NFL Mock Draft: Raiders trade up for QB, 6 WRs are taken, and Bo Nix heads to Atlanta
By Hunter Haas
Vikings Find A Kirk Cousins Replacement
No. 20: Minnesota Vikings — J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Piggybacking on the last section, McCarthy garners a strong Day 2 grade from me. But at No. 20 overall, barring a trade-up, this presents the Vikings with the best opportunity at a starting-caliber replacement for Kirk Cousins. McCarthy can sling the rock but needs work with his decision-making and fundamentals.
No. 21: Indianapolis Colts — Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
The Colts have Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs, but to complete the wideout trio necessary for Shane Steichen’s scheme, another top-tier receiver is required. Enter Rome Odunze. The Husky star is special at the catch point, showcasing one-of-one body control and elite hands. His size, speed, and polish will resonate with Chris Ballard.
No. 22: Seattle Seahawks — Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
The Seahawks spent a first-rounder on Devon Witherspoon in 2023, and Tariq Woolen is a quality starter, but let’s complete the cornerback room. Terrion Arnold is instinctive, competitive, and never out of a play. His top speed might be a tick below his peers, but his skillset aligns well with Seattle’s scheme.
No. 23: Pittsburgh Steelers — Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina
At one point, the Steelers had too many wide receivers. Now, with the disdain the fanbase is feeling toward Diontae Johnson, there’s a chance it’s George Pickens and “everyone else”. If Pittsburgh wants a running partner, Xavier Legette, at 6-foot-3 and 223 pounds, can be a Deebo Samuel-esque player at the next level.
Will Anderson Jr. Welcomes Bralen Trice To Houston In Today’s Mock Draft
No. 24: Houston Texans (via CLE) — Bralen Trice, EDGE, Washington
Will Anderson Jr. can only do so much by himself. Adding Bralen Trice on the opposite end of the line will benefit the defense from Day 1. Trice is built like a robot, possessing long arms, impressive power, and a refined pass-rushing catalog.
No. 25: Miami Dolphins — Graham Barton, OL, Duke
The Dolphins can always use athletic, positionally versatile offensive linemen within the Mike McDaniel scheme. Graham Barton is exactly that. He can line up anywhere in the trenches, as far in as center and as far out as either tackle position.
No. 26: Dallas Cowboys — Cooper DeJean, DB, Iowa
The Cowboys boast one of the best secondaries in the NFL when healthy. Still, Cooper DeJean brings more to the table than Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker at safety. DeJean is amongst the most athletic in the class, and his high football IQ makes him a starter anywhere in the secondary.