2021 NFL Mock Draft: Quarterbacks will be on demand
By Brian Emory
21. Indianapolis Colts: Kwity Paye, EDGE, Michigan
It is tough not to be impressed with the Colts’ approach to the draft over the past several seasons. They seem to consistently keep all their options open and find quality players, especially on days two and three. Need number one for the 2021 NFL Draft is at offensive tackle, but after the early run at the position in this mock, I’m not sure a first round talent is still available there. The Colts also need more pass rushers, so Kwity Paye would be a really solid value here. The on-field production may not be as promising as you’d like, but Paye is a hard-working player with solid athleticism.
What this means for the Houston Texans:
The Colts have recently established themselves as one of the more consistently strong teams in the NFL. While their ceiling for 2021 will largely depend on the play of Carson Wentz, Paye would be an impressive addition for them on the defensive front at this juncture of the first round, and that’s where he lands in this 2021 NFL Mock Draft.
22. Tennessee Titans: Jaelen Phillips, EDGE, Miami
Perhaps a late run on edge rushers here? The Titans still have a glaring need for pass rushers, most anyone would agree it is far and away their greatest need. Phillips is a very interesting prospect. If his medicals check out he has a true argument to be the best edge rusher in this draft.
What this means for the Houston Texans:
The Titans are running a smooth operation in Nashville. Head coach Mike Vrabel has constructed a team with an identity predicated on smashmouth football. Tennessee’s pass rush has been their largest weakness over the past few seasons, so if Phillips can become a threat off the edge it will make the Titans even more difficult to beat.
23. New York Jets: Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia
While he had some really bad moments, the Jets failed Sam Darnold by failing to surround him with a strong supporting cast. The same mistake cannot be made with Zach Wilson. It was very tempting to add some sort of weapon for Wilson here, but the glaring need for pass rush can’t be ignored. Ojulari is a young, athletic edge that has the potential to turn into a very dangerous player.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech
The Steelers could go in a few different directions here. If there is a running back they really love, they wouldn’t totally surprise me. However, Caleb Farley is such a promising prospect at this juncture. He would be the top cornerback in this class without injury concerns. The Steelers could use upgrades in the secondary, this is an enormous steal if you’re confident in Farley’s medicals.
25. Jacksonville Jaguars: Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue
The Jaguars have their franchise quarterback, now it’s time to pair him with as many explosive weapons as possible. This could be seen as a slight reach, but Rondale Moore would be a very exciting addition to bring into the fold. The Jaguars spent a second round pick on Laviska Shenault last year, but Moore would be a different type of receiver that can stretch the field vertically. .
What this means for the Houston Texans:
If Trevor Lawrence is half as good as advertised he will be the best quarterback the Jaguars have ever had. Pairing Lawrence with Rondale Moore would immediately give Lawrence a dangerous big-play threat for the Texans’ secondary to worry about.
26. Cleveland Browns: Elijah Moore, WR, Ole Miss
Ever since Andrew Berry took the reigns as Cleveland’s general manager, the Browns have drafted with an emphasis on positional value. They tend to spend their first round choices on the more significant positions, which makes me believe we could see them use this selection on a wide receiver or cornerback. Elijah Moore has steadily risen up draft boards, and considering Odell Beckham Jr.’s tumultuous career in Cleveland so far it might not be the worst idea to bring in a new, young receiver.