2021 NFL Mock Draft, pre-free agency: Bears trade for Russell Wilson, Bengals move up for Penei Sewell
WR. Miami Dolphins. Ja'Marr Chase. 5. player. 59.
TRADE: Dolphins get No. 5 and 69 + 2022 third-round pick from Bengals for No. 3
Even after trading down, the Dolphins still have their pick of the wide receivers on the board and there are merits to any of the top players at the position being made a top-five pick. For me, however, it’s hard to see any team like Miami passing up the enticing upside of Ja’Marr Chase out of LSU.
Chase isn’t going to wow with the athleticism and speed of Jaylen Waddle or the overall versatility of DeVonta Smith but there’s not really a weak spot in his game. He’s got enough size to win in 50-50 situations, enough speed to win deep and refined route-running to create space at all levels. He could be a top target in the Dolphins passing offense immediately and ultimately open things up for everyone involved.
54. . TE. Philadelphia Eagles. Kyle Pitts. 6. player
Admittedly, this is a prospect-team pairing that I’ve fallen in love with and can’t get past. With the reports that the Eagles are seemingly on their way to either trading or releasing Zach Ertz, the franchise is now even further devoid of proven pass-catchers. And while some may see that as a case for taking a wide receiver at No. 6, they should simply take the next best pass-catcher and that’s Kyle Pitts.
Philadelphia, albeit with the previous coaching staff, has long relied on multiple tight end sets and Pitts would afford them the ability to do so — but with added versatility. Pitts’ ability to move into the slot and run smooth routes and get open with size and athleticism makes him an X-factor for any offense, something the Eagles need. His presence will provide an immediate impact to help young Jalen Hurts succeed at quarterback.