2020 NFL Draft: First round mock draft as the NFL season begins
8. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A.J. Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have holes all over the roster and unless Jameis Winston shows significant improvement this season, we will likely see them picking higher than this in the 2020 NFL Draft. They could go in many different directions with the pick, but simply having them take the best player available makes the most sense.
A.J. Epenesa is an extremely well-rounded defensive end prospect who could be an absolute destroyer at the next level. He is an incredibly strong player who can absolutely dominate against the run and in the pass rush when he simply over-powers opposing offensive linemen. However, do not discount this guy’s ability to move. Epenesa is explosive off of the edge, showing a quick first step, fantastic upfield burst and the ability to bend around the edge with consistency.
Epenesa is an extremely talented player who would bring some much-needed stability to the Bucs’ defensive front. They could use help at many positions, but defensive end is among their biggest needs and Epenesa is a stud.
9. New York Jets: CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
If Sam Darnold is going to grow into the star franchise quarterback that the New York Jets hope he can become, he is going to need some more playmakers on the outside. Robby Anderson is undoubtedly a talented pass catcher, but he has not proven to be a true number one receiver. In this mock draft, the Jets snag Oklahoma wide receiver CeeDee Lamb to be Darnold’s number one target.
Lamb is a smooth and shifty wide receiver who consistently finds open space as a route runner. He shakes defenders loose well, but Lamb is at his best when catching the ball. This guy has fantastic hands and incredible natural body control. He simply comes down with everything. Whether he is wide open in the middle of the field, blanketed in coverage or along the sideline, Lamb is going to come down with the ball a huge majority of the time.
The 2020 NFL Draft is loaded with wide receiver talent and Lamb is one of the best of the bunch. He would be a fantastic addition to the Jets’ roster and immediate playmaker for Darnold.