2021 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots get a new Gronk

The Washington Football Team got into the playoffs this season thanks to two incredible stories in head coach Ron Rivera and quarterback Alex Smith. Getting into the big dance with a less-than-.500 record, the Football Team will likely be one-and-done, but that does not diminish their accomplishments this season.

Staying with Smith, he is definitely not a long-term answer at quarterback, and by drafting Alabama’s Mac Jones at No. 19, they set themselves up long-term. Jones could learn behind Smith for a year before the veteran gives way to him, setting himself up for long-term success as well.

The Chicago Bears could actually stay with Mitchell Trubisky after the 2020 season, this after he played strong down the stretch and helped his team to a playoff spot. While it remains to be seen what the team will do with him, if they do stay with the former first-round pick, they need to address the talent upfront on the offensive line.

Picking at No. 20 overall, the Bears should have a few offensive tackles to choose from, and they get a good one in Rashawn Slater from Northwestern. Some mocks have him a lot higher, but if he does land in Chicago’s lap, they cannot overthink it.

Whoever takes over as head coach in Jacksonville is going to have a fun 2021 NFL Draft, as the franchise holds two first-round picks. Of course, the team’s owner has stated that he wants to be in charge of personnel decisions, but after drafting a new franchise quarterback, why not invest in protecting him.

Samuel Cosmi from Texas will eventually be the left tackle protecting Justin Fields in Jacksonville as the franchise looks to turn the page positively. He is a big, strong kid who should be able to start right away, and while he may start on the right side, he will eventually move over as he gets used to the pro game.