2021 NFL Mock Draft: Texans find a Deshaun Watson replacement in the first-round
By Brad Weiss
Rashawn Slater. 10. player. 123. . Offensive Tackle. Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have a lot of work to do in terms of this roster this offseason, but the most important will be locking up Dak Prescott to a long-term deal. Prescott showed his worth not only on the field last season, but off of it as well, as the team went down to the drain after his injury.
With Prescott under center, Dallas needs to continue to improve along the offensive line, and they do so by drafting Rashawn Slater from Northwester. Slater is considered a top offensive tackle in this draft class and would come in and fill the biggest need for this Cowboys offense.
11. player. 31. . Edge. New York Giants. Kwity Paye
The New York Giants have their issues on both sides of the ball, including whether or not they think Daniel Jones is the answer at quarterback. Jones should improve in 2021, as he will have Saquon Barkley back, but weapons are still needed on the outside, so they could go wideout here.
However, instead of wideout, they continue to stack talent on a solid defensive unit, bringing in Michigan’s Kwity Paye. Of all the good on this Giants roster, they still need help along the edge, and Paye is the best pure pass rusher in this draft class.
42. . Cornerback. San Francisco 49ers. Caleb Farley. 12. player
Staying with the theme of teams who have question marks at the quarterback position, some feel the San Francisco 49ers could move on from Jimmy Garoppolo this offseason. However, if they do move on, it will likely be in a trade, so I do not see them using this No. 12 overall pick on that position group.
Instead, they turn their attention to the defensive side of the ball, bringing in a replacement at cornerback for Richard Sherman. Outside of Patrick Surtain II, Caleb Farley is the best cornerback in this draft class and does not escape the top half of the first round.