2021 NFL Draft: Arizona Cardinals 7-Round Mock Draft
By Ian Higgins
Arizona Cardinals 2021 mock draft: Round 2
Jaelan Phillips. 49. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. EDGE. Miami. 32
Even without star edge-rusher Chandler Jones, the Arizona Cardinals saw no downturn in production behind the efforts of Haason Reddick and Markus Golden, who are both set to become free agents in the 2021 NFL offseason.
In a relatively deep edge-class possessing little top-end talent, the Arizona Cardinals can find a high-value selection in the 2021 NFL Draft to supplement their losses.
After 2019 team sack-leader Gregory Rousseau opted out for the 2020 season, Miami Hurricane’s pass-rusher Jaelan Phillips stepped up to the challenge and managed eight sacks, including five through two games against Duke and Virginia Tech.
Phillips is a prototype edge with great length at six-foot-five and hyperactive hands. Phillips also has one of the highest motors of the 2021 NFL Draft, making him an easy to love prospect for the Arizona Cardinals front office.
Round 3
UNC. Javonte Williams. player. 32. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. HB. 80
Following a relatively unimpressive campaign from 2019 standout newcomer Kenyan Drake, the Arizona Cardinals will look to the 2021 NFL Draft for a less expensive option to pair alongside Kyler Murray.
In a gun-slinging spread offense that lit the league on fire throughout the 2020 campaign on both the arm and legs of Kyler Murray, a dynamic three-down running back who can provide pass-catching prowess, as well as suitable pass-protection, is essential for long-term success.
Having one of the most impressive seasons by a college halfback in recent memory, Javonte Williams has flown up 2021 NFL Draft boards while averaging 7.3 yards-per-carry throughout the 2020 college football season.
Williams is a template for the modern NFL running back, possessing the shiftiness to bounce shotgun-handoffs outside as well as the strength to stand-up to blitzing linebackers in pass-protection.