2021 NFL Draft: Quarterbacks fall and a major run on tackle in mock draft
By Ian Higgins
26. Scouting Report. Jaelan Phillips. Miami. player. 53. College Stats. EDGE
After leaving defensive end Myles Garrett to fend for himself in their pass-rush, the Cleveland Browns must return to developing the defense after seeing a turn to the postseason under the direction of quarterback Baker Mayfield. Similarly to the Jets’ previous selection, the Browns get their choice of a deep second-tier of pass-rushers in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Filling in for opt-out Gregory Rousseau at Miami this past season, Jaelan Phillips returned to the forefront of college football with a team-leading eight sacks and an additional 15.5 tackles for loss. With a prototypical six-foot-five, 266-pound frame, Phillips compliments his athleticism with energetic hand-usage at the point of attack to keep tackles out of his chest.
Still needing to refine his pass-rush approach, Phillips is a high-ceiling prospect who could hopefully provide a threatening compliment to Garrett by the end of his rookie campaign. Also an impressive presence in run-defense, Phillips could earn himself plenty of additional early-down snaps.
College Stats. Ohio State. Wyatt Davis. 27. Scouting Report. IOL. player. 26
After seeing a complete turnaround in offense line performance following the loss of All-Pro Marshall Yanda, the Baltimore Ravens need to return to their identity of physical dominance with the selection of potentially the most physical player in the 2021 NFL Draft.
A focal point within the dominant Ohio State rushing attack, guard Wyatt Davis is a six-foot-four, 315-pound steamroller a guard who fits the exact mold of former NFL maulers who have spearheaded some of the most imposing rushing attacks in NFL history. With the mobility to block in space and the aggression to pin-down and clear defensive linemen, Davis can transform rushing attacks with his physical dominance at the point of attack.
Still needing to reign in this same aggression in pass-protection, Davis is the exact talent Baltimore needs to return to their days of ground-based dominance on the legs of Lamar Jackson, generating 4+ yard gains before contact can be made on the ballcarrier.