2021 NFL Mock Draft: Cowboys surprise with Micah Parsons, 49ers land Mac Jones

The Denver Broncos could use some help on the offensive line, so it wouldn’t be a shock to see them add someone to protect Drew Lock with this pick. While that wouldn’t be a bad pick, they stick to the board here and take Ohio State cornerback Shaun Wade, who is the top player available at a position of need for them.

Ohio State has been turning out one stud corner after another and Wade seems to be their next big star. He should help them replace Chris Harris Jr. who left ahead of the 2020 campaign.

Trading away Yannick Ngakoue was unexpected, to say the least. Clearly, the Minnesota Vikings knew they couldn’t afford him long-term but that doesn’t eliminate their need for a defensive end. That’s why Kwity Paye is the selection here for them.

Paye is thick at 277 pounds and can already hold his own as a run defender in the NFL. There will need to be some work in the pass-rushing department and if he can improve in that area, this kid could be a star.

The reports about the San Francisco 49ers still being unconvinced that Jimmy Garoppolo is the future means one thing — Jimmy Garoppolo is not the future. If the 49ers believed in him, there would be no doubts. For that reason, they decide here to move on as they take Alabama’s Mac Jones. Ever since taking over for an injured Tua, Jones has been an absolute machine for the Crimson Tide and finds his way into the top half of the first round.

Yes, the Philadelphia Eagles took Jalen Reagor in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft but I’m not sold on him as a No. 1 receiver in the NFL. We don’t know that for sure as he’s missed the majority of their games to this point, but the Eagles would be wise even if they believe in him to land more help for Carson Wentz. That’s why they take DeVonta Smith out of Alabama. After years of not having enough weapons for Wentz, they will be okay if this gives them an extra wideout.