2021 NFL Mock Draft: DeVonta Smith charges up the draft board after National Championship Game
By Brad Weiss
22. player. 35. . Defensive Lineman. Tennessee Titans. Jaelan Phillips
The Tennessee Titans saw their run to a second AFC title game end in the Wild Card round, as they really had no answer for Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. Next season, the Titans have to continue to bolster that defense, and with pick No. 22 overall, they get one of the more versatile defensive linemen in this draft class.
Jaelan Phillips from Miami (FL) could join teammate Gregory Rousseau in the first round, and he would be an excellent fit on a young Titans defense. He is good against the run, can get after the quarterback, and in Tennessee, he would be a nice addition alongside the likes of Harold Landry and Jeffrey Simmons.
23. player. 30. . Wide Receiver. New York Jets. Rashod Bateman
The New York Jets continue to bolster the offensive side of the ball with their second of two first-round picks, this time bringing in an elite weapon on the outside. New quarterback Zach Wilson would love nothing more than for the Jets to draft a player like Rashod Bateman, who has the ability to take the lid off a defense at any time.
Teaming Bateman with Denzel Mims would give the Jets two young playmakers at the wide receiver position, and a building block for their rookie quarterback. They got the left tackle last year, and as they continue to build up the offense, exciting times are coming for Jets fans.
Offensive Tackle. Pittsburgh Steelers. Alijah Vera-Tucker. 24. player. 55.
The Pittsburgh Steelers were absolutely shocked by the Cleveland Browns this past weekend, as they were a heavy favorite going into the matchup on Sunday night. The Browns were without a ton of talent, and their head coach, but a 28-0 early deficit proved to be too much for Ben Roethlisberger and this Steelers offense.
Looking ahead, there is no telling whether or not Big Ben returns in 2021, but if he does, the Steelers have to bolster the line in front of him. Changes are coming, and with pick No. 24, they get a solid young tackle in Alijah Vera-Tucker who can step in and start if a few veterans leave via free agency.