2021 NFL Draft: Capping off 2020 with a first-round NFL mock draft

The Dallas Cowboys need a lot of help on the defensive side of the ball, particularly in the secondary. Patrick Surtain II is not only the best cornerback available, but he is also arguably the best defensive prospect left on the board. Surtain is a smart and athletic cornerback prospect who shows strong ability in man and zone coverage and has a knack for making plays on the ball. Simply put, Surtain would be an impact addition for the Cowboys.

The offensive line stands out as a massive position of need for the Los Angeles Chargers and Rashawn Slater is a nice value in this range. Slater is extremely quick off of the ball and incredibly powerful at the point of attack. He has shown a ton of value as both a pass protector and run blocker at offensive tackle but could make a smooth transition inside if needed.

Slater is an extremely talented offensive lineman who would provide some much-needed protection for star quarterback Justin Herbert, no matter where he lines up.

Christian Darrisaw is a powerful and athletic offensive tackle prospect who has great size and length for the position and moves well in space. He is a strong pass protector who is also extremely impressive as a second-level run blocker. Simply put, Darrisaw is a franchise left tackle in the making and would be a strong addition up front for the Minnesota Vikings.

The New England Patriots need offensive playmakers in the worst way and DeVonta Smith being available here would be arguably the best-case scenario for the team. Smith is an elite route runner who separates from the defense with ease, shows impressive deep speed, catches nearly everything and is a dynamic player with the ball in his hands. The Patriots do not solve their quarterback issue here but they do find a legitimately elite offensive playmaker.

Jaycee Horn is a tough and physical cornerback prospect who shines when he is allowed to attack at the line of scrimmage. He has long arms, moves well for his size and shows strong overall ball skill. Horn fits the 49ers’ defense perfectly and would help fill a major position of need for the team.

Kwity Paye is a big and powerful defensive end prospect who shines at all times on the field. He uses his long arms and natural power to set a strong edge, shows great instincts against the run, and has a great motor that simply never stops. Paye shows great quickness and athleticism for his size, pairing it with his power to create consistent pressure on the quarterback. He is also an extremely tough and physical player who would fit what the Raiders are trying to build well.

The Arizona Cardinals took a playmaking linebacker/safety hybrid player in the first round last year, so doubling up with a similar player here may seem unnecessary. That being said, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s speed and athleticism at the linebacker position cannot be ignored. He is a true impact player against the run and in pass coverage.

Pairing Owusu-Koramoah with Simmons would give the Cardinals an incredible duo of playmakers in the middle of the field. Speed kills in the modern NFL and this pick would give Arizona a ton of it on the defensive side of the ball.