Here are my top picks in next week’s NFL Draft.
1) Jacksonville Jaguars: Aiden Hutchinson, Edge, Michigan: The Jaguars have the first pick in the draft for the second consecutive year. While Hutchison isn’t considered a lock at first overall, I can’t imagine Jacksonville passing on this highly skilled 2021 Heisman candidate.
2) Detroit Lions: Travon Walker, DL, Georgia: The Lions could shock us all and select a quarterback to build around with this pick. However, Travon Walker brings too much potential to pass up.
3) Houston Texans: Evan Neal, OL, Alabama: The Texans are in a strange situation. They have decent pieces, and plenty of draft picks to rebuild after the Deshaun Watson trade. Quarterback Davis Mills played surprisingly well last season. Whether or not he’s their new franchise QB, securing an offensive lineman with tremendous upside is a great pick.
4) New York Jets: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge, Oregon: At one point, Thibodeaux was projected to be drafted first overall. While injuries may have pushed his stock back a little, defensive-minded Robert Salah will be more than happy to select one of this class’s top pass rushers.
5) New York Giants: Ikem Ekwonu, OL, NC State: It’s unclear how much longer Daniel Jones will be the Giants franchise guy. One thing for sure, though, is that he needs more protection. The Giants will take the safe bet and select an excellent blocking tackle.
6) Carolina Panthers: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh: There’s hype around Malik Willis being selected as the first quarterback in this class. However, I think Pickett is the most pro-ready among the top picks. Besides, Sam Darnold’s days in Carolina are numbered.
7) New York Giants: Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati: After selecting an offensive piece with their first pick, the Giants should look to bolster their depleted secondary if “Sauce” Gardner falls to No.7.
8) Atlanta Falcons: Garret Wilson, WR, Ohio State: The Falcons lost their top two wide receivers over the past couple of seasons. They need to add instant offense for new QB Marcus Mariota.
9) Seattle Seahawks: Derrick Stingley JR, CB, LSU: The Seahawks will most likely be the worst team in the NFC West. After losing long-term stars, taking one of the top defensive players in this year’s draft will help rebuild a depleted defense.
10) New York Jets: Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama: Like their lousy counterpart, the New York Jets also have two picks in the top ten. While I think an offensive lineman is a better selection here, I envision the Jets selecting a flashy WR to pair with their young QB, Zach Wilson.
