NFL Notebook, Week 15: Lamar Jackson, rebuild candidates, mock draft and more
By Zach Cohen
One Last Thing: Final Mini Mock Draft
This draft order will almost certainly change after the upcoming slate of games. The Bengals will play the Dolphins and the Giants will play the Redskins, so expect major changes in the draft order by the end of the season.
A friendly reminder that I only release one complete mock draft, and it’s on the day of the NFL Draft.
1. Bengals – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
There’s a 2.4 percent chance this pick is not Burrow to the Bengals.
2. Giants – Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State
There’s logic to back this selection, though common sense should do the trick.
3. Dolphins – Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
We know Miami’s affection for Tua has lasted over a year, but how do they view him after his injuries?
4. Redskins – Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
This is more of a “should” pick considering Brandon Scherff and Trent Williams will almost certainly have new teams next season.
5. Lions – Jeffrey Okudah, CB, Ohio State
Detroit needs a guy who can actually play man defense. I’d bet Okudah is the first defensive player taken that’s not named Chase.
6. Cardinals – Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
Protect. Your. Quarterback. Especially if he’s young and under six feet.
7. Jets – Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
Jeudy can easily be the next great receiver, though this draft is loaded with receivers. Leave it to the Jets to take a flashy pick, even if it’s not a bad pick.
8. Jaguars – Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson
I struggled with this but a quick re-glance over the roster confirmed that Jacksonville needs interior line help and versatility on defense. There are no good options here for inside linemen, so Simmons satisfies the latter issue.
dark. Next. 2020 NFL Free Agency: Early predictions for top 25 players
9. Chargers – Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
Phillip Rivers is a problem for the Chargers. They’re one healthy season away from being playoff contenders, and Herbert’s upside can push the team even deeper.
10. Broncos – Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
Exactly what I said about the Cardinals’ pick, except Lock is 6-4. Denver would love Okudah, too.