JEFF BARNES’ NEW MOCK DRAFT 2.0

Now that the free agency frenzy has died down with many of the big name free agents introduced to new teams we now see a clearer direction for teams needs in the draft.  While a lot the information teams are giving out can be vague and misleading as they try to hide their hand you will see some things are just as clear as a brand new window.  While we have a new number one pick there are other things that have changed.  The Giants now have two 1st round picks as they traded Odell Beckham Jr. to the Browns.  The Jaguars sign their new starting quarterback Nick Foles to a very lucrative deal.  With several weeks left before the draft, there is plenty that can change between now and then.

Cardinals-  Many have them taking Kyler Murray not.  This is starting to look less like smoke and more substance as there are more verified reports of teams reaching out to trade for Josh Rosen.  Rosen may not have won many games last year, but he was not horrible.  With new Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury trying to open up the offense in more of his Air Raid style, expect him to want a more of a mobile passer like Murray.  While it is not a sure thing.  Anything can happen over the next few weeks.  It seems more like the Cards holding Rosen until they get the offer that they absolutely love.

Jaguars-  By signing Foles to such a big money deal it doesn’t make much sense for the Jags to draft a QB in the first round.  The last thing you want to do is end up in the situation Denver was in with an aging Peyton Manning and expiring contract for an unproven Brock Osweiler.  They can take a later round QB to develop and draft one towards the end of Foles contract to be the heir apparent.  Protecting Foles would be a big key so adding Cody Ford would make sense.

Giants-  Now that they have two first round picks the Giants have options.  They are rumored to be in the market for Josh Rosen’s services.  If they pull that off without giving up a 1st round pick then I expect them to address the offensive line or defensive line and use the second pick to address wide receiver.  Without the trade they have to take Drew Lock.  Haskins is a fit as well, but Lock is the more experienced starter with more mobility.  Pairing him with the rising D.K. Metcalf give the G-Men two offensive weapons to got with Saquon Barkley for years to come.

Oakland-  Don’t expect the Raiders to chase wide receiver in the 1st round.  They might pull the trigger if one falls into their lap late with their higher rated players off the board.  With three picks I expect them to address the pass rush.  Quinnen Williams can fall to them at four.  Williams will collapse the pocket from the inside.  With Hockenson off the board I have them taking Fant.  His athleticism and ability will give the Raiders offense a tough matchup inside.  Lastly I have Deionte Thompson going to Oakland/Vegas.  Thompson struggled later in the season, but is athletic enough and has upside to be a real player for the Raiders.

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