6th Annual Football Garbage Time Twitter NFL Mock Draft! – Round 1

By the Football Garbage Time Staff

Howdy, y’all!

We all know that the NFL Draft is right around the corner, beginning on April 23rd.  And we all know that the choices that teams make that night will be a significant part in whether they end up with the Lombardi Trophy and the 32nd pick in a future draft, or if they end up with the first overall pick looking to rebuild.

Seeing as how important these decisions are, we here at Football Garbage Time again got together and decided to conduct a mock draft.  In fact, this will be our 6th Annual Twitter NFL Mock Draft!

This year, ten different writers & podcasters from five different sites participated, including:

Each one took part as GMs of several teams in the draft, and conducted the mock draft live over two weeks on Twitter (feel free to check out the back and forth on Twitter by searching for #FGTMock).  A few trends became clear and we certainly had more than a few surprises.

Check out the entire Draft HERE!

Missed it?  Don’t want to check Twitter?  Well, you’re in luck, because we have Round 1 of that mock draft below along with the reasoning for each pick by each writer.

1 – Cincinnati Bengals

Pick: Joe Burrow – QB

Staff: Scott King

The Bengals land their franchise QB in Burrow. There are questions around his pop in his last season, but we’ll see how it works out. Good luck to him.

2 – Washington Redskins

Pick: Chase Young – DE

Staff: Adam Aniba

Young adds the type of talent that Washington’s pass rush has lacked. Although their sack numbers have been middle of the pack, game changing plays have been missing from this defense. With the switch to the 4-3 under HC Rivera and DC Del Rio the OSU pass rusher steps in on day one and solidifies a line that boasts an impressive unit with Montez Sweat, Ryan Kerrigan Matt Ioannidis, Daron Payne, John Allen and Tim Settle. Watch out for this defense! #HTTR

3 – Detroit Lions

Pick: Tua Tagovailoa – QB

Staff: Scott King

The Lions take Tua in our mock draft but I think this is the 3rd pick, not the direction the Lions head. They need to trade out of here and grab more value.

4 – New York Giants

Pick: Jerry Jeudy – WR

Staff: Wole Akinso

The Giants adding Alabama receiver Jerry Jeudy, gives them a playmaker that should replace the void of OBJ.  It gives them a young offensive nucleus to build around for years to come— Saquon Barkley, Daniel Jones, Evan Engram, and Jeudy.  Quarterback Daniel Jones will obviously get better having a stud like Jeudy.  It’s a slam dunk pick.

5 – Miami Dolphins

Pick: Jordan Love – QB

Staff: Joanne Kong

Ryan Fitzpatrick deserves a lot of credit for leading the 2019 team in the defeating division rival New England Patriots in the final regular season game, which ultimately lost the Patriots the bye-week and their chance at Super Bowl 54.  But, although something few teams have achieved, Miami isn’t looking to just beat the New England Patriots.  They’re looking to win a Super Bowl.

With a 2019 season of 5-11, Miami’s primary need will be at the quarterback position.  Originally, it was thought that Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa was going to be their primary pick in the position, but the two appear to be a “mismatched fit.”

So who?

Jordan Love might be that quarterback they can build around.

“Jordan Love has a higher ceiling,” NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah said on CBS Sports Radio this week. “He needs to be developed a little bit more. But he has more of that playmaker gene to him — play off-script, make things happen. It’s not how it’s always drawn up on the play card. You’ve got to be able adjust and react and make plays, and I think that’s where Jordan Love has an advantage of someone like Herbert, but he’s not going to be able to play right away.”

The biggest concern for any team looking at Love would be his decrease in production.  Love went from 32 touchdowns in his Sophomore year to 20 touchdowns and 6 interceptions in his Junior year.  Most experts aren’t concerned, seeing his future potential outweigh his college performance.  Love has a solid arm, a quick release, and plenty of athleticism.  He may need to sit and watch for a year, but which is where Fitzpatrick comes in, but sky is the limit.  And sky is the limit is exactly what the Dolphins need.

6 – Los Angeles Chargers

Pick: Tristan Wirfs – OL

Staff: Ha Kung Wong

Without Philip Rivers behind center, there’s probably bigger issues overall, but arguably the top 3 QBs were already off the board, and although I think Herbert is fine, I wasn’t sure if he’d be a fit for the Chargers.  So I went the next big need, and that’s to shore up the offensive line.  And the Chargers’ biggest issue along the offensive line has been at right tackle. The last two seasons, it’s been mostly Sam Tevi, a former sixth round pick out of the University of Utah, and it’s time for an upgrade, whether the Chargers decide to go with Tyrod Taylor, draft a new QB or grab another veteran in free agency.

If you’ve been following, you know how much of a huge man-crush I have on Tristan Wirfs.  I spoke about him on the podcast and covered him again after his epic performance at the Combine.  And in case you missed it, Wirfs recorded a 40-yard dash of 4.85 seconds, the best time of any offensive lineman this year. Prior to that, he posted a 36.5” Vertical Jump, the best of any offensive linemen ever and a 121” Broad Jump, which ties offensive lineman Kolton Miller’s Combine record from 2018. And if that wasn’t enough, he recorded a 7.65-second Three Cone drill, good for 5th best among offensive linemen.  So, yeah, he was good.

The Chargers should be able to build around Wirfs for years, and his addition will be an instant upgrade.

7 – Carolina Panthers

Pick: Justin Herbert – QB

Staff: Joey Alibro

If this mock is what I would do, and not what the teams are going to do, then I think Herbert is the guy I’d go with for Carolina. They signed Bridgewater after this pick, but I still don’t think he’s the long term answer there.

8 – Arizona Cardinals

Pick: Andrew Thomas – OL

Pick: Ryan Whitfield

9 – Jacksonville Jaguars

Pick: Isaiah Simmons – LB

Staff: FXP Jr.

I chose Isaiah Simmons for the Jags because he is an all around player for their defense. He can play all positions in defense and can also cover man and be an edge threat.

10 – Cleveland Browns

Pick: Mekhi Becton – OL

Staff: Ha Kung Wong

With former starting left tackle Greg Robinson perhaps spending his next season in jail, and with starting right tackle Chris Hubbard potentially also leaving, or moving to guard, there was a real need at tackle in Cleveland.  Yes, the Browns did right and signed Jack Conklin away from the Titans for a hefty $42M over 3 years, but there’s definitely room for more improvement.

In steps Mekhi Becton.  Sure, due to Becton’s weight, folks might have some questions regarding his fit in Kevin Stefanski’s zone-blocking scheme, which requires more mobility and athleticism.  But this big-man has speed. Becton, who is the biggest player at this year’s combine having measured 6-foot-7⅜ and 364 pounds, put up an official 5.10 clocking in the 40-yard dash.  According to ESPN Stats & Information research, Becton is the heaviest player to run a sub-5.2 40-yard dash at the combine since 2006.  And his general athleticism isn’t something new — just check out Becton’s basketball highlights from high school, which includes plenty of dunks.

The Browns were the crazy stacked team that failed to live up to expectations.  Their wiser for it this time around, and shoring up the o-line is never a bad move, particularly with a prospect like Becton.

11 – New York Jets

Pick: Jeff Okudah – CB

Staff: Joanne Kong

The New York Jets clearly aren’t finished rebuilding and last years 7-9 record is the evidence.  Sam Donald’s ability to manage the ball won’t be enough if the Jet’s defense falters.  Quinnen Williams leads a defensive line that topped the league in run defense, allowing only 86.9 yards per game.  However, strong play against the run won’t offset an inability to containing the pass.  The Jets defense ranked 17th in passing yards allowed, averaging 236.2 yards allowed per game.

Strengthening at cornerback should be one of the Jets’ top concerns, and Jeff Okudah will likely fill the hole.  From Ohio State, Okudah is considered one of the best corners in college and can take the Jets defense to another level with his abilities as a shutdown corner.  Adding a lockdown corner will help the Jets open up the playbook using Jamal Adams in complementary coverage as well as to provide pressure, and instantly improve the Jets pass defense.

12 – Las Vegas Raiders

Pick: Henry Ruggs – WR

Staff: Joey Alibro

The most athletic player in the draft to the Raiders is a match made in heaven. A team seriously lacking in weapons picks up the top wideout in a loaded receiver class.

13 – San Francisco 49ers (from the Indianapolis Colts)

Pick: CeeDee Lamb – WR

Staff: Adam Aniba

San Francisco lands one of the most dynamic receivers in the draft in CeeDee Lamb, after they acquire the 13th overall pick from the Colts in exchange for DL Buckner. Although Deboo Samuel made his mark last season for SF, the lack of a true top #1 receiver is what Jimmy G could be missing. The Oklahoma pass catcher reminds some of new Cardinals WR DeAndre Hopkins, but is farther along as a 1st receiver. This could be the addition that gives Kyle Shanahan an opportunity to repeat as NFC Champs.

14 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Pick: Javon Kinlaw – DL

Staff: Scott King

With the Bucs solving their offensive issues, they build strength on the opposite side of the line. Kinlaw gives them strength up front.

15 – Denver Broncos

Pick: Laviska Shenault – WR

Staff: Adam Aniba

The Broncos waste not time submitting their pick when the draft’s Swiss Army knife, do it all Colorado receiver Laviska Shenault still on the board. Elway’s future franchise quarterback Drew Lock needs another weapon alongside promising third year receiver Courtland Sutton and they get there man in Shenault. Broncos fans rejoice with the addition of one of the most versatile offensive weapons in the draft.

16 – Atlanta Falcons

Pick: JK Dobbins – RB

Staff: FXP Jr.

JK Dobbins is a speed agility back. He can make you miss in open field and has the speed to outrun you.

17 – Dallas Cowboys

Pick: Grant Delpit – S

Staff: Joey Alibro

Dallas losing Byron Jones hurts. They could go corner, but with Okudah going early and a huge gap between him and the next guy, Dallas should go with LSU’s Delpit who is my favorite safety in this year’s class.

18 – Miami Dolphins

Pick: Jedrick Wills – OL

Staff: Joanne Kong

Miami’s needs are extensive.  With their 2nd of 3rd picks in the first round, the Dolphins are likely to draft an offensive tackle.  Ryan Fitzpatrick was sacked 40 times in 15 games played in the 2019 season and Josh Rosen was sacked 16 times in 6 games played. It’s clear that the need for an offensive tackle is significant.

Willis allowed only 1 sack during his final two seasons with Alabama, and helped running back Najee Harris rush for 1,224 yards and 13 touchdowns last season.  Need I say more?

19 – Las Vegas Raiders

Pick: Kenneth Murray – LB

Staff: Joey Alibro

Not as flashy as their last pick, but the Raiders pick up a solid starter in Murray. He’s locked in as LB2 on a lot of boards and that’s decent value at pick 19.

20 – Jacksonville Jaguars

Pick: Xavier McKinney – CB

Staff: FXP Jr.

He is a power hitter with the speed to cover. He can play press on you and stay back in zone and have nothing over the top.

21 – Philadelphia Eagles

Pick: Justin Jefferson – WR

Staff: Mike Knox

22 – Buffalo Bills

Pick: Josh Jones – OL

Staff: Joanne Kong

At 6-feet 7-inches and 310 lbs, Josh Jones played left tackle during his time at the University of Houston.  Described as having natural skills and dominant physicality, Jones is considered one of the top five offensive tackle prospects in the 2020 draft class. Although his skills are raw, Jones has a high ceiling. With Dion Dawkins having the left side locked, Jones stated that he would be willing to play either the left or right side. Regardless, the Bills could use Jones to immediately strengthen their offensive line and improve their run game in the upcoming season.

23 – New England Patriots

Pick: Tee Higgins – WR

Staff: Ryan Whitfield

24 – New Orleans Saints

Pick: Jalen Reagor – WR 

Staff: Joey Alibro

Michael Thomas gets a running mate! If the saints don’t add a guy like Robby Anderson, who for some reason is drawing no interest, then I can definitely see them going wideout early.

25 – Minnesota Vikings

Pick: Trevon Diggs – CB 

Staff: Dan Thury

26 – Miami Dolphins

Pick: D’Andre Swift – RB 

Staff: Joanne Kong

In the 2019 season, Miami’s top rusher was quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick with 243 yards. Fitzpatrick also had the most rushing attempts at 54. Clearly, unless you’re the Baltimore Ravens, this is not how you win games in the NFL, and it’s not a surprise that the team finished the season 5-11 using only half their playbook.  It’s obvious Miami has a glaring need at the running back position.

Only getting better with each season with Georgia, D’Andre Swift combined for 2,885 rushing yards, 20 touchdowns, 666 receiving yards and 5 receiving touchdowns.  Swift is considered by some as the top running back in the 2020 draft class and might be the addition the offense needs.  And regardless, Swift couldn’t be any worse than what the Dolphins had in 2019.

27 – Seattle Seahawks

Pick: C.J. Henderson – CB 

Staff: Ryan Whitfield

28 – Baltimore Ravens

Pick: Patrick Queen – LB 

Staff: Dan Thury

29 – Tennessee Titans

Pick: A.J. Epenesa – DE

Staff: Joanne Kong

The Titans’ Cinderella run for Super Bowl 54 came to an end in the AFC Championship game, losing to the Kansas City Chiefs and now Super Bowl 54 champions.  With many solid pieces in place, including a revitalized Ryan Tannehill and “King” Derrick Henry, the Titans are looking at potentially bright future (whenever that may be).

One of the positions the Titans need to plug is defensive end.  Harold Landry solidified himself as the foundation for the defensive front line, but Landry is only half of an edge-rushing duo, and the Titans don’t expect to return Cameron Wake. The veteran had 2.5 sacks in Week 1, and then disappeared for the rest of the season.  AJ Epenesa totaled 61 solo tackles, 40 assisted tackles, 9 forced fumbles and a defensive touchdown during his career at Iowa.  With the ability to apply pressure, 34-inch arm reach and sheer intimidation and power, Epenesa will be a needed addition to the Titans defensive front line.  And with a lower than expected Combine showing, Epenesa may be available at pick 29, making him an excellent value.

30 – Green Bay Packers

Pick: Brandon Aiyuk – WR 

Staff: Ha Kung Wong

So if there’s one thing that became clear last season, its that the Packers need another reliable wide receiver.  Davante Adams is great, but he’ll be turning 28 next season and Aaron Rodgers will be turning 37.  The Packers are running out of time to make it to the Super Bowl, and although they could also use some help on the O-line, I’m thinking a top wide receiver will make an instant impact.  Perhaps unsurprisingly, 7 wide receivers were already off the board by the time pick 30 came around, but that’s OK, because I really like Brandon Aiyuk.  Ayuk spent much of the 2018 season at Arizona State playing behind recent first round pick N’Keal Harry. But in 2019, he became the focal point of the passing offense and didn’t disappoint being the second leading receiver in the Pac-12 on only 65 catches, demonstrating huge big-play ability.

Brandon Aiyuk ASU Receiving Stats
Rece Rece Rece Rece
Year Class G Rec Yds Avg TD
*2018 JR 13 33 474 14.4 3
*2019 SR 12 65 1192 18.3 8
Career 98 1666 17.0 11

He’s got plenty of speed, with long arms to make tough grabs, but could add some strength, and still has to prove he can run complex routes in the NFL.  But just having a reliable target that can beat coverage will be a boon to the Packers.

31 – San Francisco 49ers

Pick: Kyle Dugger – S/LB

Staff: Adam Aniba

After San Francisco gives DL Arik Armstead a new 5 year contract, they pull the trigger at #31 by selecting the Burgundy and Gold Report Small School Prospect of year S/LB Kyle Dugger from Lenoir-Rhyne University. The 6’1” 220 lb hybrid shores up the 49ers backend, while also adding an ideal sub-package LB who boasts 4.49 speed with an eye popping 42” vertical leap.

32 – Kansas City Chiefs

Pick: Jaylon Johnson – CB

Staff: Joey Alibro

The defending super bowl champs are loaded on offense, so I have them fortifying the most important position on defense in today’s NFL. Johnson isn’t overly athletic, but has the coverage skills to slide in day 1 as a starter.

Check out Round 2 of our Mock Draft!

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