2021 NFL Mock Draft: Trades throw first round into chaos

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Jan 11, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Patrick Surtain II (2) against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship Game. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Dallas Cowboys. Patrick Surtain II. 10. player. 123. . CB

The Dallas Cowboys finally locked Dak Prescott up to a long-term deal this offseason, and on the offensive side of the ball, they are in pretty good shape. They could decide to add to the offensive line here, possibly selecting Rashawn Slater from Northwestern, but the secondary on the defensive side of the ball is the biggest issue in Dallas.

Enter Patrick Surtain II, the most dominant cornerback in this draft class, and someone who could be the next great cornerback for the Cowboys. Teaming with second-year player Trevon Diggs, the Cowboys could have a solid, young duo at cornerback for the next five years, improving the biggest hole on that side of the ball.

31. . LB. New York Giants. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. 11. player

The New York Giants appear to be pretty set on the offensive side of the ball, this after bringing in Kenny Golladay at wide receiver, and adding a solid backup running back in Devontae Booker. Like Dallas, they could go the offensive line route, but instead, they bolster the defense, bringing in a versatile linebacker in Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah.

During his time at Notre Dame, Owusu-Koramoah showed that he could be a three-down linebacker at the next level, and he possesses elite coverage skills. The Giants were solid on defense last season but could use one more piece or two, and in JOK, they get a potential defensive captain down the line.

54. . WR. Philadelphia Eagles. DeVonta Smith. 12. player

The Philadelphia Eagles have moved down in the first round, this after swinging a deal with the Miami Dolphins, and giving up their No. 6 overall pick. With the now-No. 12 overall pick, the Eagles are still able to take care of one of the bigger holes on their roster, adding an elite wide receiver in DeVonta Smith.

Coming off a Heisman Trophy-winning season, Smith is going to be one of the more coveted playmakers in this draft class. By heading to Philadelphia, he joins former Alabama teammate Jalen Hurts, who is the unquestioned starting quarterback this season and becomes the team’s WR1 right away.

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