2021 NFL Mock Draft: Trades shakeup the first round
17. Las Vegas Raiders: Christian Barmore, DT, Alabama
Christian Barmore is the most disruptive defensive linemen in this draft as he destroyed the opposition every week in the collegiate ranks. The Raiders need to find answers on their defense as it struggled last season. Getting Barmore here will help bring that defense back into the light.
18. TRADE: Steelers receive pick 18, Dolphins receive picks 24, 2021 4th rounder (pick 128), and 2022 3rd round pick
Pittsburgh Steelers: Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech
Christian Darrisaw dropped in this mock draft and the Pittsburgh Steelers noticed. They have a void at left tackle and Darrisaw is one of the most polished at the position in this draft class. They only give up a third-rounder next year and a fourth for this year so this is a solid deal. Getting Darrisaw will sure up that left side of their line.
19. Washington Football Team: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame
The Washington Football Team shocked everyone by getting to the playoffs last year. They desperately need to find an answer at the quarterback position but they cannot after the top prospects are off the board. They go defense here as they continue to play a stale offense with an amazing defensive front to propel them back into playoff contention. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is an athletic freak that can play a safety-linebacker hybrid role. He is just another weapon on this defense.
20. Chicago Bears: Alijah Vera-Tucker, OG, USC
The Chicago Bears have many holes to fill on their team and it is unknown where they want to take the franchise going forward. They will likely be the same as last year with a solid defense and a lack-luster offensive attack. Alijah Vera-Tucker is a great guard prospect that can help sure up the front to protect new starter, Andy Dalton.
21. Indianapolis Colts: Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas
The Colts need a left tackle after their starter called it a career. Samuel Cosmi is one of the rawest prospects in this draft but his youth is a great attribute to have. He is still very young and moldable for any team that selects him.
22. Tennessee Titans: Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia
Tennessee Titans are coming off a solid season last year and seem closer to actual contention than most give them credit for. They need to work on that defense as it was the main reason they struggled against their opponents. Getting Azeez Ojulari at 22 is a great choice as the young edge rusher can continue to grow on the opposite side of Bud Dupree.
23. New York Jets: Najee Harris, RB, Alabama
Najee Harris is the most pro-ready running back in the draft and for good reason. He played at a high level during his days at Alabama and the Jets get another weapon on offense. Zach Wilson and Harris would be a nice duo for the team going forward as the Jets need a new stable of backs.
24. Miami Dolphins: Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson
The Dolphins traded back from pick 18 and they still get to add on offense as they had hoped for. Travis Etienne is the most explosive of the running backs and he showed that on Saturdays. Getting him and Pitts in the first round will only help that offense become more dynamic and make the team more balanced going forward.