Let's dig into my third mock for the 2021 NFL draft, with post-free-agency projections for Picks 1-32 in April's draft. After a flurry of moves last week, this is when we can finally see what teams really need -- and which teams filled holes with multiyear free-agent deals.
After I put three trades in my Mock Draft 2.0, I have two more in this edition. One is for a team moving up to take a quarterback, and the other allows a team to get a player who might be a top-five lock in any other year. I think you'll find them interesting.
With no NFL scouting combine this year, there is still a lot up in the air before Round 1 begins on April 29. Pro days are finishing up soon, and that's when I'll set my rankings. There are dozens of intriguing prospects who have yet to work out for teams.
We'll start with the Jaguars at the top of, course, and end with the Super Bowl champion Buccaneers, with some surprises along the way. The Jets have a huge decision looming at No. 2, with only a few more weeks left until we know for sure what they're planning.
Note: This mock draft was published days before the San Francisco 49ers, Miami Dolphins and Philadelphia Eagles completed two trades that shook up Round 1. The 49ers are now picking at No. 3, with the Dolphins at No. 6 and Eagles at No. 12.
This is clearly about the 49ers taking a quarterback now, and I actually projected them to trade up and take Justin Fields in my Mock Draft 2.0. For the Dolphins, they moved back into the top 10 because they didn't want to miss one of the top wide receivers. This means that one of Ja'Marr Chase, DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle will be on the board at No. 6. For the Eagles, they were able to add extra draft capital in 2022 while moving back six spots. They could target offensive line or one of the cornerbacks with the No. 12 pick.
More draft coverage: Mailbag
Full draft order: Nos. 1-259
McShay's Mock Draft 3.0
Jump to a trade: No. 3 | No. 9
1. Jacksonville Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson
With four picks in the top 45, new Jaguars coach Urban Meyer and general manager Trent Baalke can get Lawrence some premier help. I wouldn't be surprised to see them take a wide receiver with one of their second-rounders (Nos. 33 or 45), and there should be stellar options on the board (Minnesota's Rashod Bateman, Ole Miss' Elijah Moore or LSU's Terrace Marshall Jr. would be ideal weapons). Offensive line and tight end are other positions to prioritize. But c'mon, this pick is Lawrence all the way. And the Jags have the No. 25 selection to add a high-end talent as well.
Notable free-agent additions: CB Shaquill Griffin, S Rayshawn Jenkins, DT Roy Robertson-Harris, WR Marvin Jones Jr., TE Chris Manhertz
Notable free-agent losses: WR Keelan Cole, QB Mike Glennon
