2019 NFL Mock Draft: Dexter Lawrence continues to rise
College players are starting to show their true colors on tape. That’s why our 2019 NFL Mock Draft is really starting to take shape.
NFL evaluators come into the beginning of the college football season with a general idea of who they like and dislike, but the tape doesn’t lie. Now that each prospect has had the chance to play several games, the cream is starting to rise to the top of the 2019 NFL Draft class.
Injuries are starting to take a toll as well. No one denies Nick Bosa’s talent, but his inability to get on the field for Ohio State is starting to negatively impact his stock. Rodney Anderson’s knee injury will cost the Oklahoma running back draft position as well. It’s not a fun thing to discuss, but the NFL is a result based business. Guys who can’t stay healthy aren’t of much interest to pro scouts.
The really interesting moves on our draft board come at the quarterback position. We’ve only got three signal callers in our current mock. That number could definitely rise as the season progresses. Teams with need at the NFL’s most important position will have some interesting choices to make in April.
Let’s dive right into our latest mock. A familiar name remains on top no matter who ends up with the No. 1 overall pick.
1. player. 16. . Defensive Tackle. Houston. Ed Oliver
The Bills may have shocked the Vikings today, but they still have needs all over the field. That means this pick is all about value as opposed to positional need. Oliver is the player with the highest ceiling in this draft.
When you cut on his film you simply see an interior lineman who can wreak havoc on all three downs. In fact, he might be at his best when he’s allowed to rush the passer. He doesn’t get the chance to do that one-on-one at Houston, but you can see his talent working against double and triple teams.
The only question about Oliver is whether or not his motor runs hot enough to help him become the next Aaron Donald. Sean McDermott would love the opportunity to find out. Nick Bosa will get a long look here, but Oliver’s potential is too much to pass up for Buffalo.