Big shoes to fill: Meet the replacements for every 2021 NFL Draft first round pick

21. Replacing Kwity Paye at Michigan: David Ojabo

There isn’t anyone who is going to replace Paye on the Wolverines roster as, not only are they switching to a base 3-man front defensively but Michigan also doesn’t have anyone who is as physically dominant. But opposite star Aidan Hutchinson, we should see a platoon approach of players led by David Ojabo. The most explosive of the bunch, we should see plenty of reps from him to complement Hutchinson’s raw power. That said, don’t expect to see him take more than 60 percent of the snaps, if that much, in that role.

22. Replacing Caleb Farley at Virginia Tech: Dorian Strong

Dorian Strong was thrust into a starting role last season as a true freshman when Farley decided to opt-out of the 2020 campaign with the Hokies. While there were some expected growing pains, he came in and filled his role quite well for such a young player.

Back for year two in Blacksburg, the future is undoubtedly bright for Strong, Make no mistake, he doesn’t possess the wow-worthy tools that Farley did but he’s already proven he can play defensive back at a high level in the ACC and his trajectory should have him only improving.

23. Replacing Christian Darrisaw at Virginia Tech: Luke Tenuta

Not only are the Hokies losing Darrisaw but two possible replacements, Doug Nester and Bryan Huson are transferring out of Justin Fuente’s program. So that leaves Virginia Tech in a bit of a tough spot as it pertains to filling the hole at left tackle. That said, the most likely option is for Luke Tenuta to slide from right tackle to the other side after performing well in his role last season. He doesn’t have the talent of his former tackle-mate but he can be a solid protector on the edge nonetheless.

24. Replacing Najee Harris at Alabama: Brian Robinson

Brian Robinson actually came to the Crimson Tide with Harris and is now a super senior with the program who figures to take the most touches out of the backfield in 2021. He has over 1,300 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns while also showcasing some pass-catching talent as a backup over his career already.

While Robinson may be the main guy, though, expect to see a lot more faces getting touches out of the backfield for Alabama than we saw when Harris was the feature back.