Bradley Ylitalo’s Scouting Notebook: Final NFL Mock Draft
There is only one thing I’m confident about heading into Thursday. Draft night it going to be total and complete chaos. There are five quarterbacks teams have fallen in love with, and they’re going to do everything they can to grab them.
Nine months of work has led up to this point, and I can’t begin to express my elation at this point. I hope you all enjoy this week as much as I and the rest of the DLF staff will. Please enjoy our final three round NFL Mock Draft.
Round 1
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1) Cleveland Browns: Sam Darnold, QB Southern California
Browns fans, you can take a well-deserved deep breath. You finally have your franchise quarterback. It’s been a long and strenuous process but that’s all in the past now. Cleveland football is back in a big way.
Darnold has a quick release and a terrific combination of accuracy and arm strength that makes a dangerous thrower to all levels of the field. His footwork and turnover issues will need to be resolved, but neither of those should stop him from changing a franchise.
2) New York Giants: Saquon Barkley, RB Penn State
For the record, I would go quarterback here. But for whatever reason, GM Dave Gettleman seems pretty comfortable with Eli Manning and Davis Webb going forward. The Giants have no shortage of needs, so going with the best player in this draft isn’t a bad idea.
Saquon Barkley checks every box imaginable. He’s an other-worldly athlete with fluid technique and ideal third-down skills. I think we’ll be talking about him as a top-five back before his rookie season is over.
3) New York Jets (from Indianapolis): Baker Mayfield, QB Oklahoma
Although they finished 5-11, the Jets actually impressed in 2017. It’s safe to say this roster still needs some work. Teddy Bridgewater was signed, and Josh McCown is still on the roster, but they traded up for one reason and one reason only, to get their quarterback.
Go strictly off the tape, and Baker Mayfield is the best quarterback in this draft. His arm strength, decision making, and unquestioned accuracy made him impossible to stop at Oklahoma. The only thing that will hold him down is his 6’1 height and antics on and off the field.
4) Cleveland Browns (from Houston): Bradley Chubb, EDGE North Carolina State
The hard part is over. Cleveland has their franchise guy. Now it’s time to add blue-chip talent, even if it comes at a position the Browns aren’t absolutely desperate for. Last I checked, 0-16 teams are in no position to be denying prospects like this.
Bradley Chubb is the best pure pass rusher this class has to offer, and it’s really not close. His level of polish just isn’t something we see from players with his size and speed. Putting him across from Myles Garrett would strike fear in AFC North quarterbacks for the next decade.
5) Denver Broncos: Josh Allen, QB Wyoming
I don’t know where Denver is going. But wherever they’re headed, the quarterback issued has got to be resolved. Elway spent a lot of money to lockup Case Keenum, but this team still needs a long-term answer. Here’s where Josh Allen comes in.
I know better than most just how polarizing this young man is. Not for any off the field issues, but because of the scary bad stats he put up at Wyoming. Watch the film though and his upside will very quickly be unignorable. With a couple years of learning behind Keenum, Allen would be ready to take over and lead for a long, long time.
6) Indianapolis Colts (from New York Jets): Tremaine Edmunds, LB Virginia Tech
The Colts missed out on Bradley Chubb by trading down to six. But this isn’t a bad consolation prize. For a franchise that has been disheartened by Andrew Luck’s continued injury issues, they could use some star power to rally around.
Tell me Tremaine Edmunds is the best defender in this draft and I won’t put up much of an argument. He’s downright special. At 19 years old, he already has a well-rounded game that fully utilizes his 6’5 frame and elite athleticism. It’s only a matter of time before Edmunds is a dominant three-down backer.
Size, speed, strength, youth, and rapid improvement in his Junior year, I’m completely sold on Tremaine Edmunds as a top ten prospect. ZERO CONCERNS. #nfldraft #DraftTwitter @maine_savage23 pic.twitter.com/vyzfhzdH1D
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) February 8, 2018
7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Denzel Ward, CB Ohio State
For a team that sorely needs help in the back end, this draft is shaping up beautifully. With the choice of Derwin James, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Denzel Ward, they can’t go wrong here. The Bucs had the worst pass defense in the NFL, so going with the best cornerback in the draft just makes too much sense.
It doesn’t take very many plays on film to see why Ward’s a top ten talent. He blends incredible straight line speed with the best hip quickness in the class. Good luck creating separation from the latest product out of DB-U. If his 5’10 frame doesn’t hinder him, he’ll be a shutdown corner in no time.
*8) TRADE: Buffalo Bills (from Chicago): Josh Rosen, QB California Los-Angeles
Buffalo has made one thing very clear. They’re coming out of this draft with a quarterback. With Josh Rosen still available at eight, the Bills jump all over him.
If it weren’t for some character issues, Rosen would be as good a candidate as anyone for being the number one pick. I have no doubt that he’s the best pocket passer in this class. With mechanics, footwork, arm talent, and decision-making skills that are already NFL ready, Rosen can be a day-one quality starter.
Trade Details:
Chicago Sends #8
Buffalo Sends #12, #53
9) San Francisco 49ers: Quenton Nelson, OG Notre Dame
Usually, teams picking in the top ten have more questions than answers on their roster. This isn’t the case for John Lynch and his 49ers. With a budding roster lead by Jimmy Garoppolo, it’s time to keep adding high-end players.
They don’t get much more high-end than Quenton Nelson. He doesn’t necessarily play a premium position, but his presence would instantaneously make any offense better. You don’t regret taking prospects of Nelson’s caliber.
10) Oakland Raiders: Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB Alabama
In last years draft, Jon Gruden said Jamal Adams should be the number one overall pick. You think he values a quarterback of the defense? Speaking of defense, Oaklands was pretty horrific in 2017. Help isn’t just wanted on that side of the ball, it’s needed.
It’s still yet to be determined where Minkah Fitzpatrick will primarily be used in the NFL. Truth is, it doesn’t really matter. Whether it’s at safety or cornerback, Fitzpatrick has everything he needs to be a star.
11) Miami Dolphins: Roquan Smith, LB Georgia
If I may put things bluntly, Miami isn’t headed in a good direction. As we’ve seen though, one good draft can turn things around in a hurry. In need of difference makers in a lot of places, drafting Roquan Smith is a good start.
Smith is one of the safest prospects in this class. His technique and coverage skills combined with his athleticism will make him a sideline to sideline playmaker. He’s an effort player who was nothing but excellent at the heart of that Bulldog defense. I expect him to be much the same in the NFL.
*12) Chicago Bears (from Buffalo): Marcus Davenport, EDGE Texas El-Paso
In the choice between Solomon Thomas and Mitchell Trubisky, it looks like Ryan Pace made the right call. I’m not saying Trubisky was perfect as a rookie. But it looks like he has a solid chance to be their franchise QB. With an up and coming defense that finished tenth in the NFL, the Bears future looks pretty bright.
With a need for some more pressure off the edge, Marcus Davenport is a perfect fit. He’s a bonafide top twenty talent with top-five upside. Davenport legitimately terrorized his C-USA opponents. He and coaches will have to fine-tune his game but once he finds it he’ll be a nightmare to deal with.
13) Washington Redskins: Derwin James, SS Florida State
Washington has been what we call “middle of the road” for a while now. The Kirk Cousins train has officially left the port and with Alex Smith in tow, maybe they can make a fresh start. Selections like this would go a long way toward making that happen.
The last top ten talent on my board, Derwin James is the proverbial total package. He’s on a very short list of players that graded out as at least “above average” in every trait. Washington ranked 32nd in run defense and 21st overall. James would put an end to that.
This is pure, untamed effort by Derwin James. #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter @derwinjames6 pic.twitter.com/VMUdHumO7H
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) January 10, 2018
14) Green Bay Packers: Harold Landry, EDGE Boston College
Due to the importance one quarterback can have on a football team, franchises like Green Bay are left vulnerable. We saw that first hand in 2017. With Aaron Rodgers coming back, you can pencil in the Pack as another strong playoff contender in the NFC.
With the fate of the offense resting on Mr. Rodgers increasingly old shoulders, the defense needs to start stepping up. Drafting Harold Landry at fourteen could fast-track that process. Landry boasts one of the quickest first steps I’ve seen and has no problem bending around the edge.
15) Arizona Cardinals: Lamar Jackson, QB Louisville
I like Sam Bradford. I really do. But is he the quarterback of the future in Arizona? I don’t think so. This offense needs a quarterback who can make plays for themselves. The Cardinals offensive line is a mess, and outside of Larry Fitzgerald and David Johnson, they don’t have much going weapons wise.
Enter Lamar Jackson. The second he takes over, a boring offense would suddenly become must-see TV. He’s just what this team needs. If Jackson can stay healthy, he’ll be the type of player who changes the game every time he steps on the field.
16) Baltimore Ravens: Calvin Ridley, WR Alabama
Much to our chagrin, my brother Ryan and I ended up watching a lot of Ravens games in 2017. Nothing against Baltimore, it’s just that their offense was in a word, stale. Joe Flacco was working with next to nothing, and he’s not the type to make average players look like stars. This offense could use an infusion of talent.
Courtland Sutton and DJ Moore pushed him hard, but Calvin Ridley still kept the WR1 billing in my eyes. Yeah, I’m scared of the fact he’ll turn twenty-four in his rookie season, but his on-tape traits quell any of those fears. With acceleration, speed, and amazing technique in his routes, Ridley should have no problem creating ample space from corners.
17) Los Angeles Chargers: Mike McGlinchey, OT Notre Dame
I’m excited about what the Chargers are doing. They’ve collected a lot of nice pieces on defense and have the skill positions covered, but just lack options up front. If LA can form even a league-average offensive line, they’d be my favorites in the AFC West.
Mike McGlinchey shouldn’t need much time to transition to playing on Sundays. Already solid and polished in a lot of ways, he can quickly be someone Philip Rivers trusts play in and play out. If McGlinchey learns how to better keep defenders engaged, he could blossom into a multi-time pro bowler.
18) Seattle Seahawks: Kolton Miller, OT California Los Angeles
Russell Wilson has turned into one of the best signal callers this league has to offer. He’s just gotten zero help from his line. Things need to change in Seattle. They have to start taking serious steps towards protecting their franchise’s number one asset.
The reviews are a bit mixed on Kolton Miller, but it’s not exactly time for the Seahawks to get picky. Miller made marked improvements protecting Josh Rosen’s blindside this past season. He’s not going to overpower you all the time and needs to work on his technique, but his frame and quickness combo is plenty enticing.
19) Dallas Cowboys: Courtland Sutton, WR Southern Methodist
Dez Bryant is gone. Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott are now the unquestioned faces of this offense (even if the O-line deserves it too). I know they took a step back after a 12-4 season, but I’m still overall happy with how the Cowboys are looking. Before going into 2018, this wide receiver group that needs some shaking up.
DJ Moore could very easily be the pick here. But what better way to replace Bryant than with the player often compared to him? I can’t say Courtland Sutton is exactly the prospect Bryant was, but the play-styles are undeniably similar. He’s still raw and most likely won’t shock the world in his rookie season. Give him some time though and he should develop into a true number one option.
Courtland Sutton’s athleticism at 6’4 is amazing! Look at the young man run with the ball!! @SuttonCourtland #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/4iguzcdmCy
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) October 12, 2017
20) Detroit Lions: Derrius Guice, RB Louisiana State
In the past seven years, Detroit has made three playoff appearances. In those games, Stafford and the Lions are unsurprising, 0-3. If this team wants to make a playoff run they need to balance out their offense. It’s high-time they find themselves a running back.
If Derrius Guice stays healthy it’s not out of the equation he has more than a handful of 1,000 yards seasons. He’s straight up dynamic as a runner. His level of speed, vision, and strength just doesn’t come around every year. If he can prove he can make plays as a receiver, he’ll be someone you can build your offense around.
21) Cincinnati Bengals (from Buffalo): James Daniels, C Iowa
After many years and blown postseason opportunities, the Bengals seem to be at a crossroads. My advice? It’s time to embrace the re-build. Whatever they decide to do, they’re going to have to improve an offensive line that has done Andy Dalton no favors.
James Daniels is my favorite lineman in this group. His game just screams upside. He’s got the athleticism to play any spot among the interior and will now just need to add some strength to his frame.
22) Buffalo Bills (from Kansas City): Vita Vea, DT Washington
After going with the flashy pick at number eight, it’s time to address something that should have been taken care of a while ago. The Bills gave up just under 2,000 rushing yards and their best tackle, Kyle Williams, will be turning 35 before we hit training camps.
Vita Vea is not a sexy pick by any means. But when he’s helping you win football games, you’ll quickly learn to love him. At 6’4, 347 lbs, he might be the most physically imposing player I’ve come across. Vea won’t help you much as a pass rusher but his value as a run stuffer makes him well worth a first rounder.
23) New England Patriots (from Los Angeles Rams): Joshua Jackson, CB Iowa
What a roller coaster ride Malcolm Butler’s career was. Now that he’s gone, he leaves a hole at a position Bill Belichick has to fill if the Patriots want to contend once again.
Joshua Jackson wasn’t on much of a radar coming into his redshirt junior season. But after leading the nation with eight interceptions, he’s now a household name. Not only does he have elite ball-skills, Jackson has a cerebral ability that is unmatched in this class and natural man-coverage savvy to boot.
Beautiful read and break on the ball by Jackson. This is why this kid should be a first rounder. #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/2eM4WQTPtu
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) January 16, 2018
24) Carolina Panthers: Jaire Alexander, CB Louisville
Cam Newton and Luke Kuechly are keeping this team viable, but I don’t know how much longer they can tread water. After getting somewhat underwhelming support from their 2017 rookies, they have to make this draft count.
Do you believe cornerbacks are the best athletes in the game? If so, here’s some proof. Jaire Alexander can fly. The rest of his game is a bit undeveloped in my eyes but the potential for the Cardinal is there in full. With his toughness, I don’t see his 5’10 frame being a problem. Alexander paired with Ross Cockrell would give Carolina a couple of nice building blocks at corner.
25) Tennessee Titans: Leighton Vander Esch, LB Boise State
Tennessee is still one of the better young teams in the league, but they have to take the next step soon here. Winning a playoff game was a good first step. Getting to an AFC championship should be their goal in the next few years. With none of their needs being especially glaring, look for the Titans to potentially go best player available here.
Leighton Vander Esch shot up boards like a rocket and never came back down. Prospects with his size, strength, speed, and technique are invaluable in today’s NFL defenses. I can’t sit here and say he’ll be a superstar, but he should be a long-time, reliable starter. Teams will happily take those kinds of players.
26) Atlanta Falcons: Da’Ron Payne, DT Alabama
The NFC is ridiculously stacked. Dan Quinn has a hell of a task trying to get his Falcons to play a Super Bowl in their own stadium. With teams like Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Minnesota not going anywhere, Atlanta is going to need all the talent they can get.
Pairing Da’Ron Payne with Grady Jarrett would only serve to improve an already stout run defense. With his size, strength, and quickness, he’s plug and play material. Payne’s active hands and high motor will make him successful no matter how he’s used.
27) New Orleans Saints: Hayden Hurst, TE South Carolina
We talked about Atlanta trying to reach the super bowl. Well, they should first focus on winning their division. Because New Orleans breakout season was no fluke. With all of their key pieces back, the Saints will once again be a team you have to worry about.
If Drew Brees needs one thing it’s another weapon. Michael Thomas and the Alvin Kamara/Mark Ingram combo were amazing, but besides them, New Orleans receivers and tight ends mostly struggled. Drafting Hayden Hurst after signing Cameron Meredith would solve that. I must admit, Hurst isn’t a top thirty talent on my board. For a Super Bowl contender that wants instant impact playmakers though, he’s a perfect fit.
28) Pittsburgh Steelers: Rashaan Evans, LB Alabama
It was supposed to be Pittsburgh vs New England in the AFC championship. The Patriots held up their end, but the Steelers dropped the ball. Jacksonville has arrived, meanwhile Pittsburgh is barely clinging on to their title of “contenders”.
The Jaguars consistently punched the Steel-Curtain in the mouth and exposed a giant hole left by Ryan Shazier’s tragic injury. Rashaan Evans has to be the pick here. The Saban product has the best mix of power and block shedding I’ve seen in a linebacker. He’ll have no problem adjusting to the speed and physicality NFL games are played at.
Rashaan Evans sheds blockers on the regular, right here, he straight up olé’s the right guard. #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/zYEi9XBjgk
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) January 26, 2018
29) Jacksonville Jaguars: Will Hernandez, OG Texas El-Paso
Perhaps to some fault of his own, Leonard Fournette was a bit inefficient as a rookie. To be fair to Fournette, his offensive line could have been better. Doug Marrone breaths toughness. He’ll fall in love with Will Hernandez.
Hernandez will not blow you away with his quickness. The complaints end there. His polish in both pass and run blocking, paired with his effortless ability to keep defenders in front of him makes him straight dominant.
30) Minnesota Vikings: Mike Hughes, CB Central Florida
Xavier Rhodes and Trae Waynes make one of the best cornerback duos in the NFL. In this league though, you’re never quite done adding help outside. Mike Zimmer knows this well. And while the offensive line needs help, Rick Spielman has never been scared to go with the top player on the board.
As a general rule of thumb, cornerbacks need a long time to develop. Mike Hughes could be the exception. With his football IQ, ability in the run game, and enviable speed/fluidity combination, he’s ready to play heavy snaps right away. He’d find his home in the slot, and make a defense that was already the best in the league even more dangerous.
31) New England Patriots: Connor Williams, OT Texas
We can forget that Tom Brady is human. But turning 41 this year, Belichick has to invest in protection for his franchise player. The Brandin Cooks trade was surprising, yet it might not matter much. Put Brady behind a line that gives him ample time, and he can make it work with hardly anyone.
A consensus All-American as a Sophomore, expectations were tremendously high for Williams going into 2017. Due to a knee injury and somewhat inconsistent play, the Longhorn ended up being a bit of a disappointment. If his injury is indeed behind him he’s right there with McGlinchey and Miller as the best tackles in this class.
32) Philadelphia Eagles: DJ Moore, WR Maryland
The Eagles have the best roster in football. With Carson Wentz among others coming back after injury, they’re only getting better. I’m speaking truthfully when I say that they simply don’t have a draft need. Only more a wishlist.
DJ Moore could very easily go before both Calvin Ridley and Courtland Sutton. After a dynamite combine, he’s the hottest WR name on the board. Moore, at 6’0, is somehow able to combine smooth speed with sharp route running that leaves defenders and their ankles in the dust.
Round 2
33) Cleveland Browns: Justin Reid, FS, Stanford
Look for Justin Reid to be a hot target for Tennessee at 25. Cleveland adds some much-needed talent to their back end.
34) New York Giants: Mason Rudolph, QB Oklahoma State
New York passed on a quarterback in round one to snag Saquon Barkley. They don’t let Mason Rudolph get by them in round two.
35) Cleveland Browns (from Houston): Donte Jackson, CB Louisiana State
The Browns have some nice pieces at corners but can’t go wrong grabbing an athlete like Donte Jackson.
36) Indianapolis Colts: Isaiah Wynn, OG Georgia
Whenever Andrew Luck makes his return, the Colts have to make sure he’s well protected. Isaiah Wynn’s fluidity and quickness make him one of the better pass blockers this draft has to offer.
37) Indianapolis Colts (from New York): Taven Bryan, DT Florida
The Colts are making the transition to a 4-3 defense and will need athletes like Taven Bryan to make it a success. He has a higher ceiling than Payne and Vea who were both taken in round one.
Taven Bryan might be the most athletic DT I’ve ever seen. Needs refining, but framework is there to be an an All-Pro. #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/bhWrcA71lT
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) January 12, 2018
38) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sony Michel, RB Georgia
Tampa Bay comes out as big winners in the mock. Adding Sony Michel would take some pressure off the still growing Jameis Winston.
39) Chicago Bears: Billy Price, C Ohio State
After getting some help at pass rusher, it’s now time to beef up the offensive line. Billy Price would be a welcome addition to an offense that really struggled to get going in 2017.
40) Denver Broncos: Isaiah Oliver, CB Colorado
Elway lands another high-end talent at a premier position. Isaiah Oliver would need to better learn the ropes in man coverage but has all the tools to do it.
41) Oakland Raiders: Geron Christian, OT Louisville
Derek Carr took a step back after a breakout 2016 campaign. Adding Geron Christian would do a lot to make sure Carr gets his career back on track.
42) Miami Dolphins: Maurice Hurst, DT Michigan
Miami comes away with two elite talents and bolsters a front seven in need of playmakers. Don’t sleep on Maurice Hurst. He has a chance to be a dominant force.
43) New England Patriots (from San Francisco): Dallas Goedert, TE South Dakota State
With growing rumors of Gronk’s pending retirement, the Patriots suddenly have to address the tight end position. Dallas Goedert is the number one tight end on my board and a great get for New England.
44) Washington Redskins: Harrison Phillips, DT, Stanford
Washington has the worst run defense in the NFL. Harrison Phillips and Jonathan Allen would form a nice duo along the defensive line.
45) Green Bay Packers: Christian Kirk, WR Texas A&M
Longtime Packer Jordy Nelson is out the door. Christian Kirk gives Aaron Rodgers a very dangerous weapon who excels in the open field.
46) Cincinnati Bengals: Brian O’Neill, OT Pittsburgh
I wasn’t kidding about Cincinnati’s need for offensive line talent. If Brian O’Neill can add some strength without losing his absurd quickness, he’ll become a second-round steal and frontline starter.
47) Arizona Cardinals: Ronnie Harrison, SS Alabama
Tyrann Mathieu is in Houston which leaves a hole at SS for Arizona. Ronnie Harrison is a big body who looks at home playing in the box.
*48) TRADE: Pittsburgh Steelers (from Los Angeles Chargers): Ronald Jones, RB Southern California
The Le’Veon Bell contract situation isn’t close to being resolved long-term. Pittsburgh trades up to grab an electric athlete in Ronald Jones.
Trade Details:
Los Angeles Chargers send #48
Pittsburgh Steelers send #60, #92
Ronald Jones continues to display his unbelievable athleticism, sky is the limit for him! #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/td0O4FQE1F
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) November 29, 2017
49) Indianapolis Colts (from New York): Lorenzo Carter, EDGE Georgia
Every modern defense needs a bevy of athletic pass rushers. Lorenzo Carter gives Indianapolis a great piece to build upon in their new defense.
50) Dallas Cowboys: Rasheem Green, DT Southern California
The Cowboys have found a franchise edge rusher in Demarcus Lawrence. Adding Rasheem Green inside would continue to improve a solid defense.
51) Detroit Lions: Mike Gesicki, TE Penn State
The Eric Ebron experiment is now officially over. Mike Gesicki will need some time but has all the tools in the world.
52) Baltimore Ravens: Mark Andrews, TE Oklahoma
As I said, the Ravens offense was painfully boring this past year. Adding Mark Andrews along with Calvin Ridley could hopefully begin to change that.
*53) Chicago Bears (from Buffalo): Anthony Averett, CB Alabama
Chicago continues to add to a young and hungry defense. Anthony Averett was quietly a tremendously important player for a Bama defense that won the national championship.
54) Kansas City Chiefs: Carlton Davis, CB Auburn
Pretty simply, Kansas City needs to replace Marcus Peters. Put Carlton Davis across from Kendall Fuller and forgetting about Peters becomes a little easier.
55) Carolina Panthers: Jessie Bates, FS Wake Forest
The Panthers completely overhaul their defensive backfield with picks at corner and safety. Jessie Bates will prove to be a flexible asset who makes plays in every facet of the game.
56) Buffalo Bills (from Los Angeles Rams): Nick Chubb, RB Georgia
As much as we don’t want to think about it, LeSean McCoy is turning 30 before the 2018 season kicks off. Nick Chubb has only improved his stock this off-season.
57) Tennessee Titans: Arden Key, EDGE Louisiana State
Tennessee is a sound defensive team but needs a star pass rusher. With his frame and athleticism, Arden Key can become that for the Titans.
58) Atlanta Falcons: DJ Chark, WR Louisiana State
After Julio Jones and Mohamed Sanu, the Falcons have next to nothing at receiver. Chark would spice up the offense by giving Matt Ryan a true deep threat.
DJ Chark. More than an athlete, this kid can block! #NFLdraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/mCFXeDmEnm
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) March 6, 2018
59) San Francisco 49ers (from New Orleans): James Washington, WR Oklahoma State
John Lynch continues to surround his quarterback with fresh talent. James Washington will have to adjust to the NFL game but flashes strong hands, straight line speed, and crisp routes.
*60) Los Angeles Chargers: B.J. Hill, NT North Carolina State
Los Angeles has the best duo of edge rushers this league has to offer. Adding B.J. Hill in the middle would make a scary Charger team even better.
61) Jacksonville Jaguars: Anthony Miller, WR Memphis
Losing Allen Robinson was a tough pill to swallow, but the Jags proved they can win without him. Anthony Miller would bring another element to a run-heavy offense.
62) Minnesota Vikings: Frank Ragnow, C Arkansas
Minnesota’s offensive line issues were fully exposed in their 38-7 NFC championship loss. Frank Ragnow would move to guard and help open running lanes for Dalvin Cook.
63) New England Patriots: Sam Hubbard, EDGE Ohio State
New England’s defense turned things around rather quickly but could still use some improvement. Sam Hubbard is the top remaining player on my board and would bring some invaluable depth and versatility.
64) Cleveland Browns (from Philadelphia): Martinas Rankin, OT Mississippi State
Joe Thomas’s retirement leaves Cleveland with no viable offensive tackle. Martinas Rankin isn’t the best athlete but is about as polished a player as you’ll find late in round two.
Round 3
65) Buffalo Bills (from Cleveland): Orlando Brown, OT Oklahoma
Buffalo drafts a player who will be beneficial to both Josh Rosen and Nick Chubb.
66) New York Giants: Tyrell Crosby, OT Oregon
For Saquon Barkley to be fully successful, the Giants are going to need to address their offensive line woes.
Tyrell Crosby (LT) does this kind of stuff all the time #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/LgJV6xFesd
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) December 4, 2017
67) Indianapolis Colts: Desmond Harrison, OT West Georgia State
Desmond Harrison is raw but has a lot of starter-level traits.
68) Houston Texans: Austin Corbett, OG Nevada
Deshaun Watson is the face of this team. Brian Gaine would be wise make sure he’s properly protected.
69) New York Giants (from Tampa Bay): Darius Leonard, LB South Carolina State
New York’s horrid linebacker play was much to blame for their 3-13 campaign.
70) San Francisco 49ers (from Chicago): Uchenna Nwosu, LB Southern California
Uchenna Nwosu would give the 49ers a stout run defender and even better Blitzer.
71) Denver Broncos: Rashaad Penny, RB San Diego State
The Broncos have a void at running back after losing C.J. Anderson.
72) New York Jets: Jalyn Holmes, DE Ohio State
Holmes completes the Jets defensive line.
73) Miami Dolphins: Kyle Lauletta, QB Richmond
Lauletta provides Miami with insurance if Ryan Tannehill can’t stay healthy.
74) San Francisco 49ers: Duke Dawson, CB Florida
Duke Dawson is added to a group of corners including Ahkello Witherspoon and newly added Richard Sherman.
Duke Dawson covering the Z on a go route here, going to show his swift hips and adept man cov skills before making a play on the ball! #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/wpLMBlOoiu
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) January 12, 2018
75) Oakland Raiders: Nathan Shepherd, DT Fort Hays State
Nathan Shepherd’s athleticism and strength would fit well in Oaklands hybrid system.
76) Green Bay Packers: Isaac Yiadom, CB Boston College
Getting help at corner is a must for new GM Brian Gutekunst.
77) Cincinnati Bengals: Jerome Baker, LB Ohio State
Jerome Baker adds some speed and coverage skills to the Bengals linebacker grouping.
78) Kansas City Chiefs (from Washington): Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, EDGE Oklahoma
Outside of Justin Houston, Kansas City has had a hard time creating pressure off the edge.
79) Arizona Cardinals: Braden Smith, OG Auburn
An upgraded offensive line would greatly benefit a young Lamar Jackson.
80) Houston Texans (from Seattle): Dante Pettis, WR Washington
Deshaun Watson gets another playmaker to go along with DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller.
81) Dallas Cowboys: DaeSean Hamilton, WR Penn State
Adding Courtland Sutton and DaeSean Hamilton would turn a weakness at receiver into a potential strength.
*82) TRADE: New England Patriots (from Detroit): Mike White, QB Western Kentucky
New England trades up to land a possible quarterback of the future.
Trade Details:
Detroit Sends #82
New England Sends #95, 2019 fourth
Mike White’s downfield accuracy is pretty darn impressive, lot to like with this kid. #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/8YJQhQpT3S
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) February 15, 2018
83) Baltimore Ravens: Luke Falk, QB Washington State
Joe Flacco has been fairly mediocre for a few years now. Getting some young blood at quarterback would be wise.
84) Los Angeles Chargers: Josh Sweat, EDGE Florida State
Josh Sweat gives Los Angeles a rotational pass rusher with immense upside.
85) Carolina Panthers (from Buffalo): Antonio Callaway, WR Florida
If it weren’t for Callaway’s character concerns, he’d be a strong second rounder.
86) Kansas City Chiefs: Tim Settle, NT Virginia Tech
Settle would immediately improve a run defense that finished 25th in the league.
87) Los Angeles Rams: Tyquan Lewis, DE Ohio State
Adding Tyquan Lewis gives the Rams depth at defensive end and provides a backup plan if Aaron Donald’s contract situation can’t be resolved.
Tyquan Lewis is going to be a great add in round 3 for a 3-4 defense. Really like the upside with this kid. #nfldraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/TxHJGdVJl9
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) March 27, 2018
88) Carolina Panthers: Royce Freeman, RB Oregon
With Jonathan Stewart gone, Royce Freeman takes over the power-back role.
89) Tennessee Titans: Jordan Lasley, WR California Los Angeles
Jordan Lasley gives Tennessee another young receiver for Marcus Mariota.
90) Atlanta Falcons: Jaylen Samuels, FB/RB/WR North Carolina State
Jaylen Samuels gives Atlanta a big upgrade at the FB position.
91) New Orleans Saints: Jamarco Jones, OT Ohio State
Jamarco Jones would slide inside and improve the Saints at guard.
*92) Los Angeles Chargers: Mason Cole, C Michigan
Mike McGlinchey and Mason Cole would resolve a lot of issues for a shaky line.
93) Jacksonville Jaguars: M.J. Stewart, CB North Carolina
Jacksonville continues to stack its cornerback position, picking up M.J. Stewart.
94) Minnesota Vikings: Chukwuma Okorafor, OT Western Michigan
Frank Ragnow and Chukwuma Okorafor would give Mike Zimmer a lot of options up front.
*95) Detroit Lions: R.J. Mcintosh, DT Miami (FL)
Detroit needs a true difference maker in the middle.
You’ll hardly ever see somebody knock down Quenton Nelson, RJ McIntosh isn’t your average guy. High upside with his quickness and strength! #NFLDraft #DraftTwitter pic.twitter.com/YYdMuA3HrM
— Bradley Ylitalo (@NFL_drafthub) February 14, 2018
96) Buffalo Bills (from Philadelphia): Deon Cain, WR Clemson
Buffalo rounds out their draft with another weapon for Rosen.
97) Arizona Cardinals (Compensatory): Parry Nickerson, CB Tulane
Arizona adds an intriguing nickel corner with who can run with the best of them.
98) Houston Texans (Compensatory): Breeland Speaks, DE Ole Miss
Houston can’t count on J.J. Watt staying healthy, adding depth at end is a must.
99) Denver Broncos (Compensatory): Michael Gallup, WR Colorado State
Denver adds a playmaker to a receiver group that has really fallen off in recent years.
100) Cincinnati Bengals (Compensatory): Holton Hill, CB Texas
Cincinnati takes a corner who has shown enticing talent but comes with off-field issues.
That wraps up this edition of “Bradley Ylitalo’s Scouting Notebook”. Please leave a comment or question about this NFL Mock Draft, below. Feel free to shoot me a question on Twitter (@NFL_Drafthub), I’m always happy to interact with football fans. See you next time!
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