2021 NFL Draft: Quarterbacks fall and a major run on tackle in mock draft

Despite being paired with Minnesota wide receiver Rashod Bateman since receiving news of Allen Robinson’s intention to find a new home during free agency, the Chicago Bears replace their outgoing top wide receiver with a prospect who will bring new-age playmaking to the depth chart.

An explosive ball-in-hands producer who showcased stunning route-running ability during one-on-one reps at the Senior Bowl, Florida’s Kadarius Toney has flown up 2021 NFL Draft boards drawing comparisons to fellow undersized receivers with exceptional quickness.

After seeing a successful rookie season let down by quarterback play from Tulane wide receiver Darnell Mooney, Toney would offer a vaguely similar athletic skillset that could provide problems for opposing secondaries despite the lack of size and experience.

After (hopefully) quelling their quarterback-need with a trade for Carson Wentz, the Indianapolis Colts can now look to get back to the postseason with their strong rushing attack and stout defense. After bolstering their defensive line with a trade for San Francisco defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, Indianapolis found success pairing the interior presence with veteran ends Denico Autry and Justin Houston, combing for 15.5 sacks in the final year of their contracts.

Despite possessing one of the highest cap space totals in the league, Indianapolis would be bold to spend upwards of $15 million on two pass-rushers when a prospect as talented as Gregory Rousseau is available at the back-half of the first round.

Comparably measured to the likely outgoing Autry, Rousseau uses a ‘tweener’ blend of six-foot-seven reach and a lean 265-pound frame to offer a unique physical form at the position. Still unrefined in his technique (played wide receiver in high school), Rousseau is a developmental pass-rusher who can utilize his physical gifts as an effective run defender during his rookie campaign.