*TRADE* 1.01 NYG (Via TEN) Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)

4/5 past drafts a QB has gone #1 overall.  It’s historically an arms race to the top of the draft to get your franchise guy.  Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll need to reload as they might not be on the longest leash, and Cam Ward can come in and help the Giants be more competitive than they were last year. Ward looks great for today’s NFL.  Because he’s exceptional at extending plays using a combination of athleticism and composure.  He has a big arm that can make all the throws, and comes in with a ton of experience, having attempted 2,329 career passes in College.  For reference this is almost 400 more completions than Bo Nix had coming out last year.  They get the advantage over Cleveland for acquiring this pick because they possess more capital.  For this to come to fruition, Tennessee has to buy into Will Levis for at least one more season.  Which is totally plausible.

1.02 CLE Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

New England would certainly come calling about this pick to try and get Abdul Carter.  Very tempting given the uncertain demand from the rest of the Top 10 on these Quarterbacks. But Cleveland can sit at #2 Overall and get a starting QB.  Sanders comes in with virtually no competition on the roster depending on where Jameis Winston lands in Free Agency, along with Deshaun Watson’s rehab extending into the regular season.  Offensive Line struggles held Sanders back the most at Colorado, but through Free Agency and better injury luck their OL can be much improved come September.  Nothing sparks a franchise like using a lot of capital on a QB.  Browns give it another shot with Shedeur Sanders.

1.03 TEN Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State

Titans make the layup here with getting Abdul Carter 3rd Overall.  Double points for trading out of #1 and acquiring more capital to fix their roster.  Being able to get potentially the best player in the Draft at #3 is massive for Tennessee. Carter is the most explosive Edge to enter the league since Will Anderson Jr. in 2023.  Titans were T-30th in the NFL in Sacks last year, this would change with Carter.  Although Harold Landry III & Arden Key are not bad Edge defenders, they lack depth, and it’s hard to get younger at that position without acquiring through the Draft. Tet McMillan (WR) could potentially be in play only because the WR Room in Tennessee is bleak.

1.04 NE Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

This is where the volatility of pre Free Agency Mock Draft really shows.  In this scenario the Patriots select Tetairoa McMillan.  They use FA or later picks to address the need for a receiver who can operate underneath and separate efficiently, or he may already even be on their roster and just needs more time.  This pick will bring back the Joe Burrow with Penei Sewell vs Joe Burrow with Ja’Marr Chase debate.  Mike Vrabel strikes me as a guy who wants to win the battle in the trenches, and leaving Mykel Williams (DL), Will Campbell (LT), and Mason Graham (DT) on the board might drive him insane.

1.05 JAX Travis Hunter, CB, Colorado

Jacksonville needs defensive help badly.  Hunter will take a lot of pressure off the rest of the defense by helping secure the back end.  Sure his frame gives him a disadvantage trying to tackle Running Backs and Tight Ends, but he will also be the fastest player on your defense. He can help prevent big plays in his own way.  Not to mention his coverage skills.  Mason Graham (DT) would be the other option for Jacksonville here, but there are a lot of serviceable interior Defensive Lineman in this draft.  5th overall is also a little too rich for a DT.

1.06 LVR Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

I exhausted all possible options for the Raiders here.  They probably would not like the board to fall this way.  There were no realistic trade down situations available.  However, Mason Graham is a tremendous football player, and the Raiders Defensive Line cupboard could be bare by the time Free Agency is over.  As mentioned in the 1.05 Jacksonville selection, almost a top 5 pick is high for a DT.  Another avenue for the Raiders is to trade back and take Ashton Jeanty, and it would secure them ammo for a Tier 2 QB.

1.07 NYJ Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

Sauce Gardner is the only starting DB under contract besides Michael Carter II.  Aaron Glenn is probably very particular about his DBs, considering he had 41 career interceptions himself. So this is either a painfully obvious pick, or could not be more off-base. But there also is a significant drop off in available CB talent after Will Johnson gets selected. Will Campbell (LT) could also be in play here.  Olu Fashanu seems to be trending in the direction of Franchise Left Tackle.  But Campbell is the best all around Lineman in the draft and his versatility would be welcomed in New York.

1.08 CAR Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia

Williams is the EDGE 2 in this class.  The Panthers have some money already tied up in their current OLBs, Jadeveon Clowney and DJ Wonnum, plus DJ Johnson who they used a third round pick on in 2023.  Regardless, this defense gave up over 31 PPG last season.  Truthfully, I don’t think there would be many better options here at this point.  Any trade back and you leave a ton of value on the table.

*TRADE* 1.09 SF (Via NO) Will Campbell, OT, LSU

New Orleans may be tearing it down to the studs this offseason, so I have them moving back a couple spots to acquire as many picks as possible.  Niners get LT1 in this year’s draft at Pick 9.  Trent Williams’ situation is always very fluid, so adding Campbell gives San Francisco some breathing room for the future.  He can move inside to start immediately until the time is right to move back to Tackle.  This would be a great landing spot for Campbell, as he can learn from one of the best to ever protect the blindside. Niners trading up 2 spots jumps Chicago who could also use both Guard and Tackle help. This would be an aggressive move by John Lynch, but it wouldn’t cost them too much capital.

1.10 CHI Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

Chicago’s starting 5OL needs some fresh faces.  Kelvin Banks can come in and compete for the starting LT position, or he could play Guard right away.  Ultimately, they would plan on him being the Franchise Left Tackle to protect Caleb Williams.  Ben Johnson is an offensive mastermind, but no coach can scheme around poor offensive line play. There are some other options here as well . Depending on their confidence level in Braxton Jones at LT, they could go Tyler Booker (G).  EDGE would also be an intriguing, however the prospect rankings start getting murkier after the top 2 go off the board

1.11 NO Tyler Booker, G, Alabama

Hard to pass up a player like Tyler Booker, who is the best Guard in the draft this year.  He will be a brick wall in pass protection for years to come in the NFL.  Pairing him on the left side with Taliese Fuaga is a big relief for whoever is under center in New Orleans. EDGE was also viable here, but the same issues arise of who comes off the board after Mykel Williams.  Not the flashiest selection for a Day 1 Pick.  But with uncertainty looming, the Saints get their LG for the future.

1.12 DAL Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

It’s a deep Running Back class this year, but there’s only one Ashton Jeanty.  Taking him at 12 would be painful for a lot of GMs.  Ideally, they could move back a little, but it’s difficult to predict pre-FA how badly some teams will need to move up.  Taking a Running Back this high is heavily debated for good reason, but I see it as a way to add some serious juice to your offense.  Defense was the other option at this pick. More specifically an Off-Ball Linebacker like Jihad Campbell or any Defensive Lineman such as James Pearce/Shemar Stewart/Mike Green.  Dallas has more questions on the defensive side of the ball that would have to be answered in Free Agency in order for Jeanty to be the pick at 12.

*TRADE* 1.13 CIN (Via MIA) James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee

Dolphins would be reaching on any interior DL or Safety prospects here, so Bengals give up some capital to get a player at a premier position.  In a world where Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard might not have stripes on their helmets next year, this pick makes a lot of sense.  I’ll admit, Pearce is not my favorite prospect in this draft.  But he can be developed into a legit NFL 5T with high potential.  He needs to add some weight and expand his pass rush game, but he’s a talented athlete. Other options at EDGE would be Nic Scourton or Mike Green, and depending on Combine, these guys could be in play.

1.14 IND Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

Tight Ends in the top 15 not named Brock Bowers is scary for a lot of people,  but value has dwindled significantly by this point in the First Round.  I find this pick similar to the Ashton Jeanty selection.  Sure, your defense needs help.  But if you aren’t in love with a guy on the Defensive side of the ball, take someone who can give your Offense some juice. Warren will do that for you.  A Swiss Army Knife TE to pair with your Swiss Army Knife QB.  Other options here would be Malaki Starks (S), Josh Simmons (OT), or Donovan Jackson (G).

1.15 ATL Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M

Falcons could be thin at EDGE depending on how Free Agency treats them.  Scourton is currently listed at 6’4” 285lbs, but teams will probably want him closer to 270 for maximum pass rush effectiveness.  Matthew Judon played a big role in this defense and Scourton can come in and help fill his spot or eventually take over for him.  They already have Arnold Ebiketie on the opposite EDGE with incredible speed, and Scourton has a high pass rush ceiling with a high run defense floor.  Ebiketie and Scourton will complement each other very well.  Another option here could be Jalon Walker (LB/EDGE). Georgia fans will not be happy with the Falcons passing on another Bulldog.

1.16 ARI Jalon Walker, LB/EDGE, Georgia

The Cardinals LB room is crowded, and they have a lot of decisions to make between now and April.  In a defense that uses multiple fronts, you’re better off playing it safe. Vikings had some great OLBs on their roster before the draft last year, and still took Dallas Turner in the First Round.  This is a very similar situation.  Jalon Walker isn’t the pass rusher Turner was coming out, but offers more positional flexibility between on/off ball alignments.  Walker might not start in September, but he’ll be making plays on the field in some capacity.  Other options would be Shemar Stewart (EDGE) or interior DL like Kenneth Grant or Walter Nolen.  A Shemar Stewart selection would be foreboding for last year’s First Round Pick Darius Robinson.

1.17 MIA Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M

Miami’s interior DL needs a makeover.  Stewart at 6’6” 290lbs will be better suited to kick inside and play some of the Calais Campbell role.  This selection could’ve been a few different interior DL, like Kenneth Grant or Walter Nolen.  That’s why trading back allowed them to pick up some capital while still getting a high quality DL. Any of these guys would pair well with Zach Sieler, who is currently their only interior DL under contract right now.  Stewart gives them the best mix of traits they should be looking for.  I could see a fan push for Malaki Starks (S), given the potential departures of Jordan Poyer and Jevon Holland.  However 17th overall is too high for a Safety not named Kyle Hamilton.

1.18 SEA Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

Seattle has two starting Offensive Tackles right now, but everything in between could use some help. They were battling some key injuries, but nonetheless gave up 54 sacks last year.  Simmons will give them a ton of flexibility and help repair some big holes on the interior of this OLine.  Trading back was a serious consideration, there are still some really good true guards like Armand Membou and Donovan Jackson on the board.  But Simmons is too good to pass up at 18th overall as he projects to be a starting tackle in the NFL.  Preventing sacks is key in the NFL but their run game also will vastly improve.

1.19 TB Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

Campbell can come in and start at Inside Linebacker regardless of who they keep at LB this offseason.  Lavonte David has obviously been a cornerstone of their defense for ages, so it would be nice to reset the clock at this position.  Campbell is an explosive athlete that fits well in the modern style of the NFL, without sacrificing the physicality associated with Inside Linebacker. Wide Receiver is an option here also with Chris Godwin’s status up in the air.  Especially in this scenario where Luther Burden III and Emeka Egbuka are still available. Cornerback as well, if they have sights set on someone specific.

1.20 DEN Kenneth Grant, DL, Michigan

This pick is based solely on the projection that D.J. Jones leaves in Free Agency.  Broncos could be better off using that money to bring in a veteran receiver to help Bo Nix.  Kenneth Grant immediately starts at Nose Tackle, and will probably do a tremendous job at it. He is a fun guy to pair with Zach Allen, and will also help keep their Linebackers clean.  Walter Nolen (DT) also makes sense here to give them more flexibility.  There are plenty of good receivers available for them to add as well, but they may be more interested in going the veteran route at that position.

1.21 PIT Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri

Teams drafting with an emphasis on OL/DL would allow Burden to fall to 21. Pittsburgh would sprint to the podium with this pick.  Burden stretches the field and makes plays after the catch, which would open up this Steelers offense.  It is always weird mocking a WR to a team without a clear QB1.  Whoever that may be, their job just became easier with Burden on the roster.  You’d be hard pressed to find a better pick here.  

1.22 LAC Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Egbuka and McConkey can play all over the field together to put strain on defenses. Egbuka is another route technician. LA was a run-first team last year. This addition allows Herbert to spray the ball over the field if they get into a shootout.  The Chargers can keep riding out the Quentin Johnston experience with less pressure on him as well.  This was a very hard selection to make.  Colston Loveland (TE) is a Harbaugh guy and plays a position they lacked production at.  Mike Green (EDGE) would be a super fun pick also.  He would bring some juice to the Chargers pass rush with Khalil Mack potentially on his way out.

1.23 GB Trey Amos, CB, Mississippi

Packers relationship with Jaire Alexander seems to be on thin ice.  Eric Stokes hasn’t been able to establish himself since being selected in the First Round in 2021.  It would not be a bad idea to take a stab at finding a new corner high in this draft.  This pick could act as insurance against Alexander trying to force his way out. Trey Amos possesses a blend of traits that NFL teams are looking for.  His combination of length and fluidity give him a higher floor than some other corners available here, and he’s proved it in the SEC. There are reports that OL could be in play here for Green Bay, which I found to be surprising.  But they could also be interested in one of the higher ceiling corners like Shavon Revel. 

1.24 MIN Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi

Nolen can provide an interior pass rush threat to this ferocious Vikings Front 7.  They need space eating DL as well, but those can be found in Free Agency.  Nolen will have to develop before he sees early down snaps, but in the meantime can be unleashed in passing situations. The Vikings move their front 4 all over, so Nolen adds an extra layer to this fun defense.  Other options here would be Malaki Starks (S) or a different DT.  Such as T.J. Sanders or Derrick Harmon.

1.25 HOU Matthew Golden, WR, Texas

Houston may be losing Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell’s future is uncertain.  Not providing CJ Stroud adequate weapons would be a disservice to the franchise.  Golden will provide a very similar play style to Diggs.  He can separate underneath and make strong catches for a smaller receiver.  He’s isn’t a blazer but can do his own version of stretching the field.  The other receivers that could go late in the First Round are all bigger framed.  Houston should go with Golden in order to keep the WR Room diversified and find a compliment to Nico Collins.

1.26 LAR Josh Conerly Jr, OT, Oregon

Rams have massive question marks surrounding key pieces of their Offense.  Cooper Kupp will most likely be dealt.  A player like Matthew Stafford is in high demand around the league as well.  Josh Conerly can reload the Tackle position for the Rams, protecting whoever may start at QB this season and beyond.  He will also help Kyren Williams get back to another 1300 Yards & 14 Touchdowns season. Conerly is a fringe First Round prospect but teams with later picks have started a trend of grabbing these Tackles before they can fall to Day 2

1.27 BAL Tre Harris, WR, Mississippi

Ravens aren’t dying for a WR, but they have a tendency to go Best Player Available.  After the combine, Tre Harris could easily be the best available at this spot.  Similar to why I mocked Houston a Wide Receiver, it’s a disservice to not supply Lamar Jackson with adequate weapons.  Harris gives them a bigger framed receiver that can make contested catches, and be a real threat with the ball in his hands.  A special blend of talent. I could’ve “missed” by not selecting Malaki Starks (S) here.  But I just don’t see how he pairs with Kyle Hamilton, as both players are better around the Line of Scrimmage.  Mike Green (EDGE) is another strong contender for BPA.  But Baltimore has invested a lot of Draft Capital into EDGE already.

1.28 DET Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas

Detroit has a type when it comes to their EDGE position.  They prioritize being tough at the Line of Scrimmage and able to stop the run.  Landon Jackson will provide that for your Defense.  He’s got a massive frame that covers a lot of ground, and is great at setting the edge.  They got to see a lot of guys outside of Hutchinson play EDGE last year, so it should expedite their decision making process on how they want to attack this position. Landon Jackson over Mike Green is bold but I genuinely believe it could happen in this scenario.  Teams heavily prioritize run support.

1.29 WAS Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall

Commanders had good production out of their DE’s this year.  They don’t need to shake things up too much, but adding a certain piece would go a long way.  The addition of Mike Green would give their pass rush some juice.  Washington doesn’t have to ask him to be an early down player right away.  They can save him for passing downs until he develops, and it would raise the level of play for the entire defense. Washington could use a new piece on their Offensive Line as well, so Armand Membou (OL) was considered as well.

1.30 BUF Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

Barron is still available because teams will view him more as a Nickel, due to his size.  So he’ll need a team to take a chance on him.  Buffalo does that here.  Barron is a tremendous athlete and super willing tackler. He can play every position in the Defensive Backfield.  Rasul Douglas’s time in Buffalo is potentially over, and Elam is unable to prove he can start consistently in the NFL. The Bills can let Barron compete for CB2 with most likely a Free Agent.  Two more players under consideration: Benjamin Morrison (CB) more prototypical outside CB with a high floor and Princely Umanmielen (EDGE) brings the pass rush juice that Buffalo desperately needs to get over the hump.

1.31 KC Donovan Jackson, OL, Ohio State

Trey Smith is going to get a well deserved pay raise from some team in the NFL.  It is highly unlikely the Chiefs can afford to keep him. After giving up 6 sacks in the Super Bowl, the Chief’s Offensive Line cannot afford to take a step back. Donovan Jackson can come in and start right away.  He also finished the season at LT for Ohio State after an injury to Josh Simmons, and their offense didn’t miss a beat. Positional flexibility is intriguing. Trenches was the only consideration for Kansas City here, Armand Membou (OL) and Derrick Harmon (DL) were runner ups.

1.32 PHI TJ Sanders, DL, South Carolina

It will be hard for the Eagles to keep Milton Williams from leaving in Free Agency, and their interior DL is thin outside of Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis.  Sanders will make the lost pass rush production from Williams leaving.  He needs more polishing against the run, but will see a lot of playing time regardless. Another option was Princely Umanmielen (EDGE). They’ve invested a lot of capital into EDGE, but the draft is a cheap way to stay loaded. The same logic applies to them taking a DT in this Mock.