2021 NFL Mock Draft: Two teams trade up for QBs in 2021 NFL Mock Draft
2021 NFL Draft: 12th overall
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 12. player. WR. Alabama. DeVonta Smith. 30
The New York Jets lost out on the number one pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, but there’s a chance, with new head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas, that this team ultimately sticks with quarterback Sam Darnold. He’s only 23 and could have his best football ahead of him.
Here, they traded back with the Niners, acquiring a first-round pick and more second-round selections in the process. This should set them up well to build around Darnold.
The pick is obvious at this point in the 2021 NFL Draft. Besides Denzel Mims, there isn’t much receiver talent returning for 2021. DeVonta Smith would bring a fantastic skill set to help Darnold out.
Smith can play on the boundary or in the slot and has displayed excellent ability to gain initial separation with a quick-release game. He has a well-developed route tree and excellent hands. Smith can win vertically down the field with long strides and has shown this year to be difficult to handle after the catch.
His frame and size could bring about questions, but he’s been productive beyond belief and has the traits to be a successful receiver. He’d be an outlier, but he shouldn’t be doubted.