If our WR corps is a little on the high side salary cap wise at the moment, especially considering who’s on our roster, our RB room is on the cheap. At the moment, no Dolphins RB is at a $1M salary or higher. Myles Gaskin, Patrick Laird and Salvon Ahmed are the only RB’s under contract now and add up to a stingy $2.5M. I expect that to change when the draft rolls around. I think after watching all of our backs it’s easy to realize that really none of them are a true bellcow RB or what could be considered a #1. I liked what I saw out of Myles Gaskin and Salvon Ahmed, they both showed the ability to run the ball and catch the ball and do good things catching the ball out of the backfield (Myles Gaskin moreso than Ahmed) but neither guy proved capable of pushing the pile or creating after contact yards. I saw way too many times first contact and down. We need a RB that’s both more elusive and also more powerful that can break that first tackle which many times leads to big gains.
A RB that can catch the ball and then make things happen after the catch can be a QB’s best friend. I think Najee Harris fits that role best as he is probably the best receiving RB, and he has the size (6’2 230) to and skills to be an every down back. Travis Etienne is a very good RB, maybe the highest ranked pure running back. He broke more tackles than any other back in college and has a lot of long runs to his credit. Etienne is more of a traditional sized RB (5’10 205). Etienne had 43 runs of 20 yards or more, that’s the kind of explosiveness the Dolphins backfield could use. There are plenty of RB’s who would improve the quality of our backfield, but I think it’s time we really invested in getting a premier talent. Running backs have been devalued to a point in the NFL where they are rarely early to mid 1st RD picks, but I think there’s a good chance we could lose Najee Harris if we don’t take him at #18. Of course we could trade back either from #3 or from #18 and have a shot at him but I don’t think it’s likely he makes it to #36. The Chiefs took the first RB off the board last year at #32 (Clyde Edwards Helaire), and the guy I thought we would be the first back taken, D’Andre Swift was taken at #35. Another good choice for us would be Javonte Williams from NC. He’s a physical downhill runner with good size and speed 5’10 220.
Here’s what our RB’s did in 2020
Myles Gaskin – 142 carries – 584 yards – 3 TD’s / 41 receptions – 388 yards – 2 TD’s
Salvon Ahmed – 75 carries – 319 yards – 3 TD’s / 11 receptions – 61 yards – 0 TD’s
Patrick Laird – 13 carries – 72 yards – 0 TD’s / 10 receptions – 68 yards – 0 TD’s
We also had Matt Breida last season who gave us minimal production, despite most of us expecting him to be the change of pace and 3rd down back. We also got a little production from DeAndre Washington who is also not under contract in 2021. It’s clear we need to upgrade the talent in our backfield, so will 2021 be the year we go RB early? It’s difficult to say. I wouldn’t be surprised if they look for to upgrade the trenches in some fashion, either an OL, DL or even a playmaking LB or a CB. I’m going to hate to see Patrick Surtain II in another NFL uniform, but after drafting Noah Igbinoghene at #30 last year, I can’t imagine we would spend another first RD pick on a CB.
I don’t think there was DC that played our team that was overly concerned about our rushing attack. Nothing helps a QB more than a reliable, effective rushing attack. Proof of this is available from our own 2016 season with Ryan Tannehill and then any season while playing for the Tennessee Titans. Tannehill went from a run of the mill QB to a top 10 QB. I think we should do everything we can to help Tua become a better QB, so draft the best WR and RB in this draft and that’s a good start to getting him in that direction.
GO DOLPHINS 2021!!!
Finsmob Unleashed 
Steve – I don’t see the frail thing. If i was going to knock him it would be about non-elite speed.
I don’t think most injuries in the NFL these days come from getting hit hard. Most of them seem to be soft tissue injuries or joint issues due to getting twisted or fallen on or slipping or catching a cleat. Other than concussions which is the same for everyone no matter how durable or big you are, it’s not the hits that are the problem.
****
Who doesn’t love the 6’4” 225 pound WR? I know I do. That’s a no brainer….but it doesn’t mean smaller guys can’t be just as good or durable. There are tons of examples of small guys being very productive and healthy in the NFL. I can certainly hear the idea that Smith isn’t worth a #3 pick…but not due to durability issues….which, I believe, he’s never had.
We should get Deshaun restructure for like 10 years and never look back. Sorry Tua sorry Dandre Smith sorry Najee but not sorry for a different set of guys who will get it done. This is opportunity knocking answer the call.
Door whatever
Very Faustian of you.
Ok 🤷♂️
Oh!!!
But no he’s that good 👀
Krishna says:
January 27, 2021 at 10:10 pm
You must be a funky disco fan…not me.
—————-
Hey, Krishna,
You got funky right, but ‘Jeopardy’ was NOT disco… I’m NO fan of disco music, not that there’s anything wrong with it. I’m about the FUNK… call me ‘Captain Save the Funk’. I’m a disciple of sorts to George Clinton, not the Bee Gees.
Yeah, disco and funk are kind of cousins, but there is a HUGE difference between the two. I should think you would know that, regarding some of your recent racial commentary.
Not trying to nitpick on ya, but bro, c’mon now… 😉
Find us a Fucking Ball hawking Safety who’s everyone kidding we don’t need that. Come on man. Lol
LOL
Funk is about bass-heavy grooves, HEAVY kicks and claps, funky rhythm guitars, raspy/random singing instead of the normal *ahem* arranged singing, and other elements that ya just can’t put into words.
I’ll admit it. I loved The Bee Gees. Sue me! Lol
I’ll admit it too, I really do like the Bee Gees!
I’m just trying to draw the line between funk and disco.
That’s alright I’m an admitted Neil Diamond fan it’s all good. They a lot of good music.
NOTHING wrong with the music one likes.
THIS is not disco…
MF13,
I recently watched a documentary about The Bee Gees. I think it was on Netflix, but I can’t remember. I really enjoyed it, and it went into detail about how disco came about and how it is connected to other music genres. Check it out if you enjoy that sorta thing.
THIS is not disco…
I really like some disco, so have at it! If you like to dance, you almost have to like disco
All GOOD!
Randy says:
January 28, 2021 at 6:46 pm
MF13,
I recently watched a documentary about The Bee Gees. I think it was on Netflix, but I can’t remember. I really enjoyed it, and it went into detail about how disco came about and how it is connected to other music genres. Check it out if you enjoy that sorta thing.
————–
THANK YOU! Yes, I’m very interested to see this.
Just so ya know, I’m NOT knocking disco music. I’m trying to tell Krishna that there’s a BIG difference between disco and funk.
I hope I’m not pizzing too many people off! LOL
Thank you, Randy.
Not pissed in the least. I love so many different types of music
Different times in my life there has been a lot of different music phases.
RIGHT THERE with ya, Mike E! Many different music in different phases of one’s life.
son,
I’ve never been a big fan of Neil Diamond. I don’t dislike him. I just never really got into his music. I will, however, listen to his music for 24 hours straight if the Dolphins agree NOT to trade for Watson. Lol
Wait
Sonny – You blew your player wish wad on Suh. You have used up your player wish funds bro. Sorry. lol
Hmm who’s going to the Super Bowl?
He’s actually playing well, but he wasn’t getting there ever until they got Brady, Gronk, AB, Fournette etc.
He got there with freakin Goff
My wife can name most disco songs in two beats it’s scary and also amazing
Too much American Bandstand
Krishna,
Upon yet another listen, I suppose I can hear some elements of disco on this song. Perhaps this was one of those songs that bridged funk and disco… but to me, it was clearly more funk than disco.
I don’t want to get in a war with you on this kind of thing, either! LOL
Sorry, but I LOVE this song, regardless!
MF13,
No worries! Guys like you and Tim who have an abundance of musical knowledge amaze me, and I enjoy reading your thoughts on it because I’m as dumb as a box of rocks when it comes to music. I know nothing. I just know what I like. Blues is my favorite genre, but I’ll listen to just about anything if it makes me wanna tap my toe or sing along.
Randy, I’ve been into music for as long as I can remember. I liked The Beatles when I was 3 years old. I listen to all types of music so I know a bit about it. 🙂
The Bee Gees were not a disco band, they made a disco album that was huge as was the film. ‘Saturday Night Fever’ is a part of American pop culture.
I like a lot of disco from the 70’s because they played their instruments. If you listen to many disco songs other than just the dance beat, you can hear a lot of cool stuff going on.
Tim,
That documentary I mentioned to MF13 actually explained that very thing….that The Bee Gees weren’t really a disco band but just happened to have a mega hit album….and how it pigeonholed them for awhile. Give it a watch if you’re so inclined.
I saw it and it was really good. That idiot disc jockey started that whole “Disco Sucks” movement that then went after the Bee Gees. In the documentary you see what great songwriters they were and how many songs they wrote for other artists.
BOOM!!!
Sonny – I meant with the Bucs
He should still be a Fin the crowning achievement of Mikey T’s mostly bad career
Tim,
Yeah, I wanted to go back in time and slap that DJ. What a self-important dick.
Exactly! A long time friend of mine and I have never liked critics. So many bands and artists who were deemed as shit by critics that went onto rule the world, as the critics sit at their desk typing their negative opinions because they don’t get it – eating donuts and sniffing their own farts. Fuck them!!! LOL
Asshole Gase caused us to lose Landry arguably the fourth best draft pick this team ever made but they fucked it up. He’s exactly what we need so desperately now. Oh and by the way has never missed a game gee whiz.
yup he set reception records for the Dolphins the first four years of his career and has continued to lead the league in history over his first 6 seasons. Imagine what he could have done with a real QB
Landry wanted elite money and he wasn’t elite and still isn’t. He was an excellent 2nd rd WR who played his ass off, played with emotion and had great hands. But he’s not a $15M per year guy.
https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/L/LandJa00.htm
I guess it depends on what you think is elite. The MOST receptions in the HISTORY of the league of ANY PLAYER seems it COULD be elite is some people’s minds…
What’s I said yesterday.
Interesting analysis of Watson’s contract cost if traded.
https://www.profootballnetwork.com/following-deshaun-watson-trade-request-dolphins-top-preferred-landing-spots/
And for the OL
https://phinphanatic.com/2021/01/27/miami-dolphins-senior-bowl-presents-replacement-ted-karras/
Definitely need to continue the OL upgrade!
Pp…saw the Mike Douglas video. Agreed!
I don’t agree with everything they are doing, but a lot of it does make sense.
Mf13ss, if you want to poke fun at my musical knowledge, have at it. I’m clueless, but it might make you feel better.
USA Today had an article by Mike Jones, “Hiring Review”, with the byline, “New faces, more front office diversity now in NFL.” Kudos, but still a ways to go. One step at a time.
Najee Harris looks big at Senior Bowl. Durability aside, he can take on LBs and Safeties at next level, shown plenty of vision, has hands, and can stay back to block, if needed. Has everything you would want in an all down back, imo.
I think you have to try to get him. Where?
Boy, I’m glad he has hands…..Makes it hard to carry the ball without them….LOL! JBB
He really looks like a solid all around back
I also think Javonte Williams looks good if we don’t get Harris
But Harris is my first choice at RB
I had to scroll past all of the “jive talk”
Be proud of yourselves geezers. You’ve got me into watching Bosch now.
I’m glad Son isn’t running this team. We’d be in cap hell with no draft picks and a 3-1024 record. All 3 would be against the Jets, so there’s a silver lining.
You should be so lucky
Krishna, Najee Harris at #18 for me.
Dang, I had OC Quinn Meinerz on my UDFA list. Now he is moving up draft boards. Plays OC and can play both OG positions. I read up on him 2 weeks ago but was thinking about level of competition but if he is mauling at the Senior Bowl then tells me he is on Div 1 level.
This morning 3 teams have reportedly contacted Houston regarding Deshaun Watson. Jets, Panthers and Bears. I’d bet HOU would prefer an NFC team
Deshaun’s response was and I quote, “ fuck you, fuck you and fuck you. I’m not going from one shit show to another.”
Wait, why are the Panthers or the Bears a shit show?
LOL @ Son, just like Eddie Murphy as the barber in Coming to America….
son of a son of a shula says:
January 28, 2021 at 6:41 pm
That’s alright I’m an admitted Neil Diamond fan it’s all good. They a lot of good music.
There you go Son! I like Neal Diamond also. I will add it to my play list for the next time we are sitting around listening to my “good music”
I heard Neil will be doing a “Neil does Grease” album when he’s 90. Wait for it
Krishna says:
January 29, 2021 at 9:42 am
Mf13ss, if you want to poke fun at my musical knowledge, have at it. I’m clueless, but it might make you feel better.
—————-
Krishna, in no way had I poked fun at your — or anybody else’s — music knowledge, bud. All I’d stated was there is difference between funk and disco, and tried to illustrate (educate?) by posting several songs. If I wanted to belittle you or attack you, everybody else would know it. I was merely trying to clarify that i really like FUNK… disco, not so much.
If you took me the wrong way, I assure you that was NOT my intention at all. As far as I’m concerned, we’re good, sir… and I mean that, truly.
Saaaaatisfaction!!
This wouldn’t be on my playlist, but it’s alright!
Great
Seconded!
Cheers, guys 🙂
There ya go! EW&F, one of my favs, is an incredible band! And yes, this is disco… LOVE IT!
I didn’t say I dislike ALL disco! 😉
So up here in frigid Pennsylvania, the Stealers* are faced with a cap problem as it pertains to Big Ben… something I didn’t realize until today. If he comes back, he’s going to need to be restructured/extended, so as to minimize his cap hit. That, in order to re-sign/extend other players such as Minkah and TJ Watt.
Guys, the Stealers* CAN’T RUN THE FOOTBALL, and haven’t been able to do so for several years now… aka: ever since Le’Veon Bell left.
What I’ve heard from Stealers* camp over the last decade or so has generally been spot-on. That said, this is mere rumor, so take it with a grain of salt… they really covet Najee Harris.
I mentioned this several weeks ago, and we don’t know what the Stealers* will do to address the Big Ben situation. But as of right now, if we really want Najee Harris, we’ve got to take him before R1P24 (the Stealers*) pick.
Now if the Stealers* opt to trade for Matt Stafford (these are NATIONAL rumors, not local), it’s probably going to cost them their R1P24… that would be a relief for those of us (ME!) who really want to draft Najee (and that would include Tua).
Just adding some football talk on a lazy Friday afternoon. Any thoughts on this?
Mike E. says:
January 29, 2021 at 1:42 pm
This morning 3 teams have reportedly contacted Houston regarding Deshaun Watson. Jets, Panthers and Bears. I’d bet HOU would prefer an NFC team
*******
Are you telling me that the Dolphins are not interested after all the things the media has said?
Who would have expected our local best writers to mislead their readers to generate a controversy?
Not me…
Nope, just saying the Dolphins aren’t chasing. The other teams are
I should have used my sarcasm font bc that’s exactly what I meant
That shouldn’t say best writers that should say beat writers
My point is that a lot of local writers are driving the story and it’s pretty obvious the Dolphins aren’t interested
I present to you
The greatest prank ever coordinated to promote the remake of Carrie a few years ago
If you think there is a better prank. I challenge you to post it
Saw that one before. Bad ass prank, lol
Where will Deshaun Watson end up?
I continue to hear… 49ers, Rams, Phins, and stej. Seems like these are ‘The Final Four’, according to most.
I suppose one Jerry Jones could come out of right field and offer an arm and a leg.
don’t care. As long as it is not here. I’m actually tired of hearing about it already. Crybaby who thinks more of himself than is healthy can go sell used cars for all I care. I don’t get to pick my boss, who the F does he think he is?
I just became a grandpa for the first time a few hours ago. I took the rest of the day off and am enjoying some drinks with my wife and listening to some funky stuff along with some disco. Can’t wait to actually meet the kid tomorrow when she comes home.
I’m feeling the love for my fellow man right now, so just want to say I’m happy to be part of this community, and no matter what our individual differences there is always common ground to be found amongst us. Celebrate life and love.
Be excellent to each other
…and…
party on dudes!
CONGRATS!!!, Brother!!!
For you (funk & disco)!!!
Holy fuck…a Grandape! You are bloody old! Congrats anyway, Old Coot!
Kool & the Gang just might be the consummate transition from disco roots to a funk flavor, paving the way for a new generation of funk.
Congratulations Kong.
and my condolences at the same time GRANDPA
Great song
Congrats Cav
I can’t wait for you to tell us it’s a perfectly healthy 500# boy! 😉
I believe he already indicated that it is a grand daughter. He can’t wait to meet the little one when SHE comes home.
If I were the Texans brass I would tell Watson “you insisted on having a no trade clause in your contract. So we are not going to trade you. If you sit out we will not pay you and we will sue you for the signing bonus. Now go and get in shape so you will be ready for camp.
Congrats Kong
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=dPPs48-oTjs
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=NhRqzj-qFtg
Congrats Cavpa! Just went to NC 3 weeks ago for my first grand childs (grand daughter) birthday. First time I got to see her due to COVID. Again, congratulations!
Rock the Cavpa rock the Cavpa
Congratulations Cav, happy for you man.
Enjoy
Cheers 🍾🥂
I think Watson ends up in Carolina.
Good possibility
Kong!! So excited for you man! CONGRATULATIONS!!!! WooHoo! Who’s the Grampa NOW?????
Rock, what do you mean Landry has the most receptions of anyone?
One thing about the amount of catches he had for us, half of them were on those bubble screens that both Philbin and Gase ran constantly. He’s never been a game changer.
Congrats Kong!
Don’t know what made me think of Chris Cornell tonight. Maybe I just needed to hear something amazing even though it’s a sad song.
Still can’t believe he’s gone.
Tim, Landry has held the record for the most catches by a player in the first 4,5&6th seasons of their careers. Most in history. of ALL players.
I mean the most ever is kinda elite. no?
Oh right that stat. No I still do not think he’s elite. Like I said catching 50 passes a season on routes of 5 yards or less is not that impressive to me. 5 TDs per season average and 11.1 YPCA doesn’t scream elite to me. You watched the games, he’s never been a game changer. If he was never a Dolphin nobody here would even talk about him that way. It’s more of an emotional attachment as a fan than anything else.
I was a bitter susan when he left and talked shit, but man he is a good player and one hell of a second round pick. He is a willing blocker down field too Good all around player
That I agree with. Not worth what he’s being paid though.
That prank was hilarious,… and Mike E. I love lighting crashes. And Dolphins Cry and I alone.
Tried copy pasting and wouldn’t work weird.
Kong,
Congrats, bro! Hell of a good start to the weekend, huh?
For Kong. Peace & Love Brother. Congrats! 🙂
Cheers, everyone! Much appreciated 🙂
Toba – I fucking love Lightning Crashes
Whipper snapper! 😉
So being there will be no NFL Combine we can go by the Senior Bowl and Pro Days. But other than some analytic issues, we have to go by the tape. For me if we can land Micah Parsons and Najee Harris with our top two pics, I believe we will upgrade both sides of the ball with impact players making game changing plays and being more physical. That’s after whatever we do in FA and then we still have two 2nd round picks, a 3rd and a 4th. We can really upgrade this team this offseason.
This was the core I saw in 2020 on Defense.
NT Raekwon Davis
DL Christian Wilkins
DL Zach Sieler
DE Emmanuel Ogbah
DE Shaq Lawson (sometimes OLB)
LB Jerome Baker
LB Van Noy
LB Van Ginkel
CB X (nothing more needs to be said)
CB Byron Jones
CB Nik Needham
CB Noah Igbinoghene (future)
FS Bobby McCain
SS Eric Rowe
DB Brandon Jones
Some other players are key ST’s guys and backups. We need to add some special on offense and defense.
I’m wondering if we re-sign Godchaux. There was nothing not to like about him, he’s not a dominant player, but he’s a high effort guy and produces all the time.
Yes, I was just going by who played last year. Godchaux went down pretty early on. I’m a fan so I hope they do re-sign him.
Closing speed on defense (Josh Allen – Division) and big play ability on offense. But physical.
We have to beat BUF to win the division, they are the best team in the DIV and a top 2 team in the AFC. That’s who we have to beat. You stop Josh Allen and you beat them. Their defense is fast but you can knock them around.
Rockphin says:
January 29, 2021 at 8:01 pm
Tim, Landry has held the record for the most catches by a player in the first 4,5&6th seasons of their careers. Most in history. of ALL players.
I mean the most ever is kinda elite. no?
———————————————————-
YES, I would have to agree
what a week in the market, lol
made a ton of money thanks to the redditors crushing the shorters, I had some of their stocks they were driving up . im not part of the reddit group, but i always look for high volume and outperformers for good reasons.
20 Billion dollars went from shorter Billionaires pockets to working class AMericans, lol gotta luv it
this nation is the richest country on earth, if it doesnt feel or look like that, its because of wealth inequality
Rock – That record for Landry is going to be shattered a hundred times over. He’s not elite, he’s a reliable receiver and a good team player. I liked Landry, but he’s so far from being the best receiver in football.
a hundred times over? lol ummm, welll id like to see it
AND btw, I have used Robinhood as one of my trading platforms, i was one of their first members when they were still in beta format/ paper trading only
i like it because its FREE , lol and easy to use, the phone app is awesome.
but they wont let me pick and choose what stocks i like, or let me buy more than one, etc
the reason Robinhood doesnt like all this , is because their owner is Citadel, an infamous shorter that got taken to the cleaners by its traders, so RH created a reason for a drop in price so their shorters could buy them cheaper
lol screw em all, im out, going to Ameritrade
they even made me sell my American Airlines stock, WTF
Mike, i hope U are right, the fins could use a receiver thats so much better than Landry, we dont have that, but I can imagine what it would be like to have a Landry on the team
if the fins ever get a guy like that, he should be paid , or he will go star for someone less cheap with the player salaries
btw, Mike Wallace was brought in to replace Landry, and NO< he is not one of those hundreds that will break Landrys records, and has been gone so long ,,,,,,, Wallace sucked
Landry, is still going on,,,,,,
He’d be better than all of our receivers at the end of the season. He’s definitely more reliable as far as durability. He’s a possession receiver. He’s pretty much a better version of Davone Bess. That’s not a slap, it’s just how I see it.
Agreed.
if the fins could tie up Devonta Smith to a four year contract, then Smith will be on the team for 4 years before leaving for greener pastures
but thats far better than bringing in a high priced FA like Mike Wallace, that was just dumb, SMH
If Smith is a 1st round pick and he will be, it will be a 5 year deal with the 5th being an option. A 4 year deal is a given for 1st round picks.
BBM, i saw Cornell and Soundgarden at a concert in tampa , great group and frontman, even if the concert was the shortest i have ever seen
somebody needs to inform these groups , that 4 songs in 30 minutes, is NOT a full blown concert to charge inflated prices
or at the very least, warn consumers that the concert could be over faster than a rerun of gilligans island
Were they the only band playing?
Mike E. says:
January 30, 2021 at 6:35 am
I’m wondering if we re-sign Godchaux. There was nothing not to like about him, he’s not a dominant player, but he’s a high effort guy and produces all the time.
Reply
He only played in 5 games last season but had 75 combined tackles (33 solo) and 7 QB hits in 19′ I think if he is healthy they give him a show me contract. Sucks for him he was injured in a contract year.
He’s UFA this season so we’ll see if they wait or make an offer.
It was a biceps injury so there is a good chance he will come back this season 100%
Yeah, I think he should strongly be considered, he’s a team guy, hard worker who gets the job done, even if he’s not dominant or super athletic.
Team Picks
12: R1 P12 WR Ja’Marr Chase – LSU
18: R1 P18 LB Micah Parsons – Penn State
36: R2 P4 RB Travis Etienne – Clemson
50: R2 P18 C Landon Dickerson – Alabama
81: R3 P17 RB Javonte Williams – North Carolina
120: R4 P18 S JaCoby Stevens – LSU
152: R5 P11 EDGE Jonathon Cooper – Ohio State
195: R6 P16 TE Luke Farrell – Ohio State
253: R7 P31 FB Ben Mason – Michigan
Trades
Trade Partner: San Francisco 49ers
Sent:
Round 1 Pick 3
Received:
Round 1 Pick 12
Future Round 1 Pick
Future Round 3 Pick
Round 5 Pick 11
Where’s Najee Harris? F- lol
LOL I got you Etienne, Williams and Mason for goodness sake.
this mock trade from Fan nation sounds pretty good for the Dolphins,,,,
3. Carolina Panthers (via MIA from HOU): Trey Lance, QB, NDSU
TRADE: Carolina Panthers send picks 8, 40 and their 2021 1st to the Miami Dolphins for pick 3.
We have a trade! With a bunch of teams that have current questions at the quarterback position at the back end of the top ten and into the teens, Carolina should absolutely be looking to trade up for their next face of the franchise. With Teddy Bridgewater locked into his current deal at least through next season, they are in perfect position to draft Trey Lance. Lance has all the physical tools anyone could want in a quarterback in today’s age of football. Combined with sitting and learning behind Bridgewater for potentially a whole season, Trey Lance would be set up perfectly for success in Carolina with Matt Rhule.
4. Atlanta Falcons: Zach Wilson, QB, BYU
The Atlanta Falcons may be in for a rebuild soon. With a roster in decline, both in terms of age and performance, this organization needs a fresh start. And what better way to kick off a new era in Atlanta then with a new head coach and new quarterback. Matt Ryan has begun his decline, so drafting his future replacement in Zach Wilson would be a wise decision while they are picking this high in 2021. Wilson is a toolsy quarterback who should be able to reap success in an Arthur Smith-type offense in Atlanta.
5. Cincinnati Bengals: Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon
The Cincinnati Bengals will be hoping and praying for the draft to play out this way. Penei Sewell, potentially the best overall player in this class disregarding position, has fallen to the fifth pick. Cincinnati needs to invest heavily in this offensive line to aid their young, star quarterback Joe Burrow. Sewell is a building block that will play 10-plus years as a well-above-average starter wherever he ends up.
6. Philadelphia Eagles: Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU
The Eagles have invested heavily in the wide receiver position the past couple of offseasons. Drafting Jalen Reagor, Quez Watkins and John Hightower in 2020, their priority was clearly getting speed on the outside. Drafting Ja’Marr Chase would offer the Eagles offense something different for whomever may be the preferred starting quarterback of new head coach, Nick Sirriani’s choice. Chase is an excellent separator who can line up anywhere in an offense. He excels in contested catch opportunities outside the hashes as well as getting open very quick on underneath routes.
7. Detroit Lions: Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State
With Matthew Stafford looking to be on his way out at some point this offseason, the Lions look to be in pole position to tank for a top quarterback in next year’s draft. With that being said, Dan Campbell and new GM, Brad Holmes, need to infuse this team with as much young talent as they can this offseason to begin the culture reset in Detroit. Micah Parsons is an incredible player on the second level of the defense that can do it all as a linebacker. He would step in and instantly become a leader on that defense along with 2020 first-round pick, Jeff Okudah.
8. Miami Dolphins (via CAR): DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama
After trading out of the third overall pick, the Miami Dolphins hoped one of the top three receivers would fall back to them here. They struck gold here with acquiring DeVonta Smith, while still accumulating more draft capital in the process. As we saw at Alabama, Tua Tagovailoa was put in the best position to succeed when he had speed around him at the wide receiver position. Reuniting Tua with Smith in Miami would be great for all parties involved.
9. Denver Broncos: Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech
The Denver Broncos had a somewhat disappointing season on both sides of the ball. While some of the lackluster performance can be accredited to major injuries on both sides of the ball, their defense underwhelmed with more veteran players. Caleb Farley is extremely fluid in coverage, who can shadow receivers extremely well. Plugging Farley on the outside for Denver gives them a bonafide number one corner for their team.
10. Dallas Cowboys: Patrick Surtain II, CB, Alabama
The selection of Patrick Surtain II just feels like a perfect Dallas pick. He is a hard-nosed, aggressive corner who contributes to all facets of the game and can be a true difference-maker on a defense because of his ability and leadership. With Dak Prescott regaining his health heading into next season, expect their offense to perform well with all that they have. However, their defense still needs a ton of help with a ton of holes everywhere and drafting Surtain helps infuse more premium talent to that side of the ball.
11. New York Giants: Jaelen Phillips, EDGE, Miami
The New York Giants need pass-rush help from their edge room. While they have a stout interior defensive line with the likes of Dalvin Tomlinson, Leonard Williams and Dexter Lawrence, there is not much in that edge rusher group. Jaelen Phillips is a former top recruit coming out of high school who struggled with injuries at UCLA. Since transferring to Miami, he has stayed healthy and rediscovered his form as a premier pass rusher. Phillips has a chance to be the best edge rusher in this class and he would be a perfect fit for Patrick Graham’s defense.
12. San Francisco 49ers: Jaycee Horn, CB, South Carolina
A repeat pick from my last mock draft, Jaycee Horn to the 49ers makes so much sense. San Francisco is heading into this offseason with zero cornerbacks under contract. Combining that with the fact that they won’t have much money to work with in free agency, drafting a cornerback early in the 2021 NFL Draft is a must. Horn is excellent as a press corner because of his physicality and size at the position, he should find relatively immediate success in the league.
13. Los Angeles Chargers: Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech
Protect Justin Herbert! This has to be the priority for the Chargers going into this offseason. Whether that is in free agency or the draft or both, they have to get more talent on the offensive line. Christian Darrisaw fits exactly what they need in a left tackle and can start right away to displace Sam Tevi/Trey Pipkins from the starting lineup. Herbert flashed star potential in only his first season, so keeping the pocket clean for him to play his best football should be the first thing on the to-do list for new head coach, Brandon Staley.
14. Minnesota Vikings: Rashawn Slater, OL, Northwestern
Similar to the Chargers, the Minnesota Vikings should continue to look to build through the trenches. They put their offensive identity in the running game and after a big year for Dalvin Cook with a somewhat mediocre offensive line, improving in that area would continue to strengthen that identity. Rashawn Slater also gives them a lot of positional flexibility going forward because of his experience at tackle along with the frame to kick inside. Rookie offensive lineman, Ezra Cleveland, also showed the ability to be a good guard in the league while still maintaining the opportunity to play left tackle if needed.
15. New England Patriots: Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama
Filling the holes on the offense will be a priority for the New England Patriots. Their defense still showed they can be a great unit even with injuries and opt-outs in 2020. The offense, on the other hand, was hard to watch. Jaylen Waddle is a top receiver in this draft who would add so much to their offense, no matter who the quarterback will be, because of his playmaking ability and speed. He can also be a dynamic return specialist if they should choose to use him in that way.
16. Arizona Cardinals: Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida
The Kyle Pitts freefall has come to an end. It will be interesting to see where he does fall come April because he is a top-five player in this class talent-wise, but the tight end position is hard to value at the next level. Even though the Arizona Cardinals may have bigger needs on the defensive side of the ball, a player like Kyle Pitts would be hard to pass on if you are Kliff Kingsbury. Pitts would give their franchise quarterback, Kyler Murray, a type of weapon that few teams in the NFL have. He would be a constant matchup nightmare every single week because of his size and ability to line up anywhere on the offense.
17. Las Vegas Raiders: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame
General manager Mike Mayock and head coach Jon Gruden have been a fan of drafting defensive players in the first round from big college programs. They add another one here in the versatile defender from Notre Dame, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. He would be a huge addition to the second-level of this defense because of his dynamic play-speed and natural instincts at the position. Owusu-Koramoah will never have to leave the field based on the package because he can play as a base linebacker, pushed back to safety or even flexed out into the slot on occasion. He is a freak of nature and one of the most improved players in college football this season.
18. Miami Dolphins: Zaven Collins, LB, Tulsa
Another linebacker comes off the board here to Miami with their second pick of the first round. With the way Brian Flores likes to run his defense using multiple schemes within the game plan each week, Zaven Collins is a very movable piece at linebacker who can do just about everything. Collins is a stout run defender and is extremely good at dropping back into coverage. Collins showcased that by racking up 54 tackles, four sacks and four interceptions last season, earning him the Nagurski Trophy for the nation’s best defensive player.
19. Washington Football Team: Sam Cosmi, OT, Texas
In a season where the Washington Football Team exceeded expectations and won their division, there seems to still be a lot of uncertainty on offense. There are a lot of remaining holes heading into free agency and the draft, which makes this pick hard because of all the possibilities. Sam Cosmi, an offensive tackle out of Texas is a great way to build from the inside out. Cosmi gives Washington a very athletic offensive lineman who is still developing his technical abilities at the position and has the potential to be a quality starter in the league for years to come.
20. Chicago Bears: Alex Leatherwood, OT, Alabama
Similar to the Washington Football Team, the Chicago Bears relied heavily on their defense to get them to a playoff appearance. Although their offense did pick up some steam in the last few weeks of the regular season when Mitch Trubisky re-assumed the starting job, they need to strive for more sustained success. The Bears go back to the trenches with another offensive lineman in Alex Leatherwood. Leatherwood is a very aggressive blocker who plays with a mean streak. With his experience at both tackle and guard, the Bears can line him up wherever they see fit in order to solidify their team up front.
21. Indianapolis Colts: Dillon Radunz, OT, NDSU
The recent announcement by Anthony Castonzo announcing his retirement from the game, offensive tackle is immediately propelled to a top need for the Colts. The organization does have a lot of money to play with in free agency so they may opt to sign one rather than draft one but until then, Dillon Radunz will be the pick. Radunz who has somewhat been forgotten about in the process because of his one-game season in 2020 for North Dakota State, can shoot up boards based on his performance at the Senior Bowl this week. He is a perfect fit with the identity of the Colts because of his aggressive playstyle as a run blocker who sets the tone at the line of scrimmage.
22. Tennessee Titans: Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Georgia
The Tennessee Titans need pash rush help badly. They generated almost no pressure after the failed signings of Jadeveon Clowney and Vic Beasley last offseason. Harold Landry is a solid player but he needs help on the other side of the defensive line. Azeez Ojulari may be a perfect fit for this defense, lining up as a stand-up pass rusher who wins with legit quickness and speed. His hands are some of the quickest in recent memory. Even though his frame is on the smaller side, Ojulari has the potential to be a tremendous steal if he falls this far.
23. New York Jets (via SEA): Kwity Paye, EDGE, Michigan
After getting their quarterback in Justin Fields with the second overall pick, Robert Saleh will absolutely want to get that defense help. Besides Quinnen Williams up front and young secondary players in Marcus Maye, Ashtyn Davis and Bryce Hall, there is not much to ride home about in the front seven. Kwity Paye will intrigue Saleh very much as an edge rusher because of his athletic profile. Paye could be the first pass rusher taken in this draft but in this scenario, he has fallen into the 20s. The Jets should be all over this pick if it were to unfold like this in April.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Spencer Brown, OT, Northern Iowa
Although Steelers fans may want a running back here with all of them still available, the fact of the matter is that no matter who is back there will struggle behind their current offensive line. With Maurkice Pouncey retiring, Alejandro Villanueva’s future uncertain, as well as Matt Feiler becoming a free agent. The Steelers may not have anything moving forward in that department besides David Decastro, Kevin Doston and Chukwuma Okorafor. Adding a special, underrated talent in Spencer Brown would be crucial for Pittsburgh. Brown is a special athlete at his size and of course, plays with a lot of length. He can be a special player for years to come.
25. Jacksonville Jaguars (via LAR): Christian Barmore, iDL, Alabama
After drafting the face of the franchise with the first overall pick in Trevor Lawrence, the Jaguars should probably look to go with the best player available. Barmore has not gotten talked about as much as he probably should because of his under-the-radar performances for the Crimson Tide, especially with their offense getting most of the love. He quietly accumulated eight sacks this season along with getting consistent pressure from the interior. Putting him in between their young edge rusher in Josh Allen and K’Lavon Chaisson would be extremely fun to watch.
26. Cleveland Browns: Nick Bolton, LB, Missouri
The Cleveland Browns have swung away at the linebacker position in the draft the past couple of seasons and they do not stop here. This time, they opt to spend more premium draft capital than they have in the past to draft Nick Bolton out of Missouri. The Browns are in need of a true middle linebacker for the defense and Bolton can fill that void. He won’t wow you on tape with speed or eye-catching athleticism but he plays extremely smart by making good reads and taking good angles on his tackles.
27. Baltimore Ravens: Kadarius Toney, WR, Florida
Talk about fun. Adding a dynamic playmaker like Kadarius Toney to the Baltimore Ravens would be extremely scary for any defense to face. With a powerful running game led by Lamar Jackson and J.K. Dobbins, improving the receiving core is the next step to transform this offense to the next level. At the very least, Toney will attract a lot of attention from the defense because of his ability with the ball in his hands. He will be a preferred target of Lamar as an underneath receiver who can separate quickly in order to get the ball in his hands to make plays.
28. New Orleans Saints: Eric Stokes, CB, Georgia
Another repeat pick from my last mock draft, Eric Stokes to the New Orleans Saints makes a lot of sense. Stokes is a crazy athlete at cornerback with legit sub 4.4-speed on the outside. He can play in any defensive scheme at the next level and will add a solid playmaker opposite of Marshon Lattimore to aid their secondary. With incoming cap concerns for the Saints, they will be forced to lose a lot of starters on both sides of the ball so replenishing the lost talent will be a must.
29. Green Bay Packers: Asante Samuel Jr., CB, Florida State
After what may be a disappointing loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Championship, many parts of the team were ripped apart after the game including coaching decisions and players. One player that was burned at the stake was cornerback, Kevin King, because of his performance. King will also be a free agent this offseason along with starting nickel corner Chandon Sullivan. A replacement for either will be needed and Asante Samuel Jr. fits the mold. Depending on how the team views him, he can line up either on the outside or at slot for the Packers. He is outstanding in man coverage no matter where he aligns and plays with a chip on his shoulder which gives him the nod for the pick here.
30. Buffalo Bills: Najee Harris, RB, Alabama
One negative from a predominantly marvelous season for the Buffalo Bills was their inability to run the ball. After investing two consecutive third round picks in Devin Singletary and Zack Moss, neither looked up to the task to be the guy in Buffalo to lead the team in rushing. Najee Harris would add a ton of upside to the already improved Bills offense because of his ability as a pure runner of the ball and as a receiver. His receiving ability will be of importance because Josh Allen’s tendencies to bail out on plays leading to dump passes to the running back.
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gregory Rousseau, EDGE, Miami
Tampa Bay is able to draft the best player available on either side of the ball to go for another Super Bowl appearance next season. With the Buccaneers potentially losing some players in the front seven to free agency, Todd Bowles will surely make a pitch to GM Jason Licht to replenish what may be lost. Gregory Rousseau could be a perfect pick for the Buccaneers because of his potential and flexibility. He plays at a crazy size for an edge rusher and showed at Miami his ability to line up as a standup rusher or down with his hand in the dirt anywhere along the defensive line on passing downs. Rousseau is a true boom or bust prospect but Todd Bowles could develop him into a star.
32. Kansas City Chiefs: Alijah Vera-Tucker, iOL, USC
After earning a second consecutive Super Bowl appearance, the Chiefs should look to solidify their offensive line. They have gotten by the past few years with just making it work with what they have but it would be a worthwhile investment in the first round to get a building block on the interior of the line in between cornerstones Mitchell Schwartz and Eric Fisher. Alijah Vera Tucker would slot in perfectly to the Kansas City Chiefs offense because of his supreme ability in pass sets with balance and a solid anchor. He also showed the flexibility this season to play tackle which makes him much more valuable in the grand scheme of things.
BY NICK LAMATTINA
NFL DRAFT EVENTS
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while this trade seems like a pipe dream for Miami, i DO feel that the best value the Fins could get for the number 3 pick is to trade it down
the team has alot of needs to finish the rebuild, and some extra draft capital would help address that
crap, I didnt mean to copy n paste the rest of the first round, lol sorry for the long post
CAVKONG: Congrats, buddy, on joining the Grandpa Club. I joined “the club” 34 years ago and it’s been quite a ride! Almost exactly a year ago my 34 year old grand daughter, her husband and their 3 kids came to Tampa Bay to spend a week with us. LITTLE DID WE KNOW it would be our LAST such activity for over a YEAR!! We are hopeful that some time this year we will be able to visit family again, but, so far, it’s been impossible to get the covid vaccine in our county.
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WE ARE still getting over the covid attack that hit our company at work. As of a week ago, about half the employees were down with the virus. Not all are back to work. And the wife of one of my co-workers is in real dire shape in ICU with pneumonia on top of her covid. The outlook for her is grim. And those who have recovered are trying to get over the after effects of this pandemic virus.
My wife is still lethargic and a bit muddled. I’m going to try to get her to walk with me today on her walker for about 100 yards on the side walk in front of our house. Fortunately, I’m pretty well back to my old self. And I’m walking our two dogs a total of 1-2 miles per day. But I’m very worried about Mrs. OD’s lack of progress.
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TIME TO WALK the dogs again. THEN it will be my wife’s turn for a short walk. LUV you guys!
Coaches got their hands on Mason this week. This is my only draft prediction this year. Mason will be a Dolphin.
running backs, Etienne and Harris are the most 2 talked about for Miami, My preference is on Harris, because Etienne has too many fumbles for My liking
the number one thing to see from RB and QB, is DONT turn the ball over, games are often decided on turnovers
That mock you put up has the frigging Bills getting Harris. I would hate that! That’s one of their big weaknesses as far as I’m concerned, they need a legit rusher.
Etienne could be like another Sammy Smith,
run the ball down the field, but fumble in the red zone SMH
Etienne ran for almost 5000 yards 70 TD’s and over 7 yards per carry. and fumbled 8 times on 788 touches.
I give the ball to the other team 8 times for 70 TD’s plus another 8 receiving and a first down every other touch.
Pretty impressive
Did it in the ACC
Orob will hate him. Most of his runs don’t count
Rock, consider that Sammy had all kinds of yards, but he let the team down with turning the ball over. i remember him run for 50-70 yards on a drive, only to turn the ball over near the goal line.
Im not suggesting that Etienne is another Smith, i just illustrated Smith as an example of how turnovers can translate to lost games.
8 fumbles could translate into several losses on the season. Im not questioning his yard making abilities, but the fumbles would steer Me to draft Harris over Etienne IMO
Etienne fumbled 4 times in a 3 game span in 2020, imagine if a rb in Miami did that, lol We would be running him out of town!
yards are great, but no points if the other team ends up with the ball
Kenny Britt is having a good game!
Unless they actually do some big trade where they give up a ton of picks, the bottom line for me is that we should be able to get some nice players. I think we could go lots of different ways. Where the picks are doesn’t matter much if you can’t pick good players. Do that. Lol
I don’t see us making some big trade. If we do trade I see us trading down.
Tim,
I don’t either, but you never know these days. I hate giving up top 3 picks. Those guys have a good chance of becoming cornerstone type guys, and we could use a few more of those.
If we trade out of #3 it would be because we’re fine with where we’re trading down to and the offer was to good to pass up. If the offer is meh, stay where you are and take the guy you like the most.
Sorry OD. Hope there are no lingering issues especially in your age category.
I did a grief group last summer and one of the widows experienced the loss of her husband twice….death and location. They couldn’t find where they shipped him due to the COVID processing in April.
You know half on this blog think it’s fake news and conspiracy. Shameful. It’s more than we know.
Krishna, those last comments you made is a lot speculation, accusation and condemnation of many folks here. Not sure if you realize but you do this a lot. Broad brushing folks as this or that. From what I’ve seen most folks here were very compassionate and supportive to you when you lost your wife. Why are you trying to stir shit up with generalizations?
THANK YOU, Tim. I had typed two different responses, but ultimately deleted them instead of responding to the hatred.
I thought we were all going to unite under Biden, as Biden preaches to his people… SMH
Tim,
Where do ya think Matt Stafford lands? That could really shake up the landscape of who does what in the Draft.
Ian R stated that it’s to be expected a Stafford trade gets done before the Super Bowl.
You still want me to speculate on that? LOL
LOL!
OH $#!T! This just happened!!!
And OBVIOUSLY, this will set precedence for the soon-to-be Deshaun Watson trade.
WOW!!!!!
Rams trying to win now, the Lions can start their rebuild with a solid NFL QB with experience and a boat load of picks.
I really expected Stafford to the Colts
Terrible trade by the Rams. If it was Watson, then yeah! Stafford is good but not the equal of 3 total firsts worth of picks. Rams haven’t had a 1st rounder since they got Goff in 2016 and won’t have one until maybe 2024? Wow! Complete opposite of what we are trying to do.