2021 NFL Draft: Jets, Panthers fill QB need in three-round mock draft

The New York Jets select Zach Wilson at No. 2 in the 2021 NFL Draft (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
The New York Jets select Zach Wilson at No. 2 in the 2021 NFL Draft (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /
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Jalen Mayfield, 2021 NFL Draft
2021 NFL Draft prospect Jalen Mayfield #73 of the Michigan Wolverines (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

2021 NFL Draft: Round 1, 24th overall

Michigan. Jalen Mayfield. player. 55. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 24. OT

Jalen Mayfield is one of my favorite late first-round prospects in the 2021 NFL Draft. He may get more hype that pushes him up the board a bit but based on where he seems to be right now, I love snagging Mayfield in this range.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are the team to hit the Mayfield jackpot in this mock draft, taking the Michigan product to address their obvious need at the offensive tackle position. The Steelers could end up having a need at both right and left tackle and taking Mayfield here would allow the team to fill one of those major needs on the offensive side of the ball.

Mayfield is a big and athletic offensive tackle prospect who moves easily in space and can overwhelm defenders with power at the point of attack. Mayfield has strong hands and quick feet that when coupled together, allow him to make an impact as a run blocker at both the first and second level. Get this guy out in space and let him lead the way, he will not disappoint.

The Michigan product can set up in pass protection quickly and fire out aggressively, but he also shows the ability to kick back vertically and win against speed on the edge. He does a great job of mirroring opposing edge defenders and also displays great patience and a strong initial punch in pass protection.

Simply put, Mayfield has a bright future at the next level and the Pittsburgh Steelers are a team with obvious needs at the offensive tackle position. This feels like a great fit and a fantastic value selection for Mike Tomlin and company.