2020 NFL Draft: Tua Tagovailoa falls in two-round 2020 NFL mock draft

The Atlanta Falcons are another team that has been in the news about a possible trade up, but nothing was able to materialize in this mock draft. They would have liked a cornerback here, but the thought of pairing K’Lavon Chaisson with Dante Fowler Jr. is too good to pass up.

The production may not have been there at LSU, but his potential pass-rush ability is very intriguing. He may have to start off as a situational pass rusher, but his bend and pursuit ability is worth the selection here.

The Dallas Cowboys need to find a starting cornerback in the 2020 NFL Draft somehow or some way. In this mock draft, they come away with one of my personal favorites, Utah cornerback Jaylon Johnson. He garnered some first-round consideration early on in the draft process, but then saw his name drop into day two conversations. I think it’s time to bring is name back into the first round with news that he should be cleared in August after undergoing shoulder surgery.

Johnson is a big cornerback that plays to his size at 6-foot and 193 pounds. He excels in press-man coverage using his size and strength to jam receivers at the line making it hard for them to gain any separation. Not many Dallas fans will enjoy this pick, but they just might after watching him play some more.

The Miami Dolphins found their future franchise quarterback earlier in the 2020 NFL Draft when they traded up for Justin Herbert. Now they find his left tackle selecting Houston tackle Josh Jones. Jones has seen his stock rise very quickly in the last month or so and for good reason. He improved throughout the season and then came into Mobile, Alabama for the Senior Bowl and impressed there as well.

Jones has a lot of room for growth as a pass blocker, but also as the potential to be a top-flight blindside protector for the next decade. He can be a great addition in the run game as a lead blocker early on. However, with proper coaching and footwork I see no reason why he can’t succeed at the next level as a left tackle.

The Raiders took a dynamic pass catcher with their first selection in the 2020 NFL Draft, now they take an annoying pass defender in TCU cornerback Jeff Gladney. Las Vegas has a dire need in their secondary and Gladney just screams “Raider” to me. He’s very competitive and will stick with his man to the point of frustration from the receiver.

Gladney is one of the best press corners in this class and he can disrupt passes with the best of them. In 2019 he only had one interception but did record 14 passes defended. I think Raiders fans will be happy watching Gladney play for them on Sundays.

Tua Tagovailoa’s surprising fall ends after the New Orleans Saints trade up four spots to select their future quarterback. Drew Brees will play one more season in his chase for another ring, but the Saints must find his successor and please do not tell me it’s Taysom Hill. Tagovailoa’s talent is unquestionable, but due to his concerning injury history teams were reluctant to take him early. Tagovailoa could be a great fit in New Orleans in Sean Payton’s system.

Tua has the mobility as well as the arm strength and accuracy needed to be a starter in the NFL. The best part is he will have the opportunity to sit and learn behind one of the best quarterbacks to ever do it. By taking Tua New Orleans is ensuring that they’ll be competing for championships after Brees is gone. They have great weapons as well as a solid offensive line waiting for Tagovailoa when he’s ready.