2021 NFL Mock Draft: Texans trade Deshaun Watson to Panthers, land Justin Fields
Alijah Vera-Tucker. 27. player. 26. . OL. Baltimore Ravens
While there were numerous reasons as to why the Baltimore Ravens offense took a step back this season, one of them was the offensive line. The retirement of Marshal Yanda and then Ronnie Stanley’s injury hurt them in a major way in the trenches. That’s something that has to be taken seriously, which is why they take Alijah Vera-Tucker at this spot.
Starting at tackle for USC, the former Trojan has the potential and ability to either stay in that role or to push inside. He’s a phenomenal athlete who is able to harness those traits into being a move piece who never is off his platform. He could come into the league and line up at guard for the Ravens and give them flexibility moving forward.
15. . LB. New Orleans Saints. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. 28. player
There’s no denying the talent of Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. He was one of the best linebackers in the country while at Notre Dame. Unfortunately, his transition to the NFL is in question for the simple fact that he lacks the typical size that’s desired for the position. Thus, he’s going to have to join a team that’s willing to create a role for him that allows him to showcase his assets.
New Orleans has traditionally succeeded in that type of project and the Saints could use a player of his caliber. While Owusu-Koramoah is undersized, his ability to cover from a linebacker alignment could help the Saints in a big way. He would be a defensive game-changer that they need to keep thriving on that side of the ball while the offense goes through a transition.