2020 NFL Draft: Way-too-early first-round mock draft
Let’s take a closer look at the 2020 NFL draft class with this far-too-early mock draft.
While we have to see what the 2019 rookies can do on the field, let’s have some fun and look ahead at the exciting 2020 NFL draft class.
This class is deep at quarterback, wide receiver, running back and offensive tackle, a contrast to 2019’s defense heavy draft. However, that doesn’t mean that the 2020 class is lacking in defensive talent. In fact, quite the contrary. The edge class looks solid once again and the corner class seems to be an improvement over 2019.
I feel compelled to say, what you are about to read is not set in stone. So don’t get offended if I mock a player to your team that you think is “bad” or you think that your team doesn’t need. Also, the order is set based on the Las Vegas 2020 Super Bowl odds.
So with that out of the way, let’s have an early look at the 2020 NFL draft class with this complete first-round mock draft.
1. Miami Dolphins: Chase Young – EDGE – Ohio State
The Dolphins went ahead and secured their long-term quarterback option after trading their 2019 second-round pick for Josh Rosen. With quarterback out of the way, Miami can focus their scouting towards other needs on the team such as offensive line and most importantly, pass rush.
With the first pick, I have the Dolphins taking Ohio State defensive end Chase Young. Young stepped in and took over for an injured Nick Bosa and finished the season with 9.5 sacks. He’s a great athlete can step in right away and give the Dolphins a much-needed boost to their pass rush.
2. Washington Redskins: Jerry Jeudy– Wide Receiver- Alabama
Like Miami, the Redskins went out got their quarterback of the future in Ohio State’s Dwayne Haskins. They also added some targets for their shiny new quarterback with Haskins’ old teammate Terry McLaurin and NC State’s Kelvin Harmon. However, they could certainly use another playmaker in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Enter Jerry Jeudy, an elite, yes I said elite wide receiver prospect out of Alabama. Personally, I don’t believe Josh Doctson will be on the Redskins roster next year, and I’m totally sold on Paul Richardson either. Jeudy offers elite level receiving traits with great speed and would be a great asset for a young quarterback.
3. Cincinnati Bengals: Justin Herbert– Quarterback- Oregon
While we will have to see how Andy Dalton performs with Zac Taylor as head coach, but I think it’s pretty safe to say the Bengals will be looking for a new quarterback in the 2020 NFL Draft. The Bengals did take Ryan Finley out of NC State, but I don’t believe he’s Dalton’s heir apparent, making Justin Herbert a great fit here.
Herbert had the option to come out for the 2019 NFL Draft but ultimately chose to stay another season and I think that will benefit him. Herbert is a tall, strong-armed prospect who is currently the top quarterback on my board who could come in and potentially start right away.
4. New York Giants: Grant Delpit– Saftey- LSU
After a controversial offseason which saw GM Dave Gettleman trade away star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr and let safety Landon Collins walk in free agency, the Giants could go a couple of different ways with this pick. They already have their quarterback of the future in Danel Jones, but could use more help at receiver. Their defense is also terribly depleted and could use all the help it can get.
Ultimately, I chose to give them Grant Delpit. He’s an elite safety who can become a leader in that defense. With the ability to play in the box and cover at a high level, Delpit can offer the Giants more than Collins did.