1.01 Chicago Nic – RB Najee Harris, Alabama Crimson Tide, 6’2” 230 lbs

The NFC championship game AND the 1.01! Who said 2020 was bad to everyone? Nic’s offense is wild card worthy at best in the hands of Antonio Gibson, Melvin Gordon, Raheem Mostert and Tyreek Hill, so it’s definitely time to step right up for your next franchise player. Watching Harris obliterate SEC defenses was a sight to behold. He finished 2^nd in the NCAA in rushing attempts, 3^rd in rushing yards, a decent 5.8 yards per carry, 1st in rushing touchdowns, 3rd in receptions and 4th in reception yardage with a complimentary 9.9 yards per reception. That’s Heisman worthy had Smith not posted a top 10 all-time receiving season himself. There are little to no critiques to Harris’ game, Nic should be all-in on Harris’ ceiling and floor. Fingers crossed he lands in an offense that can appreciate his bruising skillset as a runner and ability to make defenders miss as a receiver. (His highlight videos can be mistaken for 100m hurdles.)

Playoff Results: 3 appearances, 2017, #3 seed, NFC Champion, 2018, #2 seed, Championship Round, 2020, #5 seed, Championship Round Record: 6-3

We are all playing catchup in the NFC to Nic’s playoff success. A 6-3 record is an NFC best and two championship appearances and one Super Bowl appearances match only two others in the league. With Barry’s rebuild coming to fruition and Nate as hungry as ever to make another strong push, Nic has his work cut out for him to match his rivals.

1^st Round Picks: CJ Prosise (2016), Leonard Fournette (2017), Mike Williams (2017), Roquan Smith (2018), Mecole Hardman (2019)

Nic’s 1^st round draft profile is not great. Prosise is on his last legs in the league. Fournette posted a few good years, but he’ll likely never be a workhorse again. Mike Williams has never been a startable asset. Roquan Smith is slam dunk pick and bonus points for playing for Nic’s favorite team. Hardman’s hopes of viability hinged on Tyreek Hill being accountable for his actions and was an insurance selection when Hill’s future was murky.

Prosise, terribad. Fournette, nice while it lasted. Williams, 5^th year breakout is possible, I guess. Smith, LFG!, Hardman, too many mouths to feed in KC.

1.02 San Francisco Vic — RB Travis Etienne, Clemson Tigers, 5’10” 210 lbs

It’s been full steam ahead on the Javonte Williams hype train, so this pick almost went to him. Vic’s offense is in desperate need of starpower, with only Devante Adams and Tyler Lockett as the only two offensive players over 250 points. This is a massive pick for the future of Vic’s squad in a tough NFC West, and will pick between three bonafide studs at running back. Etienne has the highest pedigree of the bunch, with the ACC’s career rushing yardage record. While Etienne’s yards per attempt decreased, his receiving production lead the NCAA in receiving yardage with 588 and 2^nd in receptions with 48. He’s the complete package and has track speed that’ll make him a fine 20-minute highlight video at the end of his career. The ceiling is massive and it’s an easy choice without NFL landing spots factored in.

Playoff Results: Never ever.

1^st year of Vic was building upon a complete reset of a roster. The rookie year is always a massive learning experience as it’s tough for a rookie to make an impact with most GMs shaping rosters to their hearts’ delight for over half a decade. Vic should take a step forward in 2021, as he continues to chip away at one of the league’s toughest divisions.

1st Round Picks: Rashaad Penny (2018, Selected by Josh, old owner of SF), Baker Mayfield (2018, Selected by Josh, old owner of SF), Kyler Murray (2019, Selected by Josh, old owner of SF)

This is pretty much a Josh blurb. Penny’s hasn’t been helpful sans a couple games. Mayfield didn’t belong in the 1^st round as a fringe startable quarterback. (Top 16 in our format) Kyler on the other hand is an annual threat to finish at the top of the standings with his dual-threat ability and improving supporting cast.

Penny, a cent is his value. Mayfield, ideal IFL backup. Kyler, too legit to quit.

1.03 Dallas Brian RB Javonte Williams, North Carolina Tar Heels 5’10” 220 lbs

Recently acquiring the pick, Brian wanted a lick at the top three running backs after ejecting Miles Sanders to his best friend Luke. With Clyde Edwards-Helaire and David Montgomery as his two notable backs, there’s room for a third head on Jerruah’s Ghidorah. The NFC is following the AFC’s example here, with the top three elite running back prospects as the easy choices unless landing spots ruin their values. Javonte Williams was a monster in 2020 and his yards per attempt (7.3) puts Najee’s (5.8) and Travis’ (5.4) YPA to shame. A big-time receiving threat, Williams’ also finished top six in receiving yardage with 305 and a robust 12.2 yards per reception. (Right in line with Travis’ 12.3) A bully of a running back, the #ThickThighClub has a new favorite. Stand aside Joe Mixon, this young stud muffin delux is taking your place.

Playoff Results: 4 appearances, 2016, #2 seed, Divisional Round, 2017, #4 seed, WC Round, 2018, #1 seed, NFC Champion, 2020, #3 seed, Divisional Round Record: 3-4

Brian is not only one of the most successful GM’s in the NFC, but in the IFL. Four appearances along with a Super Bowl appearance, Brian was the OG rookie that found success right out of the gate. The NFC East has flown through Dallas since the beginning, but Dan’s rebuild is complete and each of their matchups will be must-watch affairs to see if a changing of the guard occurs.

1^st Round Picks: Ezekiel Elliott (2016), David Montgomery (2019), Miles Sanders (2019), TJ Hockenson (2019), Noah Fant (2019), Clyde Edwards-Helaire (2020)

An almost exemplary draft record, if Brian picks him he’s going to hit. Elliott’s track record speaks for himself, although he may be slowing down in the midst of his 2^nd contract. Montgomery was an elite asset in the 2^nd half of last year. Sanders exhibited good moments, but health and fumbles limited his ceiling. Hockenson and Fant look like top 10 mainstays at the tight end position, although looking back I question whether they were worth elite draft capital. CEH looks like a reach after Jonathan Taylor’s ceiling is much higher in a run-first offense.

Elliott, major hit. Montgomery, got what you paid for. Sanders, samsies, but less so. Hockenson, top 5 TE in 2021? Fant, QB plz. CEH, solid, but what could have been with JT.

1.04 Tampa Bay Luke LB Micah Parsons, Penn State Nittany Lions, 6’2” 245 lbs

I could opt for a 4^th running back if another emerges, but for now, I’m taking the highest-graded linebacker PFF has ever recorded and did it as a sophomore. With only Eric Kendricks as a stable option, defense is a priority, particularly the all-important linebacker position. Parsons has an All-Pro level ceiling due to his athleticism to consistently track down ball carriers in the backfield, instincts of an elite run defender, and pass rushing chops to be a 1st round EDGE player. Two issues to watch at the next level are his coverage ability and maturity.

Playoff Results: 3 appearances, 2016, #5 seed, Championship Round, 2017, #1 seed, Championship Round, 2019, #2 seed, NFC Champion Record: 5-3

3 appearances, 3 final fours, and an NFC championship. You bet your ass I want to get back to that level of competitiveness. 

1^st Round Picks: Dalvin Cook (2017), Darius Leonard (2018)

I’m content with my two 1^st round picks. They turned out pretty good.

Cook, top 3 RB. Leonard, #1 LBer.

1.05 Atlanta Floyd TE Kyle Pitts, Florida Gators, 6’5” 239

Floyd has exclaimed on numerous occasions that Atlanta is in rebuild mode, so he opts for the pick with the highest floor and ceiling for the future. Multiple pieces are needed on offense as it’s littered with decent starting options. Chris Carson’s future is a question mark, Beckham is coming back from an ACL tear, Godwin’s ceiling may be capped with Brady and DJ Moore’s QB situation is unclear. While a running back may be an option for Floyd if a 4th lands in a good spot, we’ve seen questionable talents land in ‘good’ spots and burn GMs time and time again. Pitts is the best fantasy tight end to ever come out of the draft in IFL history and at only 21-years-old, the best is yet to come. Despite playing in only eight games, he finished top 5 in the NFC in touchdowns with 12, 43 receptions, 770 yards and 17.9 yards per reception. If he’s a 1st round wide receiver talent and gets 1.5 points per reception, he’s the clear-cut choice after the top-tier running backs are selected.

Playoff Results: 1 appearance, #6 seed, WC Round, Record: 0-1

It’s been a tough life in the toughest division in the IFL, with the other three teams winning the NFC three of five years. A season filled with injuries, the loss of Barkley ruined Floyd’s season, in addition to some tough late season losses.

1^st Round Picks: Kareem Hunt (2017), Saquon Barkley (2018), Ronald Jones (2018)

Floyd’s track record of 1^st round picks are solid. Three running backs and they’ve all been solid assets at one time or another. Hunt’s a 4/5 starter as the 1B to Nick Chubb. Barkley has displayed top 5 RB/WR/TE talent. Ronald Jones’ doesn’t have an elite ceiling, but he takes full advantage of his rushing attempts.

Hunt, solid pick. Barkley, elite when healthy. Jones, low ceiling, solid floor.

1.06 Green Bay Barry RB Michael Carter, North Carolina Tar Heels, 5’8” 202 lbs

An epic 1^st round is in store for the clown shoe connoisseur of Southern California, with five, glorious first round picks! Barry, Carter may not be your pick, but your highest rated offensive player on your board will be. In fact, Carter may slide down to the 2^nd round if the NFL isn’t rated as highly as I anticipate, possibly sliding this hooker down to Day 3. Primed to be this year’s riser like CEH, Carter’s college performance speaks to a workhorse prospect that’s undersized. In Barry’s offense, he’ll fit into a running back unit led by Cam Akers, Saquon Barkley and Damien Harris. You may be surprised to learn of Carter’s dominant 2020, as he led all IFL 1^st round running back prospects with 8.0 yards per attempt, top 5 in the NCAA in rushing yards on only 156 carries and a robust 10.7 yards per reception. He’s more physical than his size suggests, although he may be limited as a between the tackles runner.

Playoff Results: 3 appearances, 2016, #3 seed, WC Round, 2017, #5 seed, Divisional Round, 2018, #5 seed, WC Round, Record: 1-3

Three straight years in the postseason, Barry’s success dates back to the Mordor days. Similar to Will, Barry annually built teams that were good, but not good enough to win a Super Bowl. Barry decided to tear it down and rebuild in hopes of building a dominant team. With two elite running backs on his roster and possibly a third on the way, the ol’ cheese head has a 4^th playoff appearance is in his sights.

1^st Round Picks: Michael Thomas (2016), Reuben Foster (2017), Myles Garrett (2017), Sony Michel (2018), Deebo Samuel (2019), Cam Akers (2020), Kenneth Murray (2020)

If you’re hitting on more than 50% of your first round picks, you’re not doing too shabby! Michael Thomas is renowned as a top 5 receiver. Myles Garrett, the most valuable DE. Sony Michel’s value is long gone and Samuel needs a clutch 2021 to have anything more than a 3rd round valuation. Cam Akers is primed for a monster 2021. Finally, Kenneth Murray’s a bit of a question mark after an up and down rookie season. Keep an eye on a potential linebacking rotation with the Chargers next season.

Thomas, WAP. Foster, RIP. Garrett, certified freak. Michel, maybe 5 good games over his career. Samuel, must step up into a top 2 receiver role and stay healthy. Akers, stay out of the timeshare! Murray, holding value, wait and see.

1.07 Green Bay Barry LB Jeremiah Onwusu-Koramoah, Notre Dame, 6’2” 216 lbs

Back-to-back picks, what a joy! Barry could go offense, but with only Kenneth Murray as a startable option as of this writing, a linebacker is likely the pick. JOK’s athletic profile is comparable to IDP stud muffin delux Darius Leonard and his coverage ability is exactly what’s expected from a modern-day player. There’s some worry that JOK’s usage will cap his upside as an elite prospect, especially if he’s tasked with playing outside of traditional WILL alignment. While opportunity is the biggest indicator of IDP’s success, Onwusu-Koramoah’s value can vary more than most rookies depending on the role he plays on defense.

1.08 Washington Dan QB Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars, 6’6” 220 lbs

This pick makes too much sense with Drew Lock and Jameis Winston as major question marks. Dan’s master class at building through the draft culminates in a crescendo of picking the best QB prospect since Andrew Luck. Winning a National Championship his freshman year, Lawrence had draft pundits explaining how he was already an NFL-caliber QB. Three years at Clemson proved Lawrence is the real deal as every year he posted over 3000 passing yards, a 65% completion percentage and threw under 8 INTs. He displayed dual-threat ability with over 200 rushing yards in 2020, which coincides with the latest elite QB prospects to succeed in the IFL.

1^st Round Picks: Devontae Booker (2016, Selected by Brian G, old owner of WAS), Derrius Guice (2018, Selected by Brian G, old owner of WAS), Josh Jacobs (2019), AJ Brown (2019), Jonathan Taylor (2020), JK Dobbins (2020), D’Andre Swift (2020), Patrick Queen (2020), Isaiah Simmons (2020), Jalen Reagor (2020), Jerry Jeudy (2020), Willie Gay (2020)

Brian G’s ability to select Gerber Baby vomit players was quickly replaced by Dan’s beautiful mind. After two dumpster fire picks, the Football Team’s draft luck quickly shifted into home run selections in Josh Jacobs and AJ Brown. The 2020 draft transformed Dan’s team into a future dynasty. Taylor is a player to build a franchise around, JK Dobbins and D’Andre Swift can turn into elite players, Queen was a top 16 linebacker on part-time snaps, Simmons’ usage is expected to increase, Reagor, Jeudy and Gay all have major work to do.

Booker, career backup. Guice, out of the league. Jacobs, annual top 32 player. Brown, excellent 4^th/5^th starter, Taylor, franchise player. JK Dobbins, fingers crossed for more carries. Swift, top 5 upside if healthy and opportunity is what we expect, Queen, could be special. Simmons, needs a year two breakout. Reagor, trending to a bust. Jeudy, dropsies were rampant and no QB. Gay, part-time player that couldn’t beat out middling talents.

Playoff Results: None

An 8-8 record in 2020 was a bit of a disappointing campaign given the talent on the roster. With that being said, this team is the favorite to win the NFC if Dan can plug the minimal holes on the roster.

1.09 Dallas Brian Chicago Nic WR J’Marr Chase, Louisiana State Tigers, 6’1” 208 lbs

After Cooper Kupp was shipped to Minny and Michael Thomas’ 32-million dollar fate uncertain, Brian stops the slide to pair with Calvin Ridley long term. Defense could be an option here, but after the top two linebackers off the board, it’s pertinent to select who many consider the NFL’s next great receiver. Chase’s sophomore season of 84 receptions, 1780 yards, 20 touchdowns and 21.2 yards per reception average in 2019 is simply bananas, but doesn’t tell the full story of him as a prospect. There are some red flags when evaluating, like playing in Joe Brady’s elite offensive scheme, a stud muffin delux quarterback Joe Burrow throwing him the football and sitting out last season due to COVID. His ability to separate from corners and lack of elite size is concerning, but there are few receivers that are better in contested catch situations. In the right offense, Chase will be a weapon, but I fear his ceiling may not be as high as experts think.

1.10 Chicago Nic LB Zaven Collins, Tulsa Golden Hurricanes, 6’4” 260 lbs

Pairing Zaven with Roquon feels like a proper fit, shaping the identity of Nic’s defense well into the future. When looking for the next great linebacker, big-play ability is essential to maximize on an elite ceiling. While big plays can be misleading, it’s better to have them than not. Zaven Collins’ 4 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 4 interceptions point to an all-around player that can do it all at a mammoth 260 pounds. His play in coverage is particularly impressive, and I compare him to a rich man’s Tremaine Edmunds. Opportunity will be important and if a defense schemes him to play as more of a pass rusher, his value will tumble.

1.11 Green Bay Barry LB Nick Bolton, Missouri Tigers, 6’0” 232 lbs

Barry’s double-dipping at linebacker and Nick Bolton is the safe and secure pick of the 1st round. With over 95 total tackles in back-to-back years, he’s projected to slide right into a MLB role right from the jump. His instincts to quickly diagnose plays are universally lauded, making him a late 1^st round projection for the NFL. While his big-play ability leaves a little to be desired (2 sacks and 5 PDs in 2020), Bolton fits the mold of what you expect from a modern-day backer. Deion Jones is a fair comparison.

1.12 Chicago Nic RB Kenneth Gainwell, Memphis Tigers, 5’11” 191 lbs

Well acquainted with Memphis running backs, Nic dips his toe into their pool again with Kenneth Gainwell, who outperformed rookie stud Antonio Gibson as teammates in 2019. Gainwell’s college production points to an elite ceiling, leading the NCAA with 610 receiving yards and a fantastic 12.0 yards per reception. With a respectable 6.3 yards per attempt in the American conference, Gainwell posted superior college numbers than both Derrell Henderson and Antonio Gibson. Missing last year due to COVID, as he tragically lost four family members to the virus over the past year.

1.13 New York DJ WR Rashod Bateman, Minnesota Golden Gophers, 6’1” 210 lbs

DJ, my goodness, what are you going to do here. A rebuild is in DJ’s midst, so best player available would be the Vegas odds maker’s favorite. With Chase Claypool and Kenny G expected to be in New York long term, pairing them with a locked-in 1^st round NFL draft pick lays another brick to the foundation of offensive starters. Bateman is physical as he is savvy with his routes and baby he can separate like the best of them. Fitting into the Ja’Marr Chase/Devante Adams mold, Bateman routinely cooked corners on deep routes, finishing a full 2019 season with 20.3 yards per reception. While many feel there’s a gap between the top three receivers in the draft, the gap may not be as wide most think.

Playoff Results: 2 appearances, 2018, #6 seed, Divisional Round, 2019, #4 seed, WC Round, Playoff Record: 1-2

DJ’s 2 playoff appearances is solid and more than what most of these jabronis can tout in the IFL. A 2019 NFC East championship and divisional round appearance is where DJ tapped out. Similar to Barry, DJ’s vying to build a team filled with super studs and this time next year it’s possible his team looks nothing like it is now.

1^st Round Picks: Myles Jack (2016), Deion Jones (2016), Haason Reddick (2017), Devin Bush (2019)

This is a unique 1^st round board, all being stud muffin linebackers. Myles Jack started slow, but the last two years have been fantastic. Deion Jones has been an elite asset sans his torn ACL 2018 season. Reddick was busto for three years, but turned into an elite pass rusher. Bush has a torn ACL of his own, comes with part-time snap concerns, but is only 22-years-old.

Jack, solid. Jones, elite. Reddick, sneaky good. Bush, TBD

1.14 Green Bay Barry WR Jaylen Waddle, Alabama Crimson Tide, 5’10” 182 lbs

Barry throws an apple into the offensive apple cart to finalize an offense into shape with Cam Akers, Saquon Barkley, Michael Carter, Damien Harris, Jaylen Waddle, Will Fuller, Noah Fant and Hayden Hurst. The wide receiver class is a buffet of diversity in terms of skillsets. Potentially a top ten pick in the NFL draft, Waddle is the speedster. If his ‘Race of the Century’ time of 4.27 was duplicated at the combine, it would have tied for the 5^th fastest ever. The key with these speedsters is physicality concerns when pressed up against a corner that can bully them right after the snap. I’m not 100% on board with Waddle in that regard yet, but he’s a crispy route runner in the intermediate game as well as burning corners to smithereens. His lack of production the past two years are concerning, never cracking 900 yards in a season, but was on pace to post DeVonta Smith-type numbers before he dislocated his ankle midway through the season. Some hookers believe Waddle is the #1 receiver in the class, so this is the type of hype we are working with here people!

1.15 New Orleans Titus WR DeVonta Smith, Alabama Crimson Tide, 6’1” 175 lbs

The time was the beginning of the morning,
And up the sun was mounting with those stars
That with him were, what time the Love Divine

At first in motion set those beauteous things;
So were to me occasion of good hope,
The variegated skin of that wild beast…

LOVE this draft journey for Titus. Trekking through the draft to build a team into a perennial playoff contender should scare the shit out of everyone. Just look at what Dan did! An incredible eight picks through the end of this mock, Titus’ team is a dark horse to transform his bottom 5 NFC squad into a championship contender. Starting with the Heisman trophy winner, Titus should come away elated with his first pick.

Sometimes when I’m writing, I take a look back and think how a player so good can slide so far. The 4th ever wide receiver to win the Heisman and first in almost 30 years, Smith should be a lock to be the first receiver off the board, right? For fucks sake, with 1856 yards, he lands 6th all-time for receiving yardage in a single season. Sitting out the 2^nd half of the National Championship may have deprived him of the best season of all time, although another 204 yards in the 2^nd half may have been asking for too much. 2^nd was well in reach, needing just 140 additional yards to eclipse 1996, posted by Troy Edwards (LTU) in 1998. Well, size concerns put a damper on Smith’s prospects in the NFL, but it may not matter as he plays like he’s 30 pounds heavier. This route running aficionado creates massive windows for QBs to throw to and may have the best hands in the draft. He’s a red-zone weapon and the Tide certainly thought so with 23 touchdowns. Compared to Tory Holt and Marvin Harrison, snagging him at the 1.16 could be considered criminal in a couple of years.

Playoff Results: 2 appearances, 2016, #6 seed, NFC Champion, 2018, #3 seed, WC Round, Record: 3-2

Ok, ok, this is NOT Titus’ playoff record. BUT! When it comes to the IFL Saints, a team with a storied playoff history that includes the NFC’s 1st Super Bowl berth, Titus needs to be reminded of the expectations that come with filling Carlos’ shoes. The expectation is annual contention, not floundering at the bottom of the division in a rebuild for multiple years.

1^st Round Picks: Evan Engram (2017, Selected by Carlos, old owner of NO), DK Metcalf (2019, Selected by Carlos, old owner of NO), Chase Young (2020), CeeDee Lamb (2020), AJ Dillon (2020)

Hopefully Carlos, our Brazilian rocket scientist is contemplating retirement on a nice beach in Rio right now. He was annually competitive and a quality drafter to boot. Engram’s QB woes have plagued his production. Metcalf looks like a top 5 WR. !Now, onto Titsu! Young is a future perennially All-Pro. CeeDee has top 10 upside with Dak coming back after posting 74 receptions and 935 yards his rookie year. AJ Dillon’s value is in flux, he could be startable or a career backup.

Engram, 2^nd team he may flourish. Metcalf, megastar. Young, samesies. Lamb, 300 points all over him. Dillon, unknown.

1.16 Green Bay Barry DE Kwity Paye, Michigan Wolverines, 6’4” 277 lbs

If the 1.16 is shipped off via franchise tag, the #1 defensive end in the draft is in play two picks prior for Barry at the 1.14, with no reliable starters at the position. Barry exits the 1^st round with Jeremiah Onwusu-Koramoah, Nick Bolton and Kwity Paye, three quality players for a defense starving for talent. An athletic marvel, projecting Paye into an elite pass rusher is what most expect with refinement of his technique. Production at Michigan was lacking, but a full 2020 season may have changed that, as he only played five games. He’d be an excellent #2 DE opposite a veteran he can learn from.

2.01 New York DJ RB, Trey Sermon, Ohio State Buckeyes, 6’0” 213 lbs

Also the first pick in the AFC’s 2^nd round, Sermon is the 5^th running back off the board. He slides to the 2^nd round because of his questionable receiving chops, but if reports come out stating the team that drafts him wants to use him as a receiver, he may climb into the 1st. Lack of production due to injury and falling out of favor in Oklahoma’s backfield, Sermon timeshared at OSU until he went buck wild for a combined 502 rushing yards in the Big Ten Title game against Northwestern and National Title semifinal against Clemson. He was a high-profile recruit out of high school and he may be a late bloomer if the best is yet to come in the NFL. Jay Ajayi is a solid comparison.

2.02 New Orleans Titus LB, Dylan Moses, Alabama Crimson Tide, 6’3” 235 lbs

Titus, we are going to be very well acquainted with your roster by the end of this article. Offensively, you’re working with CeeDee Lamb, DK Metcalf, Darren Waller and Logan Thomas as your four comfortable starters heading into next year. With your selection of DeVonta Smith, you turn your attention over to the defense, a unit that was one of the worst in the IFL last year. Your recent trade for Schobert was a big-time get and another linebacker to pair with him feels right. Many experts are down on Moses and feel he’s overrated, but he could still be a day two pick because of his athletic profile and solid run defense. Before a torn ACL in 2019, Moses was regarded as a future 1^st round pick and many had him as the #1 linebacker in the class before Micah Parsons went nuclear. He sprinkled in a few big plays over his career, but nothing substantial with just career numbers being 5.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 INTs and just 4(!) pass deflections. Coverage may always be an issue, but he has the athletic upside to be elite if he improves in that realm.

2.03 New Orleans Titus WR Terrace Marshall Jr, Louisiana State Tigers, 6’3” 200 lbs

There’s a metric fuck ton of maybes on your offense. Parris Campbell, Denzel Mims, Deebo Samuel, Zach Ertz, Dallas Goedert and Robert Tunyan. With the receiving class being deeper than a fist in a Mexican bathhouse, the 2.03 could land you a WR1. Marshall may end up being that guy, filling the void Ja’Marr Chase left after opting out for the season. Playing all over the field in 2020, his versatility, size and 21-year-old age may slide him into the back of the 1^st round. There are some gooooood offenses picking back there. (Green Bay, come say hi) Marshall’s stats we excellent through seven games, totaling 48 receptions, 731 yards (104 yards a game), 10 TDs with a 15.2 yards per reception. Ship the man some cheese, please!

2.04 Dallas Brian DE, Gregory Rousseau, Miami Hurricanes, 6’5” 260 lbs

Brian has Demarcus Lawrence, but could use an additional DE to compliment the soon-to-be 29-year-old pass rusher heading into the last year of his deal. The 2021 EDGE positon is filled with athletic freaks that have a red flag or two. Rousseau only produced at a high level with 16 sacks, albeit his redshirt freshman season before opting out due to COVID. Many pundits see him as more of a project with his pass-rushing technique needing refinement. Depending on landing spots, Rousseau could jump up to the #1 DE in the class.

2.05 Detroit Nate LB, Chazz Surratt, North Carolina Tar Heels, 6’1 227 lbs

Nate traded into this spot. Quarterback and safety could be a need, but I’ll be dammed if I mock a QB to this man’s lone 2^nd round pick that he traded to acquire! Chazz Surratt was not included in the AFC mock, but maybe he should have been over guys like Dylan Moses and Jabril Cox. The arrow is pointing up for the former Tar Heel quarterback as he changed positions just two years ago. In his first season as a defender, he was runner-up for ACC Defensive Player of the year and was a big play machine with 6.5 sacks and 15 TFLs. Coverage is still a work in progress, but if he continues to progress, he’ll become an impact starter for Nate.

Playoff Results: 2 appearances, 2019, #3 Seed, Divisional Round, 2020, #2 seed, WC Round, Playoff Record: 1-2

Orphaned one of the worst teams the league has ever seen, Nate rebuilt his team into contention in 2 years. Fresh off his back-to-back playoff appearances, Nate is ready to take the next step with a complete roster across the board. A fully healthy season for Austin Ekeler and Charistian McCaffrey is the difference Nate needs for a deep playoff run.

I can hear an unfamiliar voice screaming from across the country. HE DIDNT TAKE OVER ONE OF THE WORST TEAMS, YOU FUCKING !!!fucK FUcK!!!

1^st Round Picks: Sterling Shepard (2016, Selected by Mac, old owner of DET), Corey Davis (2017, Selected by Russell, old owner of DET), David Njoku (2017, Selected by Russell, old owner of DET), Nick Chubb (2018)

A roller coaster of a history, the Lions have been owned by three people, Mac, (1 year) Russell (1 year) and Nate (3 years). Sterling Shepard has been a low end starter in the past, but that’s his ceiling. Corey Davis has provided next to nothing, but last year was a step in the right direction. Njoku went busto, but perhaps a 2^nd team will do him some good. Nick Chubb, Nate’s only 1^st round pick was a home fucking run.

Shepard, meh. Davis, womp womp. Njoku, busto with faint hope. Chubb, home run.  

2.06 Green Bay Barry SS, Talanoa Hufanga, Southern California Trojans, 6’1” 215 lbs

Barry’s epic 2-round mock comes to a close with the first safety off the board in Polynesian Talanoa Hufanga. He is American, born in Corvallis, home of the Oregon State Beavers. With back-to-back years of over 3 sacks and 2 forced fumbles, Hufanga looks like a big play specialist whose physicality in the box will translate nicely to the NFL. Last year’s 4 INTs may be a bit inflated to his actual coverage ability, but he showed improvement in that area. If the coverage issues can get worked out, Hufanga has top 10 safety upside if his usage is replicated in the NFL.

Barry’s 2021 mock draft results: RB Michael Carter Jr. WR Ja’Marr Chase, WR Jaylen Waddle, EDGE Kwity Paye, LB Jeremiah Onwusu-Koramoah, LB Nick Bolton and SS Talanoa Hufanga.

Overall, the offense looks set to Cleveland steamer all over the NFC North. Akers, Barkley, Carter, Harris, Fuller, Chase, Waddle, Hurst and Fant? That slaps harder than hot sauce in Titus’ digestive track!

2.07 New Orleans Titus S, Jevon Holland, Oregon Ducks, 6’1” 196”

We’re right around the time where almost every position sans CB and special teams come into play. Defense is what needs the biggest tidy and Jevon Holland adds to a safety room featuring nothing inside except a dimly lit light with an angry grandpa shouting racist slurs at the TV. An interception machine, Holland displays elite play-making ability with 9 career interceptions over two years at Oregon. He opted out of the 2020 season, but his value as a day 2 safety puts him in our round 2 conversations. His opportunity will strongly dictate his draft slot, as he could slide into round four in the IFL draft if he’s destined for a deep safety role. Potentially that’s where he’s headed, but he is an adequate run defender and quality tackler.

2.08 Tampa Bay Luke LB, Jabril Cox, Louisiana State Tigers, 6’3” 233 lbs

It’s an annual tradition at this point I pick a LBer in the middle of the 2nd round. Unlike some of the trollops drafted ahead of him, Cox comes into the NFL as an excellent coverage backer. It’s his run defense that is suspect and is often swallowed up by bigger backers. Cox also struggles with quickly diagnosing plays and disengaging blocks. He possesses elite athleticism and is best out in space as a WILL in a 4-3. He could move into a 1^st round pick if he’s likely a starter in his new defense.

2.09 New Orleans Titus SS, Hamsah Nasirildeen, Florida State Seminoles, 6’3” 213 lbs

Two rookie safeties may be starting for Titus, but he’ll likely trade for a veteran or sign one in free agency. Hamsah Nasirildeen has linebacker size, athleticism and instincts to evolve into a quality safety at the next level. A torn ACL ripped into his progression and 2020 was about shaking off the rust before declaring for the NFL draft. He’s a work in progress in coverage, but he’s ready to play on day one as a run defender.

2.10 New Orleans Titus DT, Christian Barmore, Alabama Crimson Tide, 6’5”, 310 lbs

Next to the dimly lit racist grandpa, 10,000 amazon-sized mosquitos are comprised in Titus’ DT room. With the new DT scoring, a pressure monster like Barmore becomes even more valuable and slides into the 2^nd round after not appearing in the AFC draft. Six sacks and three forced fumbles including three massive performances to end the year vaulted up Barmore into a first-round lock. While the motor isn’t always there, he’s displayed elite get-off many compare to Gerald McCoy. The best DTs in our scoring are the ones who can get to the quarterback, giving Barmore top 5 upside if utilized as a 3-tech in a 4-3.

2.11 New York DJ QB, Trey Lance, North Dakota State, 6’3” 224 lbs

Sir Derrick Billingsworth the III of Manhattan is poorly equipped for a bum fight with just Daniel Jones and Cam Newton at the helm. The moment Trey Lance steps onto an NFL football field, he has weekly top 5 upside. His rushing ability is that good and if he can just post slightly above average passing stats, he’ll be a mainstay starter. The hooker rushed 169 times for 1,100 yards in 2019, with 14 touchdowns on the ground. A 66% passer with 2,786 yards and 28 passing touchdowns displays an accurate and efficient passer with a Lamar Jackson upside. It may take some time to adjust to NFL defenses, the passing efficiency may be a work in progress early in his career. Lance is the easy choice to be the #2 QB off the board.

2.12 New Orleans Titus TE Pat Freiermuth, Penn State Nittany Lions, 6’5” 250 lbs

Titus, we have beaten your defense to death, haven’t we? Adding four defenders is a solid bunch, but adding more offensive depth is the route I’m for that’ll give you the most value now into the future. There are some solid defensive end prospects, but you’re set there with Chase Young, Montez Sweat, Carl Lawson and Jadeveon Clowney. You love tight ends with a rich stable at the position, so a sloberknocker like Freiermuth would fit right in. A savvy route runner, he finds holes in zones with ease and is a fucking mac truck in the physicality department. His upside to have a 3-down role out of the gate is increased as he’s one of the best run blocking tight ends in the class. A bit of a forgotten man after opting out early in the NCAA season, he won’t make it past day 2 of the NFL draft.

2.13 Tampa Bay Luke WR, Rondale Moore, Purdue Boilermakers, 5’9” 175 lbs

To exit the first two rounds without an offensive player would be silly and late in the 2^nd round is ripe for catching these stud receiver prospects who slipped through the cracks. Growing up a Boilermaker fan, exciting times were few and far between. Purdue’s upset win against #2 Ohio State in 2018 was on the back of Moore’s 194 scrimmage yards and 2 TDs, including a big 43-yard touchdown to seal the 49-20 win. He’s a shifty as they come and with a thick lower body, can hopefully withstand the rigors of the NFL. He faced a disappointing end to his sophomore campaign four games in after tearing his hamstring. Soft tissue injuries can be tricky and hopefully won’t plague him through his NFL career like so many receivers before him. In a simple offense, Moore’s potential was never realized, but a creative mind can utilize him in a multitude of ways.

2.14 New York DJ LB Cameron McGrone, Michigan, 6’1” 232 lbs

It would be disrespectful to everyone’s time if I didn’t talk about McGrone through two mocks. Khalil Mack and Bobby Okereke are the only commodities at linebacker and one is moving to DE next year and the other may never be a full-time player. Enter McGrone, who like Bolton before him profiles as a MLB at the next level. While he has some work to do in coverage, McGrone’s run defense and blitzing is top notch. His ability to diagnose plays and get downhill is what defensive coordinators crave in the middle of their defenses. A high floor player, it’s possible he vaults into the first round if he’s a projected starter as a rookie.

2.15 New Orleans Titus RB, Khalil Herbert, Virginia Tech Hokies, 5’9” 204 lbs

A stab at running back at the end of the 2^nd with an early day 3 running back in a good situation is the route I took for Titus. Herbert’s production in 2020 showcased a disciplined runner with excellent vision and contact balance. The #ThickThighClub is salivates with Herbert’s base. While he’s a no show in the passing game heading into the pros, he is a starting caliber rusher and if opportunity knocks he could immerse himself as a 1a in a backfield.

Titus’ 8 picks transformed his roster and has 11 more picks in the next two rounds! With offensive dart throws and building a defensive base the focus, let’s see how the mock rounded out.

Titus’ 2021 mock draft results:RB Khalil Herbert, WR DeVonta Smith, WR Terrance Marshall Jr, TE Pat Freiermuth, DT Christian Barmore, LB Dylan Moses, S Jevon Holland and SS Hamsah Nasrildeen.

A diversity of picks across his roster, not too shabby.

2.16 Seattle Will EDGE Jaelan Phillips, Miami Hurricanes, 6’5” 258 lbs

Will’s only pick of the first two rounds, he’ll be looking to swing big. A 2^nd string QB is an option, but like Nate, I’ll be dammed if I give you a QB for your only pick. Perhaps a replacement for Nick Bosa is in the cards in the back of the 2^nd round. The #1 overall recruit out of high school according to 247Sports faceplanted in two seasons at UCLA. A freak injury from a scooter accident ended his 2018 year and he retired a year later citing reoccurring concussions. After transferring to Miami, it all clicked for Phillips, with eight sacks, three pass defended and an interception. There were spouts of elite play in 2020 and most sites rank him within the top 3 EDGE defenders.

You’re welcome for the 2nd round pick donation!

Playoff Results: 5 appearances, 2016, #4 Seed, WC Round, 2017, #2 seed, Divisional Round, 2018, #4 seed, Divisional Round, 2019, #5 seed, Divisional Round, 2020, #7 seed, Divisional Round Playoff Record: 3-5

Will’s half decade run of playoff appearances is only matched by Brad. A three-time division champion, Will’s divisional round exits the last four years have undoubtedly gotten old. It’ll be interesting to see if Will follows other GMs by blowing up their roster to retool to create a team that can finally get over the hump.

1^st Round Picks: Josh Doctson (2016), Derrick Henry (2016), Tyler Boyd (2016), Samaje Perine (2017), Leighton Vander Esch (2018), Nick Bosa (2019), N’Keal Harry (2019)

We end the mock with a sketchy list. A couple have hit over time, but it’s been a mixed bag for most of the quality players. A few went busto big time. Doctson, Perine and Harry fit the busto bill. Henry, Boyd, LVE and Bosa all have struggled for consistent production at times in their careers, but all four hold quality value. Henry is a top 5 running back. Boyd is now tethered to a young QB. LVE has a make or break 2021. Bosa is a top 5 option at EDGE.

Doctson, dead. Henry, late blooming stud muffin delux. Boyd, post hype breakout. Perine, career backup. Leighton Vander Esch, motor runs low sometimes. Bosa, fuck yea! Harry, busto.

Just missed the cut: QB Justin Fields, QB Zach Wilson, RB Chuba Hubbard, WR Kadarius Toney, WR Tylan Wallace, WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR Elijah Moore, WR Dyami Brown, TE Brevin Jordan, EDGE Azeez Ojulari, EDGE Joseph Ossai, EDGE Jayson Oweh, LB Baron Browning, S Trevon Moehrig and S Richie Grant.