2021 NFL Mock Draft: Final first round predictions with trades
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson
Trevor Lawrence has been the top prospect in this draft ever since he came out of high school. This is a no-brainer choice for this franchise that needs a savior.
2. New York Jets: Zach Wilson, QB, BYU
Zach Wilson will have the monumental task of helping to turn around a sinking ship with the New York Jets all while he plays in a huge market. He has all the tools to be a top-level quarterback at the next level but he will need to continue his development going forward.
3. TRADE: 49ers receive pick 3 in 2021, Dolphins receive picks 12, 2021 3rd rounder, 2022 & 2023 first-rounders
San Francisco 49ers: Mac Jones, QB, Alabama
The San Francisco 49ers traded up to select their quarterback of the future and some think Justin Fields could go here. Recently Mac Jones has gained a lot of praise and many are expecting him to be the 49ers pick which would be somewhat of a surprise.
4. Atlanta Falcons: Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida
Kyle Pitts is one of the best overall prospects in the draft so his falling to the Atlanta Falcons is a great pickup for the team. They could always go quarterback here but they seem content with the players they currently have at the moment.
5. Cincinnati Bengals: Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU
Ja’Marr Chase reuniting with Joe Burrow would be a great story and add a lethal weapon to this Cincinnati Bengals offense. They desperately need offensive line help but this was too hard for them to pass on and there will be some left in the rest of the draft.
6. TRADE: Dolphins receive pick 6 and a 2021 fifth-rounder, the Eagles receive picks 12, 2021 fourth-rounder, and 2022 first-rounder
Miami Dolphins: Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon
Penei Sewell was just sitting there for the Miami Dolphins to take and they would love to see it. He is the best tackle on the board and they need to add pieces around their young quarterback.
7. TRADE: Denver receives pick 7, Detroit receives picks 9, 2022 first-rounder, and 2023 second-rounder
Denver Broncos: Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State
Justin Fields fell some in this mock draft and this could happen where both he and Trey Lance fall a little out of the top six. Fields is a great talent that could become what Cam Newton was in his MVP season if everything works out. The Denver Broncos finally get the signal-caller that they have been looking for.
8. Carolina Panthers: Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama
The Carolina Panthers just traded for Sam Darnold and they could always trade back especially as Trey Lance sits here. They stay put and pick one of the best deep threats in the draft here. Building around Darnold and giving him the best chance to succeed is what the Panthers need to prioritize going forward.