2021 NFL Draft: Three-round mock draft featuring early quarterback run
2021 NFL Draft Round 1, Pick 25
Jay Tufele. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. IDL. USC. 25. player. 46
The Indianapolis Colts made a massive move this offseason when they traded for and extended defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. Buckner is one of the premier interior defensive linemen in the entire NFL and will undoubtedly help take their defensive unit to the next level. However, they could still use some depth at the position and USC’s Jay Tufele stands out as a great value pick in this range.
Tufele is a big, powerful and athletic defensive tackle who shines against the run and shows plenty of upside as an interior rusher. He can sink in and two-gap if asked to do so and penetrates extremely well in one-gap situations. Simply put, Tufele is an extremely gifted defender who would pair well with Buckner on the inside.
2021 NFL Draft Round 1, Pick 26
Clemson. Jackson Carman. 26. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. OT. player. 55
The Pittsburgh Steelers could look to find a long-term replacement for Ben Roethlisberger in the 2021 NFL Draft. Big Ben still has plenty of ability, but injuries have been an issue and he is not getting any younger. If the right opportunity presents itself, do not be surprised if Pittsburgh attacks the quarterback position early. However, that opportunity is not right now.
Jackson Carman is a big and powerful offensive tackle who also shows solid overall athleticism. He gets into his pass sets quickly and mirrors opposing pass rushers well. He is extremely strong at the point of attack and shows impressive hand usage in both pass protection and run blocking.
The Steelers could bring Carman into the mix and make him their left tackle of the future. If he needs to take some time at right tackle in the meantime, that should be just fine. Carman is a gifted player who should be a solid and dependable tackle for many years.