2020 NFL mock draft: Updated 3-round projections with trades
Luke Easterling updates his three-round projections for the 2020 NFL draft after the first wave of free agency, with a few key trades
Sports blog information from USA TODAY.
Luke Easterling updates his three-round projections for the 2020 NFL draft after the first wave of free agency, with a few key trades
With no receivers off the board, but two receiver-needy teams coming up in the order, the Broncos pull the trigger and move up to get their man. While it may surprise some to see Ruggs come off the board before Lamb and Bama teammate Jerry Jeudy, his elite speed and explosiveness is worthy. In return for one of their three third-round picks, Denver gets a big-play machine for Drew Lock.
Even with Ruggs off the board, this is still a great scenario for the Raiders, who desperately need a true No. 1 receiver after the Antonio Brown debacle blew up in their faces. While a strong case could be made for Lamb, Jeudy is the most polished and complete pass-catcher in this year’s loaded class, giving him the edge here.
George Kittle is Jimmy Garoppolo’s No. 1 target, but the 49ers need to give him an elite wide receiver prospect to balance out the target share. Lamb is a complete player who excels after the catch, capable of turning every touch into a huge play. The 49ers made a big trade for this pick, and they need someone who can make an immediate impact.
Tampa Bay desperately needs a starting-caliber tackle at this pick, which means they may get nervous and have to move up to make sure they land one of the top four. Thankfully in this scenario, that doesn’t prove necessary. Thomas is talented enough to not only start at right tackle immediately, but could even push longtime starter Donovan Smith at left tackle.
Moving back costs the Jets a top tackle prospect, but they still have a big need at a premium position on defense. Not only do they add an extra Day 2 pick, but they also land one of the best pure cover corners in this year’s class. Henderson needs to improve as a tackler, but he’s a ready-made No. 1 cover man.