NFL Mock Draft: Marvin Harrison Jr. goes No. 1, Patriots finally find a Tom Brady successor
By Hunter Haas
Another Quarterback Off The Board… This Time To The Raiders
No. 14: Las Vegas Raiders — Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington
Whether the Raiders keep their current interim regime or decide to bring in a new one at the season’s end — upgrading quarterback is priority No. 1. Michael Penix Jr. doesn’t possess the upside of his peers. But his experience, arm strength, and leadership quality are enough to secure his place as a starter on Sundays.
No. 15: Indianapolis Colts — Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
Anthony Richardson flashed superstar potential in his limited action as a rookie, but the Colts should continue making life as easy as possible on their young signal-caller. Malik Nabers has cemented himself as a top pass catcher. His blend of athleticism, shiftiness, and contested catch prowess are the ingredients for a superstar.
No. 16: Denver Broncos — Taliese Fuaga, OL, Oregon State
The Broncos have rebounded impressively after a disastrous start to the season. Still, there’s a lot of work left to do. Taliese Fuaga would give Sean Payton an immediate starter on the offensive line, with the Oregon State bruiser moving up mock draft boards at a breakneck pace.
No. 17: Cincinnati Bengals — Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
There’s a real chance the wide receiver run occurs much earlier than this. But in today’s mock draft, the Bengals snag Keon Coleman at No. 17. Coleman is the ideal replacement for the likely departing Tee Higgins, as both win by dominating their assignment at the catch point.
No. 18: Buffalo Bills — Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
Rome Odunze is the current WR2 on my Big Board, but he lasted until WR4 in this mock draft. Finally, the Bills have a capable wide receiver opposite Stefon Diggs. Odunze’s body control is otherworldly, and his size/speed combination makes him a touchdown threat every snap.
No. 19: New Orleans Saints — Amarius Mims, OL, Georgia
The Saints hoped Trevor Penning could be the answer at left tackle, but that ship has already sailed. Amarius Mins is raw, which is undeniable, but the skillset and frame give him a substantially higher upside than Penning.
No. 20: Minnesota Vikings — J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
J.J. McCarthy would likely benefit from another season in college, but with the uncertainty around Michigan going forward, he could decide to declare. The Vikings make sense, as head coach Kevin O’Connell can find the best way to maximize McCarthy’s immense talent while simultaneously smoothing out the rough edges.