NFL Mock Draft: What happens if trades cause NFL-record run on QBs?

The Detroit Lions hold the No. 7 overall pick this year, and after trading for Jared Goff, they need to do something to add weapons around him. They could go with Kyle Pitts here, but they already drafted a pass-catching tight end two years ago in T.J. Hockenson, so instead, they add a dynamic wide receiver.

When it comes to position groups, this class is loaded at wide receiver and offensive tackle, and in Ja’Marr Chase, they get a player many consider the best wideout available this year. Chase was last on the field during LSU’s magical run to a national title, and in Detroit, he becomes WR1 right away with Kenny Golladay gone.

Considered one of the best overall prospects in this draft class, Florida tight end Kyle Pitts drops a bit in this mock draft thanks to all the quarterbacks that go early. Sitting at pick No. 8, the Carolina Panthers get the ultimate security blanket for their new franchise quarterback, adding Pitts to an offense that will be run by Sam Darnold this season.

Darnold was once considered a can’t-miss quarterback, but the New York Jets really did a number on him, and he will look to change his fortunes in Carolina. Having a tight end like Pitts can certainly help him do that, as he would have two elite weapons in Pitts and running back Christian McCaffrey to go along with a solid group at wide receiver.

The Miami Dolphins have gone up and down the first round with trades heading into the first round, and they make another move in our latest mock draft. With this pick, now at No. 9 overall, the Dolphins are still able to get an excellent playmaker for their wide receiver group, adding Alabama’s Jaylen Waddle.

Some will say that Waddle is the best wide receiver in this draft class, so getting him here at No. 9 would have to feel like a win for the Dolphins. They have already added talent at the position in Will Fuller this offseason, and in Waddle, they complete the group of weapons for Tua Tagovailoa.