2021 NFL mock draft: Dolphins get Deshaun Watson, other bold QB trades

Unsurprisingly, the Jacksonville Jaguars select Trevor Lawrence with the first pick of this 2021 NFL mock draft (Photo by David Platt/Handout Photo via USA TODAY Sports)
Unsurprisingly, the Jacksonville Jaguars select Trevor Lawrence with the first pick of this 2021 NFL mock draft (Photo by David Platt/Handout Photo via USA TODAY Sports) /
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Christian Darrisaw, 2021 NFL mock draft
The Houston Texans select Christian Darrisaw at No. 18 in this 2021 NFL mock draft (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images) /

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 1, 18th overall

Pick Analysis. OL. Christian Darrisaw. 18. player. Scouting Report. 10. Virginia Tech

With their second pick of this 2021 NFL mock draft, the Houston Texans find more support for their new quarterback. Christian Darrisaw is a long, strong and mobile offensive lineman who is powerful at the point of attack and moves well in space. He is a reliable pass protector and a strong run blocker who should be able to play tackle or guard at the next level.

Personally, I would plug Darrisaw in at right tackle of the Texans, making him Tagovailoa’s blindside protector. An offensive tackle duo of Darrisaw and Laremy Tunsil would have a ton of long-term upside and help get the Texans’ offensive attack back on track quickly.

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 1, 19th overall

Michigan. Jalen Mayfield. 19. player. Scouting Report. OT. 58. Pick Analysis

The Washington Football Team would undoubtedly love to find a long-term franchise quarterback in the 2021 NFL Draft, but that will not be easy. Trading up is an option, but moving up all the way from No. 19 to snag one of the top four quarterbacks will be tough. Mac Jones is an option at No. 19, but he is far from a perfect solution. Instead, Washington looks to fill their offensive tackle need in this NFL mock draft, selecting Jalen Mayfield at No. 19.

As a whole, Washington has a strong offensive line group. They just have an obvious hole at the left tackle position. Cornelius Lucas played well at left tackle for Washington last season and is a solid stop-gap option for the team, but he is not a viable long-term left tackle solution.

In Mayfield, Washington finds their left tackle of the future. He shows an impressive combination of power and athleticism up front, moving well in space and consistently winning with powerful hands. Mayfield is a bit of a raw player, but Washington could lean on Lucas for another year before turning to Mayfield as the full-time left tackle in 2022.