NFL mock draft 2021: Justin Fields, Trey Lance land in perfect situations
2021 NFL mock draft: Round 1, 19th overall
Player Stats. Minnesota. 19. player. 58. Pick Analysis. WR. Rashod Bateman
The board falls relatively well for the Washington Football Team in the first round of this 2021 NFL mock draft. No, there is not a realistic quarterback option on the board for Washington but they do have a choice of other impact players who would fill needs for the team on the offensive side of the ball. Taking a left tackle here is tempting but Rashod Bateman feels like the missing piece that could take this offense over the top.
Bateman is a big and athletic wide receiver prospect who does a great job of creating separation with his routes. He also has a wide catch radius and snags everything in sight. Bateman also does a great job of controlling his body in the air and getting his feet down along the sideline. His quickness and power as a runner also stand out in run-after-catch situations.
Bateman is undoubtedly a talented wide receiver prospect and I personally believe that he is going undervalued through the 2021 NFL Draft process. Adding him to the mix in Washington would immediately take this offensive attack to the next level.
Washington signed Ryan Fitzpatrick in free agency this offseason, securing their quarterback situation for the 2021 season. While quarterback is still a major long-term need for the team, adding Fitzpatrick gives them immediate stability.
An offensive attack led by Fitzpatrick with Bateman, Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel and Antonio Gibson making plays all over the field has a chance to be special. Pair that unit with their already loaded defense and Washington could be serious contenders in 2021.