On the Monday morning after the NFL Draft weekend, fans can always find a plethora of mock drafts for the following year, offering up longshot guesses as to not only where teams will be drafting but who they might be considering one year out. It’s all a silly exercise, but we all indulge it just the same. The draft somehow remains a remarkable draw, even if we’re 12 months out from the next one.

As for the 2019 mock drafts already out, it’s clear that most draft analysts believe the Chiefs still have significant work to do on defense despite the fact that they just drafted five players out of six to help that side of the ball.


SB Nation’s Dan Kadar believes next year’s biggest issue will be the same that everyone else believed was this year’s primary need as well: a cornerback. Kadar has Georgia’s Deandre Baker headed to the Chiefs.

The Chiefs didn’t draft a cornerback this year until the sixth round, so they may still be looking to find the replacement for Marcus Peters.

Over at CBS Sports, they have the Chiefs drafting a first round mauler along the offensive front to further protect their new franchise QB in Michael Dieter from Wisconsin.

The Chiefs loaded up on defensive prospects in the 2018 draft, and they should spend next year looking for long-term starters on the offensive line. Dieter is a guy with better upside as a guard than a tackle, but the option is there to try him at tackle first and see if he can eventually replace Eric Fisher. Either way, the Chiefs should be able to land a starter in front of Patrick Mahomes with this pick.

Matt Miller from Bleacher Report says that the Chiefs didn’t quite finish their defensive makeover in a single offseason (gasp!) and might look to grab the next great pass rusher—his vote is Miami edge rusher Joe Jackson—in next year’s first round given what the state of the roster will be one year from now at that position.

Miami’s Joe Jackson is an ideal fit in a 3-4 scheme. He has length and athleticism and uses both well to beat and bend offensive tackles around the edge. He’s a bit of a project, but if his 2018 season goes as planned, he’ll be one of the draft’s prized players in 2019.

Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting and The Sporting News has the Kansas City Chiefs grabbing Christian Miller, an outside linebacker from Alabama, in the middle of the first round.

With Justin Houston potentially entering his last year in Kansas City, the Chiefs might need to find a pass-rusher who can replace his value to the defense.

Over at Cleveland.com, Matt Goul believes the Chiefs will also remain heavy investors along the defensive line with the addition of Clelin Ferrell, defensive end from Clemson.

The Chiefs invested their first two picks this year on the defensive front, which is a weakness for them. They also didn’t have a first-round pick, and this position will be a major strength of the 2019 class.

Finally, there’s yet another analyst who believes the Chiefs will add a defensive lineman is Conner Riley over at SEC Country, who has the Chiefs taking Marlon Davidson from Auburn.


Overall, the bulk of analysts seem to believe the Chiefs will need further impact help on the defensive side, and specifically in the front seven, just one year after the Chiefs invested so heavily there. That’s likely a response, as some even mentioned, to the fact that Justin Houston will be another year older and that there’s no proven persons around him.

If the Chiefs are able to generate a serious pass rush this year, especially if Tanoh Kpassagnon and Breeland Speaks are serious parts of that, then perhaps the Chiefs will have the luxury of exploring other positions with their first round pick next year.

1. Miami Dolphins: Jarrett Stidham, QB, Auburn
If the Dolphins finish this bad, which there is a good chance, that means Ryan Tannehill was not effective. Most places right now won’t have Jarrett Stidham as their top rated quarterback but I believe he only touched the surface last year of his potential. He has a strong arm, mobile and was accurate completing 66.5% of his passes. He still has a ways to go but there is amazing potential there.

2. Denver Broncos: Will Grier, QB, West Virginia
The Broncos are deciding to role with Case Keenum as their quarterback. While Keenum had a great year and led the Vikings to the NFC Championship, it can’t go without pointing out that the Vikings have one of the most talented rosters in the league. The Broncos added the best pass rusher in the 2018 draft but will be hindered by mediocre quarterback play. Grier has had a very tumultuous career but has been on the right path. After being suspended for a year for PED, Grier transferred from Florida to West Virginia. In 2017, Grier put up some great numbers, completing 64.4% of his passes for 3,490 with 34 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He averaged 9.0 yards per attempt. Grier is a very mobile, strong armed quarterback and while some of his past will follow him, he will also be 24 next year. If he follows up 2018 with another stellar year, look for his name to be called early in 2019.

3. Cleveland Browns: Nick Bosa, Edge, Ohio St.
The Browns did an average job in the 2018 draft and should win some more games this season but I believe Hue Jackson will hold them back. Jackson knows how to coach but seems to struggle as the Head Coach. Nick Bosa will be the top prospect in this draft and many believe he is better than his brother. I would expect him to get 15 sacks this season and be the best defensive player in the country. If the Browns can put him on the same defensive line as Myles Garrett they will be a force.

4. Buffalo Bills: Ed Oliver, DL, Houston
I believe the Bills made the wrong choice by taking Josh Allen and if they took Josh Rosen would have had a real opportunity to compete next year. Sean McDermott is a good coach but Brandon Beane insistence on getting rid of all of Doug Whaleys players will eventually come back to hurt him. The Bills can compete next year because McDermott is that good of a coach but I think Josh Allen will ultimately hamper their ability to take a step forward. Ed Oliver is one of the best interior defensive line prospects I have seen in a while. He is incredibly disruptive and is lightning quick off the ball. He finished 2017 with 5.5 sacks, 16.5 tackles for a loss and 73 tackles. He will be a very sought after player in this draft.

5. Cincinnati Bengals: Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
This should be the final make or break year for both Andy Dalton and Marvin Lewis. Its amazing Lewis has lasted this long but if the Bengals have another disaster of a year this should be it. After 2018, the Bengals can cut Dalton with no dead money saving over $16 million. Justin Herbert is a very intriguing prospect who if he has a strong year will be a candidate to go first overall. He has an ideal frame standing at 6’6” and weighing 225 pounds with a strong arm and good mobility. He missed time last year due to a fractured collarbone so he must stay healthy. Oregon should be a serious contender in the Pac 12 and Herbert is the reason why.

6. Chicago Bears: Dexter Lawrence, DL, Clemson
The Bears have a ton of talent and did a great job in the 2018 draft and could be a very competitive team this year. I think they will have some trouble getting to the quarterback on defense and I am not sold yet on Mitch Trubisky. Dexter Lawrence won’t put up eye popping numbers but he is one of college footballs best defensive linemen. He is constantly taking on double teams and moves incredibly well for a man his size (6’4”, 340 lbs). He can play many different roles in the Bears defensive scheme.

7. Indianapolis Colts: Clelin Ferrell, Edge, Clemson
Ferrell was a dominate force in 2017 with 18 tackles for a loss and 9.5 sacks as a sophomore. He should be an even more imposing force along Clemson’s defensive line. He is a great athlete with a huge upside Ferrell can stand up to rush the passer but may be best suited to stay with his hand in the ground. The Colts could use some additional help getting to the quarterback.

8. Washington Redskins: A.J. Brown, WR, Mississippi
The Redskins most likely are going to need some playmakers on offense, particularly on the outside to help out Alex Smith. A.J. Brown had a huge year in 2017 and I expect him to take another step in 2018 to being the best receiver in the SEC and the nation. Brown has a strong frame, runs great routes and great hands. He will be a very tough receiver to defend.

9. New York Jets: Greg Little, OT, Mississippi
Kelvin Beachum is a solid left tackle but they can move him over to the right side or even inside to guard. Greg Little is a franchise left tackle who can lock down elite edge defenders. He has a good frame and a great deal of starting experience already.

10. Baltimore Ravens: Andraez “Greedy” Williams, CB, LSU
Cornerback most likely won’t be the Ravens biggest need as I can see them looking for edge rushers or wide receivers but a lot will depend on who is officially making these calls once Ozzie Newsome is done. Greedy Williams has the ability to develop into a shutdown corner as he has the size and quickness that will make it tough for receivers to match up against.

11. Dallas Cowboys: Rashan Gary, Edge, Michigan
If the Cowboys are picking here then there is a good chance Jason Garrett is not the head coach. Regardless, the Cowboys will need to find another edge rusher who can get to the quarterback. Gary is an ideal fit as he can move inside on passing downs. His versatility to rush the passer will be highly coveted.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
This will be a great opportunity for the Seahawks to secure their offensive tackle that they have been searching for. Williams could be the first offensive tackle taken but the Alabama product can stand to gain 10-15 pounds in order to lock down a NFL tackle job.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Raekwon Davis, DL, Alabama
Davis is a gigantic defensive linemen who can anchor and push the pocket. Standing at 6’7” he collected 69 tackles with 10 tackles for a loss and 8.5 sacks in the middle of the Crimson Tide defense. He could see his name being called much earlier if he can again put up those types of numbers. The Cardinals could use an improvement along the defensive line.

14. New York Giants: Christian Rector, Edge, USC
The Giants will need to find some additional pass rushers and if they didn’t take a quarterback at 2 in 2018 then I doubt they look for one in 2019. This is probably projecting Rector much higher than others will at this point but the big edge rusher can take a big step forward after a very good 7.5 sacks season in 2017.

15. Los Angeles Chargers: Terry Adams, OT, Washington
Russell Okung is still a decent offensive tackle but he could be upgraded and Terry Adams is a guy who is going to push to be a top 10 selection. Adams is a big tackle who dominated the Pac 12 as a sophomore being named first team but his NFL dream was derailed after he tore his ACL in October.

16. Carolina Panthers: DeAndre Baker, CB, Georgia
The Panthers have a solid roster but could look to upgrade the secondary. Baker was a second team All SEC in 2017 as a sophomore and should be one of the best cornerbacks in the country in 2017.

17. San Francisco 49ers: N’Keal Harry, WR, Arizona St.
This wide receiver class is going to be very fun to watch this year. There are a lot of players who can really break out. Harry is a big explosive receiver who was dominate as a sophomore and could work his way into the Top 10. He caught 82 balls for 1,142 yards as a sophomore. One of his best games was the Sun Devils bowl game against North Carolina St. in which he had 9 catches for 142 yards and a touchdown.

18. Tennessee Titans: Beau Benzschawel, G, Wisconsin
The Titans have a lot of talent but their interior offensive lien could be upgraded. Benzschawel is the best guard in the class and while he might not be at the same level as Quenton Nelson he is a notch right below, and that’s a compliment.

19. Detroit Lions: Christian Wilkins, DL, Clemson
Wilkins is another great Clemson defensive linemen and he is an incredibly disruptive force in the middle of the defense. Wilkins is incredibly versatile and can play defensive end and rush off the edge. He would have been a first round pick had he come out in 2018.

20. Atlanta Falcons: Chase Winovich, Edge, Michigan
Winovich is another player who can really solidify his stock this year with another great performance. He finished 2017 with 18.5 tackles for a loss and 8 sacks. There is no reason to think he can’t duplicate those number and even improve. There will be a lot of 3-4 teams that are also interested.

21. Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Allen, LB, Kentucky
Josh Allen is a big athletic linebacker who still has yet to even touch his potential. He decided to stay in school for an additional year which was the right decision. Allen has the skill set to rush the passer (7 sacks in 2017) but he can also drop into coverage. He is a good fit in the Chiefs defense and his versatility will allow them to move him around as necessary.

22. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Michael Deiter, OT, Wisconsin
Both Donovan Smith and Ali Marpet are free agents after this year and both could be gone. Marpet has been solid but if he can take another step forward might command a large contract and Donovan Smith is an athlete tackle but could be upgraded. Deiter was very good last year for Wisconsin and I expect another very good year from him. He is capable of playing inside as well.

23. Jacksonville Jaguars: Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
The Jaguars defense should once again carry them to a very successful season. They have weapons on offense but Blake Bortles will hold them back from being a Super Bowl contender. This is a draft I could see them going all in on, if they find a quarterback they really like and move up to get him. Lock threw 44 touchdowns last year and has a chance to be dominate again but he also has to work on some of his mechanics if he wants to move into the top portion of the first round.

24. Green Bay Packers: Anfernee Jennings, LB, Alabama
Jennings has the potential to be the next great Alabama linebacker. Jennings shined in the Crimson Tide win over Clemson missed the National Championship due to an injured knee. 2018 will be his year and if he decides to come out early should be in contention to be a first round selection. He has been somewhat injury prone so he needs to stay healthy.

25. Green Bay Packers (from NO): Mitch Hyatt, OT, Clemson
Hyatt has been First Team All ACC in the last two years by the media and first team by coaches in 2017 and second team by coaches in 2016. He has been a dominate pass protector for Clemson who has exceled since his freshmen year. The Packers have a good offensive line but Hyatt can step in and play almost any position.

26. Houston Texans: Bryce Love, RB, Stanford
Most likely this will be Lamar Millers last season in Houston and I don’t believe D’onta Foreman is a 3 down back. While Bryce Love is on the smaller side, he is an explosive runner with game breaking abilities and elite speed. Putting him in the backfield with Deshaun Watson will really elevate the running game to an incredibly fast level.

27. Oakland Raiders: Joe Jackson, Edge, Miami
The Raiders could look for a wide receiver to pair long term with Amari Cooper or even a shut down corner but other than Khalil Mack the Raiders have had trouble getting to the quarterback. Jackson is a big, strong defensive end who can set the edge and put pressure on the quarterback. He has 11.5 tackles for a loss and 6.5 sacks as a sophomore and double digit sacks are clearly within sight for 2018.

28. Los Angeles Rams: Jeffery Simmons, DL, Mississippi St.
Simmons was one of the best defensive tackles in the SEC as a sophomore so teams are already on high alert. He has 12 tackles for a loss and 5 sacks in the middle of the Bulldogs defense and if he can take a step forward he will be a top 10 pick in the 2019 draft. Simmons may end up being the best defensive player from this draft when its all said and done.

29. Philadelphia Eagles: Michael Jackson, CB, Miami
Jackson has the potential to be the top cornerback in this draft. He has the size, strength and speed to lock down nearly any receiver and 2018 will be a big year for him. The Hurricanes defense is set up to be very good and he will be expected to take half the field away from opponents.

30. New England Patriots: Ahmmon Richards, WR, Miami
The Patriots will need a wide receiver who can stretch the field and Richards is another guy who can really elevate his stock this year. Richards only had 24 catches for 439 yards in 2017 but he was limited to 8 games. He can give the Patriots a very good, young receiver who they are lacking.

31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Rodney Anderson, RB, Oklahoma
It seems to be that Le’Veon Bell may not be a Steeler in 2019 as the team and player have struggled to come to a long term agreement. If Bell moves on the Steelers will take a running back early in the 2019 draft. The Steelers typically like bigger running backs and Anderson is listed at 6’1” and weighing in at 219 pounds. After running for 1,161 yards in 2017 the Sooners will rely on him heavily in 2019. He will need to improve his pass protection if he wants to be a three down back in the NFL. Also, Anderson avoided criminal charges when he had a rape allegation against him. This will be a story that follows him and a team like the Steelers has been very hesitant to take on this situations lately.

32. Minnesota Vikings: Michael Jordan, G, Ohio St.
The Vikings should be set up to compete for a while at a very high level. They could use an upgrade along their offensive line and Michael Jordan is a guy who is expected to be one of the top guards in the nation in 2018. He was First Team Big Ten as a sophomore and started every game for the Buckeyes. He is another prospect would could go much higher than this if he declares.

2019 McShay Mock Draft:

1. Buffalo Bills Ed Oliver, DT, Houston*

A force on the inside, Oliver (listed at 6-3, 290) is immensely talented. He has a ridiculous 38.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks in his first two seasons.

2. Chicago Bears Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State*

Yes, he is the younger brother of Chargers DE Joey Bosa. And yes, he can also rush the passer and stop the run in his own right (8.5 sacks, 16 TFL last season).

3. New York Giants Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan*

Noticing a pattern? Gary is listed at 6-foot-5, 281 pounds, and versatile, so he can fit at DE or DT depending on the scheme. He racked up 5.5 sacks last season after 0.5 his freshman season.

Note: If the Giants are actually 5-11 (as the Football Outsiders sim suggests) and picking No. 3 overall, I'd give them a QB since I'd have to assume it's time to move on from Eli Manning. But I'm not sold on any of these QBs at this point in the process.

4. New York Jets Greg Little, OT, Mississippi*

Listed at 6-foot-6, 325 pounds, he's your classic blindside protector.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Trey Adams, OT, Washington*

Adams tore his ACL in October 2017, missed the rest of the season and decided to go back to school as a result.

6. Indianapolis Colts Andraez 'Greedy' Williams, CB, LSU*

A big corner (listed at 6-foot-2, 183 pounds), Greedy led the SEC with six interceptions in his freshman season.

7. Denver Broncos Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama*

A 2017 first-team All-SEC selection, Williams is another talented offensive lineman.

8. Arizona Cardinals Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia

Baker played sparingly his first two seasons but had a terrific junior campaign (44 tackles, 3 INTs) for the Bulldogs.

9. Detroit Lions Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson*

Lawrence's production dipped a bit last season, but he's a highly-skilled, big-bodied (6-foot-5, 340 pounds) disruptive force on the interior.

10. Kansas City Chiefs Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson*

Ferrell had 9.5 sacks and 18.0 tackles for loss last season at Clemson, and there was talk he'd have been a top-10 pick in this class.

11. Cleveland Browns A.J. Brown, WR, Mississippi*

All Brown did last season was lead the SEC in receiving yards (1,252) and touchdowns (11) as a true sophomore.

12. Cincinnati Bengals Noah Fant, TE, Iowa*

Fant led the Big Ten in TDs (11) and averaged 16.5 yards per reception in 2017.

13. Washington Redskins Anfernee Jennings, LB, Alabama*

The redshirt junior started to come on strong last season (6.0 tackles for loss), and should put up big numbers this season with Alabama's exodus of defensive talent to the NFL the past two seasons.

14. Carolina Panthers Lukas Dennis, S, Boston College*

The 5-foot-11 defensive back led the ACC in interceptions (7) and return yardage off of those interceptions (185).

15. Miami Dolphins Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn*

Brown (6-foot-5, 316 pounds) had a strong sophomore season with 57 tackles, 9.5 TFL and 3.0 sacks.

16. San Francisco 49ers Chauncey Gardner, S, Florida*

The rangy safety had two interceptions last season for a stingy Florida defense.

17. Jacksonville Jaguars Drew Lock, QB, Missouri

Lock went back to school for his senior season, despite leading the SEC in passing yards (3,964) and passing yards per attempt (9.5).

18. Oakland Raiders Bryce Love, RB, Stanford

The diminutive (5-foot-10, 186 pounds) running back played through an ankle injury and finished second in the Heisman voting, compiling 2,118 rushing yards on the season (second in the nation).

19. Seattle Seahawks David Edwards, OL, Wisconsin*

The Seahawks continually need help on their offensive line, and Edwards could be a fit.

20. Atlanta Falcons Beau Benzschawel, OG, Wisconsin

Another talented Wisconsin offensive lineman could help protect quarterback Matt Ryan.

21. Baltimore Ravens Devin White, LB, LSU

White was a tackling machine last season, racking up 133 total tackles, including a nation-leading 96 assisted ones.

22. Tennessee Titans Michael Deiter, OT, Wisconsin*

Yes, Deiter (6-6, 328) could be the third member of Wisconsin's O-line to go in the first round next season.

23. Dallas Cowboys Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State*

The redshirt junior should have a chance to thrive on a talented Ohio State defense -- and lining up alongside Nick Bosa.

24. Minnesota Vikings Zach Allen, DE, Boston College

The senior has had back-to-back seasons of double-digit tackles for loss, and has the potential to go higher than talented teammate Harold Landry (second round, 2018 draft).

25. Houston Texans N'Keal Harry, WR, Arizona State*

New ASU coach Herm Edwards will love having the big (6-4, 216) receiver who ranked second in the Pac-12 in receiving yards (1,142) in 2017, for at least a season.

26. Los Angeles Chargers Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon*

Philip Rivers (age 36) isn't getting younger and Los Angeles needs to find his eventual replacement. Herbert played only eight games due to injury last season, but has a ton of potential.

27. Los Angeles Rams Josh Allen, LB, Kentucky

The star Kentucky linebacker was another potential 2018 first-round pick who decided to return for his senior season.

28. Philadelphia Eagles Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina

The talent is there, but injuries (18 games played in three seasons) have slowed Samuel's progress.

29. Green Bay Packers (from NO) Raekwon Davis, DL, Alabama*

Davis was a terror in a rotational role (8.5 sacks) last season and looked unstoppable at times in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

30. Pittsburgh Steelers Rodney Anderson, RB, Oklahoma

There are off-field concerns for Anderson, but the on-field talent is clearly there. How much will he miss Dimitri Flowers as a blocker?

31. Green Bay Packers Montez Sweat, Edge, Mississippi State

The Michigan State transfer had a huge junior season with 10.5 sacks and 15.5 TFL.

32. New England Patriots Christian Wilkins, DL, Clemson






Wilkins will play several positions along Clemson's incredibly talented defensive line.

With the first pick, McShay went with Houston defensive tackle Ed Oliver, who has already declared for the 2019 NFL Draft.

The first SEC player to come off the board is Ole Miss left tackle Greg Little, who has going No. 4 to the New York Jets. Half of the top 8 picks are SEC players, as McShay has LSU cornerback Greedy Williams going with pick No. 6, Alabama offensive tackle Jonah Williams going with pick No. 7 and Georgia cornerback Deandre Baker going with pick No. 8.

In addition to the top offensive tackle and cornerback prospects, McShay also pegged the SEC to have the first wide receiver(AJ Brown of Ole Miss), linebacker (Alabama’s Anfernee Jennings) and quarterback(Missouri’s Drew Lock) taken in the draft.

In all, McShay has 14 SEC players being taken in the first round, which would top the 10 taken in the 2018 NFL Draft. And maybe even more impressive, 10 SEC schools have a player listed in the mock draft.

Of course it’s not a lock that these players all come out or turn into first round picks next year. Last year in McShay’s first 2018 mock draft, he pegged 12 of the 32 first round picks.


Below you can see where all the SEC players are projected to be picked by McShay.

2019 NFL mock Draft: Todd McShay

Greg Little, OT, Ole Miss, pick No. 4 to the New York Jets

Greedy Williams, CB, LSU, pick No. 6 to the Indianapolis Colts

Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama, pick No. 7 to the Denver Broncos

Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia, pick No. 8 to the Arizona Cardinals

AJ Brown, WR, Ole Miss, pick No. 11 to the Cleveland Browns

Anfernee Jennings, LB, Alabama, pick No. 13 to the Washington Redskins

Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn, pick No. 15 to the Miami Dolphins

Chauncey Gardner, S, Florida, pick No. 16 to the San Francisco 49ers

Drew Lock, QB, Missouri, pick No. 17 to the Jacksonville Jaguars

Devin White, LB, LSU, pick No. 21 to the Baltimore Ravens

Josh Allen, LB, Kentucky, pick No. 27 to the Los Angeles Rams

Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina, pick No. 28 to the Philadelphia Eagles

Raekwon Davis, DL, Alabama, pick No. 29 to the Green Bay Packers

Montez Sweat, DL, Mississippi State, pick No. 31 to the Green Bay Packers


There were a handful of Big Ten names in McShay’s first-round predictions, including Ohio State’s Nick Bosa, Michigan’s Rashan Gary and Iowa’s Noah Fant.

Here’s where McShay had Big Ten players in his early 2019 mock draft:

Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State: No. 2
Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan: No. 3
Noah Fant, TE, Iowa: No. 12
David Edwards, OL, Wisconsin: No. 19
Beau Benzschawel, OG, Wisconsin: No. 20
Michael Deiter, T, Wisconsin: No. 22
Dre’Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State: No. 23

It’s no surprise Bosa’s name is high on this list. The talented pass rusher is seen by many analysts as a surefire top-10 pick next year. Depending on how well his junior season at Ohio State goes, Bosa could wind up being a higher draft pick than his brother. Joey Bosa was the No. 3 overall pick by the Chargers in 2016.

Gary will battle Bosa for the title of Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2018 and could also challenge him as the top defensive end in next year’s draft. Gary took a big step forward as a sophomore in 2017 and should be causing havoc in backfields again this season.

Fant, meanwhile, might be the best player in the Big Ten casual fans don’t know about. The Iowa tight end caught 11 touchdown passes in 2017 and should put up big numbers in 2018. At 6-foot-5, 241 pounds, NFL teams will love Fant’s size and production.

The highest selected Pac-12 player was Washington offensive tackle Trey Adams at No. 5 overall. Adams tore his ACL in 2017, but at 6-foot-8, 327 pounds he is a mammoth tackle who could be a 10-year starter in the NFL.

Other Pac-12 picks include:

Stanford running back Bryce Love (No. 18)
Arizona State receiver N’Keal Harry (No. 25) Oregon QB Justin Herbert (No. 26).

Love is an intriguing prospect because of his speed, receiving ability and production. He finished second in the Heisman voting, gaining 2,118 rushing yards in 2017. However, Love is just 5-foot-10 and does not have the build of an every down back at the next level.

Harry is a playmaker, flat out. He’s a big receiver at 6-foot-4, 216 pounds receiver who had 1,142 receiving yards in 2017. It would not be surprising if he is a top-10 pick by the end of this season. He could definitely be the first receiver taken in the 2019 draft.

Last, McShay has Justin Herbert going in the first-round. While Herbert has yet to put together a full season, some analysts have him ranked as the best QB in the 2019 draft class. At 6-foot-6, he has the ideal frame and arm to be a top-five draft pick.

The 2019 NFL Draft will be held April 25-27.

1) New York Jets
Nick Bosa, DE - Ohio State

At this point we are all familiar with Joey Bosa of the Los Angles Chargers. If you don’t know already, he has a younger brother at Ohio State who may be even more talented and dangerous. Pass Rusher is always going to be a premium position on the field. In the earliest projections, it looks as though Bosa might be the most complete player in next year’s draft. There isn’t a sure fire number one quarterback and if this is in fact that Jets they invested more than enough in newly acquired passer Sam Darnold.


2) Cincinnati Bengals
Justin Herbert, QB - Oregon

Who knows who might be the number one passer off the board next year, but based on early film it seems like Justin Herbert is getting the early love and hype from scouts and evaluators. There is a lot to like about Herbert starting with his physical traits. If the Bengals are actually selecting at number two then perhaps the Andy Dalton era just might be coming to a close.


3) Chicago Bears
Ed Oliver, DT - Houston

Oliver will most definitely be in play for the number one overall pick next year. In fact, I have already heard that Oliver was on the clock the moment the 2018 draft concluded. Oliver plays at Houston, so he may not be too familiar with the national audience, but mark my words, that will change…and soon. Oliver is a stud, and very well would have been a top 10 selection in this year’s draft. He is a matchup nightmare and his measureables and physical traits are off the charts.


4) Miami Dolphins
Shea Patterson - QB - Michigan

Like the Bengals, should the Dolphins find themselves selecting in the top 4 it might be time to head din another direction at quarterback. Ryan Tannehill will be returning from a knee injury and who knows how he will respond. Patterson was recently made eligible to play this year after transferring to Michigan. Should Patterson put it all together, it could be a special year for him and we could quickly see him rise up draft boards.


Cleveland Browns
5) Greg Little - OT - Ole Miss

Joe Thomas retired and the Browns would be wise to protect their new investment at quarterback in Baker Mayfield. 2019’s tackle class is looking richer and deeper than this year’s draft. There looks to be at least five tackles that could go in the first next year.


Arizona Cardinals
6) Jonah Williams - OT - Alabama

Williams will be another tackle battling to be the top player taken at the position. The Alabama product continues to elevate his game and another strong season should see him go in the first round. By this point next year Josh Rosen will be fully engulfed in the starting position and the Cardinals should be doing everyone in their power to protect their investment.


7) Buffalo Bills
Zach Allen - DE - Boston College

We could see a wide receiver here, but for now I think Sean McDermott will invest in the defense and particularly the pass rushing department. After Oliver and Bosa, Allen looks to be in the next crop of defensive ends.


8) Washington
DeAndre Baker - CB - Georgia

There are a number of different ways I can go with this pick, but for now it seems like Washington still needs a good amount of help in their secondary. Baker could be the top corner off the board next year. The top rated corner couldn’t certainly help a secondary in need of him.


9) Indianapolis Colts
Dexter Lawrence - DT - Clemson

I’m not just saying this as someone who supports Clemson football, but mark my words, bearing injuries the Tigers will have 5 first round picks next year. Bookmark it now. The best of the bunch will most likely be Dexter Lawerence. If Vita Vea made your jaw drop with his physical traits, just find some time to watch Lawrence this upcoming season. He may not even make it to pick number nine. Chris Ballard will continue to build up the defensive line.


10) New York Giants
Juwan Johnson - WR - Penn State

So, this is assuming the Giants make headlines and either trade or choose not to extend Odell Beckham Jr. Should GM David Gentleman go down that path, the early favorite to be the WR1 in this draft class is Juwan Johnson. A big-target receiver who can lineup all over the field and be a matchup nightmare.


11) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Clelin Ferrell - Clemson - DE

The Buccaneers still have questions in their pass rushing department. Ferrell should answer those questions. The only question is like his teammate Lawrence, will he make it to pick number 11? Then again, will the Bucs really be in this position. If I’m Jameis Winston I hope not.


12) Detroit Lions
A.J. Brown - WR - Ole Miss

At some point Bob Quinn has to give Matthew Stafford some more weapons to work with. Golden Tate is good as is Marvin Jones. However, A.J. Brown could step in as their new WR1. Something I feel they have been missing since Calvin Johnson hung up the cleats.


13) Tennessee Titans
Raekwon Davis - DT - Alabama

The Titians have a new coaching staff and a lot of questions entering the 2018 NFL season. Even after making the playoffs last season, there still seems to be some missing parts on this squad. Davis is one of the most disruptive defenders on the line and could offer the Titans another option to bring the pressure to the backfield.


14) Baltimore Ravens
Rashan Gary - DT - Michigan

Just a couple of seasons ago, Gary was the number one overall recruit in the country. After a quiet freshman season, Gary started putting it together in his second year. He should take the next step and solidify his first round potential. He could offer the Ravens another big body on the line to cause pressure Ean disruption to the opposition.


15) Los Angles Chargers
Drew Lock - QB - Missouri

Is the third quarterback coming off the board all the way down at 15? Unlikely. However, I could see the Chargers finally start thinking about life after Phillip Rivers. There are mixed reviews on Lock. Some have him as the top overall passer, and some don’t see him as a first round talent. A big season for him at Missouri awaits.


16) Kansas City Chiefs
Beau Benzschawel - Guard - Wisconsin

It is yet to be determined how rookie quarterback Patrick Mahomes will fare this season. What I do know is that with any young quarterback (Especially one that you spent considerable draft capital on), you want to protect them as much as possible. Benzschawel looks to be the highest rated guard early on.


17) Carolina Panthers
Mitch Hyatt - OT - Clemson

Another tackle is off the board, and this time it is Mitch Hyatt out of Clemson. Cam Newton continues to be priority number one, and if the Panthers hope to squeeze every last drop out of Newton they must keep him upright and protected. Lately, the Panthers have invested premium picks at skill positions. Now, it’s time to help your quarterback in other ways.


18) Dallas Cowboys
Christian Wilkins - DT - Clemson

The Cowboys will look to add another high motor, disruptive force along the defensive line. Wilkins is the most seasoned of the Clemson defensive linemen coming out of this draft. His ability to open up holes and put pressure on the quarterback is what has made him incredibly valuable at Clemson. With 43 quarterback pressures and 10 sacks Wilkins is a threat every time he is one the field.


19) Seattle Seahawks
Trey Adams - OT - Washington

At some point the Seahawks are going to invest a premium pick on an offensive tackle and protect their pro bowl quarterback, right? They’re not going to draft running backs projected for the third round, right? Maybe the Seahawks know something the rest of the world doesn’t.


20) Denver Broncos
Noah Fant - TE - Iowa

Noah Fant looks to be the early favorite as the TE1 in this draft class. Whether it is Case Keenum or someone else under center, big target windows will be desired. Want offers that with his 6’5” frame and physical features that scouts and evaluators seek at the next level.


21) Oakland Raiders
DreMont Jones - DT - Ohio State

If one thing is very clear, this is Jon Gruden’s team. He is end all be all decision maker for the silver and black. As Gruden tries to build his brand of football in Oakland he will turn to DreMont Jones, a tough defensive tackle who plays a physical brand of football. Jones looks like a Gruden prospect.


22) Houston Texans
Michael Deiter - OT - Wisconsin

Protect Deshaun Watson at all costs. I said last year Deshaun would be the best quarterback to come out of that draft class. I will stand by those remarks. Deiter has been a physical force on the Badger line and his play should transition smoothly at the next level.


23) Jacksonville Jaguars
David Sills - WR - West Virginia

After losing Allen Robinson the Jaguars find his replacement and their future WR1 in David Sills. Sills should immediately enter camp next year as the favorite to be the number one option. With respect, Bortles needs all the help he can get.


24) Atlanta Falcons
T.J. Edwards - LB - Wisconsin

The run of Badgers continues in the back half of the first round. Edwards is the next hard-hitting Badger linebacker who make this presence known on the field. Jacksonville is where they are because of their defense. Why not continue to build it at the right spots? A receiver could also be in play here as well.


25) Green Bay Packers
David Edwards - OT - Wisconsin

Let’s just assume early on that the Packers, like most teams with a Pro Bowl quarterback will look to protect him. We have seen what the Packers look like with Rogers not under center…It’s not pretty and and it’s not even close…Not in the same universe close. As you might be wondering by now, Wisconsin is shaping out to be perhaps the best offensive line unit in the country. Edwards is another piece to that physical line.


26) Green Bay Packers
Christian Miller - OLB - Alabama

This time the Packers address their defense and look for someone to rush the quarterback and cause havoc in the backfield. Miller can fly all over the field, and his speed and instincts make him an early favorite to sneak into the back half of the first round.


27) San Francisco 49ers
Austin Bryant - DE - Clemson

Here is Clemson Player #5 off the board. The 49ers did not address a glaring need for a pass rusher in this previous draft. Bryant is one of the most productive defensive end prospects in the country and should find himself at the backend of next year’s draft. Last season Bryant had 14.5 tackles for a loss and 7.5 sacks. At 6’4” and 265 pounds, Bryant has the physical traits that will transition smoothly at the next level. Bryant has tremendous burst off the line. He is quick around the edge and constantly pushes off offensive lineman on the initial rush. His high motor and speed keeps him involved when the play is extended and the pocket collapses. I still believe there is room for Bryant to grown against the run, and he needs to display more patience in certain situations. Still though, should the 49ers find themselves drafting this late (They would have taken a huge step in the right direction), and Bryant is still on the board, perhaps he could be their long awaited pass rusher they have been seeking for quite some time.


28) Pittsburgh Steelers
Anfernee Jennings - LB - Alabama

First, the highlight of the 2018 NFL Draft for me was witnessing Ryan Shazier taking the stage to announce the Steeler’s first round pick. I wish Ryan a full and speedy recovery. What an inspiration he is. Pittsburgh might have to address the linebacker position, and Jennings is the next physical linebacker to take charge in Alabama’s NFL ready-made defense.


29) Los Angeles Rams
Jaylon Ferguson - DE - Lousiana Tech

The Rams will look to continue to build up their defense. Their window is open, but will be open for only so long. Perhaps another top-end prospect to get after the quarterback will be an option in the not so distant future.


30) Minnesota Vikings
Porter Gustin - OLB - USC

The Vikings have their franchise quarterback locked up. Should they fall just short of the Super Bowl then perhaps adding one last piece to an already stout defense will be enough to put them over the top. Gustin should be one of the more intriguing linebackers to watch at USC this season.


31) Philadelphia Eagles
Mike Weber - RB - Ohio State

So far, next year is not shaping out to be the year of the running back. However, if one guy is worth his weight in the first round it could be Mike Weber out of Ohio State. The Eagles may want to invest in a young and physical runner at some point.


32) New England Patriots
Delvon Randall - Safety - Temple

The Patriots spent some premium picks on the offensive line and at running back in this previous draft. Perhaps next year, they will think about the secondary and rising hard hitting prospect Delvon Randall. By this time next year, he could be going higher than 32 though. Then again, who’s to say the Patriots will be picking at 32 anyway?

The front seven talent is stacked

Does your team suck? Does your team need defensive linemen? You’ll be in luck in next year’s draft, where there are seemingly endless amounts of talented prospects to choose from.

Houston defensive tackle Ed Oliver would have graded as a top-five player on my board in this year’s draft had he been eligible to declare. He’s an athletic freak of nature who has a sky-high ceiling as a player who can dominate against the run and can rush the passer. He can do better at plugging up holes against the run, but he does almost everything else well, and at a high level, too.

Where Michigan edge rusher Rashan Gary will play in the NFL will be an interesting discussion, as he has the size of a 3-4 end (6’5”, 281 pounds) but the athleticism and the pass-rushing prowess of an edge rusher. He’s explosive off the snap, has good bend and has a polished assortment of pass-rushing moves in his arsenal. Ohio State edge rusher Nick Bosa - brother of Los Angeles Chargers star Joey Bosa - has the potential to every bit as good as his Pro Bowl brother, if not even better. The young Bosa is incredibly polished in terms of his hand usage and ability to shed blocks, and he’s a very good athlete, as well.

Clemson’s defensive line has the potential to field four first-round picks next year. That’s how talented they are up front. Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins is an athletic and powerful lineman who excels at getting inside hands on his offensive lineman and shedding blocks. Fellow defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence is more mountain than man, as he’s currently listed at 6’5” and 340 pounds. He’s a force to be reckoned with against the run who is also a good athlete for his size. Off the edge, the Tigers have Clelin Ferrell, who likely would have been a first-round pick had he declared for the draft this year. He’s a polished pass rusher who is good at shedding blocks and plugging holes in the run game. Ferrell is joined by Austin Bryant, who also might have been a first-round pick this year. While he isn’t as polished as his three aforementioned teammates, he’s an explosive rusher who looks like a natural in space.

All of these players could end up going in the first round, and I haven’t even scratched the surface of the class yet. Ohio State’s Dre’Mont Jones has the athleticism to go in Round 1 if he improves against the run. Alabama defensive tackle Raekwon Davis is a player that I’m looking forward to breaking down in the near future, as I’ve seen him going in the first round in many mock drafts. Marlon Davidson from Auburn, Joe Jackson from Michigan, Zach Allen from Boston College, and Josh Allen from Kentucky are all players who have been predicted to go in the first round next April. This bodes especially well for the Bears, as they will have a chance to address the edge rusher position, which is their biggest need on paper heading into the 2018 season.

There’s no clear top quarterback

The Bears don’t need a quarterback, but let’s talk about signal-callers anyway, because why not?

At this time last year, Sam Darnold and Josh Rosen figured to be guarantees to be first-round picks in the 2018 NFL Draft, which they were. The year before that, Deshaun Watson was a virtual lock. This year, though, there doesn’t seem to be that “can’t-miss” prospect at the quarterback position. That makes for a much more exciting fight for the top spot.

One of the more popular names at the position right now is Oregon’s Justin Herbert. The 6’6”, 225-pound quarterback is a big, accurate, and athletic quarterback with a strong arm. He locks in on his target way too often - as is the case with most quarterbacks in a spread offense at the collegiate level - which causes some bad decisions, but he has the potential to develop into a starter in the NFL.

Drew Lock from Missouri is essentially the Josh Allen of this year’s class. He’s big, he’s a solid athlete, and he has a cannon of an arm. I’d be willing to say, though, that Lock’s ball placement is overall better than Allen’s, especially on short and intermediate routes. Lock’s flaw, though, is his decision making. He forces way too many throws, regardless of whether or not the receiver is actually open. If he can learn how to go beyond his first read and improve at finding the open man, his ceiling is one of the highest in the class.

If you’re looking for a sleeper prospect, I’d recommend checking out North Dakota State quarterback Easton Stick. Stick, who has one of the coolest names I’ve ever seen for an NFL Draft prospect, backed up Philadelphia Eagles star Carson Wentz in 2016, which makes for a good story. He’s an athletic player who can escape pressure, pick up extra yards with his feet, and throw on the run very well. He throws a lot of very catchable passes, and he’s often unfazed by pressure, which there was plenty of when the Bison played James Madison in the FCS Championship this year. He has a fairly strong arm, too, but his most impressive trait is his accuracy. Stick also has some experience directly under center, and he has shown the ability to make throws past his first read, although he also has some issues with forcing throws. A lot can change between now and the 2019 draft, but he’s currently my No. 1 quarterback with a mid-first round grade.

There are a handful of other signal-callers who could rise up draft boards with a good 2018 campaign. Auburn’s Jarrett Stidham and North Carolina State’s Ryan Finley likely would have been picked in between Rounds 3 and 5 in this year’s draft, so they will look to take advantage of their extra year of college and boost their stock a bit. Michigan transfer Shea Patterson, who played at Ole Miss in his first two seasons, is an undersized quarterback whose decision making is a bit questionable at times, but he is an electric athlete who has shown flashes of accuracy. Northwestern’s Clayton Thorson, Duke’s Daniel Jones, West Virginia’s Will Grier, and Mississippi State’s Nick Fitzgerald are all more names to keep an eye on heading into the 2018 season.

Offensive tackles reign supreme

This year’s draft class didn’t have any franchise offensive tackles. Mike McGlinchey is a good prospect, but one could argue that he wasn’t worth the No. 9 overall pick that the San Francisco 49ers used on him. Kolton Miller is also a solid player with upside, but he was also arguably a reach when the Oakland Raiders picked him with the 15th pick. The 2019 class, though, seems to have a handful of talented tackles.

Alabama left tackle Jonah Williams is a lengthy and athletic lineman who has an effective kick slide and is good at maintaining leverage on his opponents. He can advance to the second level well, and his technique is very good in pass protection. He has also developed a reputation for being a film junkie, which shows up on tape, as he seems to have a good sense of his assignments. He can struggle against edge rushers with polished hand usage, and he may need to bulk up to add some more girth to his frame (he’s 6’5” and 301 pounds), but he has the potential to be a first-round pick.

Washington’s Trey Adams and Clemson’s Mitch Hyatt were my fourth and seventh-ranked tackle prospects in this year’s class before they decided to stay in college, respectively. Adams is a long and athletic tackle who has good technique and quick enough feet to keep up with speedy edge rushers. Hyatt is also a good athlete who is good at maintaining a squared and balanced frame and can be a difference maker as a pass blocker and as a run blocker. Both prospects will likely need to bulk up a little bit for the pros, but they could end up being first-round picks next April.

Wisconsin has two very good offensive tackles on both sides of the line in left tackle Michael Dieter and right tackle David Edwards, both of whom I’m looking forward to digging into some more when the summer rolls around. Greg Little out of Ole Miss could be another potential first-round selection.

The top-end talent in this class is a good thing for the Bears, as right tackle Bobby Massie is slated to hit free agency after the 2018 season. If they want to find a replacement early on in the draft, then they’ll definitely have the chance to do so.

1. New York Jets -- Ed Oliver, DT, Houston*

A consistently dominant force over his first two years of college football, Oliver has already announced his intentions to leave for the NFL after the 2018 season, projecting as an Aaron Donald-like difference-maker.

2. Miami Dolphins -- Drew Lock, QB, Missouri

If the Dolphins are indeed selecting this high, Ryan Tannehill did not bounce back from last season's season-ending ACL tear as hoped. The strong-armed Lock led the country and set an SEC record with 44 touchdown passes a year ago.

3. Cincinnati Bengals -- Raekwon Davis, DE, Alabama*

Stop me if you've heard this before, but Nick Saban has another physical freak along the defensive line in Davis, who at 6-6, 303 pounds, might just be the most imposing player in college football.

4. Chicago Bears -- Clelin Ferrell, DE/OLB, Clemson*

Despite leading Clemson in tackles for loss (18) and sacks (9.5) as a redshirt sophomore last season, Ferrell has not yet generated as much national media attention as some of his teammates. His prototypical combination of length, burst and bend, however, could make him this year's most intriguing edge rusher.

5. Buffalo Bills -- Dexter Lawrence, DT/NG, Clemson*

GM Brandon Beane gambled heavily on the upside on quarterback Josh Allen and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds with bold draft day trades. At 6-3, 340 pounds, Lawrence boasts the size and power to warrant similar excitement for a defense line needing fresh bodies.

6. Arizona Cardinals -- Andraez "Greedy" Williams, CB, LSU*

Few produce NFL defensive backs like LSU, which saw Williams led the SEC in both passes broken up (16) and interceptions (six) in his first season of starting action. Pairing Williams with former LSU superstar Patrick Peterson would give the Cardinals a formidable 1-2 punch at cornerback.

7. Cleveland Browns -- Nick Bosa, DE/OLB, Ohio State*

A slightly smaller version of his older, Pro Bowl brother Joey, Nick Bosa is a legitimate No. 1 overall candidate with the chiseled physique, refined technique and hard-revving motor that virtually guarantee NFL success.

8. Washington Redskins -- Devin White, ILB, LSU*

The Bears nabbed Butkus-Award winning inside linebacker Roquan Smith at No. 8 overall in 2018 and White should earn similar attention if he can duplicate his terrific sophomore campaign.

9. Indianapolis Colts -- Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson

An All-American at defensive end and defensive tackle, Wilkins offers terrific initial quickness, agility and versatility -- all traits in short supply for an Indianapolis defensive line that finished last in the AFC in sacks in 2017.

10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama*

With left tackle Donovan Smith entering the final year of his rookie deal and likely to earn big dollars, the Bucs may want to keep an eye on quality young blockers, like Williams, a starter on the blindside for the Tide each of his first two years of college football.

11. Detroit Lions -- Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan*

Finding a battery-mate (or potential replacement) for pending free agent Ziggy Ansah will be a top priority for the Lions. Gary has flashed top five ability throughout his career and could earn that distinction if he puts it all together in 2019.

12. Tennessee Titans -- Taylor Rapp, SS, Washington*

The Titans already boast one of the NFL's better young safeties in Kevin Byard but the club could still use some help in the deep patrol if it hopes to take the next step. Rapp, the top safety prospect in the country, possesses the agility to handle coverage duties as well as top-notch ball-skills and reliable open-field tackling.

13. Seattle Seahawks -- N'Keal Harry, WR, Arizona State*

After watching Jimmy Graham, Luke Willson and Paul Richardson walk in free agency, the Seahawks may be on the lookout for a playmaking pass-catcher early in the 2019 draft. Harry has the frame and physicality to remind of a young Dez Bryant.

14. Oakland Raiders -- Michael Jackson, CB, Miami

The Raiders finished last in the NFL in 2018 with just five interceptions. The prototypically-built Jackson has the size, speed and playmaking ability to be the "Thriller" this club is lacking in the deep patrol.

15. Denver Broncos -- Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon*

After dedicating a lot of attention to the 2018 crop of quarterbacks, Broncos GM John Elway ultimately opted to focus on other positions of concern in the draft. Similar to Josh Allen a year ago, Herbert boasts the raw traits to get scouts excited, but he needs a healthy, productive junior season to warrant top 15 consideration.

16. Baltimore Ravens -- Greg Little, OT, Mississippi*

Drafting Orlando Brown Jr. was a nice story, but his conversion to the right side is no sure thing. At 6-5, 325 pounds, Little is more of a lock, showing the athleticism, balance and power Baltimore has prioritized up front.

17. Carolina Panthers -- Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State*

Ideally, the Panthers would find another pass rusher to boost its defensive line but at this point in the draft, beggars can't be choosers. Simmons has not generated the national media attention of fellow defensive tackles ... yet.

18. New York Giants -- A.J. Brown, WR, Mississippi*

A third consecutive pick from the Magnolia State? It could happen. The Giants won big here recently, of course, nabbing former Ole Miss star pass-catcher Evan Engram in the first round. With Odell Beckham Jr. a pending free agent and no guarantee to return, New York could look to reunite Engram with Brown, a 6-1, 225-pounder who set the school record with 1,252 receiving yards as a true sophomore.

19. Kansas City Chiefs -- Shaquille Quarterman, ILB, Miami*

Replacing a legend like Derrick Johnson (now a member of the rival Raiders) is not easy, but Quarterman possesses the instincts and physicality to help immediately.

20. Dallas Cowboys -- Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina

Free agent Allen Hurns and rookie Michael Gallup leave the Cowboys in better position to handle the losses of Dez Bryant and Jason Witten than some believe but that does not mean the club should allow a talented pass-catcher like Samuel to slip down the board. Dynamic as a returner as well as a receiver, Samuel would provide immediate impact ability.

21. Atlanta Falcons -- Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington

The Falcons have not used a top 100 draft pick on a blocker since investing the No. 6 overall selection on Jake Matthews back in 2014. McGary offers the size, toughness and consistency that could force GM Thomas Dimitroff to re-think that strategy in 2019.

22. Los Angeles Chargers -- Martez Ivey, OT, Florida

The Chargers' track record at tackle is even spottier than the Falcons, a real concern given their relatively immobile veteran quarterback Philip Rivers. The aptly-named Ivey possesses the long arms, versatility and experience against top competition that the Chargers have prioritized in the past.

23. Houston Texans -- Mitch Hyatt, OT, Clemson

Who better to protect the health of Deshaun Watson than the nationally underrated Hyatt, a former teammate at Clemson with the light feet and balance to potentially remain outside in the NFL despite less than imposing size.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars -- Nick Fitzgerald, QB, Mississippi State

A confidence-building 2018 season and new contract has quieted speculation that Blake Bortles is on his way out in Jacksonville but that didn't stop the team from investing a sixth-round pick in Tanner Lee in 2018, keeping the pressure on. While reinforcing the line of scrimmage is more Tom Coughlin's style, Fitzgerald possesses the raw traits to build around if Bortles fails to take the next step.

25. San Francisco 49ers -- D.K. Metcalf, WR, Mississippi*

The 49ers expect rookie second-round receiver Dante Pettis to provide immediate help for Jimmy Garoppolo, but the depth chart remains thin at the position. Metcalf is just a redshirt sophomore but the 6-3, 225 pounder (and NFL legacy) boasts the raw talent to earn top 32 consideration if he can duplicate last season's impressive debut.

26. Green Bay Packers (from NO) -- Michael Deiter, OL, Wisconsin

Deiter checks in as NFLDraftScout.com's top-rated left tackle for 2019 but it is his versatility that may intrigue the Packers most, given the troubling lack of durability shown thus far from many of their top blockers. The Packers received this selection from the Saints in the Marcus Davenport trade.

27. Green Bay Packers -- Austin Bryant, DE/OLB, Clemson

With Clay Matthews Jr. aging and Nick Perry struggling with injuries and inconsistencies of his own, Green Bay would be wise to continue supplementing its pass rushers. Bryant feasted on one-on-one coverage in a splashy breakout 2018 campaign and possesses the agility to handle rushing the passer out of the two-point stance.

28. Pittsburgh Steelers -- Christian Miller, OLB, Alabama

It appears as though the Steelers' plan to keep surprise 2018 first-round pick Terrell Edmunds at safety though at 6-1, 217 pounds it would not take much for him to bulk up a bit to potentially be able to move into Ryan Shazier's old spot at linebacker. If Pittsburgh opts to wait on a potential replacement, the athletic and physical Miller could prove an ideal candidate, assuming he recovers from a relatively minor torn biceps that ruined his 2018 campaign.

29. Minnesota Vikings -- Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State

The Vikings boast one of the NFL's strongest rosters on paper but keeping the band together could be difficult in 2019 with several key defenders entering the final year of their contracts, including edge rushers Danielle Hunter, Anthony Barr and Brian Robinson. The long-armed Sweat exploded onto the SEC as a junior college transfer, earning first-team all-conference honors with a league-leading 9.5 sacks.

30. Philadelphia Eagles -- Damien Harris, RB, Alabama

Like the Vikings, the reigning Super Bowl champions will be looking for younger, cheaper talent at positions of concern in the 2019 draft, including at edge rusher and running back. With Jay Ajayi thought unlikely to sign a long-term extension, general manager Howie Roseman could be intrigued by Harris' similar blend of vision, power and deceptive burst.

31. Los Angeles Rams -- Trey Adams, OT, Washington

With all due respect to flashy skill position players Todd Gurley and Jared Goff, one of the primary reasons for the Rams' ascent a year ago was the steady play of veteran left tackle Andrew Whitworth, who signed with the club after spending his first 11 seasons in Cincinnati. At 6-7, 327 pounds, Adams offers a similarly imposing frame as the 36-year old Whitworth, who tips at the scales at 6-7, 333 pounds.

32. New England Patriots -- Parris Campbell, WR, Ohio State

Surprisingly, the Patriots opted not to immediately replace the speed lost at receiver with the pre-draft trade of Brandin Cooks to the Rams. Campbell boasts the electric athleticism to fly up draft boards and potentially fit in New England but he has only flashed to this point, scoring just five touchdowns scored (three receiving, two rushing) over his career.