The Jets traded quarterback Sam Darnold to the Panthers on Monday.
So they will not trade some of the overall number 2 in the 2021 NFL draft. They will surely take BYU quarterback Zach Wilson there. And it looks like the Panthers will not set up a quarterback (like Justin Fields of Ohio) at No. 8.
In light of the trade in Darnold, here’s our latest complete first-round illumination projection:
1. Jaguars – QB Trevor Lawrence, Clemson
No doubt about this one.
2. Jets – QB Zach Wilson, BYU
Will he do better than Sam Darnold did?
49ers (from Dolphins / Texans) – QB Trey Lance, North Dakota
The 49ers traded to get a quarterback. The only question: will it be Lance or Justin Fields?
4. Valke – TE Kyle Pitts, Florida
One of the most talented players in this draft, but the Falcons will need a new fullback at some point.
5. Bengal – CB Caleb Farley, Virginia Tech
Something of a surprise here, as some analysts consider Patrick Surtain to be the best angle of this concept.
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6. Dolphins (from Arende) – WR DeVonta Smith, Alabama
Size is a concern in the NFL for the Heisman Trophy winner.
7. Lions – OT Penei Sewell, Oregon
Another measure of protection for new Lions quarterback Jared Goff.
8. Panthers – Edge rusher Kwity Paye, Michigan
After the Darnold trade, you do not have to take Fields here now.
9. Broncos – QB Justin Fields, State of Ohio
Somewhat a surprise, as the Broncos decide to pull the plug on Drew Lock.
10. Cowboys – Edge rusher Azeez Ojulari, Georgia
Paye is the preferred option if available.
11. Giants – OT / G Rashawn Slater, North West
Receiver is also an option for the Giants, but they have just signed Kenny Golladay. The line remains a major issue.
12. Eagles (from 49ers) – WR Jaylen Waddle, Alabama
Another surprise here, as the Eagles pass Ja’Marr Chase to take Waddle. Will Howie Roseman regret this?
13. Chargers – WR Ja’Marr Chase, LSU
Justin Herbert will be excited about this choice, as he should be.
14. Wikings – CB Patrick Surtain, Alabama
Defensive head coach Mike Zimmer is in the hot seat and Surtain will help increase his secondary competition.
15. Patriots – WR Kadarius Toney, Florida
No quarter in the draft this year for the Patriots. Maybe next year.
16. Cardinal – OT Alex Leatherwood, Alabama
The Cardinals are going all-in this season. They need more from Kyler Murray and his line.
17. Raiders – C Creed Humphrey, Oklahoma
Definitely the best downtown prospect available this year.
18. Dolphins – Edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, Miami
Did he surpass Gregory Rousseau, a rival Miami forward?
19. Washington – LB Micah Parsons, Penn State
He has a top 15 talent, but just does not play a position that is so high.
20. Bere – CB Tyson Campbell, Georgia
Do not exclude Jaycee Horn here, as the Bears are trying to replace Kyle Fuller.
21. Colts – OT Teven Jenkins, Oklahoma State
Some protection for new Colts full-back Carson Wentz.
22. Titans – DL Christian Barmore, Alabama
Some aids in the middle of Tennessee’s defensive line.
23. Jets (from Seahawks) – CB Jaycee Horn, South Carolina
Joe Douglas should basically take a corner kick this year.
24. Steelers – QB Mac Jones, Alabama
The ultimate replacement for Ben Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh?
25. Jaguars (van Ramme) – RB Najee Harris, Alabama
A weapon for Lawrence as he starts from Day 1.
26. Bruines – LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Notre Dame
Not a sexy choice, but he will help the Browns’ defense in a big way.
27. Ravens – Edge rusher Jayson Oweh, Penn State
His draw stock is apparently rising, but he had no pockets last season.
Saints – WR Rondale Moore, Purdue
Another talented receiver in terms of size as he is only 5 feet-9.
29. Packers – OT Christian Darrisaw, Virginia Tech
It will not make as many waves as the Packers that Jordan Love picked late in the first round last year.
30. Bills – Edge rusher Gregory Rousseau, Miami
Lots of questions around him. Limited band since he decided from last season. But he is a talent.
31. Chiefs – OL Alijah Vera-Tucker, USC
He can play several places on the line – an asset the Chiefs can use.
32. Buccaneers – CB Greg Newsome, Northwest
Todd Bowles gets another piece for his quiet dominant defense.
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