2021 NFL Mock Draft: Kyle Pitts lands in the top-5 of the first round

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MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JANUARY 11: Jaylen Waddle #17 of the Alabama Crimson Tide rushes after a reception during the first quarter of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Hard Rock Stadium on January 11, 2021, in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Wide Receiver. Detroit Lions. Jaylen Waddle. 7. player. 50.

This offseason, the Detroit Lions said farewell to franchise quarterback Matthew Stafford, trading him away to the Los Angeles Rams. In his place, Jared Goff will take over under center, so there is reason to believe the team could actually be in the market for a quarterback here with the No. 7 overall pick.

However, they also may choose to stick with Goff, and if they do so, they need to bring in some more talent for him on the outside. Jaylen Waddle is the selection here for the Lions, as he is drafted after his teammate in DeVonta Smith, and could actually end up being the best wideout in this draft class.

player. 87. . Quarterback. Carolina Panthers. Trey Lance. 8

The Carolina Panthers have already stated that Teddy Bridgewater is not the answer for them at quarterback, so they are definitely in play for one in the 2021 NFL Draft. If they like one of the top three options in this draft class, they will have to move up, but sitting at No. 8 overall, they could get a franchise guy anyway.

Trey Lance from North Dakota State is a good-looking quarterback prospect and one who has the build, arm, and legs to succeed at the NFL level. Carolina has a lot of work to do in terms of this roster, and are clearing cap space, so the rebuild is certainly on for Matt Rhule and company.

45. . Cornerback. Denver Broncos. Patrick Surtain II. 9. player

The Denver Broncos are another team who could be in the market for a quarterback during the 2021 NFL Draft, as they have already been rumored to be pushing for Deshaun Watson. They have a young quarterback in Drew Lock, and if they are sold on him as their future, they turn their attention to the defense here.

With pick No. 9, the Broncos go with the most NFL-ready defensive player in this draft class, bringing in Alabama cornerback Patrick Surtain II. This is a kid who is going to come in and start right away, as the Broncos continue to build up that side of the ball with quality, young players.

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