2021 NFL Mock Draft: Texans trade Deshaun Watson to Panthers, land Justin Fields

When you’re taking a player in the top half of the first round, there are two things that need to be certain, especially for a team that has a ways to go before they’re playoff relevant like the New York Giants. The first is that the player can come in and contribute well right away. The second is that there is upside for the prospect to potentially become a star at the next level.

Micah Parsons is that type of guy and someone who would tremendously help the Giants ailing defense. He’s an athletic freak with elite ability to move all over the field from a MIKE linebacker spot. With a pass-rusher background, he’s a great blitzer and can also drop into coverage and use his physical tools well. He needs to become a more nuanced player as he continues to learn the position but his physical traits and already promising ability at linebacker make him a no-brainer for Big Blue.

Last offseason, the 49ers saw longtime left tackle Joe Staley retire. However, they had a strong contingency plan locked and loaded as they soon after traded for veteran Trent Williams. But Williams is no spring chicken in his own right and Mike McGlinchey regressed in the 2020 season. Thus, the 49ers — if they are unable to work out a deal for Deshaun Watson — need someone else in the mix.

Christian Darrisaw’s arrow continues to point up. He improved every year as a starter at Virginia Tech and was one of the best tackles in the country last season. There isn’t anything he’s incapable of doing with a prototypical frame and great movement skills. Especially if he adds some  more functional power to his game in the NFL, Darrisaw is going to be a standout for a long time.