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

As of late, Mac Jones has been climbing draft boards and even getting top 10 hype in the occasional 2021 NFL mock draft. While I don’t think he goes quite that high, this would be a great scenario for the Washington Football Team.

People often overlooked the success of Mac Jones throughout this season, crediting his supporting cast for his level of play. But many people are now seeing and saying that Jones is a legitimate NFL prospect.

His wide receiver, DeVonta Smith, allegedly said that he would rather have Mac Jones throwing to him than former teammate and 2019 fifth-overall pick Tua Tagovailoa. While I doubt many evaluators are buying that assessment, the support that Jones has been receiving cannot go unnoticed.

Watching the tape, you can see Jones show a lot of signs of a successful NFL quarterback. Accuracy, touch, decision making and reading of the defense are all clear strengths of Jones. He isn’t super mobile like the guys already off the board, but he is a polished pocket passer that could come in and contribute right away at the next level.

Sure, Jones had a lot of good pieces around him at Alabama, but he has the tools to keep any offense afloat. Smart, comfortable and accurate passers will typically find a way to succeed in the NFL.

For Washington, their quarterback position is up in the air. Recent first-round draft pick, Dwayne Haskins, is already out the door and heading to Pittsburgh, and Alex Smith may not be feeling welcomed back in Washington this season after his incredible comeback story. Taylor Heinicke played well in their playoff game, but is he really a long-term answer?

Regardless of who returns to the Football Team, bringing in a guy like Jones would be great for their team. He could learn from a guy like Alex Smith for a year or two or he could come in right away and contribute. Washington needs to add a quarterback and Jones has proven to be a legitimate first-round option.