Most fans who’ve been paying attention to mock drafts and the Jacksonville Jaguars know by now that the team very well could snag a speed threat at receiver in the 2021 NFL Draft. With this in mind, ESPN’s Todd McShay slotted the Jags Louisville speedster Tutu Atwell at pick No. 33 in his latest mock draft, which caused mixed feelings from the fanbase.
Days after the mock, McShay further explained his top-4 selections for the Jags with picks 1, 25, 33, and 45. His comrade for many years, Mel Kiper Jr. joined him for the segment and also gave his analysis on Atwell — a player who he believes would help presumptive No. 1 pick, Trevor Lawrence, tremendously.
“When you watch him play, I know he’s below 160 [pounds] and is small, but he’s really explosive and is a touchdown waiting to happen in the open field,” said Kiper. “I think when you look at his hands and elusiveness when the ball is in his hands, he fits today’s game perfectly — the space game. That’s Tutu Atwell and that’s why he’d be a fear factor player down there in Jacksonville with Trevor Lawrence.”
https://youtu.be/O8VISRryKz4
McShay has the right idea with Atwell, who was a dynamic player that garnered 140 catches for 2,307 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns throughout his time at Louisville. However, some projections would indicate that the 33rd overall selection is too early for him. Additionally, there are concerns with Atwell’s size as Kiper pointed out, though receivers have shown the ability to play under the weight of 190.
The 2021 draft class is one loaded with speed threats who can play out of the slot, so the Jags don’t necessarily have to jump on Atwell so early, especially with the team having more pressing needs. Options like Marquez Stevenson, Cade Johnson, and Ihmir Smith-Marsette are a few notables who are prime examples of that who can be drafted later. All three also offer returning experience as far as kickoffs go.
With that being the case, it feels like the addition of Atwell at pick No. 33 could be unlikely, and if the Jags did draft a receiver early, it’s possible they would prefer Rondale Moore or Kadarius Toney. While his health and size also concern scouts, Moore is a player Urban Meyer has seen personally during his days at Ohio State. Meanwhile, Toney played for Meyer’s long-time assistant Dan Mullen, who can give the Jags all the intel they need.
Elijah Moore is another early-round option for the Jags as he offers a lot of the same traits and has been a more durable prospect than some of the aforementioned receivers. He recently had a fantastic pro day and his stock is rising as a result.