As the NFL draft approaches and free agency comes to a close, football fans everywhere are eagerly anticipating the start of the new season. With teams making moves to improve their rosters, the excitement and speculation surrounding the upcoming draft is at an all-time high. So, without further ado, here is a mock draft of the entire first round with potential trades.
1. Jacksonville Jaguars – Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson
It’s no surprise that the Jaguars are going to select Trevor Lawrence with the first overall pick. The highly touted quarterback from Clemson has been the consensus top pick for months now and is expected to be the savior of the struggling franchise.
2. New York Jets – Zach Wilson, QB, BYU
After trading away Sam Darnold, the Jets are in desperate need of a new quarterback. Zach Wilson from BYU has been rising up draft boards and is now considered the second-best QB in this class. He has the arm talent and athleticism to thrive in the Big Apple.
3. San Francisco 49ers (via MIA via HOU) – Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State
In a blockbuster trade, the 49ers move up from the 12th pick to select Justin Fields. With Jimmy Garoppolo’s future uncertain, San Francisco makes a bold move to secure their quarterback of the future. Fields’ dual-threat abilities make him a perfect fit for Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
4. Atlanta Falcons (via DEN) – Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida
The Falcons trade up with the Broncos to snag the best non-quarterback in the draft. Kyle Pitts is a matchup nightmare with his size, speed, and pass-catching abilities. He will provide an immediate impact for Atlanta’s offense and give Matt Ryan another weapon to work with.
5. Cincinnati Bengals – Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon
The Bengals need to protect their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, and there’s no better way to do that than by selecting Penei Sewell. The dominant offensive tackle from Oregon will solidify Cincinnati’s offensive line and give Burrow the time he needs to make plays.
6. Miami Dolphins (via PHI) – Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU
After trading down with the 49ers, the Dolphins use their first pick to reunite Tua Tagovailoa with his former college teammate, Ja’Marr Chase. The explosive wide receiver from LSU will give Miami a true number one option in the passing game.
7. Detroit Lions – Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama
The Lions lost their top two receivers in free agency and desperately need to add playmakers for new quarterback Jared Goff. Jaylen Waddle’s speed and big-play ability make him an ideal fit for Detroit’s offense.
8. Carolina Panthers – Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State
The Panthers are in a similar situation to the 49ers, with their starting quarterback’s future in question. Trey Lance is a raw but talented prospect who can sit and learn behind Teddy Bridgewater before taking over the reins in Carolina.
9. Denver Broncos (via ATL) – Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State
After trading down with the Falcons, the Broncos use their first pick to bolster their defense. Micah Parsons is a versatile linebacker who can make an impact against the run and pass. He will be a cornerstone of Denver’s defense for years to come.
10. Dallas Cowboys – Patrick Surtain II, CB, Alabama
The Cowboys’ secondary was a major weakness last season, and they address it by selecting Patrick Surtain II. The lockdown corner from Alabama will immediately upgrade Dallas’ pass defense and give them a true number one cornerback.
11. New York Giants – DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama
The Giants need to give Daniel Jones more weapons on offense, and they do just that by selecting DeVonta Smith. The Heisman Trophy winner is a dynamic playmaker who can line up all over the field and create mismatches for opposing defenses.
12. Philadelphia Eagles (via SF via MIA) – Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina
After trading down with the Dolphins, the Eagles use their first pick to address their secondary. Jaycee Horn is a physical and athletic cornerback who will bring a much-needed edge to Philadelphia’s defense.
13. Los Angeles Chargers – Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern
The Chargers need to protect their young quarterback, Justin Herbert, and they do so
