NFL mock draft 2021: Four quarterbacks in the top five, Watson stays put

Here stops the tumble of Micah Parsons in this 2021 NFL mock draft. Parsons, once viewed as a top-five prospect, has been sliding down draft boards at a rapid rate as of late. Opting out of this past season, coupled with some alleged off-the-field issues, is likely what is causing such a talented player to fall out of graces with draft evaluators.

Parsons is a big, physical, do-it-all linebacker prospect. He is excellent coming downhill against the run, always finding himself making plays in the backfield. He has the speed to roam sideline-to-sideline making plays and excels as a blitzer.

Listed at 6-foot-2 and 245 lbs, Parsons is almost built like a defensive end. With Parsons, he has that ability as well. Whether it is blitzing up the middle, blitzing off the edge, or sticking his hand in the dirt as a true edge rusher, Parsons has great pass rush instincts.

As a rusher, Parsons has the athleticism to work around blocks, but is not afraid to take them head-on. He has linebacker speed and defensive end rush moves. He has a nose for the ball and lives in the offensive backfield.

The Arizona Cardinals is a very interesting fit for Parsons. After drafting Isaiah Simmons in the first round a year ago and failing to put him in a position to make an impact as a rookie, they may be hesitant to bring another versatile athlete without one defined position. But teams should never be scared to add talent. If they can figure out how to use them, a pairing of Isaiah Simmons and Micah Parsons could be a lethal combo going forward.