NFL mock draft 2021: Panthers, Patriots, Bears get aggressive for QBs

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 1, 16th overall

If the Arizona Cardinals expect to be serious competitors going forward, they simply must be able to protect star quarterback Kyler Murray better than they did this past season. Murray played under pressure a ton in 2020 and a majority of that pressure seemed to come from the interior. Investing in a high-level interior offensive line prospect early in the draft would certainly make sense for Arizona.

In this 2021 NFL mock draft, Alijah Vera-Tucker is the pick for the Cardinals at No. 16. Vera-Tucker was an extremely dependable offensive guard early in his career, but he made a successful transition to left tackle this past season. Vera-Tucker proved himself as a viable offensive tackle option at the next level but his best position is still likely at guard.

High-level athleticism immediately stands out when watching Vera-Tucker on tape. He is quick off of the ball and moves extremely well in space for an offensive lineman. Vera-Tucker is smooth into his pass sets and also plays with quick and active feet at all times. He is an impressive second-level run blocker and shows high-level play speed for an offensive lineman, which is displayed well when he gets out in space in the screen game.

While he is more of a finesse player who will win with quickness and athleticism a majority of the time, Vera-Tucker also shows strong hands as a blocker. He has a powerful and accurate initial punch, consistently doing a great job of keeping his hands inside and controlling the defender.

Vera-Tucker is undoubtedly an extremely gifted offensive line prospect who has exciting upside at the next level. The Arizona Cardinals would be wise to invest in him as an immediate impact starter on the inside, while keeping in mind his ability to kick outside and play tackle if needed down the line.