2021 NFL mock draft: Panthers trade up, Steelers land help on offense
Picks 17-24
17. Las Vegas Raiders: Christian Barmore, DT, Alabama
The Raiders have a group of problems that need to be addressed. Their defense seems to be the major issue and playing against the Chiefs twice a year does not help. Barmore is a solid big-man upfront that could be a dominant force in this league.
18. Miami Dolphins: Gregory Rousseau, EDGE, Miami
Rousseau was expected to be the top pass-rusher in this class but failed to improve his production this past year. He still played very well and adds to an already stout Dolphins defense.
19. Washington Football Team: Mac Jones, QB, Alabama
Washington is still searching for a name of the franchise but they get a proven player in Jones. He has done nothing but win at the most dominant program in college football. It will be interesting to see what he can do outside such a loaded team. Washington’s defense should pair nicely with a rookie quarterback.
20. Chicago Bears: Alijah Vera-Tucker, OT, USC
The Bears seem to need a signal-caller as well but they’re all gone by this point. Bringing back Mitch Trubisky for another season could happen. Their defense is one of the best in the league and getting Trubisky some protection could help him.
21. Indianapolis Colts: Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina
The Colts are suddenly without the most important position in football after Philip Rivers retired. They could be a secret trade-up team if they do not address this giant hole in free agency or elsewhere. Horn is a solid get here as he fell further than most imagine that he would.
22. TRADE: Jaguars receive pick 22, Titans receive picks 25, 100, and 2022 6th rounder
Jacksonville Jaguars: Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas
The Jaguars trade up past the Steelers to get a great player in Cosmi. He is young and has more development in him but his ceiling is high. Protecting Trevor Lawrence should be a top priority and they begin doing that here by getting Cosmi.
23. New York Jets: Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson
Dynamic playmakers do not grow on trees and this Jets offense needs them. They got their tackle earlier and now Etienne will give some more help for Darnold. The former Clemson Tiger can do it all by catching and running with top-notch speed.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State
Some might find Jenkins being a little too rich for the selection here by the Steelers. He is a big man that has all the tools to be successful at the NFL level. Jenkins has experience after becoming the starter during his sophomore season. His size and ability will make him very interesting to NFL scouts as the draft gets closer.