowd. Harrison can be sudden while working possession routes, and he’s well qualified to beat any opponent with his ball skills if the battle heads deep. Harrison is a touchdown champ with a variety of ways to excel, and that characteristic figures to follow him into the pros. He has the traits and tools to win in all three phases of the route and on all three levels of the field. He’s a pedigree prospect and a Day 1 starter with high-end production expected.

Strengths​

• Exceptional production as a high-volume, high-impact target.
• Runs routes with threatening pace and is sudden out of breaks.
• Good rhythm and body control snapping off comeback routes.
• Uses speed changes to create indecisiveness in cornerbacks.
• Elite scramble talent to uncover wide open when play breaks down.
• Plays with pro feet working his boundary catches.
• Highly focused deep-ball tracker with above-average ball skills.
• Can make late body adjustments with sudden hands to bring in the catch.
• Elegant leap and spin to snatch throws over defender’s heads.

Weaknesses​

• Room for improvement with release against press.
• Allowed grabby coverage too much leeway in disrupting his routes.
• Needs better route efficiency without as much stutter-stepping.
• Might not have enough blow-by speed to consistently outrun NFL corners.
• Had uncharacteristic drops in 2023.

(All apologies for no pic being posted. I haven't been able to figure out how to do so on this phone...and unfortunately this site doesn't provide any gifs of young Mr. Harrison.)

@NoleinATL You may fire when ready.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 5th pick in the 2024 PGSF NFL Mock Draft, The Los Angeles Chargers select:

Notre Dame OTJoe Alt


While the Chargers have numerous needs after letting many offensive players go this offseason, I just can not draft a WR this high, I do not care how many ugly tweets, calls, and emails I receive. Alt is a great prospect at a premium position who will be a starter for 10+ years.


By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Mike McGlinchey

Overview​

Long-limbed team captain with NFL-quality tackle play coursing through his veins. Alt plays a disciplined brand of football, avoiding penalties and working with fluid transitions from entry to sustain to finish as a run blocker. Alt is a capable drive blocker with the foot quickness to play onto the second level. He struggles to bend enough to compensate for his height and ends up playing with waist-bending and forward lean that can hamper his anchor against bull-rushers. Alt has quick hands and outstanding arm extension, promoting his ability to sustain blocks and redirect pass-rushers. He’s a good technician who carries himself with confidence from snap to snap. Alt clearly has the talent to become a Day 1 starter on the left side, but he’ll need to clean up his habit of leaning forward, or he could be in for some bumpy action early on.

Strengths​

• Father, John Alt, was a Pro Bowl NFL tackle and brother, Mark Alt, is an NHL player.
• Creates pre-snap plan for combo blocks and is rhythmic getting from one to two.
• Adjusts stride length and footwork to capture first contact with balance.
• Maintains feel and keeps feet moving to mirror and ride opponents for block sustain.
• Scores early with stiff right hand into rusher’s inside shoulder in pass pro.
• Feet are fluid and instinctive to consistently mirror edge-to-edge rush challenges.
• Uses arm extension to successfully steer arc runners and inside counters off the track.
• Technically sound with good instincts to withstand attacks from twists.

Weaknesses​

• Gets off the snap with excessive forward lean in an attempt to lower pad level.
• Leverage-based opponents can stand and stall drive blocking attempts.
• Too much waist-bending and not enough chin-tuck in protection posture.
• Beaten by late movement when feet start to sink too deep.
• High center of gravity could make it hard to find emergency brakes against NFL power rushers.

Sources Tell Us​

“I don’t love the [Mike] McGlinchey comparison because I thought Mike was a better pure run blocker, but Alt is just a better all-around prospect. I think Eric Fisher is the better comparison for who Alt is.” - AFC personnel executive

 

[NoleLizards]

Not shocked because Alt isn't a good pick... It's just that all the so-called experts have the Chargers taking a receiver now. Jim Harbaugh does love his hogmollies up front, so you could well be right.

This draft has officially begun...

 

[NoleinATL]

Not shocked because Alt isn't a good pick... It's just that all the so-called experts have the Chargers taking a receiver now. Jim Harbaugh does love his hogmollies up front, so you could well be right.

This draft has officially begun...

The Chiefs won 2 Super Bowls after they traded this generation's "greatest" wide receiver.
A quarterback with time to throw the ball is more important than a receiver. Give me the big uglies all day, every day, when building a team.

I was close to making a huge jump for a player but went with the safer pick
Draft On

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 6th pick, the New York football Giants select:

Malik Nabers WR, LSU.

The Gents' brain trust seems hell-bent on sticking with Daniel Jones as its quarterback, so here they select Nabers to (hopefully) be the first true #1 receiver for the franchise since fellow LSU product Odell Beckham during his heyday. Pairing him with the speedy Jalin Hyatt, who they drafted a year ago, should provide a lot to deal with for opposing secondaries and ample opportunity for Jones's development.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Justin Jefferson

Overview​

Nabers is the next big thing coming out of LSU’s receiver room, with the pure explosiveness and talent to be mentioned in the same breath as former LSU stars starring in the league today. Despite a lack of polish and precision as a route-runner, Nabers’ gliding movements and speed alterations seem to disguise the top-end speed and separation potential that await opposing coverages. He’s a bouncy leaper with the athletic ability to make the impossible catches possible. He tucks away accurate throws and displays the toughness and play strength to fight for tight-window victories over the middle. Nabers will need to address his tendency to track and play deep throws with finesse, or his early advantages will turn into 50/50 battles. He can play all three receiver spots and has the profile to become a productive, high-volume target over all three levels as a potential WR1.

Strengths​

• Skills and traits needed to produce effectively on all three levels as a pro.
• Glides and burns past defenders deep or pushes them into retreat for easy stop routes.
• Changes speeds inside the route to tilt defenders off the break point.
• Good hand-fighting and post-up talent to win positioning battles against big corners.
• Frames up defender to finish contested catches underneath.
• Premium leaper with contortionist’s talent for in-air adjustments on jump balls.
• Catches off-frame balls with strong, sudden hands.
• Has grab-and-go acceleration to catch it short and take it long.

Weaknesses​

• Runs free into big spaces but needs additional route schooling.
• Inconsistent hip sink to snap routes off at crisp angles.
• Would benefit from eliminating wasted motion in early phases of the route.
• Lackadaisical to capture positioning and stack coverage behind him.

Sources Tell Us​

“(Ja’Marr) Chase was more of a dude physically and (Justin) Jefferson was already really skilled when he came out, but you can see some flashes of both of those guys with the way [Nabers] plays.” - AFC personnel executive

You're up @NoleinATL .

 

[NoleinATL]

With the seventh pick in the 2024 PGSF NFL Mock Draft, The Tennessee Titans select:

Olumuyiwa Fashanu OT Penn St

There was a huge argument between the owner and GM about this pick, but Olumuyiwa is the safer pick and has consistently ranked among the top 10 picks.


By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Cam Robinson

Overview​

A toolsy two-year starter with loads of potential, Fashanu is still learning to be less mechanical and more instinctive with his play. At this point, he could impose his traits upon most collegiate opponents and stack the deck in his favor. As a pro, he will need to play with better control and more consistent technique to prevent being countered and beaten by NFL talent. There is still room to get bigger and stronger, but he’s already playing with good focus and drive as a run blocker. Issues with footwork and landmarks can be corrected with more coaching. He’s long and has really effective recovery agility to help keep his quarterback clean, but inconsistent pass slides and excessive leaning could make things harder than they need to be early on. Overall, the work ethic, traits and tape make it easier to project Fashanu’s continued improvement into a very good left tackle.

Strengths​

• Prototypical height/weight/length with proportional mass as left tackle.
• Team captain; head coach called him a “high production, low maintenance” guy.
• Grip strength can shut down a rush once he gets locked in.
• Can swivel open outside half to mirror around the arc and keep the pocket closed.
• Uses technique and bend to help stall rush momentum and drop anchor.
• Fits up base blocks with good strike, leverage and drive.
• Improved fight and strain in power swaps at point of attack from 2022 to 2023.
• Controlled lateral slides help cut off moving targets as second-level blocker.
• Length is best served as a recovery mechanism to corral leaky opponents.

Weaknesses​

• Inconsistent slide width creates inconsistent body control in his mirror.
• Needs better patience and timing to eliminate lunging with his punch.
• Forward lean into rushers will get him countered as a pro.
• Must learn to step down to B-gap sooner to protect against T/E twists.
• Oversteps landmarks, diminishing leverage and control as run blocker.
• Needs to improve footwork/positioning post-contact to improve block finishing.
• Struggles to reach back-side cutoffs due to faulty technique off the snap.

Sources Tell Us​

“He’s a good football player and he’s going to keep getting better, but he’s got areas to coach up. But you love that he went up against two really good rushers in practice, so he knows what it looks like.” - NFC personnel executive

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 8th Pick the Atlanta Falcons select Dallas Turner Edge, Alabama.

The Falcons seem to have constructed a roster capable of challenging for the top spot in the underwhelming NFC South. The glaring weakness that remains in achieving this is the lack of a pass rush. Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree, who were responsible for 13 of a meager 42 sacks Atlanta amassed a season ago, have departed...so addressing the edge is an urgent priority. Enter the freakish Turner as an obvious solution at OLB in Raheem Morris' 3-4 defense.

Analysis
By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Brian Burns
Overview
Long and athletic with the explosive traits needed to become an impactful NFL pass rusher. Turner’s first-step quickness and elite closing burst are important building blocks, but he still needs to work on his process from Point A to Point B. He hasn’t learned to create the space and angles needed to consistently attack the edges, but that should come with better hand development and a more diversified approach. A team would be wise to widen him out and allow him a better runway to ignite his burst and overwhelm tackles with his speed. He’s added 20 pounds since coming to Alabama, but he struggles at times to stack and shed run blockers or set a firm edge. Turner’s frame and game are much less developed than Will Anderson Jr.’s coming out of Alabama last year, so it could take time for him to make his mark as a starting 3-4 outside linebacker.

Strengths
History of playing for winning programs in high school and college.
Sudden hands are first into blocker’s frame as edge-setter.
Disruptive initial quickness to beat blocks and stop runs in the backfield.
Speed and stride to stress offensive tackles in race to the rush turn.
Builds tremendous momentum at the turn if allowed too much space.
Possesses elite closing burst chasing down backs and sacking passers.
Athleticism to soak up play-extending quarterbacks with his secondary rush.
Able to peel off and drag running back into the flat in coverage.
Weaknesses
Below-average anchor to prevent being displaced by force.
Needs better play strength to improve block take-on.
Doesn’t always play with ideal urgency when not directly challenged.
Takes too many shots at winning rush with speed-to-power.
Needs to become a more skilled hand-fighter at the top of the rush.
Rush is currently missing instincts and counters associated with high sack production.
Sources Tell Us

“He’s such a talented athlete. One of the biggest mistakes people make is looking past athletic ability and focusing too much on technique or polish when they come out. Just look for ‘dudes’ and coach the rest of it.” - NFC executive

@NoleinATL You're up.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the ninth pick in the 2024 PGSF NFL Mock Draft The Chicago Bears select:

Jared Verse, DE Florida State University

I think Verse will continue to get better as a player, the way he ended the season last year showed how dominant he can be, in all facets of the game. The Bears made this an easier choice when they traded for Allen, as a receiver can be had in the 2nd or 3rd round.

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
LaMarr Woodley

Overview​

Talented edge defender with the field demeanor, athleticism and skill set to rack up statistics in key categories fairly early in his NFL career. Verse dominated at Albany and then showed an ability to do the same at Florida State. He’s twitchy and compact, with explosiveness featured at the point of attack and in his upfield burst as a pass rusher. He’s great with his hands and does a nice job of diagnosing plays quickly and staying out of the clinches of offensive linemen looking to snatch him up. Verse's ability to threaten the edge only bolsters his hellish speed-to-power bull-rushing ability to run tackles deep into the pocket. He can play up or down and should be in consideration for all defensive schemes looking to add a safe, high-impact edge.

Strengths​

• Thrives with winning first step and unstoppable energy.
• Quick to close distance and mitigate his length disadvantage.
• Controls bigger blockers at the point with leverage, hands and power.
• Instincts allow for rapid diagnosis and attack of play development.
• Advanced GPS into the pocket, with multiple available rush routes.
• Uses sudden, combative hand work to beat the punch and grease the edge.
• Bend and strength to corner tightly to passer at efficient angles.
• Instantly converts his twitchy get-off into a menacing bull rush.

Weaknesses​

• Lacks ideal size and length that teams covet.
• Unable to anchor deep when drive blockers get into him.
• Below-average footwork and wrap-up leads to missed tackles.
• Offensive tackles stall his rush plan with a firm punch.
• Has moments where rush wears down against size.

Sources Tell Us​

“He really sees the game well and he’s got the athleticism to go with it. I think he’ll be one of the best defensive players to come out of this draft.” - NFC executive

You are on the clock @NoleLizards

 

[NoleLizards]

With the tenth pick, the New York J-E-T-S JETS! JETS! JETS! select:

Rome Odunze WR, Washington.

Joe Douglas and company are delighted to see their 1-C receiver still on the board at 10 and scurry up to the podium to choose Odunze. Ancient Aaron needs all the help he can get in order to succeed, and an abysmal offensive line was reconstructed during free agency. Here NY gets Rodgers a talented and sizable target who should step in immediately as a co-number one to complement Garrett Wilson.

There were linemen in this deep class who were heavily considered for building depth and prepping for the future, but a pivot was quickly made for Odunze with the Jets in win now mode in a stacked AFC.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Larry Fitzgerald

Overview​

A team captain with good size and elite ball skills, Odunze consistently dominated his competition. While most receivers look to open separation windows with speed or route running, Odunze seems to relish jump balls and contested catches. He shines in all aspects of ball skills, including positioning, body control, hand strength, timing and mid-air adjustments. He has a tendency to cruise through routes rather than working with attention to detail and pacing. He was a decorated high school sprinter, so speed should not be an issue in the pros. He’s a high-volume target on the next level that play-callers can utilize to mismatch finesse cornerbacks. Elite ball skills are often the secret sauce for top NFL receivers, so it should not surprise if Odunze is a Day 1 starter who becomes a top-flight WR1.

Strengths​

• Carries the frame and play strength of an NFL WR1.
• Lacks rare speed but should be considered a playmaker.
• Good separation talent.
• Early eyes on the football to find positioning as quickly as possible.
• All-star ball-winner with magnificent body control and acrobatic ball skills.
• Brilliant job of bodying defenders and controlling air traffic.
• Is going to be too strong and too skilled for some defenders.
• Catches with strong, reliable hands away from his frame.

Weaknesses​

• Rushes through early stages of his double moves.
• Upright and gradual into top of the route on comebacks.
• Attention to detail is missing from his routes.
• Too content taking 50/50 battles rather than operating at top speed.
• Room for greater effort as a run blocker.

Sources Tell Us​

“Team captain. Good leader. Tough. Dependable. (Michael) Penix would just fling it up in the air sometimes and (Odunze) just went and got it. He’s my favorite player on the West Coast” - NFC regional scout

@NoleinATL You're up again, sir.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the tenth pick, the New York J-E-T-S JETS! JETS! JETS! select:

I saw a tweet earlier that the Jets are bringing in JT for a meeting

 

[NoleLizards]

I saw a tweet earlier that the Jets are bringing in JT for a meeting

View embedded media

Vegas would be an appropriate landing spot since the Noles are now the Raiders of cfb.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 11th pick the Minnesota Vikings select:

JJ McCarthy, QB Michigan

I do not love or even like this pick, but everything indicates the Vikings are going to make this pick after losing Cousins and signing Sam Darnold ( ugly QB room next year), so going too far off a script doesn't seem logical.




By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst

Overview​

Enigmatic quarterback lacking the measurables and splash throws associated with early round quarterbacks but possessing elements that require more study and consideration. McCarthy lacks frame thickness and a plus arm. He’s fairly poised in the pocket but is average as a pocket passer. His ball placement and timing need to improve to help mitigate an average operation time due to a windup release. McCarthy doesn’t seek to play out of structure but is fairly consistent at making positive plays when it happens and ramps up his focus late in games and on third downs. He is confident and seems to have the ability to take slights and digest it as competitive fuel. McCarthy should continue to improve as a passer, but he fails to stand out in many of the areas that tend to be predictive of top-level success in the NFL.

Strengths​

• Plays with a chip on his shoulder and intensifies focus when needed.
• Plenty of experience working under center in pro-style passing scheme.
• Won’t hesitate to slide and find new launch points when pressure builds.
• Adequate ability to locate throwing windows versus zone.
• Makes drive throws between defenders with good decisiveness.
• Delivers the ball smoothly on rollouts and in scramble mode.
• One of the draft’s most efficient quarterbacks operating out of structure.
• Toughness to deliver throws when taking a hit and squeeze out extra yards as runner.

Weaknesses​

• Sluggish getting through progressions and can get stuck on first read.
• Modest arm strength might be magnified by windup in his delivery.
• Ball placement on tape belies completion percentage on the stat sheet.
• Leaves throws behind moving targets, allowing defenders to challenge catches.
• Deep balls need to come out quicker and with more air under them.
• Timing improved during the season but still crowds receivers to coverage.
• Average escapability as a runner when scrambling.

@NoleLizards you are on the clock

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 12th pick, the Denver Broncos select:

Bo Nix QB, Oregon.

1) The Broncos' QB room is currently compromised of Jarrett Stidham and Ben DiNucci.

2) Denver has only 5 picks in this draft and no second-rounder. Nix has a second-round grade.

3) Nix's measurables are eerily similar to those of Drew Brees...who enjoyed a HOF-level career under Sean Payton in New Orleans. Nix had a ridiculous completion percentage of over 70% in each of his final two seasons at Oregon.

...So basically, this is a reach on paper but one Paton & Payton really don't have the choice to avoid with J.J. McCarthy just taken off the board.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Tony Romo

Overview​

Rare five-year starting quarterback whose play has matured in front of our eyes. Nix displays the accuracy, arm talent and athleticism consistent with today’s brand of pro quarterback. He can be punctual in getting the ball out at the top of his drop or he can work through progressions and beat defenses with second-reaction plays. He throws with good velocity and puts the ball on the money when throwing on the move. Nix has shown great improvement with his pocket poise. He’s capable of moving the sticks as a scrambler or as part of the running game. Some of his gaudy production has been driven by the Oregon offense’s design, but his talent clearly stands out. I’ve harbored bias from watching the overwhelmed version of Nix during his Auburn days, but as the saying goes, “tape don’t lie.” Nix appears more than ready to attack the league with an NFL-caliber skill set.

Strengths​

• Good pre-snap recognition for expedited post-snap itinerary.
• Big hands to manipulate defenses with aggressive pump fakes.
• Shows ability to work through options and find what he likes.
• Generates quality velocity from a sudden, compact release.
• Ball comes out of his hand with good pace and without much effort.
• Impressive run-and-rip talent throwing accurately on the move.
• Play-extender with arm talent to win with secondary action as passer.
• Internal clock and athleticism help him avoid sacks.
• Toughness and talent to move the sticks on called runs.

Weaknesses​

• Nearly 30 percent of his passes in 2023 were thrown behind the line of scrimmage, per Pro Football Focus.
• Tends to short-arm throws when blitz is leaking in.
• Decision-making can take a hit when he extends the play.
• Left easy touchdowns on the field due to overthrows.
• Bucket throws will come out a little flat.
• Needs to do a better job of throwing receivers away from coverage.

Sources Tell Us​

“He’s so much more confident than he was when he came in. The only thing you worry about a little bit is how he will respond when he’s outside the comfort of that (Oregon) offense. Does he play with the same confidence?" - NFC area scout

@NoleinATL You're up.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 13th pick in The Las Vegas Raiders select

Quinyon Mitchell, CB Toledo

After the Raiders secured Wilkins, the secondary became the position of need to improve the defense. Mitchell offers a versatile player who plays with a physicality new HC Pierce will covet.


By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Steven Nelson

Overview​

Mitchell possesses a gumbo of traits, with size, strength and speed filling up the pot. He’s built like a running back, tackles like a safety and has the ball skills of a cornerback. Mitchell can play in a variety of coverages and was the clear-cut top cornerback at the Senior Bowl when working against the top receivers in practice. While he needs to trace a more efficient path when hounding the route, his burst to close and physicality at the catch point could create tougher throwing windows for quarterbacks. Mitchell’s traits, play demeanor and special-teams potential should make him attractive to teams in the market for CB help.

Strengths​

• Well-built with broad shoulders and natural physicality.
• Feet are fairly nimble and agile to change direction with routes.
• Postures up into pass-catcher’s frame and claws at catch point with success.
• Outstanding burst to close for quick recovery and playmaking.
• Sees what he tackles in run support and wraps the legs.
• Tackling and speed to become a top-notch gunner on punt teams.

Weaknesses​

• Can get in trouble by declaring his hips too soon.
• Still learning to maintain feel for routes in man coverage.
• Eye balance between quarterback and route is inconsistent.
• Average route anticipation can get him behind at the break point.
• Will get caught behind bigger downfield targets, from a positioning standpoint.

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 14th pick the New Orleans Saints select J.C. Latham OT, Alabama.

Former 19th overall draft selection Trevor Penning has been decidedly mediocre since taking over the Saints' left tackle spot, and it's past time for an upgrade. That upgrade comes in the form of a 6'6" 342-pound behemoth who possesses remarkable agility and nimbleness for a man of his appreciable size. Derek Carr might be the happiest man in Louisiana.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Jawaan Taylor

Overview​

Bulldozer in human form with the upper- and lower-body power to forcibly evacuate run lanes and instantly upgrade a team’s ground attack. Latham's body type is girthy, and he has elite drive-blocking talent. He has operated in a variety of run schemes but will be an average move blocker both laterally and when climbing to the second level. His pass sets are well-balanced with good initial quickness and active hands. He unleashes lefts and rights and mirrors effectively after contact but gets beaten by inside moves when he over-sets. He has the length and hand strength to shut rushers down but needs to become more comfortable setting diagonally rather than vertically to avoid sinking too deeply into his own pocket. Latham’s size, strength and talent give him a chance to become a heralded right tackle or Pro Bowl-caliber guard.

Strengths​

• Built like a big NFL guard but protects like an NFL tackle.
• Quick into pass sets, maintaining posture and balance through the rep
• Syncs feet with active, independent hands for effective mirroring.
• Firm inside hand and consistent arm extension help negate rush momentum.
• Possesses true knock-back pop with heavy hands and explosive hips.
• Turns early advantages into quick knockouts with his furious finishes.
• Upper-body power to catch, turn and seal play-side edge setters.
• Grip strength allows him to save blocks that start to slip away.

Weaknesses​

• Average recognition and plan for pre-snap pressure looks.
• Opens outside shoulder early and sets too deeply into the pocket.
• Beaten inside by over-sets and down the middle by long-armed stick and drive.
• Over-sets to speed; can be beaten inside and long-armed.
• Can be impatient into first contact as run blocker, causing him to lunge.
• Below-average lateral quickness for backside cut-off blocks.
• Inconsistent entry angles make it tougher to seal and sustain his work.

Sources Tell Us​

“[This class is] deep at tackle and he’s going to end up being the best of the group. They are all going to get better, but he and (Joe) Alt are the only ones I see operating at a pro level and Latham is better than Alt.” - NFC personnel executive

@NoleinATL You're back up

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 15th pick The Colts select :

Terrion Arnold, CB, Bama


Colts need to improve the defensive backfield and Arnold plays with aggressiveness and mentality that should be a big help day 1

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Marshon Lattimore

Overview​

Twitchy man-cover corner with outstanding athletic ability and the skill set to bring in ball production at the professional level. Arnold possesses average size but plays with a desired level of aggression and competitiveness in both phases of his job. He’s fast and agile to match up against a variety of receiver flavors on the outside or in the slot. Arnold could squeeze routes tighter from off coverages and limit the yards after catch with a slightly different approach. His closing burst allows him to meet throws at the catch point with a natural feel for playing angles and attacking the receiver’s hands. Arnold will make mistakes with positioning and lose focus at times, but the athletic traits and nose for the ball create quality upside for him to be positioned as a CB1 within a couple of years.

Strengths​

• Sits under receiver’s chin and plays tight press man from snap to whistle.
• Agile feet and slippery hips accommodate challenging cross-face transitions.
• Smooth coming to balance and shadowing comebacks from side-shuffle.
• Very good top-end speed with above-average burst to close.
• Urgent ball-challenger, competing hard for both space and the ball.
• Standout ball production over two-year span as a starter.
• Jars throws loose with heavy strikes and is aggressive in run support.
• Works through blockers and gets after it as a tackler.

Weaknesses​

• Feet become indecisive when hit with release fakes.
• Lacks eye balance, losing sight of play development around him.
• Offers excessive cushion for easy catches from off-man and quarters.
• Room for improvement on jump-ball play and positioning.
• Needs to do a better job of dropping pad level and wrapping to tackle.

Sources Tell Us​

“Kool-Aid (McKinstry) is more reliable and consistent than Arnold, but I think Arnold has more pure cover talent.” - NFC regional scout


on the clock @NoleLizards

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 16th pick, the Seattle Seahawks select Troy Fautanu G, Washington.

The Seahawks have a grand total of three guards on their roster, none of which are particularly good. Here they grab a guy from up the street at UDub who played tackle in college but projects well kicking inside at the next level.

Funanatu put on a show displaying his athleticism in Combine drills.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst

Overview​

Ready-made brawler without an ounce of finesse in his game. Fautanu has starting experience at tackle and guard and is well-coached, but he will default to unruly hand-fighting when his technique gets away from him. He plays with average hand placement and can be beaten by length, but his tenacity and footwork keep him connected to base blocks. He’s capable of getting to reach blocks in zone and chaperoning running backs wide as a pulling guard on the next level. He’s a pop-and-reset pass puncher who uses active hands and feet to help with extended mirroring he’s forced into. Fautanu needs to prove he has the leverage and hand quickness to play inside, but all signs point toward him becoming a good future starter.

Strengths​

• Plays with lateral hustle to make back-side and play-side zone blocks.
• Works to center and land with firmness post-contact.
• Generates push from lower half on down blocks and double-teams.
• Sets out to rusher with good lateral quickness and knee bend.
• Maintains active hands and feet to stay in front of the rusher.
• Keeps weight back to avoid being countered off-balance in protection.

Weaknesses​

• Longer opponents gain extension and rid him of block sustain.
• Run-blocking technique eventually gets away from him.
• Has issues with hand slippage due to inconsistent placement.
• Slow to fire his pass punch and rarely closes rusher down with hand latch.
• Gets beaten inside when he’s too eager and oversets the edge.

Sources Tell Us​

“He comes from a good program and he’s a really hard-nosed player who can take coaching. Love the makeup.”- NFC national scout

@NoleinATL You're up. Can you believe that we're already halfway through the first round!

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 16th pick, the Seattle Seahawks select Troy Funanatu G, Washington.

The Seahawks have a grand total of three guards on their roster, none of which are particularly good. Here they grab a guy from up the street at UDub who played tackle in college but projects well kicking inside at the next level.

Funanatu put on a show displaying his athleticism in Combine drills.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst

Overview​

Ready-made brawler without an ounce of finesse in his game. Fautanu has starting experience at tackle and guard and is well-coached, but he will default to unruly hand-fighting when his technique gets away from him. He plays with average hand placement and can be beaten by length, but his tenacity and footwork keep him connected to base blocks. He’s capable of getting to reach blocks in zone and chaperoning running backs wide as a pulling guard on the next level. He’s a pop-and-reset pass puncher who uses active hands and feet to help with extended mirroring he’s forced into. Fautanu needs to prove he has the leverage and hand quickness to play inside, but all signs point toward him becoming a good future starter.

Strengths​

• Plays with lateral hustle to make back-side and play-side zone blocks.
• Works to center and land with firmness post-contact.
• Generates push from lower half on down blocks and double-teams.
• Sets out to rusher with good lateral quickness and knee bend.
• Maintains active hands and feet to stay in front of the rusher.
• Keeps weight back to avoid being countered off-balance in protection.

Weaknesses​

• Longer opponents gain extension and rid him of block sustain.
• Run-blocking technique eventually gets away from him.
• Has issues with hand slippage due to inconsistent placement.
• Slow to fire his pass punch and rarely closes rusher down with hand latch.
• Gets beaten inside when he’s too eager and oversets the edge.

Sources Tell Us​

“He comes from a good program and he’s a really hard-nosed player who can take coaching. Love the makeup.”- NFC national scout

@NoleinATL You're up. Can you believe that we're already halfway through the first round!

Like that pick

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 17th pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars select:

Brian Thomas Jr WR LSU

With Ridley leaving Lawrence has to have some weapons and Thomas is good value at this point. We are getting into is he or is he not area with Trevor, so have to give him weapons so Jags can make a decision.

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst

Overview​

Presents an appealing combination of size, length and speed with experience working inside and outside. Thomas will occasionally go through the motions as a route-runner, but the bend, athleticism and speed needed to get better are all in the toolbox. He’s elusive against press and can uncover quickly underneath, but he still needs to improve intermediate routes and play a little more physically when crowded to become well-rounded. Thomas rarely has issues generating separation deep and could be counted on as an NFL team’s designated deep guy early in his career. Thomas is unpolished but has projectable talent to become a WR1/2 in time.

Strengths​

• Good job of steering clear of press hands during his release.
• Short-area shake helps uncover for quick hitters underneath.
• Able to bend hips and sit in the chair at route breaks.
• Straight-line speed takes him into top position on go routes.
• Outstanding ball-tracker who can bring it in over his shoulder.
• Length and burst to run down and secure potential overthrows.
• Led nation with 17 receiving scores at a pace of one every four catches.

Weaknesses​

• Needs to pick up his route pace and salesmanship as a pro.
• Will battle occasional focus drops.
• Can avoid catch contact by working back to the throw.
• Fast but possesses average run-after-catch talent.
• Might need to ramp up physicality against clingy coverage.

@NoleLizards you are on the clock

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 18th pick the Cincinnati Bengals select Taliese Fuaga OT/G, Oregon State.

The Bengals have a dynamic franchise QB in Joe Burrow...but if they can't keep him on the field, then he obviously cannot be a factor. Jonah Williams has been lost in free agency, and he was never happy about being moved from left to right tackle anyway. Here Cincy gets a mauler who plays pissed off and projects as either a guard or right tackle.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Taylor Decker

Overview​

Beefy right tackle capable of playing at a high level despite his lack of ideal pad level and lower-body bend. Fuaga plays with a fairly aggressive disposition. He’s a one-pop blocker who struggles to clinch into his run blocks and is therefore forced to work overtime to sustain and finish. The pass protection technique is outstanding, and he possesses the athleticism to mirror and match edge-to-edge rush movements. Fuaga’s hand work is exceptional in pass pro and will need to remain so, because of his lack of desired range for recovering when beaten. A team could slide him to guard to improve its interior protection, but he’s best-suited at right tackle, where he should become a good starter.

Strengths​

• Glides into pass sets with controlled slides, ready hands and quiet upper body.
• Throws stiff right-left combinations, creating disruption for rusher.
• Hands are highly active through the rush, helping to keep opponent centered.
• Mirrors with fluidity, with little to no stall when changing direction.
• Flashes ability to dig in with leveraged hand strikes at point of attack.
• Gathers and adjusts his track to make his blocks in space.
• Smooth and accurate when working from block to block.

Weaknesses​

• Pops up tall off the snap and gets behind in back-side cutoffs.
• On first contact, tends to hit and bounce rather than hit and stick.
• His run blocking is much less organized and technical than his pass blocking.
• Doesn’t have the range in pass sets to succeed when tardy out of his stance.
• Occasional issues allowing weight to slide too far out on outside foot.
• Washington had some success beating his outside hand and trimming the edge.

Sources Tell Us​

“I see him as a very good starting guard. I think you might need to help him against edge speed if he stays at tackle.” - NFC West Coast scout


@NoleinATL You are on the clock and I'm done for tonight.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 18th pick the Cincinnati Bengals select Taliese Fuaga OT/G, Oregon State.

The Bengals have a dynamic franchise QB in Joe Burrow...but if they can't keep him on the field, then he obviously cannot be a factor. Jonah Williams has been lost in free agency, and he was never happy about being moved from left to right tackle anyway. Here Cincy gets a mauler who plays pissed off and projects as either a guard or right tackle.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Taylor Decker

Overview​

Beefy right tackle capable of playing at a high level despite his lack of ideal pad level and lower-body bend. Fuaga plays with a fairly aggressive disposition. He’s a one-pop blocker who struggles to clinch into his run blocks and is therefore forced to work overtime to sustain and finish. The pass protection technique is outstanding, and he possesses the athleticism to mirror and match edge-to-edge rush movements. Fuaga’s hand work is exceptional in pass pro and will need to remain so, because of his lack of desired range for recovering when beaten. A team could slide him to guard to improve its interior protection, but he’s best-suited at right tackle, where he should become a good starter.

Strengths​

• Glides into pass sets with controlled slides, ready hands and quiet upper body.
• Throws stiff right-left combinations, creating disruption for rusher.
• Hands are highly active through the rush, helping to keep opponent centered.
• Mirrors with fluidity, with little to no stall when changing direction.
• Flashes ability to dig in with leveraged hand strikes at point of attack.
• Gathers and adjusts his track to make his blocks in space.
• Smooth and accurate when working from block to block.

Weaknesses​

• Pops up tall off the snap and gets behind in back-side cutoffs.
• On first contact, tends to hit and bounce rather than hit and stick.
• His run blocking is much less organized and technical than his pass blocking.
• Doesn’t have the range in pass sets to succeed when tardy out of his stance.
• Occasional issues allowing weight to slide too far out on outside foot.
• Washington had some success beating his outside hand and trimming the edge.

Sources Tell Us​

“I see him as a very good starting guard. I think you might need to help him against edge speed if he stays at tackle.” - NFC West Coast scout


@NoleinATL You are on the clock and I'm done for tonight.

nice pick you son of a gun

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 19th pick, the Los Angeles Rams select:

Byron Murphy II, DT Texas

I wanted to take a certain DT, but a little high. Murphy has all that talent to try and fill those very large shoes Aron Donald left behind, position of need after that somewhat surprising retirement.

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Ed Oliver

Overview​

Muscular ball of explosiveness with the tools and talent to become a productive three-down defender in the right scheme. Twitchy first-step quickness combined with flexion and power in his lower half create a recipe for disruption as a gap shooter or as a pass rusher. Murphy is powerful and well-schooled at taking on double-teams but lacks ideal mass and length for that role long-term. He’s successful at bypassing protection with sudden hands and quick feet, while his motor and passion create an activity level coaches will love. Forget the average physical traits and modest production and focus on his competitive spirit and disruptive qualities. Murphy is ascending and could become a successful nose tackle or 3-technique in an even front.

Strengths​

• Compact frame carries outstanding lean muscle.
• Uses twitchy, controlled bursts to light up gaps and disrupt play development.
• Elite combination of strength, balance and flexible power in his lower half.
• Quick-strike hands help to maneuver around blocks and chase play development.
• Pass rush driven by relentless energy and exemplary edge-to-edge quickness.
• Variety of rush approaches are peppered with fluid transitions and counters.

Weaknesses​

• Frame might be close to maxed out.
• Can be swallowed by size if he doesn’t keep it moving.
• Lack of arm length forces him to work harder to separate.
• Could be worn down by NFL double-teams and size.

Sources Tell Us​

“I know people love talking about (T’Vondre) Sweat but Murphy is the guy who will be the better pro. If he was bigger, he would be talked about as much as any defensive tackle in the draft.” - AFC area scout



@NoleLizards you are on the clock

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 20th pick, the Pittsburgh Steelers select Amarius Mims OT, Georgia.

A year ago, Pittsburgh drafted fellow former Bulldog tackle Broderick Jones. The massive 6'8" 340-pound Mims now follows him from Athens to western Pennsylvania to be his bookend on the offensive line. New OC Arthur Smith loves to pound the rock, and Steeler Nation will be jubilant to see their beloved franchise's blue-collar legacy being reestablished. (Just imagine a devastating running game accentuated by Russell Wilson's play-action passing....)

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Donovan Smith

Overview​

Talented tackle prospect carrying a picturesque frame and exciting NFL traits. Mims plays with pretty good technique and is ahead of the game with hand placement. He has the size and bend to create movement and adequate athleticism to make blocks on the move, although he can be inconsistent in that area. He uses a two-hand punch that causes him to lunge forward a bit, but that should be correctable. It is very rare to see him clearly beaten by a rusher, and he has the recovery talent to do something about it when it happens. Mims has more development to go, but he’s a Day 1 prospect with the traits and talent to be considered at either tackle position. He has a high ceiling, but questions due to his lack of experience could temper early expectations.

Strengths​

• Outstanding combination of size, length and proportionality.
• Fits into his drive blocks with good bend and a lift for leverage.
• Plays with deliberate hand placement and runs feet through contact.
• Keeps weight on inside half when sliding out to rusher.
• Uses direct punch with inside hands and/or aggressive gather-and-snatch.
• Strong hands and pure mass help tone down power rushers.
• Adequate recovery tools to fight back when beaten.

Weaknesses​

• Very limited experience, with just eight career college starts.
• Inconsistent in sustaining blocks in the run game.
• Movements up to second level lack timing and accuracy.
• Feet get heavy when attempting to mirror a cross-face rush challenge.
• Needs to work on forward lean at the top of the rush.

@NoleinATL It's your pick, sir.

 

[NoleLizards]

nice pick you son of a gun

The wealth of offensive line talent in this year's draft is truly unprecedented... This is like shooting fish in a barrel! There are still several prospects likely to be selected in our first round. The three dozen or so Michigan players alone would be enough to stock teams during the remaining rounds.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 21st pick, the Miami Dolphins select:

Laiatu Latu, Edge UCLA

I was hoping Mims would fall to this pick, but he didn't, so I am taking the best player available at a need. If Latu doesn't have the injuries very likely challenges Turner and Verse for the first edge of the board.

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
T.J. Watt

Overview​

Latu possesses the kind of rare maturity to his game that you usually see from NFL veterans. He rarely stays blocked by tackles as a run defender and dominates blocking tight ends on the collegiate level. His pass-rush approach is both well conceived and instinctive, and he’s brilliant at taking possession of the rep using clever hands and slippery angles to pry open opportunities. His eyes play beyond blockers, and he feeds off of a voracious motor that keeps him pushing forward as a run defender and pass rusher. Concerns surrounding his neck injury (while at Washington) will certainly come into play when he gets to medical exams, but his durability and play at UCLA are certainly promising. Everything about Latu’s skill set and production is translatable to the NFL, and he could become a Pro Bowler as a 3-4 outside linebacker with a heavy influence on the game.

Strengths​

• Menacing portfolio of movement and entry angles in his rush.
• Mensa-level hand usage with slaps, swats, rips, counters and stabs at his disposal.
• Motor and strength to drive through redirect blocks once he finds an opening.
• Times up bull rush to attack tackle’s change of weight distribution in his slide.
• Quick-win rusher when allowed to reduce inside against guards.
• Brutish take-on typically eliminates blocking tight ends in short order.
• Stacks and sheds blockers with good timing to sink into running backs.
• Has the athletic ability to drop and swerve in short-area coverage.

Weaknesses​

• Medical concerns surrounding his neck injury (while at Washington) will need to be evaluated.
• Frame build-out and body type are average.
• Legs straighten out during rush engagement, robbing him of leverage.
• Plays with good power but doesn’t carry a firm anchor against the run.
• Pursuit speed to boundary or sideline is very average.

Sources Tell Us​

“Dallas Turner is going to go higher, but Latu is easily the most skilled rusher in the draft.” - AFC executive

 

[NoleinATL]

@NoleLizards you are on the clock

sorry for the delayed pick, my Friday was stacked, and that led to multiple other things popping up

 

[NoleLizards]

@NoleLizards you are on the clock

sorry for the delayed pick, my Friday was stacked, and that led to multiple other things popping up

Nothing to be sorry about. Nice Latu pick BTW.

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 22nd pick, the Philadelphia Eagles select Nate Wiggins CB, Clemson.

The Eagles surprisingly floundered down the stretch last season following a 10-1 start. A major reason was the subpar play of their secondary. Corners Darius Slay and James Bradberry are big names who both may have lost a step or two with age. Enter a tall, lanky, and athletic talent in Wiggins to infuse some quality youth into Philly's defensive backfield.

Analysis​

By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
Tyson Campbell

Overview​

Wiggins’ combination of coverage talent and traits could make him a defensive coordinator’s dream. He’s tall, long and fast with rare recovery speed when beaten. Silky smooth lower-body movement allows him to mirror releases and trace routes without much effort. He can squeeze a little tighter from off-man coverage, while his range as a Cover 3 cornerback makes him a dangerous option to throw near. He plays with good recognition and elite burst to the throw, which could lead to Pro Bowl production if he can play with more consistent decisiveness. He needs to become a tougher player in run support and when contesting catches against NFL size. Wiggins' speed, scheme versatility and playmaking instincts should make him the most sought after cornerback in the draft.

Strengths​

• Long frame should be able to support adding good weight.
• Smooth backpedal in man and athletic field coverage in Cover 3.
• Outstanding feel for the rhythm of the route.
• Hips on a swivel for easy lateral transitions.
• Feet and balance help to phase routes up and down the sideline.
• Instinctive with ability to read clues quarterbacks and receivers provide.
• Blazing recovery speed to run and catch just about anyone.
• Had two pick-sixes and a blocked field goal off the edge during his career.

Weaknesses​

• Too much cushion allowed in off-man coverages.
• Tardy timing to flip and run with the route allowed deep-ball opportunities.
• Face-guards deep balls, leaving too much catch clearance for the target.
• Still room for additional aggression and decisiveness in attacking throws.
• Awareness and effort was disappointing in run support.

Sources Tell Us​

“He has better physical talent than Devon Witherspoon, but he doesn’t have that same level of dog in him. That’s probably the biggest difference right now. I think Wiggins is the better prospect, though.” - NFC national scout

@NoleinATL Pick when ready.

 

[NoleinATL]

With the 23rd pick The Vikings select:

Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB Alabama

Tough choice, as a WR would work or the kid from Iowa but that broke leg worries the front office so we go with Kool-Aid


By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
A.J. Terrell

Overview​

Three-year starter and former five-star prospect with a quirky name and consistent game. McKinstry is patient and well-groomed in matching the outside release and riding the inside release from press. He’s confident to handle business on an island and is able to stay in phase as the route travels vertically. He’s not overly fast but does play with plus acceleration to close out crossing routes or make aggressive plays on the catch point. As with most college corners, McKinstry will need to transition some of his open-field hand usage into quality footwork to avoid downfield penalties. He’s more aggressive in coverage than he is as a tackler and could find himself forced to prove his toughness in that area. McKinstry is more of a pure cover man than a playmaker, but his poise, intelligence and athleticism should lead him toward becoming a good outside corner with scheme versatility.

Strengths​

• Smart football player with good communication on the back end.
• Slides and rides the release to stall takeoff and timing of the route.
• Balance and athleticism to remain in phase with receivers.
• Does a nice job of reading the receiver's eyes to gain intel.
• Plays with poise and patience when tracking deep-throw targets.
• Possesses rapid acceleration to close quickly on throws.
• Well-timed punches, claws and chops knock away catch attempts.
• Highly capable punt returner.

Weaknesses​

• Better short-area burst than full-field speed.
• Tugs receiver at break point instead of relying on his feet.
• Bad habit of sleeping on the play when he’s not directly targeted.
• Content to stay in the backdrop as a run defender.
• Inconsistent reaction time to route combinations from zone.

Sources Tell Us​

“He’s a serious guy on the field and he knows ball. You rarely see him bust because he’s always prepared and he’s really natural in coverage.” - NFC regional scout


@NoleLizards you are on the clock

 

[NoleLizards]

With the 23rd pick The Vikings select:

Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB Alabama

Tough choice, as a WR would work or the kid from Iowa but that broke leg worries the front office so we go with Kool-Aid


By Lance Zierlein
NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison
A.J. Terrell

Overview​

Three-year starter and former five-star prospect with a quirky name and consistent game. McKinstry is patient and well-groomed in matching the outside release and riding the inside release from press. He’s confident to handle business on an island and is able to stay in phase as the route travels vertically. He’s not overly fast but does play with plus acceleration to close out crossing routes or make aggressive plays on the catch point. As with most college corners, McKinstry will need to transition some of his open-field hand usage into quality footwork to avoid downfield penalties. He’s more aggressive in coverage than he is as a tackler and could find himself forced to prove his toughness in that area. McKinstry is more of a pure cover man than a playmaker, but his poise, intelligence and athleticism should lead him toward becoming a good outside corner with scheme versatility.

Strengths​

• Smart football player with good communication on the back end.
• Slides and rides the release to stall takeoff and timing of the route.
• Balance and athleticism to remain in phase with receivers.
• Does a nice job of reading the receiver's eyes to gain intel.
• Plays with poise and patience when tracking deep-throw targets.
• Possesses rapid acceleration to close quickly on throws.
• Well-timed punches, claws and chops knock away catch attempts.
• Highly capable punt returner.

Weaknesses​

• Better short-area burst than full-field speed.
• Tugs receiver at break point instead of relying on his feet.
• Bad habit of sleeping on the play when he’s not directly targeted.
• Content to stay in the backdrop as a run defender.
• Inconsistent reaction time to route combinations from zone.

Sources Tell Us​

“He’s a serious guy on the field and he knows ball. You rarely see him bust because he’s always prepared and he’s really natural in coverage.” - NFC regional scout


@NoleLizards you are on the clock

Love the gif! 🤣