2019 NFL Mock Draft 1.0
Welcome to the first mock draft of the 2019 season. We're a little less than two months out from the 2019 NFL draft in Nashville and the NFL combine just wrapped up in Indianapolis. A lot of these projections could change as teams fill needs through free agency, so these are based off of NFL roster needs as of this writing. Also, there are no projected trades so the draft order is as it is currently set.
1.
Arizona Cardinals: Nick Bosa: Edge, Ohio State
The
combination of former Texas Tech head coach Kliff Kingsbury becoming the head
coach of the Cardinals and former Oklahoma Quarterback Kyler Murray fully committing to football over baseball has caused some people to believe the Cardinals are going to move on from Rosen after one year and draft Murray first overall. The soundbite where Kingsbury says he'd take Murray first overall if he had the chance is being blown out of proportion and taken out of context. When Bosa was on the field at Ohio State he was essentially unblockable. He has a slightly different playing style than his brother Joey with the Chargers, but Nick can be just as dominant and is the best player in this draft class.
2. San Francisco 49ers: Josh Allen: Edge, Kentucky
49ers Coach Kyle Shanahan is probably the person most invested in the Cardinals taking Murray so Bosa would be available for San Francisco, but Josh Allen is a pretty good consolation prize. The outside linebacker from Kentucky played standing up in Lexington, and showed some ability to drop into pass coverage. In San Francisco he would be playing almost exclusively as a 4-3 end, and would be the fourth defensive lineman taken in the first round by the 49ers in the last five years.
3. New York Jets: Quinnen Williams: Defensive Tackle, Alabama
Williams put on quite a show at the NFL combine, weighing in slightly over 300 lbs. and running a 4.83 40 yard dash. The Jets need an edge player more than a defensive tackle, but if Williams is available at three he could be good to pass up. Lining up next to Leonard Williams would be one of the best interior defensive lines in the league.
4. Oakland Raiders: Rashan Gary: Edge, Michigan
You're probably sensing a theme that this is a defensive line heavy draft. Gary is an interesting prospect. Coming out of high school he was rated by some services as the top player in the country, but his production at Michigan never matched his talent and athleticism. Whoever gets Gary will be hoping that with their coaching they can maximize his potential more so than in Ann Arbor.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Devin White: Linebacker, LSU
Tampa would probably like to draft an offensive tackle here, but the value at the fifth pick simply isn't there at offensive lineman this year. Instead of reaching they should get a day one contributor in White. White's ability to stay on the field on third down make him a perfect fit in today's NFL, where pass coverage has gone from a plus to a need for linebackers.
6. New York Giants: Dwayne Haskins: Quarterback, Ohio State
The fact that the Giants are taking a quarterback with their first pick in 2019 has been the league's worst kept secret since the Giants drafted Saquon Barkley instead of Sam Darnold last season. Unless a team trades ahead of New York, they'll make Haskins the first quarterback off the board.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: TJ Hockenson: Tight End, Iowa
The Jaguars were a popular landing spot for Kyler Murray (a lot of the first round revolves around where Murray ends up). As I discussed with Matt on our podcast, Double Take with Matt and Jake, all sources point to Nick Foles signing with the Jaguars as soon as next week. After Allen, Hurns and Robinson III left in free agency last season, my biggest issue with the Jaguars roster has been they have no legitimate threat in the passing game. The Jaguars are a team that wants to be physical and run the ball, and Hockenson would check both of those boxes immediately. The Jaguars still have a talented roster, and the imminent signing of Nick Foles shows the Jags are still in win-now mode, and Hockenson would be an instant jumpstart for an offense that really struggled last year.
8. Detroit Lions: Clelin Ferrell: Edge, Clemson
Sources indicate that the Lions don't plan to sign Ziggy Ansah to a long term deal. The Lion's defensive end situation reminds me of the Falcon's a few years ago, or the Phoenix Sun's point guard situation. Ferrell impressed all season, especially in the National Championship game against Alabama's Jonah Williams, and the Lion's have to find a way to get more quarterback pressure next season.
9. Buffalo Bills: Andre Dillard: Offensive Tackle, Washington State
There's some debate about who the top tackle prospect is in this draft. Post combine workouts and measurements, I think Dillard did enough to be the first offensive lineman taken. The Bills only priority should be protecting Josh Allen and providing weapons for him. They can go receiver on day two of the draft, but grabbing a pass protecting tackle in Dillard would make Allen feel a lot better about the 2019 season.
10. Denver Broncos: Jonah Williams: Offensive Guard, Alabama
The Broncos would like to get a cornerback here with Bradley Roby being an unrestricted free agent, and Chris Harris hitting the market next off season. Just like the Bill's wide receiver need the Broncos will look to address that on day two and add protection for Joe Flacco, and a boost to the run game with Jonah Williams. Coming into the 2018 season Williams was projected to be the top tackle, but because of height and length he's being projected as more of a guard or maybe a right tackle.
11. Cincinnati Bengals: Jawaan Taylor: Offensive Tackle, Florida
Bengals would be the third team in a row that would love to take a different position here, but the value isn't there. For Cincinnati they need a linebacker, and if Devin White were available it'd be hard to see him getting drafted lower than the Bengals. Michigan's Devin Bush is an option, but Taylor is a solid pass protector and the Bengals just hired offensive minded Zac Taylor from the Rams.
12. Green Bay Packers: Montez Sweat: Edge, Mississippi State
Sweat ran the fastest 40 yard dash ever by a defensive lineman at the combine clocking in at a 4.41. For context that would be second best among running backs and eight best among receivers at the combine. Clay Matthews is coming off possibly his worst season in the NFL, and possibly his last as a Packer, finding his replacement is the biggest need for the Packers
13. Miami Dolphins: Kyler Murray: Quarterback, Oklahoma
The odds that Murray falls to the thirteenth pick are low, but the odds that he ends up in Miami are high. I believe he's either going to end up in Miami or Washington, and it'll come down to which team trades up to get him. Pretty much any team that's not the Giants could looks to trade back with a team trying to get Murray. San Francisco, New York Jets, Tampa, and Jacksonville are the most likely trade candidates
14. Atlanta Falcons: Christian Wilkins: Defensive Tackle, Clemson
The Falcons really need an inside pass rush, and could be picking between Wilkins and Ed Oliver from Houston. Wilkins run defense is what gets him off the board first to Atlanta.
15. Washington Redskins: Drew Lock: Quarterback, Missouri
Murray and Haskins are the only quarterbacks with first round grades, but teams need quarterbacks and we could see three or four taken in the first round. Lock has a beautiful throwing motion and quick release, but has the opportunity to clean up some footwork issues when he feels pressured.
16. Carolina Panthers: D.K. Metcalf: Wide Receiver, Ole Miss
Receivers for the Panthers are what defensive lineman are for the 49ers. It seems like the Panthers have been trying to find a true number one receiver for Cam Newton since they drafted him in 2011. Metcalf was arguably the top receiver prospect, and after dominating the combine should be the first wide receiver off the board.
17. Cleveland Browns: Ed Oliver: Defensive Tackle, Houston
Day two of the draft you'll see a lot of receivers going, but day one is still defensive line dominant. As a five start recruit in high school, Oliver famously went to Houston instead of a Power-5 program. Coming into this season he was considered a favorite to be the first overall pick. He missed part of last season, but size more than anything was the concern for Oliver. At the combine he weighed in at 287 lbs. which is still undersized, but people were hearing he was at 270 lbs. Think undersized Aaron Donald, who's already an undersized defensive tackle.
18. Minnesota Vikings: Cody Ford: Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma
Ford played right tackle in Norman, but is a tad undersized at 6'4" to play tackle in the NFL. Minnesota needs interior offensive line help as much as anything, so Ford could start his career inside and then transition back to right tackle where he's more of a natural fit. Minnesota could be the perfect spot for Ford.
19. Tennessee Titans: Marquise Brown: Wide Receiver, Oklahoma
Brown, cousin of Antonio Brown, blew up after the 2017 Bedlam game against Oklahoma State. Ever since that game he's been considered one of the most explosive receivers in the country. Adding Brown to the Titan's receiving corps would be an immediate boost for Marcus Mariota along side former first round pick Corey Davis.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Deandre Baker: Cornerback, Georgia
Baker is a hard hitting, instinctive corner who won the Jim Thorpe award as the nation's best defensive back. With Joe Haden only having one more season prior to free agency the Steelers need to begin searching for his replacement.
21. Seattle Seahawks: Brian Burns: Edge, Florida State
Burns is an incredibly athletic edge rusher, who will probably begin his career as a third down specialist and have to develop better run defense. Quarterback pressure was sporadic at best last season in Seattle and most of their defensive issues stemmed from a lack of pressure. Burns will have a learning curve, but could make an impact his rookie year.
22. Baltimore Ravens: Josh Jacobs: Running Back, Alabama
Similar to Buffalo, Baltimore's main and only focus should be helping Lamar Jackson. Later in the draft they'll get an offensive lineman, but after moving on from wide receiver Michael Crabtree and running back Alex Collins Baltimore desperately needs more offensive weapons. Jacobs is a versatile back who offensive coordinator Greg Roman can play with. Pass protection is his biggest area to improve in.
23. Houston Texans: Garrett Bradbury: Center, North Carolina State
Houston is going to be in a tough spot where players available really don't match their needs. They'll be a possible trade back candidate. Assuming they end up using their pick, however, offensive line has to be priority for a team that had their franchise quarterback sacked sixty-two times. Bradbury can play both center and guard, and had an excellent combine.
24. Oakland Raiders: Noah Fant: Tight End, Iowa
Fant would be the second tight end taken in the first round this year. Fant ran a 4.51 40 yard dash at the combine, which is not elite wide receiver fast, but it's still wide receiver fast. He can line up inline, as an upback, or split out as a receiver. This is the pick that Oakland got for trading away Amari Cooper to Dallas, it's only fitting they use it to draft his replacement as a weapon for Derek Carr.
25. Philadelphia Eagles: Rock Ya-Sin: Cornerback, Temple
Jacobs is the only running back in this class that should be drafted in the first round, there are so many talented backs Philadelphia can wait and get a really good player. Instead they should roll with the kid from down the road at Temple. Watching Philadelphia's secondary last season was painful, games against Tampa Bay and New Orleans made me want to write sympathy letters. Ya-Sin has ideal size, speed, and instincts for the position. He unnecessarily jumps while catching the ball at times, which is nitpicking but still an issue.
26. Indianapolis Colts: Jeffery Simmons: Defensive Tackle, Mississippi State
Indianapolis is another team that will look to draft a receiver in the second or third round, but defensive tackle and corner are also needs and Simmons is the best player available at any of those positions.
27. Oakland Raiders: Byron Murphy: Cornerback, Washington
Murphy dominated the PAC 12 this season. Washington was one of my favorite teams to watch because of Murphy and teammates Taylor Rapp and Myles Gaskin. Murphy is physical, instinctive, and has excellent size for a cornerback. Corner has been an issue for several years in Oakland, and Murphy would help change that narrative.
28. Los Angeles Chargers: Devin Bush: Linebacker, Michigan
Bush is a bit undersized for linebacker at 5'11", but his playing style will allow him to see the field immediately. His pass coverage skills will allow him to match up with opposing tight ends and running backs in coverage. At Michigan he showed the ability to take on blockers and fill holes. Despite his size he has the chance to be an every down linebacker.
29. Kansas City Chiefs: Nassir Adderly: Safety, Deleware
Adderly has been one of my favorite players to watch on film this season. Every positive word I can use applies to his game. He has return/special teams ability, played both as a single high safety and in the box, has some of the best ball skills in the class, and is a physical tackler. He could be the heir apparent to Eric Berry.
30. Green Bay Packers: Irv Smith Jr: Tight End, Alabama
Anything to keep Aaron Rodgers happy right? For several reasons the Packers haven't had a consistent running game for a few seasons, and Smith Jr. is a physical blocker which would allow him to be on the field on early downs. The Packers have sort have attempted to band-aid the tight end position for several years, Smith Jr. would hopefully provide a more long term solution.
31. Los Angeles Rams: Jachai Polite: Edge, Florida
The Rams are another trade back candidate here as they're still in the hole from all the trades they've made over the last couple of years. The Rams brought in Dante Fowler from Jacksonville last season, and had mixed results. Polite is a creative pass rusher and could potentially be a really good fit with the Rams.
32. New England Patriots: Dexter Lawrence: Defensive Tackle, Clemson
Yet another team that desperately needs receiver help, but the value simply isn't there at the back of the first round with Brown and Metcalf gone. Enter Lawrence who would be a steal at this spot. Lawrence would be the third Clemson defensive lineman taken in the first round. He's about 6'4" 350 lbs. and can overwhelm at the point of attack. New England has several free agents on the defensive line, so this fills a need as well.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: TJ Hockenson: Tight End, Iowa
The Jaguars were a popular landing spot for Kyler Murray (a lot of the first round revolves around where Murray ends up). As I discussed with Matt on our podcast, Double Take with Matt and Jake, all sources point to Nick Foles signing with the Jaguars as soon as next week. After Allen, Hurns and Robinson III left in free agency last season, my biggest issue with the Jaguars roster has been they have no legitimate threat in the passing game. The Jaguars are a team that wants to be physical and run the ball, and Hockenson would check both of those boxes immediately. The Jaguars still have a talented roster, and the imminent signing of Nick Foles shows the Jags are still in win-now mode, and Hockenson would be an instant jumpstart for an offense that really struggled last year.
8. Detroit Lions: Clelin Ferrell: Edge, Clemson
Sources indicate that the Lions don't plan to sign Ziggy Ansah to a long term deal. The Lion's defensive end situation reminds me of the Falcon's a few years ago, or the Phoenix Sun's point guard situation. Ferrell impressed all season, especially in the National Championship game against Alabama's Jonah Williams, and the Lion's have to find a way to get more quarterback pressure next season.
9. Buffalo Bills: Andre Dillard: Offensive Tackle, Washington State
There's some debate about who the top tackle prospect is in this draft. Post combine workouts and measurements, I think Dillard did enough to be the first offensive lineman taken. The Bills only priority should be protecting Josh Allen and providing weapons for him. They can go receiver on day two of the draft, but grabbing a pass protecting tackle in Dillard would make Allen feel a lot better about the 2019 season.
10. Denver Broncos: Jonah Williams: Offensive Guard, Alabama
The Broncos would like to get a cornerback here with Bradley Roby being an unrestricted free agent, and Chris Harris hitting the market next off season. Just like the Bill's wide receiver need the Broncos will look to address that on day two and add protection for Joe Flacco, and a boost to the run game with Jonah Williams. Coming into the 2018 season Williams was projected to be the top tackle, but because of height and length he's being projected as more of a guard or maybe a right tackle.
11. Cincinnati Bengals: Jawaan Taylor: Offensive Tackle, Florida
Bengals would be the third team in a row that would love to take a different position here, but the value isn't there. For Cincinnati they need a linebacker, and if Devin White were available it'd be hard to see him getting drafted lower than the Bengals. Michigan's Devin Bush is an option, but Taylor is a solid pass protector and the Bengals just hired offensive minded Zac Taylor from the Rams.
12. Green Bay Packers: Montez Sweat: Edge, Mississippi State
Sweat ran the fastest 40 yard dash ever by a defensive lineman at the combine clocking in at a 4.41. For context that would be second best among running backs and eight best among receivers at the combine. Clay Matthews is coming off possibly his worst season in the NFL, and possibly his last as a Packer, finding his replacement is the biggest need for the Packers
13. Miami Dolphins: Kyler Murray: Quarterback, Oklahoma
The odds that Murray falls to the thirteenth pick are low, but the odds that he ends up in Miami are high. I believe he's either going to end up in Miami or Washington, and it'll come down to which team trades up to get him. Pretty much any team that's not the Giants could looks to trade back with a team trying to get Murray. San Francisco, New York Jets, Tampa, and Jacksonville are the most likely trade candidates
14. Atlanta Falcons: Christian Wilkins: Defensive Tackle, Clemson
The Falcons really need an inside pass rush, and could be picking between Wilkins and Ed Oliver from Houston. Wilkins run defense is what gets him off the board first to Atlanta.
15. Washington Redskins: Drew Lock: Quarterback, Missouri
Murray and Haskins are the only quarterbacks with first round grades, but teams need quarterbacks and we could see three or four taken in the first round. Lock has a beautiful throwing motion and quick release, but has the opportunity to clean up some footwork issues when he feels pressured.
16. Carolina Panthers: D.K. Metcalf: Wide Receiver, Ole Miss
Receivers for the Panthers are what defensive lineman are for the 49ers. It seems like the Panthers have been trying to find a true number one receiver for Cam Newton since they drafted him in 2011. Metcalf was arguably the top receiver prospect, and after dominating the combine should be the first wide receiver off the board.
17. Cleveland Browns: Ed Oliver: Defensive Tackle, Houston
Day two of the draft you'll see a lot of receivers going, but day one is still defensive line dominant. As a five start recruit in high school, Oliver famously went to Houston instead of a Power-5 program. Coming into this season he was considered a favorite to be the first overall pick. He missed part of last season, but size more than anything was the concern for Oliver. At the combine he weighed in at 287 lbs. which is still undersized, but people were hearing he was at 270 lbs. Think undersized Aaron Donald, who's already an undersized defensive tackle.
18. Minnesota Vikings: Cody Ford: Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma
Ford played right tackle in Norman, but is a tad undersized at 6'4" to play tackle in the NFL. Minnesota needs interior offensive line help as much as anything, so Ford could start his career inside and then transition back to right tackle where he's more of a natural fit. Minnesota could be the perfect spot for Ford.
19. Tennessee Titans: Marquise Brown: Wide Receiver, Oklahoma
Brown, cousin of Antonio Brown, blew up after the 2017 Bedlam game against Oklahoma State. Ever since that game he's been considered one of the most explosive receivers in the country. Adding Brown to the Titan's receiving corps would be an immediate boost for Marcus Mariota along side former first round pick Corey Davis.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Deandre Baker: Cornerback, Georgia
Baker is a hard hitting, instinctive corner who won the Jim Thorpe award as the nation's best defensive back. With Joe Haden only having one more season prior to free agency the Steelers need to begin searching for his replacement.
21. Seattle Seahawks: Brian Burns: Edge, Florida State
Burns is an incredibly athletic edge rusher, who will probably begin his career as a third down specialist and have to develop better run defense. Quarterback pressure was sporadic at best last season in Seattle and most of their defensive issues stemmed from a lack of pressure. Burns will have a learning curve, but could make an impact his rookie year.
22. Baltimore Ravens: Josh Jacobs: Running Back, Alabama
Similar to Buffalo, Baltimore's main and only focus should be helping Lamar Jackson. Later in the draft they'll get an offensive lineman, but after moving on from wide receiver Michael Crabtree and running back Alex Collins Baltimore desperately needs more offensive weapons. Jacobs is a versatile back who offensive coordinator Greg Roman can play with. Pass protection is his biggest area to improve in.
23. Houston Texans: Garrett Bradbury: Center, North Carolina State
Houston is going to be in a tough spot where players available really don't match their needs. They'll be a possible trade back candidate. Assuming they end up using their pick, however, offensive line has to be priority for a team that had their franchise quarterback sacked sixty-two times. Bradbury can play both center and guard, and had an excellent combine.
24. Oakland Raiders: Noah Fant: Tight End, Iowa
Fant would be the second tight end taken in the first round this year. Fant ran a 4.51 40 yard dash at the combine, which is not elite wide receiver fast, but it's still wide receiver fast. He can line up inline, as an upback, or split out as a receiver. This is the pick that Oakland got for trading away Amari Cooper to Dallas, it's only fitting they use it to draft his replacement as a weapon for Derek Carr.
25. Philadelphia Eagles: Rock Ya-Sin: Cornerback, Temple
Jacobs is the only running back in this class that should be drafted in the first round, there are so many talented backs Philadelphia can wait and get a really good player. Instead they should roll with the kid from down the road at Temple. Watching Philadelphia's secondary last season was painful, games against Tampa Bay and New Orleans made me want to write sympathy letters. Ya-Sin has ideal size, speed, and instincts for the position. He unnecessarily jumps while catching the ball at times, which is nitpicking but still an issue.
26. Indianapolis Colts: Jeffery Simmons: Defensive Tackle, Mississippi State
Indianapolis is another team that will look to draft a receiver in the second or third round, but defensive tackle and corner are also needs and Simmons is the best player available at any of those positions.
27. Oakland Raiders: Byron Murphy: Cornerback, Washington
Murphy dominated the PAC 12 this season. Washington was one of my favorite teams to watch because of Murphy and teammates Taylor Rapp and Myles Gaskin. Murphy is physical, instinctive, and has excellent size for a cornerback. Corner has been an issue for several years in Oakland, and Murphy would help change that narrative.
28. Los Angeles Chargers: Devin Bush: Linebacker, Michigan
Bush is a bit undersized for linebacker at 5'11", but his playing style will allow him to see the field immediately. His pass coverage skills will allow him to match up with opposing tight ends and running backs in coverage. At Michigan he showed the ability to take on blockers and fill holes. Despite his size he has the chance to be an every down linebacker.
29. Kansas City Chiefs: Nassir Adderly: Safety, Deleware
Adderly has been one of my favorite players to watch on film this season. Every positive word I can use applies to his game. He has return/special teams ability, played both as a single high safety and in the box, has some of the best ball skills in the class, and is a physical tackler. He could be the heir apparent to Eric Berry.
30. Green Bay Packers: Irv Smith Jr: Tight End, Alabama
Anything to keep Aaron Rodgers happy right? For several reasons the Packers haven't had a consistent running game for a few seasons, and Smith Jr. is a physical blocker which would allow him to be on the field on early downs. The Packers have sort have attempted to band-aid the tight end position for several years, Smith Jr. would hopefully provide a more long term solution.
31. Los Angeles Rams: Jachai Polite: Edge, Florida
The Rams are another trade back candidate here as they're still in the hole from all the trades they've made over the last couple of years. The Rams brought in Dante Fowler from Jacksonville last season, and had mixed results. Polite is a creative pass rusher and could potentially be a really good fit with the Rams.
32. New England Patriots: Dexter Lawrence: Defensive Tackle, Clemson
Yet another team that desperately needs receiver help, but the value simply isn't there at the back of the first round with Brown and Metcalf gone. Enter Lawrence who would be a steal at this spot. Lawrence would be the third Clemson defensive lineman taken in the first round. He's about 6'4" 350 lbs. and can overwhelm at the point of attack. New England has several free agents on the defensive line, so this fills a need as well.
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