Todd McShay's 2018 NFL Mock <strike></strike>Draft 3.0
ESPN INSIDER
<strike></strike>
With the Senior Bowl and NFL combine in the rearview mirror, we've been able to review more tape, we have official measurements on all legitimate draft prospects and we have test results (40s, jumps, shuttles, etc.) on 200-plus prospects.
With free agency looming in a week, several of these projections probably will change as a team's needs are altered. Character concerns and medical results are major factors in the process as well.
But Mock 3.0 is due, so here we go.
Note: All underclassmen are noted with an asterisk
1. Cleveland Browns
Sam Darnold, QB, USC*
I've had Darnold here in the previous two mocks as well. After the combine this past week, it's sounding as if this pick could come down to him or Saquon Barkley. Darnold is the best QB in this class, in my opinion. However, I also could see Josh Allen as the choice here, since he has more experience in the cold, the big arm and the hand size (10⅛ inches) to diminish fumbling concerns in bad AFC North weather. If Cleveland addresses its quarterback situation in free agency (AJ McCarron?), then I think Barkley is the pick here.
<offer></offer>
2. New York Giants
Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State*
The Giants could go a lot of different directions here. If they are really looking to win now with Eli Manning at QB, then they should take the best player in the draft, Barkley. Give Manning a running game and a little more pass protection (via free agency or later in the draft) and Giants fans would argue they are a playoff team. Bradley Chubb and Quenton Nelson are in play here as well. And New York also could get a sweet offer to move back for a team looking to jump up and take a QB.
3. Indianapolis Colts
Bradley Chubb, DE, NC State
Like the Giants, the big question will be if Indianapolis gets a worthwhile offer to move down from a QB-needy team. If that call doesn't come, then I believe this pick comes down to Chubb or Nelson. With so many holes on this team, including edge rusher, Chubb makes the most sense. He played his way into a top-10 pick this season at NC State and solidified it with a strong combine workout. A high-motor guy, he has good talent and is a very complete player. A plug-and-play starter.
4. Cleveland Browns (from Houston Texans)
Minkah Fitzpatrick, S, Alabama*
The Giants could go a lot of different directions here. If they are really looking to win now with Eli Manning at QB, then they should take the best player in the draft, Barkley. Give Manning a running game and a little more pass protection (via free agency or later in the draft) and Giants fans would argue they are a playoff team. Bradley Chubb and Quenton Nelson are in play here as well. And New York also could get a sweet offer to move back for a team looking to jump up and take a QB.
3. Indianapolis Colts
Bradley Chubb, DE, NC State
Like the Giants, the big question will be if Indianapolis gets a worthwhile offer to move down from a QB-needy team. If that call doesn't come, then I believe this pick comes down to Chubb or Nelson. With so many holes on this team, including edge rusher, Chubb makes the most sense. He played his way into a top-10 pick this season at NC State and solidified it with a strong combine workout. A high-motor guy, he has good talent and is a very complete player. A plug-and-play starter.
4. Cleveland Browns (from Houston Texans)
Minkah Fitzpatrick, S, Alabama*
There are teams that could be looking to move up to this pick to get ahead of Denver and the New York Jets (Miami, Arizona, Buffalo to name a few), so the Browns could cash in with the QB they want and now get additional picks to move down. Since we can't project trades, Cleveland goes with a difference-maker on defense in Fitzpatrick (Tremaine Edmunds would be another possibility). With needs at CB, WR, DE and offensive line (among others), this pick is also dependent on where Cleveland spends to upgrade in free agency.
5. Denver Broncos
Quenton Nelson, G, Notre Dame*
I keep hearing that the Broncos are looking to upgrade the QB position in free agency, but the name I keep hearing isn't Kirk Cousins -- it's Case Keenum. If Denver gets either guy, it needs significant help on the O-line, even after drafting offensive tackle Garett Bolles in the first round last year. Nelson had a terrific combine and is a plug-and-play, high-level starter. He's a guard, not a tackle, but he's also currently my second-ranked prospect in this class. If Denver doesn't address QB in free agency, Allen is the likely pick here.
6. New York Jets
Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming*
The Jets are another team in the Cousins sweepstakes, but assuming they miss out they'd be thrilled if Allen (or Baker Mayfield) were available here. Allen has the best arm talent in the draft and can make any throw. The concern over his 56.3 completion percentage last season at Wyoming is probably overblown, but there are some accuracy issues with multidimensional throws. He's more of a project than some other QBs in this class, but he definitely has the highest ceiling.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Derwin James, S, Florida State*
The Bucs were dead last in the NFL with 17 sacks last season, so they need an edge rusher badly. But the defensive end class this year lacks elite talent at the top, and this is a reach for someone like Marcus Davenport. Instead, Tampa Bay should take the best player available -- which is James. James is a versatile playmaker on the back end, and also a terrific athlete. His outstanding workout in Indy (40-inch vertical jump, 11-foot broad jump, 4.47 40-yard dash) wasn't surprising.
8. Chicago Bears
Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio State*
Calvin Ridley is still my top-ranked WR, but he had a mixed combine workout. The Bears do need playmakers on the outside for second-year QB Mitchell Trubisky, but right now, there are simply too many higher-graded players on the board available. Even if Chicago keeps Kyle Fuller (it placed the transition tag on him), the Bears need a lockdown CB. Ward is that guy, and his blazing 4.32 40 cemented his spot as the No. 1 CB in this draft.
9. San Francisco 49ers
Tremaine Edmunds, DE/OLB, Virginia Tech*
The 49ers need another cornerback, but in this scenario Ward is gone at No. 8. The 49ers have invested heavily on the defensive line high in previous drafts, but I think they look to the second level of the defense here. And Edmunds is a gift at No. 9. At 6-foot-4, 254 pounds, he has elite speed (4.47 40) and athleticism -- and he's only 19. Edmunds has the ability to play off the ball on first and second downs and rush the QB on obvious passing downs.
10. Oakland Raiders
Roquan Smith, LB, Georgia*
Oakland has needs all over on defense (CB, LB, edge rusher) and not enough available cap room to make huge upgrades in free agency. Smith would be a good building block for the Raiders' defense, as a rangy weakside linebacker with fast eyes and terrific closing speed. He's also a great leader and possesses tremendous football character.
11. Miami Dolphins
Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma
Smith could also be a great pick for Miami, but if he's off the board and Mayfield and Josh Rosen are both on the board, I think Miami takes a QB here. Ryan Tannehill is good enough to win when healthy, but his availability has been a problem in recent seasons. Adam Gase would be a good offensive mind to help utilize Mayfield's strengths.
12. Cincinnati Bengals
Vita Vea, DT, Washington
Cincinnati had a disappointing 7-9 season, and the offensive line's poor play and inability to run the ball were big reasons why. With the 12th pick, there isn't an offensive tackle in this class worthy of selection here. The Bengals need difference-makers along the defensive front seven, and Vea fits the bill. He didn't get a chance to fully show off his athleticism at the combine after an injury, but he's extremely agile for a 6-foot-4, 347-pound player. He's a load to move in the running game and disruptive as a power rusher. This would be back-to-back years of using first-round picks on Washington players for the Bengals (WR John Ross, 2017).
13. Washington Redskins
Mike Hughes, CB, Central Florida*
Quarterback is no longer a pressing need for Washington after trading for Alex Smith and letting Cousins walk. Now, Washington needs to surround Smith with playmakers and tighten up its defense. Hughes is a talented cover corner who also supports the run. A playmaker when the ball is in the air, he's also a dynamic return specialist.
14. Green Bay Packers
Marcus Davenport, DE, UTSA
Davenport built on a good Senior Bowl week with an impressive showing at the combine. A 4.58-second 40 at 6-foot-5¾, 264 pounds is a ridiculous time, and he showed off his athleticism in other drills. He's still a work in progress, but he's already a long, powerful pass-rusher. Green Bay needs more talent on defense, and Davenport certainly checks that box. Even if the Packers sign Muhammad Wilkerson in free agency, Davenport could be the pick.
15. Arizona Cardinals
Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA*
Arizona is tough to predict right now, because of what the Cardinals might do in free agency. If they sign a QB like Keenum, Teddy Bridgewater or another veteran, the Cardinals could go in another direction. If they don't address the position in free agency, I'm assuming they will trade up for a QB. They would love to get Allen or Darnold, but can they move up that far? If not, I think they try to move up 5-8 spots for Rosen or Mayfield. We can't project trades, so in this scenario they grab Rosen at No. 15.
16. Baltimore Ravens
Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama
The Ravens are in desperate need of offensive playmakers, and they'd be thrilled if Ridley were available here. His poor jumps (worst broad jump, second-worst vertical jump among WRs) at the combine are a bit concerning, but he's still the clear top wideout in this class. He runs terrific routes and creates well after the catch.
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17. Los Angeles Chargers
Rashaan Evans, LB, Alabama
Los Angeles' defense is strong but needs an upgrade at linebacker, and Evans is a thumper in the running game. He plays with tremendous effort and has sneaky pass-rush ability as well.
18. Seattle Seahawks
Josh Jackson, CB, Iowa*
The Seahawks are seemingly always in need of offensive line help, so Connor Williams could be a name in play here. But Jackson is a long corner (6-0, 196) who fits the Seattle prototype, and he's a big-time ball hawk (led the nation with eight interceptions last season). With Richard Sherman's future up in the air, Jackson's potential is too good to pass on.
19. Dallas Cowboys
Da'Ron Payne, DT, Alabama*
Payne's sack total is underwhelming (three total in college), but just turn on the tape. He's a highly disruptive player in the middle and would help Dallas' effort to upgrade the Cowboys' pass rush (38 sacks last year was a big improvement). Payne would be a good fit as a 3-technique in Rod Marinelli's system, and would pair well with DeMarcus Lawrence (franchise tagged). With Jason Witten turning 36 this offseason, TE Dallas Goedert is another good option.
20. Detroit Lions
Connor Williams, OT/G, Texas*
Even with Ezekiel Ansah tagged, Detroit could use help at defensive end, but there isn't the value here. Instead, the Lions should turn their attention to keep Matthew Stafford upright. Williams is an athletic pass-protector and played left tackle in college. With shorter arms (33 inches), he might be a better fit inside at guard in the pros. Williams missed nearly all of this past season at Texas because of a knee injury, so how his medicals check out will be vital to his stock.
21. Buffalo Bills
Taven Bryan, DT, Florida*
The big question for the Bills is: What's the plan at QB? Will Buffalo package these two picks to go up to get a QB? Will the Bills sign one in free agency? Since we can't project trades, I'll go defense here. Buffalo needs help along the defensive line after trading DT Marcell Dareus last season, and Bryan would be a good fit. Bryan is an explosive 3-technique whose best football is still ahead of him. His workout confirmed what I saw on tape.
heads.
23. Los Angeles Rams
Will Hernandez, G, UTEP
The Rams had a need at CB, but the pending deal for Marcus Peters takes care of that. There's no edge rusher worthy of this pick, so I'm going with the top-rated offensive lineman on the board. Hernandez is a monster in the running game and gives no ground to bull rushers. He'll help to keep Jared Goff protected and open up running lanes for Todd Gurley II.
24. Carolina Panthers
Isaiah Oliver, CB, Colorado*
Oliver has size (6-foot), speed (4.50 40) and length (33½-inch arm span). The Panthers would like to get a playmaker for Cam Newton but might be better served addressing the secondary here and getting better value on Day 2 of the draft.
25. Tennessee Titans
Dallas Goedert, TE, South Dakota State
It isn't a terrific tight end group this year, but Goedert is the best one in this class. He's still a little underrated and didn't get a chance to shine at the Senior Bowl or combine because of injury. His pro day will be important. You don't get too many two-way TEs coming out of college, but Goedert fits the bill. He's got a big frame (6-4, 260) with good speed and can play in-line or detached.
26. Atlanta Falcons
Justin Reid, S, Stanford*
Guard is a definite need for Atlanta, but a position I believe the Falcons will address in free agency. This might be a bit of a reach, but I really like Reid's tape and he backed it up with a great combine workout (4.40 40 at 6-1, 204, along with 10-foot, 8-inch broad jump and 36.5-inch vertical jump). I think he's worthy of a top-40 selection.
27. New Orleans Saints
Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville
The Saints could go offensive line with James Daniels or Billy Price, or TE with Goedert if he's available. I'm putting Jackson here because Drew Brees can't play forever, and this would be a terrific spot for him to sit, learn and develop behind a Hall of Fame QB and a terrific offensive mind in Sean Payton.
28. Pittsburgh Steelers
Hayden Hurst, TE, South Carolina*
Hurst is a big (6-4, 250), athletic target who can contribute immediately. A former pro baseball player, Hurst has good ball skills and can help stretch the seam for Ben Roethlisberger and that potent Pittsburgh offense. He's also a good blocker.
29. Jacksonville Jaguars
D.J. Moore, WR, Maryland*
Jacksonville has a real possibility of losing Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in free agency. If that happens, WR is a huge need. Moore's tape is really good when he's targeted, and his combine showing, including a 4.42 40, only helped his cause. A tough WR with good run-after-the-catch skills.
30. Minnesota Vikings
Billy Price, C/G, Ohio State
One way or another, Minnesota will solve its starting QB situation through free agency. With that in place, there aren't a lot of holes on this roster. Minnesota had great success with 2017 third-round pick Pat Elflein, so they go back to the Buckeyes well here. Price tore his pec at the combine and underwent surgery, but he should be fine for training camp. He's an experienced starter with great character, and could be an immediate upgrade.
31. New England Patriots
Offensive tackle is a possibility for New England, but I think guys like Kolton Miller and Geron Christian are a bit of a reach here. Carter is a versatile LB at 6-5, 250 with 34-inch arms -- he can play standing up and even some right defensive end in a 4-3. He plays his tail off on tape, and the Patriots could use his pass-rushing production. He had an outstanding combine with a 4.50 40 and outstanding jumps (10-foot, 10-inch broad, 36-inch vertical).
32. Philadelphia Eagles
D.J. Chark, WR, LSU
The Super Bowl champions have the luxury of drafting for value, for a roster without many holes. Chark is a raw route runner but has the tools to develop. His stock is on the rise after a great Senior Bowl week and combine workout, punctuated with a 4.34 40 and 40-inch vertical jump. He could fill Torrey Smith's role as an explosive vertical WR in the future.
ESPN INSIDER
<strike></strike>
With the Senior Bowl and NFL combine in the rearview mirror, we've been able to review more tape, we have official measurements on all legitimate draft prospects and we have test results (40s, jumps, shuttles, etc.) on 200-plus prospects.
With free agency looming in a week, several of these projections probably will change as a team's needs are altered. Character concerns and medical results are major factors in the process as well.
But Mock 3.0 is due, so here we go.
Note: All underclassmen are noted with an asterisk
1. Cleveland Browns
Sam Darnold, QB, USC*
I've had Darnold here in the previous two mocks as well. After the combine this past week, it's sounding as if this pick could come down to him or Saquon Barkley. Darnold is the best QB in this class, in my opinion. However, I also could see Josh Allen as the choice here, since he has more experience in the cold, the big arm and the hand size (10⅛ inches) to diminish fumbling concerns in bad AFC North weather. If Cleveland addresses its quarterback situation in free agency (AJ McCarron?), then I think Barkley is the pick here.
<offer></offer>
2. New York Giants
Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State*
The Giants could go a lot of different directions here. If they are really looking to win now with Eli Manning at QB, then they should take the best player in the draft, Barkley. Give Manning a running game and a little more pass protection (via free agency or later in the draft) and Giants fans would argue they are a playoff team. Bradley Chubb and Quenton Nelson are in play here as well. And New York also could get a sweet offer to move back for a team looking to jump up and take a QB.
3. Indianapolis Colts
Bradley Chubb, DE, NC State
Like the Giants, the big question will be if Indianapolis gets a worthwhile offer to move down from a QB-needy team. If that call doesn't come, then I believe this pick comes down to Chubb or Nelson. With so many holes on this team, including edge rusher, Chubb makes the most sense. He played his way into a top-10 pick this season at NC State and solidified it with a strong combine workout. A high-motor guy, he has good talent and is a very complete player. A plug-and-play starter.
4. Cleveland Browns (from Houston Texans)
Minkah Fitzpatrick, S, Alabama*
The Giants could go a lot of different directions here. If they are really looking to win now with Eli Manning at QB, then they should take the best player in the draft, Barkley. Give Manning a running game and a little more pass protection (via free agency or later in the draft) and Giants fans would argue they are a playoff team. Bradley Chubb and Quenton Nelson are in play here as well. And New York also could get a sweet offer to move back for a team looking to jump up and take a QB.
3. Indianapolis Colts
Bradley Chubb, DE, NC State
Like the Giants, the big question will be if Indianapolis gets a worthwhile offer to move down from a QB-needy team. If that call doesn't come, then I believe this pick comes down to Chubb or Nelson. With so many holes on this team, including edge rusher, Chubb makes the most sense. He played his way into a top-10 pick this season at NC State and solidified it with a strong combine workout. A high-motor guy, he has good talent and is a very complete player. A plug-and-play starter.
4. Cleveland Browns (from Houston Texans)
Minkah Fitzpatrick, S, Alabama*
There are teams that could be looking to move up to this pick to get ahead of Denver and the New York Jets (Miami, Arizona, Buffalo to name a few), so the Browns could cash in with the QB they want and now get additional picks to move down. Since we can't project trades, Cleveland goes with a difference-maker on defense in Fitzpatrick (Tremaine Edmunds would be another possibility). With needs at CB, WR, DE and offensive line (among others), this pick is also dependent on where Cleveland spends to upgrade in free agency.
5. Denver Broncos
Quenton Nelson, G, Notre Dame*
I keep hearing that the Broncos are looking to upgrade the QB position in free agency, but the name I keep hearing isn't Kirk Cousins -- it's Case Keenum. If Denver gets either guy, it needs significant help on the O-line, even after drafting offensive tackle Garett Bolles in the first round last year. Nelson had a terrific combine and is a plug-and-play, high-level starter. He's a guard, not a tackle, but he's also currently my second-ranked prospect in this class. If Denver doesn't address QB in free agency, Allen is the likely pick here.
6. New York Jets
Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming*
The Jets are another team in the Cousins sweepstakes, but assuming they miss out they'd be thrilled if Allen (or Baker Mayfield) were available here. Allen has the best arm talent in the draft and can make any throw. The concern over his 56.3 completion percentage last season at Wyoming is probably overblown, but there are some accuracy issues with multidimensional throws. He's more of a project than some other QBs in this class, but he definitely has the highest ceiling.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Derwin James, S, Florida State*
The Bucs were dead last in the NFL with 17 sacks last season, so they need an edge rusher badly. But the defensive end class this year lacks elite talent at the top, and this is a reach for someone like Marcus Davenport. Instead, Tampa Bay should take the best player available -- which is James. James is a versatile playmaker on the back end, and also a terrific athlete. His outstanding workout in Indy (40-inch vertical jump, 11-foot broad jump, 4.47 40-yard dash) wasn't surprising.
8. Chicago Bears
Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio State*
Calvin Ridley is still my top-ranked WR, but he had a mixed combine workout. The Bears do need playmakers on the outside for second-year QB Mitchell Trubisky, but right now, there are simply too many higher-graded players on the board available. Even if Chicago keeps Kyle Fuller (it placed the transition tag on him), the Bears need a lockdown CB. Ward is that guy, and his blazing 4.32 40 cemented his spot as the No. 1 CB in this draft.
9. San Francisco 49ers
Tremaine Edmunds, DE/OLB, Virginia Tech*
The 49ers need another cornerback, but in this scenario Ward is gone at No. 8. The 49ers have invested heavily on the defensive line high in previous drafts, but I think they look to the second level of the defense here. And Edmunds is a gift at No. 9. At 6-foot-4, 254 pounds, he has elite speed (4.47 40) and athleticism -- and he's only 19. Edmunds has the ability to play off the ball on first and second downs and rush the QB on obvious passing downs.
10. Oakland Raiders
Roquan Smith, LB, Georgia*
Oakland has needs all over on defense (CB, LB, edge rusher) and not enough available cap room to make huge upgrades in free agency. Smith would be a good building block for the Raiders' defense, as a rangy weakside linebacker with fast eyes and terrific closing speed. He's also a great leader and possesses tremendous football character.
11. Miami Dolphins
Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma
Smith could also be a great pick for Miami, but if he's off the board and Mayfield and Josh Rosen are both on the board, I think Miami takes a QB here. Ryan Tannehill is good enough to win when healthy, but his availability has been a problem in recent seasons. Adam Gase would be a good offensive mind to help utilize Mayfield's strengths.
12. Cincinnati Bengals
Vita Vea, DT, Washington
Cincinnati had a disappointing 7-9 season, and the offensive line's poor play and inability to run the ball were big reasons why. With the 12th pick, there isn't an offensive tackle in this class worthy of selection here. The Bengals need difference-makers along the defensive front seven, and Vea fits the bill. He didn't get a chance to fully show off his athleticism at the combine after an injury, but he's extremely agile for a 6-foot-4, 347-pound player. He's a load to move in the running game and disruptive as a power rusher. This would be back-to-back years of using first-round picks on Washington players for the Bengals (WR John Ross, 2017).
13. Washington Redskins
Mike Hughes, CB, Central Florida*
Quarterback is no longer a pressing need for Washington after trading for Alex Smith and letting Cousins walk. Now, Washington needs to surround Smith with playmakers and tighten up its defense. Hughes is a talented cover corner who also supports the run. A playmaker when the ball is in the air, he's also a dynamic return specialist.
14. Green Bay Packers
Marcus Davenport, DE, UTSA
Davenport built on a good Senior Bowl week with an impressive showing at the combine. A 4.58-second 40 at 6-foot-5¾, 264 pounds is a ridiculous time, and he showed off his athleticism in other drills. He's still a work in progress, but he's already a long, powerful pass-rusher. Green Bay needs more talent on defense, and Davenport certainly checks that box. Even if the Packers sign Muhammad Wilkerson in free agency, Davenport could be the pick.
15. Arizona Cardinals
Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA*
Arizona is tough to predict right now, because of what the Cardinals might do in free agency. If they sign a QB like Keenum, Teddy Bridgewater or another veteran, the Cardinals could go in another direction. If they don't address the position in free agency, I'm assuming they will trade up for a QB. They would love to get Allen or Darnold, but can they move up that far? If not, I think they try to move up 5-8 spots for Rosen or Mayfield. We can't project trades, so in this scenario they grab Rosen at No. 15.
16. Baltimore Ravens
Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama
The Ravens are in desperate need of offensive playmakers, and they'd be thrilled if Ridley were available here. His poor jumps (worst broad jump, second-worst vertical jump among WRs) at the combine are a bit concerning, but he's still the clear top wideout in this class. He runs terrific routes and creates well after the catch.
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17. Los Angeles Chargers
Rashaan Evans, LB, Alabama
Los Angeles' defense is strong but needs an upgrade at linebacker, and Evans is a thumper in the running game. He plays with tremendous effort and has sneaky pass-rush ability as well.
18. Seattle Seahawks
Josh Jackson, CB, Iowa*
The Seahawks are seemingly always in need of offensive line help, so Connor Williams could be a name in play here. But Jackson is a long corner (6-0, 196) who fits the Seattle prototype, and he's a big-time ball hawk (led the nation with eight interceptions last season). With Richard Sherman's future up in the air, Jackson's potential is too good to pass on.
19. Dallas Cowboys
Da'Ron Payne, DT, Alabama*
Payne's sack total is underwhelming (three total in college), but just turn on the tape. He's a highly disruptive player in the middle and would help Dallas' effort to upgrade the Cowboys' pass rush (38 sacks last year was a big improvement). Payne would be a good fit as a 3-technique in Rod Marinelli's system, and would pair well with DeMarcus Lawrence (franchise tagged). With Jason Witten turning 36 this offseason, TE Dallas Goedert is another good option.
20. Detroit Lions
Connor Williams, OT/G, Texas*
Even with Ezekiel Ansah tagged, Detroit could use help at defensive end, but there isn't the value here. Instead, the Lions should turn their attention to keep Matthew Stafford upright. Williams is an athletic pass-protector and played left tackle in college. With shorter arms (33 inches), he might be a better fit inside at guard in the pros. Williams missed nearly all of this past season at Texas because of a knee injury, so how his medicals check out will be vital to his stock.
21. Buffalo Bills
Taven Bryan, DT, Florida*
The big question for the Bills is: What's the plan at QB? Will Buffalo package these two picks to go up to get a QB? Will the Bills sign one in free agency? Since we can't project trades, I'll go defense here. Buffalo needs help along the defensive line after trading DT Marcell Dareus last season, and Bryan would be a good fit. Bryan is an explosive 3-technique whose best football is still ahead of him. His workout confirmed what I saw on tape.
heads.
23. Los Angeles Rams
Will Hernandez, G, UTEP
The Rams had a need at CB, but the pending deal for Marcus Peters takes care of that. There's no edge rusher worthy of this pick, so I'm going with the top-rated offensive lineman on the board. Hernandez is a monster in the running game and gives no ground to bull rushers. He'll help to keep Jared Goff protected and open up running lanes for Todd Gurley II.
24. Carolina Panthers
Isaiah Oliver, CB, Colorado*
Oliver has size (6-foot), speed (4.50 40) and length (33½-inch arm span). The Panthers would like to get a playmaker for Cam Newton but might be better served addressing the secondary here and getting better value on Day 2 of the draft.
25. Tennessee Titans
Dallas Goedert, TE, South Dakota State
It isn't a terrific tight end group this year, but Goedert is the best one in this class. He's still a little underrated and didn't get a chance to shine at the Senior Bowl or combine because of injury. His pro day will be important. You don't get too many two-way TEs coming out of college, but Goedert fits the bill. He's got a big frame (6-4, 260) with good speed and can play in-line or detached.
26. Atlanta Falcons
Justin Reid, S, Stanford*
Guard is a definite need for Atlanta, but a position I believe the Falcons will address in free agency. This might be a bit of a reach, but I really like Reid's tape and he backed it up with a great combine workout (4.40 40 at 6-1, 204, along with 10-foot, 8-inch broad jump and 36.5-inch vertical jump). I think he's worthy of a top-40 selection.
27. New Orleans Saints
Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville
The Saints could go offensive line with James Daniels or Billy Price, or TE with Goedert if he's available. I'm putting Jackson here because Drew Brees can't play forever, and this would be a terrific spot for him to sit, learn and develop behind a Hall of Fame QB and a terrific offensive mind in Sean Payton.
28. Pittsburgh Steelers
Hayden Hurst, TE, South Carolina*
Hurst is a big (6-4, 250), athletic target who can contribute immediately. A former pro baseball player, Hurst has good ball skills and can help stretch the seam for Ben Roethlisberger and that potent Pittsburgh offense. He's also a good blocker.
29. Jacksonville Jaguars
D.J. Moore, WR, Maryland*
Jacksonville has a real possibility of losing Marqise Lee and Allen Robinson in free agency. If that happens, WR is a huge need. Moore's tape is really good when he's targeted, and his combine showing, including a 4.42 40, only helped his cause. A tough WR with good run-after-the-catch skills.
30. Minnesota Vikings
Billy Price, C/G, Ohio State
One way or another, Minnesota will solve its starting QB situation through free agency. With that in place, there aren't a lot of holes on this roster. Minnesota had great success with 2017 third-round pick Pat Elflein, so they go back to the Buckeyes well here. Price tore his pec at the combine and underwent surgery, but he should be fine for training camp. He's an experienced starter with great character, and could be an immediate upgrade.
31. New England Patriots
Offensive tackle is a possibility for New England, but I think guys like Kolton Miller and Geron Christian are a bit of a reach here. Carter is a versatile LB at 6-5, 250 with 34-inch arms -- he can play standing up and even some right defensive end in a 4-3. He plays his tail off on tape, and the Patriots could use his pass-rushing production. He had an outstanding combine with a 4.50 40 and outstanding jumps (10-foot, 10-inch broad, 36-inch vertical).
32. Philadelphia Eagles
D.J. Chark, WR, LSU
The Super Bowl champions have the luxury of drafting for value, for a roster without many holes. Chark is a raw route runner but has the tools to develop. His stock is on the rise after a great Senior Bowl week and combine workout, punctuated with a 4.34 40 and 40-inch vertical jump. He could fill Torrey Smith's role as an explosive vertical WR in the future.
