2019 NFL Mock Draft: Redskins, Patriots trade up in at-the-buzzer projection

25. Philadelphia Eagles: Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S, Florida

The Philadelphia Eagles have been rumored to potentially take a number of positions with the 25th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Running back, secondary, defensive line and offensive line have all been mentioned at one time or another, largely because they are all needs, though not pressing ones that outweigh one another. As such, the Eagles take the most high-upside and versatile option available to them, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson out of Florida.

Gardner-Johnson showed his potential and athleticism early in his career with the Gators, but really came on strong in his final season. He has speed, physicality and intelligence in the secondary that is hard to find in this class at the levels CGJ possesses them. Having played all throughout the secondary, he gives Philadelphia a fantastic movable piece to use immediately that they can groom to take over at safety down the road.

26. Indianapolis Colts: Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State

There has rightfully been a ton of praise thrown the way of Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard as we draw closer to the 2019 NFL Draft. His 2018 haul in this event ultimately proved to be unbelievable and a group that helped elevate a middling team to a playoff berth and Wild Card Round victory, with the help of Andrew Luck returning as well, of course. Now they take a gamble with the 26th overall pick.

Jeffery Simmons is a top-10 talent in this class, but assault on a female charges when he was in high school and a torn ACL in pre-draft training have caused him to fall. Yet, his tape is undeniable and there is tremendous value taking him in the first round, allowing a team to get him for that fifth-year option and allowing a redshirt rookie season to be less detrimental. That’s what the Colts bank on here as they play the long game with the selection of Simmons.