2021 NFL Mock Draft: Trades throw first round into chaos
By Brad Weiss
35. . CB. Tennessee Titans. Jaycee Horn. 22. player
The Tennessee Titans had work to do on the defensive side of the ball this offseason, and they were able to take care of some of the holes via free agency. However, there are still issues at the cornerback spot, and heading into the 2021 NFL Draft, they would be wise to use the No. 22 pick on the position group.
One player who plays cornerback and should be picked in the first round is Jaycee Horn, an incredibly talented cover corner from South Carolina. Horn has the athleticism and skill set to start right away at the NFL level, and he would fill one of the gaping holes on this Titans defense.
Edge. New York Jets. Gregory Rousseau. 23. player. 30.
The New York Jets added their new franchise quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick, but that is not the only first-round selection they have in 2021. Thanks to their trade of Jamal Adams, the Jets will also pick in the Seattle Seahawks spot at No. 23 overall, and should turn their attention to the defensive side of the ball.
With this pick, the Jets add Gregory Rousseau from the University of Miami, one of the better edge rushers in this draft class. Rousseau is a bit raw, but he would join an organization with an excellent defensive mind at head coach in Robert Saleh, a guy who could get the most out of his talent.
Greg Newsome II. 24. player. 55. . CB. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers have work to do on both sides of the ball, but in their secondary, the cornerback spot is a real issue. With the No. 24 pick, the Steelers should add a player like Greg Newsome II, who could sneak into the first round and really give this defensive backfield a boost.
Newsome has everything you look for in a true CB1, and he would have an opportunity to learn on a very young and talented defense. The Steelers have a short window with Big Ben at quarterback, so this is a crucial offseason in terms of shoring up the issues and making a run.