Round 1 | Picks 17-32
17. Las Vegas Raiders: Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State
It has been proven repeatedly that the Las Vegas Raiders are willing to overlook character concerns. With the Raiders having a potential out in Nick Kwiatkoski’s contract after this season, adding a replacement in Micah Parsons would be ideal. Parsons would have a year to grow into the role while providing the potential to make high-impact plays in a rotational role.
18. Miami Dolphins: Alijah Vera-Tucker, OT, USC
When it comes to their offensive line, the Dolphins still have some question marks. Robert Hunt is not locked in as the right tackle, meaning Alijah Vera-Tucker could be an immediate starter.
Vera-Tucker also carries the potential to play guard in the NFL. Therefore, long-term, the Dolphins could fall back on both Vera-Tucker and Hunt at guard while looking for a future right tackle next offseason.
19. Washington Football Team: Jamin Davis, LB, Kentucky
Jamin Davis is one of the fastest-rising players in the draft right now. After impressing at his pro day, he is now getting looks as a potential first-round selection. With the top five QBs off the board, the Washington Football Team can continue building their solid defense in this 2021 First Round NFL Mock Draft.
20. Chicago Bears: Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech
After news broke concerning back surgery for Caleb Farley, his stock has slipped. Nevertheless, he remains a player with a lot of upside, which could be ideal for the Bears. They have Desmond Trufant and Jaylon Johnson ready to start at cornerback, taking the pressure off Farley this season. The Bears can allow the talented CB to develop in his rookie season before becoming a potential starter in his second year.
21. Indianapolis Colts: Kwity Paye, EDGE, Michigan
If the Colts want to challenge in the AFC, they need to improve their pass-rush talent. None of their current options jump off the page as being game-breaking players. Therefore, adding a player in the mold of Kwity Paye would immediately give them a blue-chip talent on the outside of their defensive line. Paye can benefit from playing on a line where DeForest Buckner commands ample attention on the inside of the defense.
22. Tennessee Titans: Greg Newsome II, CB, Northwestern
After letting both Malcolm Butler and Adoree’ Jackson depart this offseason, the Titans must address their cornerback position. Greg Newsome showed his talent at Northwestern and could be an immediate starter for the Titans. Slight concerns remain around his speed, but he can make up for that with other aspects of his game.
23. New York Jets (via Seahawks): Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame
Despite the expected return of C.J. Mosley, the Jets could still benefit from addressing their linebacker position. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is a potential three-down player who can make plays against both the run and the pass. He has the talent to move out and cover players in the slot while also playing up the middle in a more traditional role.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas
The Steelers’ offensive line has to be a focus for them. While Oklahoma’s Creed Humphrey could be a target at center, the Steelers must not forget the premium position that is offensive tackle.
Samuel Cosmi divides opinions regarding his ability to be a long-term starter, but he has the potential to come in and contribute immediately. With the Steelers looking to make the most of Ben Roethlisberger‘s final years under center, adding a player who can be a key contributor is vital in this 2021 First Round NFL Mock Draft.
25. Jacksonville Jaguars (via Rams): Pat Freiermuth, TE, Penn State
The only position on offense that appears to be seriously lacking for the Jaguars is tight end. After drafting Lawrence with their first pick, the Jaguars give him an intriguing weapon in Pat Freiermuth.
The Penn State tight end could develop into a leading player at the position. Adding a tight end such as Freiermuth would leave the Jaguars’ offensive skill group looking strong.
26. Cleveland Browns: Joseph Ossai, EDGE, Texas
Cleveland needs to put an explosive player opposite Myles Garrett, and they do not come with much more upside than Joseph Ossai. The Texas pass rusher is a skillful player who can also drop back into coverage. He could serve a fascinating hybrid role as a pass rusher and be utilized in coverage when disguising linebacker blitzes.
27. Baltimore Ravens: Rashod Bateman, WR, Minnesota
The Ravens added Sammy Watkins as their secondary receiver, but they need a long-term partner for Marquise Brown. Rashod Bateman could be the ideal player to put opposite Brown while also having the potential to develop into a role as the No. 1 receiver if required. Bateman would provide the Ravens’ pass-catching group with intriguing depth in 2021.
28. New Orleans Saints: Jayson Oweh, EDGE, Penn State
It is hard not to be excited when you see Jayson Oweh on tape. The Penn State pass rusher oozes talent and makes big plays against both the run and pass. The Saints have seen Trey Hendrickson depart in free agency, and drafting Oweh would give them an immediate impact player as a replacement.
29. Green Bay Packers: Creed Humphrey, OC, Oklahoma
After the departure of Corey Linsley in free agency, the addition of Creed Humphrey in this 2021 First Round NFL Mock Draft is an intriguing one. While not the exciting selection that a receiver might be, Humphrey would serve a key role for the Packers immediately. Replacing Linsley is a big ask, but Humphrey has the talent to do it.
30. Buffalo Bills: Kelvin Joseph, CB, Kentucky
With an offense that appears loaded, defense has to be a priority for the Bills. They could look to upgrade their pass rushers, but corner is also a need, and Kelvin Joseph is a player that could contribute immediately.
The Bills do not currently have a clear starter opposite Tre’Davious White, which would be an ideal role for Joseph. Conversely, it can often take corners time to develop, so the Bills may look to add a player that can help them push for the Super Bowl in 2021.
31. Kansas City Chiefs: Teven Jenkins, OT, Oklahoma State
The Chiefs desperately need to address their long-term future at the tackle position. Lucas Niang is one potential option, but Mike Remmers and Kyle Long are both short-term solutions. Teven Jenkins can play on either side of the line and could be an ideal long-term partner for Niang.
32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Christian Barmore, DT, Alabama
The Buccaneers brought back all 22 starters this offseason, meaning they can afford a luxury pick here to round out this 2021 First Round NFL Mock Draft. Christian Barmore does not fill an immediate need, but he would serve a rotational purpose on the defensive line. With Ndamukong Suh returning on a one-year deal, Barmore is a natural replacement as a starter in 2022.
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