Sunday, December 22, 2024

Miller’s new seven-round NFL mock draft: Two trades, 11 QBs and 257 total pick predictions

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We’re one month away from the 2024 NFL draft. The 2023 season is long over, and we’ve seen top prospects make their cases at all-star events, the combine and pro days. There is still time for change as we learn more and more about how all 32 teams plan to approach the draft, but we’re certainly getting a clearer picture of how this class stacks up — and who could get drafted.

So it seems like a good time to predict all 257 names that will be called — and when they will be called over the course of seven rounds. I found landing spots for 11 quarterbacks, including five in Round 1. And two of those first-round passers were picked here after projected trades up the board.

Here are my predictions for Rounds 1-7. I provided complete breakdowns for the first three rounds then picked my favorite fit in each Day 3 round. Let’s get to it, starting with the Bears’ easy call at No. 1 and wrapping up with Mr. Irrelevant for the Jets at No. 257. (Compensatory picks are denoted with an asterisk.)

Jump to a round:
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

ROUND 1

Caleb Williams, QB, USC

The Bears trading Justin Fields to Pittsburgh cements their selection of a quarterback at No. 1 overall. Williams is not only the best one in this class, but also the best of the past decade. A talented creator under center, he accounted for 120 touchdowns in his three-year college career (93 passing, 27 rushing) to just 14 interceptions. The Bears have built a fantastic supporting cast, allowing Williams the chance to see instant success. He’ll be a Week 1 starter and could have a C.J. Stroud-like impact here.


Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

Everything is new in Washington — ownership, general manager and coach. And there will be a new quarterback, too. Daniels’ dual-threat ability is an ideal fit for new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s version of the Air Raid offense. With back-to-back seasons of over 1,000 rushing yards and a nearly perfect QBR of 99.5 on passes over 20 yards, Daniels would thrive with wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson opening things up down the field. The Commanders will have a tough decision to make between Daniels and North Carolina’s Drake Maye, but I see Daniels as the clear-cut QB2. He is also ready to play immediately after starting 55 games in college; Maye might have more upside, but Daniels is ready to excel right now.


Projected mock trade: Minnesota moves up for a QB

The Vikings made an early move to acquire pick No. 23 in the draft from the Texans, and it would allow their front office to aggressively come up the board from No. 11 for a top-three quarterback. I have Minnesota sending Nos. 11 and 23, along with a 2025 first-rounder, to New England for this third pick. The Vikings badly need a solution under center. The Patriots’ hole there is less dire in the short term since they have a solid bridge option on the roster in Jacoby Brissett. The extra draft capital would allow for better roster building under exec Eliot Wolf and coach Jerod Mayo as the architects of this post-Bill Belichick team.


Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Maye is big-armed and mobile, with the tools to thrive under coach Kevin O’Connell. With a star left tackle in Christian Darrisaw, arguably the league’s best receiver in Justin Jefferson and a very good WR2 in second-year player Jordan Addison, the Vikings’ offensive supporting cast is perfect for a rookie quarterback. Maye is raw, and in many situations it would be best for him to sit and learn for a year, but the Minnesota structure could get him on the field early. He has thrown for 7,929 yards and 62 TD passes over the past two seasons.


Projected mock trade: Denver also moves up for a QB

With quarterbacks going 1-2-3 to start the draft, I could see the Broncos getting on the phone and sending a package to Arizona for the No. 4 pick to get QB4. I think it would take something in the realm of pick No. 12, a 2025 first-rounder and a 2026 first-rounder. The deal is molded like the deal the 49ers made in 2021 to move up for Trey Lance, and yes, it’s an expensive trade package. But if Broncos coach Sean Payton lands his quarterback, no one will care much about the cost to move up to get him. The Cardinals, meanwhile, would have multiple first-rounders in 2024, 2025 and 2026.


J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

McCarthy is a tough, instinctive and accurate quarterback with above-average mobility and great play from the pocket. I’m not saying he’s Drew Brees, but the style of play would fit very well with what Payton ran in New Orleans. McCarthy is relatively inexperienced with just 28 starts in college, but he left Michigan with a 27-1 record. He completed 72.1% of his passes and threw only four picks last season, and his third-down QBR of 86.7 was 11th-best in the nation. McCarthy would be a sure bet to beat out Jarrett Stidham and start Week 1 for Denver.

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Jared Verse speeds in for a Florida State sack

Louisville QB Jack Plummer drops back to pass, but Florida State’s Jared Verse comes flying in for the sack.


Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Besides the Bears’ selection of Caleb Williams at No. 1, this is the easiest pick in the draft. Harrison is No. 2 overall on my board and is on par with greats like A.J. Green and Larry Fitzgerald as a prospect. He is explosive, has expert-level route-running traits and displays body control few 6-foot-3 receivers possess. And in this spot, Harrison would have All-Pro potential right out of the gate thanks to quarterback Justin Herbert being on roster. Harrison caught 155 balls for 31 touchdowns in three years at Ohio State and is as polished as they come at wide receiver. With Keenan Allen traded and Mike Williams cut, the door is wide open for a WR1 to enter and dominate.


Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

The Giants’ offense ranked No. 29 in offensive points last season (14 per game), as quarterback Daniel Jones tore the ACL in his right knee and the offensive line surrendered 85 sacks (most in the league). They have already improved the roster by signing offensive linemen Jon Runyan and Jermaine Eluemunor, but the wide receiver room is a little thin. Nabers has electric yards-after-catch speed and a diverse skill set that would work well in conjunction with Jalin Hyatt and Wan’Dale Robinson to give the Giants one of the fastest receiver corps in the league. His 120.7 yards per game led the nation, and his 3.7 yards per route run were second best among all FBS pass-catchers.


Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

After allowing 64 sacks last season (fourth most in the league), it is time for the Titans to figure out a new starting five on the offensive line. Lloyd Cushenberry was added at center, but the left tackle spot is absent of starting-level talent and Andre Dillard is gone after one season. Alt started 33 games in college and allowed just six sacks — including only two in the past two seasons. He was also penalized only five times in college. He’s pro-ready with great length and impressive mobility at 6-9. His run blocking isn’t always full of pancake blocks, but Alt is a finisher with fantastic Day 1 ability and upside.


Dallas Turner, DE, Alabama

The offensive side of the ball is set in Atlanta — now it’s time for coach Raheem Morris to get a playmaker for the defense. Turner took over for Will Anderson Jr. at Alabama and notched 22.5 sacks and 29.5 tackles for loss in his career. Given that the Falcons finished 21st in sacks (42) and 32nd in pass rush win rate (30.9%) last season, Turner’s impact would be appreciated. The Falcons could go cornerback here, too, after grabbing just eight interceptions last season as a team, but the value of a Round 2 corner is much better than a Round 2 pass-rusher.


Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

Get your franchise quarterback at No. 1 overall and find his new best friend at No. 9. That’s the model for the Bears in this draft if no trade-back opportunities are attractive. (Chicago has four total picks and none beyond Round 4.) Adding Odunze to a pass-catcher group that includes Keenan Allen, DJ Moore, Cole Kmet and Gerald Everett makes this offense dangerous. The junior wideout is coming off a season with 92 catches, 1,640 yards and 13 touchdowns.


Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

If it were me, I’d be going offensive tackle or wideout here. But after the Jets acquired offensive tackles Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses and wide receiver Mike Williams, it feels like they are all-in on winning this season with Aaron Rodgers returning from a torn Achilles. That means going with the biggest impact player at No. 10, and Bowers fits. He can operate from the slot and be Rodgers’ safety valve and hot-route artist. Bowers played 40 games over three years in college, caught 26 touchdowns and had only eight drops. He missed some time during the 2023 season with an ankle injury, but he is a top-five player in the class in terms of NFL readiness and expected impact.


Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

After a trade down, the Patriots can get a building block left tackle in Fashanu. In 21 games as a starter at left tackle, he allowed one sack and eight pressures. The Patriots’ offensive line allowed 47 sacks last season (ninth-most in the league) and lost starter Trent Brown in free agency. Plugging in Fashanu at left tackle and moving Mike Onwenu to right tackle suddenly makes things look pretty good here. This is a talented tackle class, but it’s light on the left side. Trading out of No. 3 would mean the Patriots miss out on the top-end quarterbacks in this class, but adding a near-lock at left tackle and exploring alternate QB options is a good team-building play.


Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

After trading back from No. 4, the Cardinals can still land someone who can become a WR1 and be a top-flight downfield target for quarterback Kyler Murray. Thomas led the nation in receiving touchdowns last season (17) and fills a hole with Marquise Brown off to Kansas City in free agency. Thomas’ vertical speed and catch radius would be great for the Cards, who currently have Michael Wilson and Greg Dortch slotted into the two starting receiver spots.


Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

The Raiders signed veteran Gardner Minshew in free agency and have Aidan O’Connell returning but are still in position to add a starting-caliber quarterback if one is available in Round 1. Nix, who started 61 games in college, threw 113 touchdown passes and ran for 38 more scores over five seasons. He would give the Raiders’ offense the dual-threat aspect it needs for new coordinator Luke Getsy. The Raiders could also be in play for a right tackle or wide receiver at this spot after being quiet on the offensive side of the ball in free agency.


Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

The Trevor Penning experiment has not worked in New Orleans; he has started just six games over two seasons and allowed six sacks. So the Saints have to find a long-term left tackle. Fuaga, who started 25 games the past two years at right tackle while allowing just one sack, has the mobility and agility to make the transition to the left side. He is my OT3 in this class and No. 12 overall player on my board.


Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

General manager Chris Ballard could look at the receivers (maybe Texas’ Adonai Mitchell) or cornerbacks, but favoring the value of the draft’s top defensive tackle would be typical Ballard. Murphy — a 6-1, 310-pound interior rusher — has elite first-step quickness and unbelievable power. You can see it all over the Texas-Alabama tape from early last season. Lining up mostly as a 5-technique in college, Murphy would likely slide in next to DeForest Buckner in Indy’s four-man front.


Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

The Seahawks’ depth chart has zero left guards listed right now. So I have Fautanu — a college left tackle — sliding inside, where he has the talent to be an All-Pro guard. Lining up Charles Cross and Fautanu on the left side immediately boosts the run game and keeps Geno Smith cleaner for the deep passes new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb loves. (Fautanu played for Grubb at Washington, too.) The Seahawks are always seeking value when it comes to the draft, and Fautanu is my No. 16 overall player, so Seattle can fill a need without reaching.


Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

With four WRs gone and the full cornerback class available, I think general manager Trent Baalke targets the latter position here. He loves players with elite traits (such as Travon Walker), and Mitchell fits the bill there. The 6-foot, 195-pound senior ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash at the combine and benched 225 pounds 20 times. He’s fast and physical, and he wins at the line of scrimmage. And his stats speak to his ball-hawking abilities; he broke up 32 passes and picked off six over the past two seasons. Pairing Mitchell with Tyson Campbell — another corner with great traits — forms a really good duo.


Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

After signing right tackle Trent Brown in free agency, the Bengals are cleared to address the defense in Round 1. Teaming Arnold up with DJ Turner, Cam Taylor-Britt and Mike Hilton gives Cincinnati’s secondary a chance to compete with any team in the AFC. Arnold was a five-star safety prospect but made the move to cornerback, where he started for two seasons and collected six interceptions and 21 pass breakups. He also ran a 4.5-second 40-yard dash at 6-foot and 189 pounds, and he is feisty and physical at the line of scrimmage. In short, he has the skill set of a true CB1 and future Pro Bowler.


Jared Verse, DE, Florida State

The Rams are pretty free to attack value with a “best player available” approach in Round 1. The retirement of Aaron Donald looms large, but breakout rookie Kobie Turner will slide into the 3-technique spot. Where the Rams really need help in the pass rush is off the edge, and that’s where Verse would come in. He is relentless with high-effort production — Verse helped lead FSU to an undefeated regular season with nine sacks and 50 pressures. He’s a plug-and-play 4-3 defensive end starter with Trey Hendrickson-like ability.

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Roman Wilson makes two crucial catches as Michigan ties score

Roman Wilson makes a 29-yard catch to set up a 4-yard touchdown throw from J.J. McCarthy.


Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

The Steelers did not tend to the offensive line in free agency, so this first-round selection has to be focused up front. Powers-Johnson is a dominant center prospect with exceptional power at 328 pounds. He started 17 games at Oregon and didn’t allow a single sack. He’s pro-ready and fits what Pittsburgh needs with his strength in the pass game and mobility in the middle of the field on run plays.


JC Latham, OT, Alabama

Salary cap concerns have forced the Dolphins to remake their the offensive line, and Latham could fit well. He’s a handful for defensive linemen at 343 pounds and has excellent grip strength. Latham was a two-year starter at right tackle for Alabama (two sacks allowed) but has the potential to play either tackle or guard in the pros; he would likely push right guard Robert Jones out of the starting lineup as a rookie.


Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

The Eagles were middle-of-the-pack in most defensive passing stats after a rough finish to the 2023 season, and their nine interceptions tied for 25th. They signed veteran nickel C.J. Gardner-Johnson and should get Darius Slay and James Bradberry back healthy, but there’s no doubt Philadelphia needs an infusion of top-end talent at cornerback. Wiggins has legendary speed (4.28-second time in the 40-yard dash) that shows up on tape in man coverage situations. He had two interceptions last season, and his combination of length, wheels and hustle would get him on the field early in Philly.


Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

After landing Olumuyiwa Fashanu with the first of two acquired first-rounders from the mock trade, the Patriots can now get a versatile defensive back who was a certified playmaker in college. DeJean grabbed seven interceptions over the past two seasons, returning three for TDs. The Patriots have last year’s first-rounder Christian Gonzalez returning from a torn labrum, and I like this pairing a lot. DeJean missed his combine workout while recovering from a broken leg suffered late in the 2023 season, but he should be ready to roll in Week 1.


Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

Dallas let Tyron Smith walk with no obvious replacement on the roster — at least without creating another hole elsewhere. Mims is easy-moving with elite agility, length and power. He has only started eight games in college after waiting his turn behind 2023 first-rounder Broderick Jones and missing time last season with an ankle injury, but those eight games of tape are beautiful. The Cowboys could play Mims at guard and move Tyler Smith to tackle … Or keep Smith inside and play the ascending Mims on the blindside. In an offseason where Dallas was the last team to sign a free agent, there are more questions than answers right now, so the draft will be crucial.


Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

The Packers love drafting premium positions early, and Guyton could be a starter for them at left tackle or right guard after they lost Jon Runyan and David Bakhtiari this offseason. He started 14 games for the Sooners over the past two seasons after transferring from TCU and could thrive at multiple positions in the pros. The 6-8, 322-pounder has great length and moves like a tight end.


Laiatu Latu, DE, UCLA

You won’t find a more productive pass-rusher in this class. Latu put on a clinic in pass rushing the past two years at UCLA, posting 23.5 sacks and 112 pressures. He has excellent hand usage and really good upper-body strength in his pass-rush moves. And with his 6-5, 259-pound frame, first-step quickness and the bend to execute on all three downs, he would slot in well as a standup rusher with the Bucs’ 3-4 scheme. Latu reminds me of the Bucs’ 2021 first-rounder Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, whose fifth-year option decision for 2025 is due right after the draft.


Graham Barton, C/G, Duke

Newly signed veteran tackle Jonah Williams will play opposite last year’s first-rounder Paris Johnson Jr., but additional support on the interior is needed. Barton started five games at center in his freshman season before moving to left tackle for the final three years of his college career. The Cardinals would love that versatility and potential inside. Barton allowed three sacks over his final two seasons and has the talent to replace Hjalte Froholdt (currently projected to start) in his rookie season.


Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

Let’s maintain this high-flying Buffalo offense around quarterback Josh Allen with Mitchell, who would start out as a WR2 but could eventually become the WR1. (Stefon Diggs is 30 years old.) Mitchell is a 6-3 vertical threat with 4.33 speed. He had 11 touchdowns and just one drop last season, and he could be the deep threat the team lost in Gabe Davis — but with more consistent hands.


Chop Robinson, DE, Penn State

The Lions stick to their board. In 2023, that meant going running back and off-ball linebacker in Round 1. But I think Detroit targets a premium position this year. Robinson has electric speed (4.48 in the 40) and first-step quickness, getting on offensive tackles right off the snap. His production in college was limited — just four sacks last season — but this is a bet on his burst and potential. I like his skill set opposite Aidan Hutchinson.


Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia

With Zay Flowers looking like a true WR1 in his rookie season (77 catches, 858 yards, 5 TDs), the Ravens have to feel good about their developing passing game. But let’s keep building, especially since Rashod Bateman hasn’t emerged and Odell Beckham Jr. is a free agent. McConkey is a precise route runner with 4.39 speed and the stop-start quickness to dominate on underneath routes. Coming off an ankle injury in 2023, McConkey had a really strong Senior Bowl week and dominated his combine workout; he’s a Round 1 target on my board.


Jordan Morgan, G/OT, Arizona

The 49ers were active in free agency, but they didn’t do much regarding the offensive line, which struggled throughout the postseason. To me, that signals that the front office sees the draft class as a good opportunity to build there. Morgan played left tackle at Arizona, but he is seen by scouts as a potential guard at the next level. He has 37 games of experience and is a great mover in space. Morgan is a plug-and-play fit in the 49ers’ scheme.


Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas

Let’s give quarterback Patrick Mahomes the guy who just ran the fastest 40-yard dash we have on record and see what happens. The Chiefs brought in Marquise Brown on a one-year prove-it deal and watched rookie Rashee Rice emerge last season, but the idea of Mahomes throwing to Worthy is just too good. His 4.21 speed shows up on tape, as he caught 26 touchdown passes over three years and went over 1,000 yards last season. His deep speed would keep defenses from double-teaming tight end Travis Kelce and get Kansas City back to executing more downfield plays after Mahomes averaged a career-low 6.2 air yards per pass last season.

ROUND 2

Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina

One nugget I’ve heard from multiple NFL scouts since the Senior Bowl is that the Panthers love this wide receiver class and believe they will be able to add a rookie starter at No. 33. The Panthers sent 10 people to the South Carolina pro day, and Legette’s 4.39 speed at 6-1 and 221 pounds is perfect for slant routes — which would in turn help quarterback Bryce Young get the ball out faster in 2024.


Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

We got the Patriots some OL protection (Olumuyiwa Fashanu) and a playmaker DB (Cooper DeJean) in Round 1, so let’s pivot to the offensive skill positions. Coleman is an elite post-up player at 6-3 and 213 pounds. His combine 40 time was disappointing at 4.61 seconds, but his GPS recorded speed during position drills was tops in his group, and he plays fast.


Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois

Coach Jonathan Gannon always had a strong rotation on the defensive line during his days as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator, and the unit ran through 3-technique Fletcher Cox. Newton can be that player for Arizona with his stunning first-step quickness and nonstop motor. He did have foot surgery in the offseason and has yet to work out in the pre-draft process, but his tape is Round 1-caliber.


Darius Robinson, DE, Missouri

Washington needs an impact defensive end who can take over games after trading away Montez Sweat and Chase Young at the 2023 trade deadline. At 6-5 and 285 pounds, Robinson can rush from the edge or play inside. He had nine sacks in his breakout 2023 season.


Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia

If the Chargers trade down in Round 1, I think they could address the secondary there; that unit was tied for 28th last season at 7.7 yards allowed per pass attempt. But instead, I have them waiting until Day 2, where the CB class still has really good options. Lassiter’s 4.65-second run in the 40 at his pro day will raise some eyebrows, but scouts I’ve spoken to still believe he’s a top-50 pick. He broke up eight passes last season.


Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M

New defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson is bringing a base 3-4 to Tennessee, and that means the team needs linebackers. Kenneth Murray Jr. was added on a two-year contract, but Cooper is this draft’s best linebacker as a true three-down threat. Cooper posted 14 tackles for loss, 8 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 80 tackles for A&M last season. And the 4.51 speed he displayed at the combine shows up on tape, too; he has true sideline-to-sideline range.


Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU

Suamataia has the power to be a very good right tackle, a position he played in 2022 and one that could soon be open in Carolina. For the time being, he could learn behind Taylor Moton and continue to develop his special movement and power traits.


Patrick Paul, OT, Houston

Paul has legendary wingspan at 86¼ inches and enough speed at 6-7 and 331 pounds to run a 5.13 in the 40-yard dash. He is raw, but NFL offensive line coaches I’ve talked to are in love with his tools and want a chance to develop his traits into a high-end starter.


Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri

New defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley brings a press-man scheme to the secondary, and the Packers need more personnel to run it. Rakestraw is elite at the line of scrimmage with feisty play, making him a fit. A core muscle injury that required surgery in December is the only reason he’s available in Round 2 here; he’s ranked No. 20 on my board.


Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State

The Texans are on the clock for the first time, and even after adding impact defensive linemen in free agency, they should still address the depth and future of the unit. Fiske is slightly undersized at 6-5 and 292 pounds, but his quickness shooting gaps and ability to take over a game are notable. Coming off back-to-back six-sack seasons, Fiske dominated at the Senior Bowl before putting together an all-around great combine workout that featured a 40-yard dash time of 4.78 seconds.


Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

The two biggest needs in Atlanta heading into the draft are pass-rusher and cover corner. They got Dallas Turner in Round 1, so now I have them targeting his Alabama teammate to take away receivers. McKinstry has a Jones fracture in his right foot, but he still ran a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at the Bama pro day and could be in play even earlier than this.


Roger Rosengarten, OT, Washington

We had the Raiders resetting at QB in Round 1 with Bo Nix, so let’s now protect him. Rosengarten played right tackle at Washington and has excellent power and poise. Some teams see him best suited to play guard, but in Las Vegas, he could replace Thayer Munford Jr. at right tackle or D.J. Fluker at right guard and be an upgrade in either spot.


Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan

It was tempting to go quarterback here, but the Saints are contenders in the wide-open NFC South and must build a roster to compete in 2024. Wilson is one of the best slot receivers in the class and would immediately replace departed veteran Michael Thomas. Wilson had just 66 targets in 2023 while playing in Michigan’s run-first scheme, but his pre-draft process has been flawless.

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Javon Bullard leaps to secure INT for Georgia

Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart throws down field, but he gets intercepted by a leaping Javon Bullard late in the second quarter.


Marshawn Kneeland, DE, Western Michigan

The Colts continue to check off needs in this draft class in this mock and get an upside pass-rusher with the strength and speed profile to fit what Ballard loves at the position. Kneeland is raw but ran a 4.75 in the 40-yard dash and posted a 35-inch vertical jump at 6-3 and 267 pounds. He has the agility and power to be a starting 4-3 defensive end opposite Kwity Paye.


Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

Penix has his issues on tape — his lower-body mechanics need refining, and he struggles on the move — but as a pure passer from the pocket, no one in this class is better. If the Giants can protect him, then he could carve up defenses. Penix doesn’t have the mobility that coach Brian Daboll seems to prefer, but his arm strength and accuracy are “wow” factors. And New York could use more options under center with Daniel Jones returning from a torn ACL.


Maason Smith, DT, LSU

In 2023, the Jaguars finished 25th in the league with just 40 sacks. That has to improve in 2024, which is why adding a game-wrecking defensive tackle in Smith makes sense here. Smith is raw and missed most of the 2022 season with a knee injury that still seemed to affect him early last season, but his combine performance (35-inch vert and a 5.10-second 40) at 6-5 and 306 pounds was a reminder of his talent and potential.


Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida

To run the Bengals’ three-WR offense, you need three starting wide receivers. That’s not the case right now, with Tee Higgins hanging out there on the franchise tag and Tyler Boyd still a free agent. Pearsall would give Cincinnati at least one more option opposite Ja’Marr Chase. He’s fast and has some of the best end-zone footwork and ball-tracking in the class.


Payton Wilson, LB, NC State

Last season highlighted the Eagles’ lack of depth and young talent at linebacker after years of neglect in the draft. Adding veteran Devin White should help, but Wilson has three-down skills that no one in this class can match. He posted 6 sacks, 18.5 tackles for loss and 3 interceptions in 2023. There are durability concerns at 24 years old, but Wilson’s tape is that of an NFL starter.


Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky

After trading Diontae Johnson, the Steelers signed veteran receiver Van Jefferson but have done little more to upgrade the WR depth chart for quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Adding Corley would give the Steelers a big (5-11, 215 pounds) receiver with awesome after-the-catch ability and the power to run through contact on underneath routes.


Calen Bullock, S, USC

A remade secondary in Los Angeles will feature the return of Darious Williams and the addition of Kamren Curl, but the free safety position is weak. Bullock has center-fielder range and 4.48 speed, and he grabbed nine interceptions in his three seasons with the Trojans.


Devontez Walker, WR, North Carolina

A quiet need for the Eagles’ offense is a No. 3 wide receiver, even after signing DeVante Parker and Parris Campbell. Walker has the vertical ability to complement DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown and the upside to develop into a top-two wideout over the course of his rookie deal. In just eight games in 2023, Walker caught seven touchdowns (41 receptions).


T’Vondre Sweat, DT, Texas

Adding a space-eating defensive tackle for Jim Schwartz’s scheme may not seem like a need, but my goodness, would this cause problems for offenses. How do you give Myles Garrett double-team attention when a 366-pound Outland Award-winning nose tackle is crashing the pocket? Trading for receiver Jerry Jeudy and signing linebackers Devin Bush and Jordan Hicks frees the Browns up to add the big nose tackle here.


Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia

A late-season injury to center Connor Williams (now a free agent) affected the team down the stretch. Frazier is a top-32 prospect on my board, but teams aren’t in a hurry to prioritize centers in the draft yet. The four-year starter was a state wrestling champion in high school, and he is perfect for Mike McDaniels’ zone offense that needs mobility in the middle of the offensive line. Plus, Frazier has the tools to start at guard or center.


Jonathon Brooks, RB, Texas

The Cowboys have yet to replace Tony Pollard but could get a potential Round 1 prospect on a discount after Brooks suffered an ACL tear in November. Brooks is expected to be cleared this summer to return to football action, which gets him on the field in time for training camp — and in time to take the RB1 title here. He rushed for 1,139 yards and 10 scores last season before the injury.


Cooper Beebe, G, Kansas State

A remodeled offensive line held up well in Tampa Bay last season, but let’s upgrade the left guard spot. Beebe is pro-ready in both the run and pass games, and he plays with a mean streak that coach Todd Bowles and his staff would love. He started 48 games in college, played every position except center and allowed three sacks.


Mason McCormick, C, South Dakota State

One of my favorite sleeper picks in this draft, McCormick can be a starting guard or center despite not getting the attention he deserves in the pre-draft process. He would push right guard Sean Rhyan in Green Bay while also providing depth at center behind Josh Myers.


Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota

The Texans have bolstered the secondary through free agency, but I’d like to do something at the free safety position. Nubin had 13 interceptions during his college career and has excellent vision and range. A postseason knee surgery has pushed him down the board, but he’s a steal at this spot.


T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State

The talent at cornerback in Buffalo isn’t as bad as some seem to think, but it’s also not quite a strength. The team’s best corner — Rasul Douglas — turns 30 this season and is a free agent next year, while former first-rounder Kaiir Elam has yet to emerge as a starter. Tampa is tough at the line of scrimmage and excels in press situations. The 6-1, 189-pounder had three interceptions the past two years.


Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon

One persistent rumor this offseason: The Lions are doing work on the receiver class. Franklin is a speedster with vertical route expertise, and he would play perfectly opposite Amon-Ra St. Brown and alongside fellow sprinter Jameson Williams. The 6-2, 176-pounder ran a 4.41 at the combine, and that speed shows up on tape when he’s running past defenders.


Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan

How do great football players always fall to the Ravens? Sainristil was a do-it-all defensive back and leader at Michigan, posting six interceptions (two touchdowns). In Baltimore, he would play a nickel role very similar to what Brian Branch did in his rookie season for the Lions.


Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan

Arik Armstead was released in a salary cap-saving move, and while the 49ers did add Maliek Collins and Jordan Elliott, a true 3-technique rusher should be on the draft wish list behind offensive line help. Jenkins is 6-3 and 299 pounds, and he ran a 4.91-second 40, showing his speed. But he is also one of the strongest defensive tackles in the class.


Javon Bullard, S, Georgia

Trading cornerback L’Jarius Sneed away means movement in the Kansas City secondary. Bullard gets listed at safety but has tools that’ll remind you of Tyrann Mathieu in this defense — which is the kind of hybrid inside-out player Sneed was at the start of his career.

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0:33

Brenden Rice stays in bounds for a 26-yard TD

Caleb Williams connects with Brenden Rice to put the Trojans up 34-7.

ROUND 3

Chris Braswell, DE, Alabama

The trade of Brian Burns opens the door for a pass-rusher, and Braswell had eight sacks and forced three fumbles last season at Alabama.


Bralen Trice, DE, Washington

A standup pass-rusher with top-notch college production — 16 sacks in the past two seasons — is exactly what coach Jonathan Gannon needs on this defense. Trice could excel in Arizona.


Adisa Isaac, DE, Penn State

Washington needs bodies to replace Montez Sweat and Chase Young. Isaac’s first-step quickness and burst pair perfectly with the power of Darius Robinson, who we projected to Washington in Round 2 of this mock draft.


Jalen McMillan, WR, Washington

We went with the big-bodied Keon Coleman in Round 2, so now I have the Patriots getting a silky-smooth slot receiver in McMillan. He has 4.47 speed and 17 receiving touchdowns in college.


Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas

Sanders has the tools to make an immediate impact as an “F” tight end. The 6-4, 245-pounder is a lot like 2023 second-rounder Trey McBride (Arizona) in how he can be used and his potential Year 1 impact.


Christian Haynes, G, UConn

The Giants plugged gaps on the right side of the offensive line in free agency but still have a big hole at left guard. Haynes is a 6-3, 317-pounder with awesome power.


Max Melton, CB, Rutgers

We can’t add enough wide receivers or cornerbacks in this mock draft for Arizona. Melton is fast and sudden (4.39 speed), making him an ideal nickel for the Cards.


Kamren Kinchens, S, Miami

Kinchens could come in and immediately push free safety Tony Adams with his ball skills (11 interceptions over the past two years) and ability to play post safety.


Jaden Hicks, S, Washington State

Hicks is versatile and a big-time hitter when coming downhill. He is a Kyle Dugger-style strong safety at 211 pounds, making 160 tackles over the past two seasons.


Michael Hall, DT, Ohio State

I wanted to find an earlier fit for Hall after witnessing his incredible pro day workout in Columbus, but things just fell this way. The Falcons could shape him under another undersized defensive tackle in Grady Jarrett.


Jonah Elliss, DE, Utah

Adding Montez Sweat was huge for Chicago last season, but the team needs someone opposite him. Elliss is a little undersized at 6-2 and 248 pounds, but he had 12 sacks last season.


Andru Phillips, CB, Kentucky

Phillips is often typecast as a nickel corner, but I think he has the length and speed to do just fine on the outside. Playing opposite Pat Surtain II would help his transition.


Brenden Rice, WR, USC

Jerry Rice played his final Super Bowl with the Raiders, and I have his son going there to help the team’s WR room. Las Vegas needs someone opposite Davante Adams, and Rice caught 12 TDs last season.

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1:55

Watch the top highlights from Ja’Lynn Polk’s incredible season

Check out some of Ja’Lynn Polk’s best plays from Washington during the 2023 season.


Khyree Jackson, CB, Oregon

Last year, the Commanders drafted an undersized corner in Emmanuel Forbes (180 pounds). This year, I love the idea of them getting a supersized DB in the 6-4 Jackson.


Junior Colson, LB, Michigan

Colson didn’t workout at the combine or his pro day, which could push him down the board — but the Falcons should be looking for rangy off-ball linebackers at the draft, and he’s a plug-and-play starter.


Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee

Joe Mixon is off to Houston, replaced with Zack Moss and Chase Brown in Cincinnati. But Wright has the electric speed and outside running ability to push them both down the depth chart and be a rookie starter.


Jaylan Ford, LB, Texas

This is a little early for Ford based on feedback from NFL teams, but the Seahawks need a young linebacker for new coach Mike MacDonald to train him into his Roquan Smith. Ford is special in pass coverage with six interceptions over the past two years.


Kris Abrams-Draine, CB, Missouri

Indianapolis re-signed All-Star nickel cornerback Kenny Moore II but needs an outside starter opposite JuJu Brents. Abrams-Draine is fast and fluid in coverage, and he shows great instincts when attacking the ball in the air.


Ruke Orhorhoro, DT, Clemson

As I mentioned earlier, Donald’s retirement will be felt on this defensive line, even with Kobie Turner expected to fill a bigger role. Orhorhoro is a first-step problem for opponents, and he has power and length at 6-4 and 294 pounds.


Christian Jones, OT, Texas

With two new quarterbacks in Pittsburgh, I’d consider moving last year’s first-rounder Broderick Jones to the left side and taking the incredibly steady Christian Jones here to start as a rookie at right tackle.


Trey Benson, RB, Florida State

Cleveland has to find a reliable runner behind Nick Chubb, who is coming off a leg injury. Benson has power at 216 pounds, great burst and very good receiving traits out of the backfield.


Beaux Limmer, C, Arkansas

One of my favorite players to watch in person last season, Limmer has elite movement and agility for a center prospect and can anchor with the best of them. He’s a starter candidate and could unseat 2023 second-rounder Juice Scruggs here.


Ja’Lynn Polk, WR, Washington

The Cowboys seem allergic to adding talent opposite CeeDee Lamb, but I’m forcing them to give Dak Prescott another playmaker with the physical Polk. He can be a mismatch problem on underneath routes at 6-1 and 203 pounds.

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0:29

Theo Johnson hauls in a TD to boost Penn State’s lead

Theo Johnson makes a contested catch for the touchdown to boost Penn State’s lead.


Brandon Dorlus, DT, Oregon

Dorlus is an ideal scheme fit in Green Bay’s three-man front. He’s a solid rotational pass-rusher with the ability to bump inside to 3-technique in passing situations.


D.J. James, CB, Auburn

The starting cornerback spot opposite Jamel Dean is wide open in Tampa Bay, and James has the length and speed to work into a CB2 role early in his career.


Jermaine Burton, WR, Alabama

I’ll say it again: Wide receivers and corners are the priorities in this draft for Arizona. Burton is a possession receiver with 4.45 speed and 23 career receiving touchdowns.


Gabriel Murphy, DE, UCLA

Three picks ago, I got Green Bay some versatility on the defensive line. Now I’m landing the Packers a valuable standup edge rusher with 21 career sacks.


Jeremiah Trotter Jr., LB, Clemson

Devin White is gone and Lavonte David turned 34 this offseason, so the Bucs need youth at linebacker. Trotter has the toughness to be a two-down run-stuffer after 28 run stops over the past two seasons.


Dominick Puni, G, Kansas

A college tackle, Puni could battle for the starting left guard spot in camp while also providing insurance across the offensive line as a five-position player.


Zak Zinter, G, Michigan

Zinter has missed the pre-draft process with a leg injury, but his power in the run game and movement traits are exactly what the 49ers are lacking at right guard.


DeWayne Carter, DT, Duke

Chris Jones signed for three more years, but the Chiefs still covet more rotational pass-rushers for Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme. Carter has similar tools to Derrick Nnadi, though he had only one sack last season.


Javon Baker, WR, Central Florida

Calvin Ridley is off to Tennessee, but the Jaguars can replace some of his production with the sweet feet of Baker (1,139 yards last season). You won’t find better body adjustment or control in the red zone than what we see on Baker’s tape.


Blake Fisher, OT, Notre Dame

Even after signing Trent Brown, the Bengals have to think long-term about the offensive line. Fisher’s footwork can get a little heavy, but his punch and power help him project as a potential starting right tackle.


Renardo Green, CB, Florida State

Green is likely a nickel cornerback in the NFL, and potentially a dang good one. He has 4.49 speed and 24 career pass breakups.


Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale

The Rams can get a developmental tackle here with this third-round compensatory selection. Amegadjie needs refinement but has the agility and power to blossom into a quality starter.


Theo Johnson, TE, Penn State

Johnson is a sleeper tight end prospect with fantastic all-around ability and power at 259 pounds. He could very well get TE1 reps here.

play

0:27

Illinois gets on the board as Luke Altmyer finds Tip Reiman for a TD

Luke Altmyer finds Tip Reiman for a touchdown to put Illinois on the board.

ROUND 4

101. Carolina Panthers: Braelon Allen, RB, Wisconsin
102. Seattle Seahawks (via WSH): Cole Bishop, S, Utah
103. New England Patriots: Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina
104. Arizona Cardinals: Mekhi Wingo, DT, LSU
105. Los Angeles Chargers: Blake Corum, RB, Michigan
106. Tennessee Titans: Mohamed Kamara, DE, Colorado State
107. New York Giants: MarShawn Lloyd, RB, USC
108. Minnesota Vikings: Myles Harden, CB, South Dakota
109. Atlanta Falcons: Tanor Bortolini, C, Wisconsin
110. Los Angeles Chargers (via CHI): Delmar Glaze, OT, Maryland
111. New York Jets: Jamari Thrash, WR, Louisville
112. Las Vegas Raiders: Audric Estime, RB, Notre Dame
113. Baltimore Ravens (via DEN/NYJ): Trevin Wallace, LB, Kentucky
114. Jacksonville Jaguars: Austin Booker, DE, Kansas
115. Cincinnati Bengals: McKinnley Jackson, DT, Texas A&M
116. Jacksonville Jaguars (via NO): Javon Foster, OT, Missouri
117. Indianapolis Colts: Tykee Smith, S, Georgia
118. Seattle Seahawks: Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame
119. Pittsburgh Steelers: Gabe Hall, DT, Baylor
120. Philadelphia Eagles (via LAR/PIT): Jared Wiley, TE, TCU
121. Denver Broncos (via MIA): Luke McCaffrey, WR, Rice
122. Chicago Bears (via PHI): Christian Mahogany, G, Boston College
123. Houston Texans (via CLE): Malik Washington, WR, Virginia
124. San Francisco 49ers (via DAL): Elijah Jones, CB, Boston College
125. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, S, Texas Tech
126. Green Bay Packers: Michael Pratt, QB, Tulane
127. Houston Texans: Cade Stover, TE, Ohio State
128. Buffalo Bills: Beau Brade, S, Maryland
129. Minnesota Vikings (via DET): Javontae Jean-Baptiste, DE, Notre Dame
130. Baltimore Ravens: Bucky Irving, RB, Oregon
131. Kansas City Chiefs: Will Shipley, RB, Clemson
132. San Francisco 49ers*: Curtis Jacobs, LB, Penn State
133. Buffalo Bills*: Jalyx Hunt, DE, Houston Christian
134. New York Jets (via BAL)*: Garret Greenfield, OT, South Dakota State
135. San Francisco 49ers**: Ben Sinnott, TE, Kansas State

** The 49ers’ fourth-round pick was penalized four spots as a result of administrative payroll accounting errors, sliding from No. 131 to No. 135.

My favorite prospect-team fit in Round 4: Cole Bishop, S, Utah to the Seahawks (No. 102). He is one of my favorite sleeper prospects in the class and someone I wanted to get higher in this mock draft. The 6-2, 206-pounder has experience playing inside and outside corner, safety, outside linebacker and even off-ball linebacker. The Seahawks could use him like Macdonald deployed Kyle Hamilton in Baltimore.

ROUND 5

136. Denver Broncos (via CAR/CLE): Marist Liufau, LB, Notre Dame
137. New England Patriots: Tip Reiman, TE, Illinois
138. Arizona Cardinals: Ray Davis, RB, Kentucky
139. Washington Commanders: Isaiah Williams, WR, Illinois
140. Los Angeles Chargers: Jaylon Carlies, S, Missouri
141. Carolina Panthers (via NYG): Jarrian Jones, CB, Florida State
142. Carolina Panthers (via TEN): Justin Eboigbe, DT, Alabama
143. Atlanta Falcons: Bub Means, WR, Pitt
144. Buffalo Bills (via CHI): Caelen Carson, CB, Wake Forest
145. Denver Broncos (via NYJ): Sedrick Van Pran, C, Georgia
146. Tennessee Titans (via MIN/PHI): Kalen King, CB, Penn State
147. Denver Broncos: Isaiah Davis, RB, South Dakota State
148. Las Vegas Raiders: Josh Newton, CB, TCU
149. Cincinnati Bengals: Jacob Cowing, WR, Arizona
150. New Orleans Saints: Isaiah Adams, G, Illinois
151. Indianapolis Colts: Tahj Washington, WR, USC
152. Washington Commanders (via SEA): Tommy Eichenberg, LB, Ohio State
153. Jacksonville Jaguars: Will Reichard, K, Alabama
154. Los Angeles Rams: Jarvis Brownlee Jr., CB, Louisville
155. Los Angeles Rams (via PIT): Dillon Johnson, RB, Washington
156. Cleveland Browns (via PHI/ARI): Ty’Ron Hopper, LB, Missouri
157. Minnesota Vikings (via CLE): Isaac Guerendo, RB, Louisville
158. Miami Dolphins: Khristian Boyd, DT, Northern Iowa
159. Kansas City Chiefs (via DAL): Daequan Hardy, CB, Penn State
160. Buffalo Bills (via GB): Matthew Jones, G, Ohio State
161. Philadelphia Eagles (via TB): Leonard Taylor III, DT, Miami
162. Arizona Cardinals (via HOU): Cedric Gray, LB, North Carolina
163. Buffalo Bills: James Williams, LB, Miami
164. Detroit Lions: Sataoa Laumea, G, Utah
165. Baltimore Ravens: Keith Randolph Jr., DT, Illinois
166. New York Giants (via SF/CAR): Tyler Davis, DT, Clemson
167. Minnesota Vikings (via KC): Nehemiah Pritchett, CB, Auburn
168. New Orleans Saints*: Johnny Dixon, CB, Penn State
169. Green Bay Packers*: Kamal Hadden, CB, Tennessee
170. New Orleans Saints*: Devin Leary, QB, Kentucky
171. Philadelphia Eagles*: Caedan Wallace, OT, Penn State
172. Philadelphia Eagles*: Brennan Jackson, DE, Washington State
173. Kansas City Chiefs*: Logan Lee, DT, Iowa
174. Dallas Cowboys*: Hunter Nourzad, C, Penn State
175. New Orleans Saints*: Tyrone Tracy Jr., RB, Purdue
176. San Francisco 49ers*: Malik Mustapha, S, Wake Forest

My favorite prospect-team fit in Round 5: Tip Reiman, TE, Illinois to the Patriots (No. 137). He was a huge riser coming out of his combine workout, where he showed excellent power in blocking drills and flashed 4.64 speed at 271 pounds. He’s the ideal TE2 to work in-line in tandem with Hunter Henry in the “F” position.

ROUND 6

177. Minnesota Vikings (via CAR/JAX): Jha’Quan Jackson, WR, Tulane
178. Pittsburgh Steelers (via ARI/CAR): Edefuan Ulofoshio, LB, Washington
179. Seattle Seahawks (via WSH): Eric Watts, DE, UConn
180. New England Patriots: Kitan Oladapo, S, Oregon State
181. Los Angeles Chargers: Javon Solomon, DE, Troy
182. Tennessee Titans (reacquired via PHI): Braiden McGregor, DE, Michigan
183. New York Giants: Willie Drew, CB, Virginia State
184. Miami Dolphins (via CHI): Jaylin Simpson, S, Auburn
185. New York Jets: Tanner McLachlan, TE, Arizona
186. Arizona Cardinals (via MIN): Drake Nugent, C, Michigan
187. Atlanta Falcons: Jordan Travis, QB, Florida State
188. Houston Texans (via LV/NE/MIN): Chau Smith-Wade, CB, Washington State
189. Buffalo Bills (via DEN/LAR): Fabien Lovett, DT, Florida State
190. New Orleans Saints: Jaheim Bell, TE, Florida State
191. Indianapolis Colts: Trevor Keegan, OT, Michigan
192. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Barrett, LB, Michigan
193. New England Patriots (via JAX): Joshua Karty, K, Stanford
194. Cincinnati Bengals: Dallin Holker, TE, Colorado State
195. Pittsburgh Steelers: Xavier Weaver, WR, Colorado
196. Los Angeles Rams: Cornelius Johnson, WR, Michigan
197. Atlanta Falcons (via CLE): Walter Rouse, OT, Oklahoma
198. Miami Dolphins: Decamerion Richardson, CB, Mississippi State
199. New Orleans Saints (via PHI): Jaylen Harrell, DE, Michigan
200. Buffalo Bills (via DAL/HOU): Cody Schrader, RB, Missouri
201. Detroit Lions (via TB): Jowon Briggs, DT, Cincinnati
202. Green Bay Packers: Qwan’tez Stiggers, CB, Toronto Argonauts (CFL)
203. Denver Broncos (via HOU/CLE): Trente Jones, G, Michigan
204. Buffalo Bills: Myles Cole, DE, Texas Tech
205. Detroit Lions: Evan Anderson, DT, Florida Atlantic
206. Cleveland Browns (via BAL): Nathaniel Watson, LB, Mississippi State
207. Denver Broncos (via SF): Marcus Harris, DT, Auburn
208. Las Vegas Raiders (via KC): Gottlieb Ayedze, OT, Maryland
209. Los Angeles Rams*: Erick All, TE, Iowa
210. Philadelphia Eagles*: Tyrice Knight, LB, UTEP
211. San Francisco 49ers*: Anthony Gould, WR, Oregon State
212. Jacksonville Jaguars*: Matt Lee, C, Miami
213. Los Angeles Rams*: Eyabi Okie-Anoma, DE, Charlotte
214. Cincinnati Bengals*: Layden Robinson, G, Texas A&M
215. San Francisco 49ers*: Jase McClellan, RB, Alabama
216. Dallas Cowboys*: Justin Rogers, DT, Auburn
217. Los Angeles Rams*: Tory Taylor, P, Iowa
218. Baltimore Ravens (via NYJ)*: Tylan Grable, OT, Central Florida
219. Green Bay Packers*: Johnny Wilson, WR, Florida State
220. Tampa Bay Buccaneers*: Steele Chambers, LB, Ohio State

My favorite prospect-team fit in Round 6: Jordan Travis, QB, Florida State to the Falcons (No. 187). Atlanta made a big splash in signing quarterback Kirk Cousins in free agency but doesn’t have a developing backup behind the 36-year-old. Travis is a gamer who battled through a shoulder injury early in the season before a broken leg ended his season. He’s a touch thrower with good mobility worthy of a late-round flier.

ROUND 7

221. Kansas City Chiefs (via CAR/TEN): Tyler Owens, S, Texas Tech
222. Washington Commanders: Dylan McMahon, C, NC State
223. Las Vegas Raiders (via NE): Josh Proctor, S, Ohio State
224. Cincinnati Bengals (via ARI/HOU): Xavier Thomas, DE, Clemson
225. Los Angeles Chargers: Sione Vaki, S, Utah
226. Arizona Cardinals (via NYG): Javion Cohen, G, Miami
227. Tennessee Titans: LaDarius Henderson, G, Michigan
228. Baltimore Ravens (via NYJ): Evan Williams, S, Oregon
229. Las Vegas Raiders (via MIN): Dwight McGlothern, CB, Arkansas
230. Minnesota Vikings (via ATL/CLE/ARI): Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint, WR, Georgia
231. New England Patriots (via CHI): Charles Turner III, C, LSU
232. Minnesota Vikings (via DEN/SF/HOU): Cedric Johnson, DE, Ole Miss
233. Dallas Cowboys (via LV): Kendall Milton, RB, Georgia
234. Indianapolis Colts: Jordan Magee, LB, Temple
235. Seattle Seahawks: AJ Barner, TE, Michigan
236. Jacksonville Jaguars: Nelson Ceaser, DE, Houston
237. Cincinnati Bengals: Daijahn Anthony, S, Ole Miss
238. Houston Texans (via NO): Brevyn Spann-Ford, TE, Minnesota
239. New Orleans Saints (via LAR/DEN): JD Bertrand, LB, Notre Dame
240. Carolina Panthers (via PIT): Jordan Whittington, WR, Texas
241. Miami Dolphins: Jontrey Hunter, LB, Georgia State
242. Tennessee Titans (via PHI): Michael Wiley, RB, Arizona
243. Cleveland Browns: KT Leveston, G, Kansas State
244. Dallas Cowboys: Kalen DeLoach, LB, Florida State
245. Green Bay Packers: Emani Bailey, RB, TCU
246. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ryan Flournoy, WR, Southeast Missouri State
247. Houston Texans: Ainias Smith, WR, Texas A&M
248. Buffalo Bills: Tayvion Robinson, WR, Kentucky
249. Detroit Lions: Jalen Coker, WR, Holy Cross
250. Baltimore Ravens: Zion Tupuola-Fetui, DE, Washington
251. San Francisco 49ers: Nick Gargiulo, C, South Carolina
252. Tennessee Titans (via KC): Trey Knox, TE, South Carolina
253. Los Angeles Chargers*: Keaton Bills, G, Utah
254. Los Angeles Rams*: Harrison Mevis, K, Missouri
255. Green Bay Packers*: Ryan Rehkow, P, BYU
256. New York Jets*: Joe Milton III, QB, Tennessee
257. New York Jets*: Brady Latham, G, Arkansas

My favorite prospect-team fit in Round 7: Tyler Owens, S, Texas Tech to the Chiefs (No. 221). GM Brett Veach has drafted so well in the later rounds, hitting on players like Trey Smith, Isiah Pacheco and Jaylen Watson. In Owens, he could add a core special-teams player with the size to be a versatile safety/linebacker hybrid. He can become a menace in the NFL’s new kickoff format thanks to his frame, speed and tackling ability in space.

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