Following an intriguing 2020 college football season, the rumor mill for the 2021 NFL Draft has been in overdrive. What are the latest rumors I am hearing, and what could they mean in terms of the action this week when Roger Goodell steps on the stage in Cleveland?
Friday, April 30: Latest rumors and buzz around the 2021 NFL Draft
Make sure to check in throughout the week, as this article is updated regularly with all the latest rumors from the 2021 NFL Draft. The most recent information will be updated at the top of this section. Be sure to also follow me on Twitter: @TonyPauline, along with Pro Football Network: @PFN365.
Giants looking to bolster the trenches?
(6:30 PM) I mentioned the possibility of the Giants looking in the direction of Landon Dickerson in Round 2. The other area they will look at is defensive line and edge rusher. It may not be singularly an edge rusher but a defensive tackle who can also rush the passer.
Is Tennessee going pass catcher on Day 2?
(6:30 PM) Expect the Tennessee Titans to address receiver at some point tonight. One player at the position they like is Josh Palmer from — wait for it — Tennessee. Palmer has made a surge up draft boards after a disappointing senior season. He’s a big-bodied pass catcher with natural hands.
Jets trying to trade their second-round pick?
(6:30 PM) If the Jets don’t trade their pick at the top of Round 2. I’m told they are still leaning towards Azeez Ojulari.
What positions will the Jaguars attack in Round 2?
(6:30 PM) Though I tend to think Trevon Moehrig has to be part of the conversation at the top of Round 2, I’m told right now the Jaguars are leaning towards Georgia corner Tyson Campbell with that pick.
Leatherwood the final straw in Las Vegas?
(11:25 AM) Word in league circles is a major shake-up in the Las Vegas Raiders’ front office will be coming soon after the draft and significant heads are expected to roll. The pick of Alex Leatherwood in the middle of Round 1 last night, a player they could have traded down and selected, is opening a lot of wounds and seems to be the final straw. Additionally, I’m also hearing about a lot of friction between major players in their front office.
This follows the selection of Damon Arnette in the middle of Round 1 in 2020 — a player I reported earlier this week has one foot out the door — and the surprise selection of Clelin Ferrell with the fourth pick of the 2019 NFL Draft. Last night follows the trend of players the Raiders select much earlier than their grades warranted.
What positions are the Jets targeting early on Day 2?
(11:25 AM) The Jets have a big decision to make at the top of Round 2 — running back or defense. I’m told right now they seem to be leaning towards Ojulari, whom they did not expect to be on the board. Ojulari will help improve the pass rush and is the hybrid type of defender Robert Saleh likes. He’s a big-time prospect, but as I stated yesterday, medical red flags at the NFL Combine really hurt his draft stock.
The Giants targeting Alabama center?
(11:25 AM) The Giants like center Dickerson and could pull the trigger on him in the second round. He would immediately improve the interior of the Giants’ offensive line and gives them a lot of flexibility.