Duke linemen Graham Barton and DeWayne Carte could both hear their names called before the end of the third round of April’s NFL draft, but where exactly will they go?
ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller released a full, seven-round mock draft on Wednesday with two new destinations for the former Blue Devils.
Barton, who played left tackle for Duke but could move to guard or center in the NFL, went 27th to the Arizona Cardinals. The four-year player started at multiple positions in Durham, and for a team with needs everywhere, Miller thinks that versatility should be prioritized.
“Additional support on the interior is needed,” Miller wrote. “Barton allowed three sacks over his final two seasons and has the talent to replace Hjalte Froholdt (currently projected to start) in his rookie season.”
Carter needed to wait until near the end of the third round, but he got rewarded with a spot on the most dominant team in the sport. Miller projected Carter would go 95th to the Kansas City Chiefs, who have won three of the past five Super Bowls.
“The Chiefs still covet more rotational pass-rushers for Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme,” Miller wrote. “Carter has similar tools to Derrick Nnadi.”
Carter would get to play alongside Chris Jones, who just signed a massive contract extension this offseason.
Duke offensive lineman Jacob Monk, who was invited to the NFL Combine, did not appear in Miller’s mock.