2021 NFL Mock Draft: The insatiable hunger of the quarterback market
By Ian Higgins
An obvious draft need with the upcoming farewell of left tackle Cam Robinson, the Jacksonville Jaguars will be seeking a proficient pass-blocker to protect their new centerpiece. The 2021 NFL Draft’s offensive tackle class has a deep roster of late-first round prospects falling within the Jaguar’s draft range for their selection acquired via the Los Angeles Rams. In this NFL mock draft, the choice is a Longhorn’s pass-blocker with excellent length.
Standing at six-foot-seven, Samuel Cosmi possesses the desired size of offensive tackles in recent years, able to outreach opposition and translate their size into functional strength (ex: Trent Brown). Showcasing smooth footwork that keeps him within reach of bendy speed-rushers, Cosmi is a prime pass-blocking prospect.
The main mark on his report though will be the lack of translation between his 309-pound frame and the strength displayed in his run blocking. Clearly capable of overpowering opposing defenders based upon how he wrangles them in pass protection, Cosmi appears to hold back from exerting his full athletic capabilities.
After a season that saw the Cleveland Browns offer little to no support for defensive end Myles Garrett, the number one issue to address will be complimenting players to round out their pass-rush. With approximately $20 million in cap space according to overthecap.com, the Browns could add a free agent such as Yannick Ngakoue or Ryan Kerrigan as well as a rookie from this 2021 NFL Draft class.
After having teammate Gregory Rousseau announce he would be opting out for the 2020 season, Miami defensive end Jaelan Phillips stepped into his place with eight sacks through ten games as well as 15.5 tackles for loss. Pivoting his game around a high motor and active hands, Phillips shows adequate suddenness off of the snap and uses a flurry of chops and swims to work his way past a blocker.
Having shown the ability to perform on any given snap with his athletic ability at six-foot-five, Phillips will see an increased role in the NFL if he can develop a strategy when rushing the passer and become more cerebral as a player.