The latest mock draft from ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. is now out, and it’s one worth exploring. Kiper’s current projection sees quarterbacks being the first four picks in the draft.
It’s a theme that appears to be gaining some steam I explored that potential in the latest mock draft here last week, though my order of QBs was divergent. Kiper has Alabama’s Bryce Young at No. 1 to Carolina and C.J. Stroud from Ohio State going second overall to the Texans.
Kiper also elevates Tennessee OT Darnell Wright into the top 10 overall and makes the rising star the first offensive lineman off the board. Wright goes to Chicago at No. 9, one spot ahead of Northwestern’s Peter Skoronski, who is typically the first offensive lineman projected. It’s an interesting wrinkle that could very well become reality.
There is a fifth first-round QB, too. Kiper projects the Seattle Seahawks to trade back into the bottom of the round and select Tennessee’s Hendon Hooker at No. 30. The trade costs Seattle two second-rounders, which the Philadelphia Eagles turn into Alabama RB Jahmyr Gibbs (No. 37 overall) and Auburn EDGE Derick Hall (No. 52).
Kiper’s draft extends out two rounds, culminating with the Chiefs taking Oklahoma WR Marvin Mims.