2020 NFL mock draft first round and fantasy impacts

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Former NFL quarterback Chad Pennington stands alongside quarterbacks Justin Herbert of Oregon, Joe Burrow of LSU and Jacob Eason of Washington during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 27, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEPTEMBER 19: Josh Jones #74 of the Houston Cougars in action during a game against the Tulane Green Wave at Yulman Stadium on September 19, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

23rd Overall: New England Patriots – Josh Jones (LT – Houston)

Team Needs
Offensive Line, Wide Receiver, Quarterback, Edge, Linebacker

Picks: 23 (1st), 87 (3rd), 98 (3rd), 100 (3rd), 125 (4th), 195 (6th), 202 (6th), 207 (6th), 212 (6th), 213 (6th), 231 (7th), 236 (7th), 242 (7th)

At this point of the pre-draft process, Josh Jones seems like a lock to be drafted in the first round. The Patriots have a host of needs, but a potential starting left tackle is too good to pass up at this point of the draft. One of the few true left tackle prospects with a day one grade, Jones could start at left tackle in his rookie season. Jones has top tier lateral movement skills, and could be the solution on the left side for the next five years for Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots.

Team Impact

Isaiah Wynn was drafted to be the starting left tackle for the Patriots, but has yet to truly impress on the edge. With Joe Thuney set to bolt in free agency, Wynn and Jones can compete for the left tackle job with the loser kicking inside to replace Thuney. Wynn and Jones would be an upgrade on Wynn and Thuney regardless of who wins the outside job. There are also scenarios where both prove ready for a job on the outside, and one is moved to right tackle. The Patriots have needs all over the offensive line, so do not be surprised to see them trade down a few spots in order to collect extra assets. Cesar Ruiz and Austin Jackson will also be considerations here.

Fantasy Impact

The New England Patriots took a step back on all levels of their offense in 2019, but addressing the massive hole Joe Thuney will leave will be priority number one for the Patriots. They have multiple thirds that they can use to wide receiver and guard. Adding Jones will help solidify pass protection for whoever the Patriots have under center in 2020, and will hopefully provide a boost to the run game.

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