2021 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots grab Zach Wilson, Bears roll with Kyle Trask

Zach Wilson is one of the big risers of the 2021 NFL Draft process but it’s not hard to see why. Imagine if Johnny Manziel had a bit better size, a level head on his shoulders, a better arm and better decision-making as a passer. That’s the BYU quarterback. Cam Newton’s star has faded quickly in New England and the Patriots need a future at the quarterback position. Enter Wilson to be molded by Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels as his stock continues to rise.

There are a number of different directions the Vikings could go in the 2021 draft but Mike Zimmer built his identity as a coach on hard-nosed defense. That’s hard to accomplish without a viable pass-rush. Danielle Hunter should return next season but he needs help. That’s where Miami’s Gregory Rousseau could come in.

Coming out of Miami after opting out in 2020, Rousseau is a bit raw but his production in 2019 matched with his athletic ability and explosiveness given him elite upside that Minnesota would love to have on the roster.

While you’d love for the Cincinnati Bengals to be able to protect Joe Burrow and start fixing the offensive line here, the truth is that the value isn’t there. With A.J. Green likely gone after this season, Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd could use someone else to give Burrow places to throw the ball. Jaylen Waddle’s season ended prematurely due to injury but his talent as an explosive playmaker was consistently on display for Alabama when healthy.

After spending every pick in the 2020 NFL Draft on defensive players, Matt Rhule and the Carolina Panthers continue the trend as they address a secondary that has been a bit troublesome this year. Caleb Farley is another opt-out but the Virginia Tech product has elite ball skills and length at the position to be a ball-hawk at the position. His playmaking potential gives the Panthers something they currently lack in the secondary.