2021 NFL Mock Draft: Trey Lance to Panthers, Packers nab big OT over 3 full rounds

(Pick via Houston Texans): Tua Tagovailoa had his share of growing pains as a rookie for the Miami Dolphins but the good news is, he stayed healthy for the most part. The Alabama product saw his collegiate career come to an end due to a hip injury that required surgery. That surgery also slowed down his development as he started the season on the bench behind Ryan Fitzpatrick.

Moving to Tagovailoa at the bye week made sense but it also was hard to watch since Fitzpatrick was playing so well. Now, Tua looks ready to take the next step and may do so without the veteran around since Fitzpatrick is a free agent. He will surely miss the mentorship but it could help him blossom as a starter.

This pick in our mock draft is also aimed at helping Tua develop as the Dolphins take LSU wideout Ja’Marr Chase. While the LSU star opted out of the 2020 season, he did more than enough in his two years with the Tigers to be the first wideout taken in the draft.

Chase had 1,780 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2019 while averaging 21.2 yards per catch. He has sure hands and will check off every measurable box. On top of that, there are no routes he can’t run. Adding Chase gives Miami an elite pass-catcher which is one of the best ways to help a young quarterback gain confidence.