2021 NFL Mock Draft: Texans find a Deshaun Watson replacement in the first-round
By Brad Weiss
One of the stars of Senior Bowl week was Alabama quarterback Mac Jones, who is fresh off leading the Crimson Tide to an undefeated season and national title. Though Jones did not play in the game, he still turned a bunch of heads, and I would be surprised if he didn’t land in the first round in April.
Sitting at No.19 overall, the Washington Football Team could be in prime position to land Jones, as they are looking for a long-term solution at the quarterback position. In a best-case scenario, Alex Smith stays for a year and mentors Jones, who takes over in 2022.
The Chicago Bears have issues on both sides of the ball, and the biggest question of the offseason is going to be whether or not they bring back Mitchell Trubisky. If they do decide to bring him back, they have to build the offensive line in front of him, and they do so with Alabama offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood.
Leatherwood has long been considered a first-round talent and has the versatility to play on either side of the center at the next level. The Bears have to fix this offense, as their defense was outstanding last season, and Leatherwood is a cornerstone offensive tackle.
The Indianapolis Colts have to make a move at quarterback this offseason, as Philip Rivers retired after one season with the team. In his place, the Colts can go several different ways, including bringing back Jacoby Brissett, moving up in round one, or free agency.
On defense, the Colts still need help in the secondary, and they get a great cornerback in South Carolina standout Jaycee Horn. The Colts are looking to take the next step forward after making it to the playoffs last season, and Horn can help them get better on defense immediately.