ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. released his second mock draft of the year for the 2021 NFL Draft, and for the first time, it includes trades. Kiper’s mock also shocked many from the standpoint of the first 10 selections, who all were offensive players.
Of course, with the Jacksonville Jaguars picking first, there were no surprises on their end as they went with Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence. With the franchise struggling to find a franchise quarterback for a while, Kiper, like most, feels Lawrence has the superstar potential needed to propel the Jags.
1. Jacksonville Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson
Don’t overthink this. Lawrence is the best quarterback in this class, a player with superstar potential around whom new coach Urban Meyer can build. The Jaguars can add help for Lawrence in what is expected to be one of the most talented free-agent classes ever — they are projected to have nearly $80 million in cap space. Lawrence could use some targets to throw to, and the defense has holes to fill as well. Jacksonville also has the No. 25 overall pick from the Jalen Ramsey trade along with the Vikings’ second-rounder from the Yannick Ngakoue trade. Lawrence had surgery on his left shoulder last week, and he should be ready for training camp.
While there will be changes throughout Kiper’s mocks over time, the Jags’ No. 1 pick will remain consistent, and that’s pretty much all that needs to be said when it comes to Lawrence.
With the No. 25 overall selection, Kiper slotted the Jags Alabama defensive tackle Christian Barmore, who was a force for the Crimson Tide when it comes to the interior of their defense.
25. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR)
Christian Barmore, DT, Alabama
I pegged Barmore to the Jags in my Mock 1.0 as well, though I thought about a wide receiver for Trevor Lawrence. LSU’s Terrace Marshall Jr. is still available. Barmore was tremendous down the stretch for the Crimson Tide and could slot in as an upgrade in the middle of new coordinator Joe Cullen’s defense. The secondary is another position to watch for Jacksonville.
The Jags’ defense finished 2020 ranked 31st overall and 30th against the rush, so they could use playmakers at various defensive positions. Starting in the trenches with a prospect like Barmore certainly would be wise (if he’s available) as the Jags need a defensive tackle to pair with DaVon Hamilton.
Barmore’s name gained steam after he became the MVP of the National Championship game in January, but he had been establishing himself long before that. He ultimately finished 2020 with 37 total tackles (22 solo) and eight sacks after competing in the Southeastern Conference, which is the best in collegiate football.
The pairing of Lawrence and Barmore has been common for the Jags in mock drafts and most would argue that it’s the perfect scenario. Of course, the Jags have a direct path to Lawrence, so there is little doubt he’ll be a Jag in April. With Barmore, there are concerns he’ll be off the board by pick No. 25, but if he is available, the team should sprint to the podium and select him.