Buffalo Sports Talk's 2021 NFL Draft Guide!

Welcome to the 2021 NFL Draft Guide! Below you will find each position, its overall breakdown of talent, notes on each prospect, where they can expect to be drafted and where teams can find the best value. Enjoy!

Quarterbacks: I am impressed with this class of quarterbacks. Trevor Lawrence and Zach Wilson are both great prospects that show little flaws in their game. They should be fun to watch in their rookie year. Justin Fields is a bit more unknown as a prospect, but I am confident he is a top talent in this year’s draft and could certainly pan out as a franchise quarterback. Fields shows superstar potential with his dual-threat ability but will need to become a better passer if he wants to succeed in the league. Mac Jones and Trey Lance are two prospects who teams are torn on. I think Jones is more polished as a passer and ready for an opportunity in the league. Lance seems more like a developmental project with some red flags, but his potential his top-tier. I do not see any team with an urgent need at quarterback looking for Lance to fill that role, but he is perfect for any team looking to develop a quarterback. Finally, Kyle Trask is likely a day two selection that offers quite the upside. His good decision-making and raw talent show a ton of promise for the next level.

Where can teams find value: The top prospects in this class show the most upside. Teams who are selecting high in the draft and need a quarterback should take advantage.

Trevor Lawrence, Clemson: Trevor Lawrence is likely one of the best quarterback prospects we’ve seen in the past couple of decades. It is very likely he goes as the top selection in this draft and it’s for a good reason. Lawrence shows everything you’d like to see in a franchise quarterback. He has a strong arm that can make every throw on the field, accuracy is not a concern, he can navigate the pocket well and make the right decisions quickly. When a team finds a way to slow down his passing game, he has no issue using his legs to get a first down or two. Lawrence doesn’t rely on his legs to make big plays, but the threat of his rushing ability is scary enough for a defense to have to account for. Overall, Lawrence is the top prospect in this year’s draft for a reason. He has all the tools to be a franchise quarterback. However, just like any quarterback, the transition to the league is never easy. Like every other prospect, Lawrence will face challenges in the league. Ultimately it will come down to how he faces those challenges. You can be as talented as you want, but when you make the transition to the league as a quarterback, your career is defined by how you overcome your challenges. It is a true do-or-die situation. Luckily for Lawrence, he’s played in big moments and won national championships so he’s not new to facing challenges.

Zach Wilson, BYU: Zach Wilson is a true gunslinger. His arm talent is great. Wilson’s ability to fit the ball into tight windows is impressive. Whether it’s throwing between linebackers, fitting a deep ball right over the shoulder of a corner, or throwing the ball to the sideline, he’s more than capable. He is by no means as mobile as Fields, but just like Lawrence, a team can use his rushing ability as a threat in the red zone and he can scramble to get the first down. Wilson has a confident poise in the pocket and is good at navigating through pressure. He routinely made the right decisions in pressure situations. Very early on in the draft, there is going to likely be a team who has to decide between Justin Fields and Zach Wilson. I think both are fantastic prospects, but I urge that team to go with Wilson. His arm talent is elite. He is the better passer than Fields and well, you win by passing the ball. As we always say, the most important factor to the success of a young quarterback is the team he goes to. If they build a good team around Wilson and support him through his transition to the league, he could be a top quarterback in the league very soon.

Justin Fields, Ohio State: Justin Fields has the potential to be one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the league with some development to his passing game. Again, the transition is never easy for any quarterback. The Ohio State Buckeyes ran a fair amount of play-action to keep teams honest with Fields' deep ball. They also ran plenty of read-option plays and plays that had Fields rolling to the left or right. That utilized his ability to throw on the run and they burned defenses because of it. I would expect whatever team he goes to, to utilize these skills. Overall, his arm talent and running ability are a rare combination that could be electric at the next level. He doesn’t depend on his legs to open up the passing game, but he can create large gains with his legs if you don’t respect his mobility. If he lands with a team that puts talent around him and develops him with patience, he could be a superstar.

Mac Jones, Alabama: Mac Jones is a polarizing prospect. Some think he’s worthy to be a top ten selection and a team’s future franchise quarterback. Others think he shouldn’t be a first-round pick. Jones throws the ball well with timing and touch. He also has mobility which can extend plays and be useful in the red zone. However, when you watch him and pay attention to the offensive system Alabama runs, you have to wonder how much of his success is just a product of the system and talent around him. Don’t get me wrong, Jones has plenty of talent, but he had three playmakers around him that likely are picked on day one of the draft. He also had three senior offensive linemen who will likely be selected in this year’s draft. Alabama used a lot of play-action, screenplays, and quick dump-off passes to get the ball in the hands of their playmakers. Now, this isn’t a knock-on Jones. He was very impressive in 2020. I just wonder how much he will shine with less talent around him and different coaching. With that being said, he is a smart quarterback who makes the right decisions quickly. When you mix that with his arm talent, it will be tough for some teams to pass on him.

Trey Lance, North Dakota State: When you watch Trey Lance you see a lot of traits that you want in a quarterback. Lance has good arm strength that allows him to sling the ball all over the field. He also has good mobility and can extend plays with his feet. Lance has ideal size being 6’4, 226lbs too. Also, when he runs, he’s not afraid to lower the shoulder to gain a first down, and his legs are a weapon in their own right. In 2019, Lance ran for over a thousand yards and fourteen touchdowns. However, he has his flaws. In 2018, he only attempted one pass. In 2019 he lit up college football with 28 touchdowns and zero interceptions. Then in 2020, North Dakota State only played one game and he was far from impressive. It is fair for teams to be timid about Lance. He is certainly not a day one starter. He will need to refine his mechanics to become more fluid and accurate, learn an entirely new offense, and adjust to NFL defenses. The transition from North Dakota State to the NFL appears like it will be a tough one for Lance, but his potential is there. Whoever drafts him will need to develop him with patience and support him with talent when he gets his shot.

Kyle Trask, Florida: Kyle Trask shows a lot of traits that teams like to see in a quarterback. He has good size at 6’5, 240lbs. Trask also has an arm that can make any throw on the field. With deep balls, he shows good timing and good touch. Florida’s offense seemed fairly simple for Trask. Once Trask figured out if it was man coverage or zone coverage he had one or two reads to make and if the ball is still in his hands then Florida usually provided him with a safe check down option. Trask’s decision-making was impressive though. He used the check down option when needed, but never heavily relied on it. He was not afraid to take shots downfield and he trusted his receivers to make difficult catches. These are good signs for a young quarterback. However, Trask will certainly need to develop when it comes to schematics. To be successful as a quarterback, you need to be able to read the defense and sometimes make two to three reads in a play. This is an area where Trask needs to improve. If he can take that step, he could be a good quarterback in this league. Luckily for him, teams are looking for him as more of a day two or day three option which likely won’t throw him into the situation of starting right away. A year or two behind a veteran quarterback could do wonders for Trask.

Wide Receivers: This is yet another wide receiver class filled with talent. This class will produce day two and day three selections that are immediate contributors. Towards the top of this class, there are some receivers who should make immense contributions right away. Ja'Marr Chase, Jaylen Waddle, and Devonta Smith are in a tier of their own. Then as you go down the list, you see some versatile wide receivers like Rashod Bateman, Terrace Marshall Jr., and Dyami Brown. Those three should be drafted by teams who are looking for immediate help on day one or day two. Beyond that, there are playmakers all over this draft class. In round one alone there’s Rondale Moore, Kardarius Toney, and Elijah Moore. As you continue down the list there are a lot more. These playmakers will be utilized in the slot due to their short-area quickness, but also their ability to stretch the field with their long-distance speed. The top talent in this class is elite but it is safe to say there will be hidden gems in this class on days two and three who contribute immensely from day one.

Where can teams find value: Although the top talent in this class is elite, the best value may be on day two where teams can spend second and third round selections on players with high upside. A few players to look at are Dyami Brown and Amon Ra St. Brown.

Ja’Marr Chase, LSU: Ja'Marr Chase is truly the best wide receiver in this class. Chase tore up college football in 2019 when playing on that legendary LSU team. That year Chase won the Biletnikoff Award which goes to college football’s best wide receiver. Who did he beat out for the award you might ask? Oh, only Ceedee Lamb and Michael Pittman Jr. who both had impressive rookie seasons in the league. Chase has the tools to do the same. On another note, he also was the WR1 on this LSU team. Who was WR2? Oh, just Justin Jefferson who tore up the league during his rookie campaign. Chase’s route running is fluid, he has good hands, and his ability to gain yards after the catch is impressive. He has breakaway speed and he’s the type of guy to fight through tackles to gain extra yards. Chase also has an expansive route tree which allows him to stretch the field, beat teams underneath, make tight catches on the sideline or over the middle. He emphasizes catching the ball with his hands which is a good sign too. Most of all, Chase plays bigger than he is. By no means is Chase small, but his ability to go up and get a contested ball is impressive. It won’t be too deep into the draft when we hear his name called though and well, I hope it’s not called by an AFC East team.

Devonta Smith, Alabama: Devonta Smith is a very well-rounded prospect. His route running, speed and catch radius make him pop on tape. He has a very expansive route tree which makes him difficult to cover. Smith has an elite ability to make sideline catches as well. He shows great body control while in the air and showed no issue getting two feet in bounds. Smith also shows good versatility at the wide receiver position. I think he could come in and be a team’s number one option, but he would greatly benefit from playing more of a slot role, setting up off the line of scrimmage. I think Waddle is more of an explosive playmaker than Smith, but Smith shows that ability too. Also, I believe Smith is a more well-rounded prospect who offers more of an instant impact at the next level. I think it is very likely Waddle is selected first and rightfully so based on his dynamic play-making ability, but in my opinion, Smith is currently the better overall prospect.

Jaylen Waddle, Alabama: Jaylen Waddle is a playmaker. He can do so much more than stretch the field. His route running ability is impressive but most of all, Waddle can accelerate to his top speed very quickly out of breaks in his routes. That is a deadly trait in the league and the reason why guys like Tyreek Hill and Will Fuller are great deep threats. Waddle has the potential to be the same, but he will need to improve in some areas. With his smaller stature, he will need to focus on the ability to create separation while in press coverage. That is likely how most teams will attempt to stop him at first. They will use press coverage and attempt to jam him at the line. Even if that is successful, they won’t be able to do so every play because he will be lined up off the line of scrimmage often, and well, there are other ways to get Waddle the ball. That is why I say he is a playmaker, not a speedster. Whoever drafts Waddle should find ways to put the ball in his hands. Whether it be screens, jet sweeps, etc. just putting the ball in Waddle’s hands utilizes his elite speed and agility to create explosive plays. Alabama did this at times and well, it worked out well for them. Not to mention teams will have to respect him when it comes to these “gadget” style plays or he will burn them. Waddle is much more than a deep threat and gadget player though. He can make plays between the numbers and near the sideline. Waddle’s ability to go up and get a ball or make a catch on the sideline is impressive and the reason he should be known as more than a speedster. Just like Chase, it won’t be long before his name is called.

Rashod Bateman, Minnesota: Rashod Bateman is a versatile receiver with an expansive route tree. He is quite tough to cover one on one. Bateman also has good size and elite hands which allows him to make difficult catches in traffic. At Minnesota, his quarterback could throw him a ball when in trouble, and due to his extensive catch radius, he just made plays. Not to mention, he offers the ability to gain yards after the catch with his athleticism and speed. Bateman reminds me a bit of Justin Jefferson. A versatile wide receiver prospect who is projected to be selected in the mid to late first round. If he gets an opportunity like Jefferson to learn from a veteran, he could also have an impressive rookie campaign.

Dyami Brown, North Carolina: Dyami Brown's name has been flying up draft boards as we approach the draft. Teams are loving what they see on film and how it can translate to the next level. I am feeding into that hype. Brown is an excellent athlete and a great route runner. He can play all over the field and should be able to adjust to any scheme. He provides explosive play ability due to his speed and run after the catch ability. Brown's ability after the catch isn't just due to his athleticism but also grit. He isn't afraid to take a hit to make a play. Just like I said with Ja'Marr Chase, he plays bigger than he actually is. Brown appears to have the tools to succeed right away at the next level and can provide teams with a versatile set of skills.

Kadarius Toney, Florida: Florida just found ways to give Kadarius Toney the ball. They utilized him with wide receiver screens, jet sweeps and they even put him in the backfield at times. His mix of speed, elusiveness, and strength is too much for a defender. He’s much more than a “gadget” player though. He is an intricate route runner. His ability to be patient in his route but also quick is impressive. He should be an immediate impact player and his talents would be maximized in the slot. I feel like his game compares to Deebo Samuel. Both Toney and Samuel are explosive playmakers that just need the ball to create a play. I think Toney is more of a compliment to an offense rather than a number one wide receiver but being a compliment on the right team could make him a hidden gem for the team that needs “that one more” weapon next year.

Terrace Marshall Jr., LSU: Unless you’re counting Kyle Pitts as a wide receiver, Terrace Marshall Jr. is our biggest wide receiver prospect yet. Marshall is 6’3, 200lbs. He’s not exactly a gigantic wideout but he has a large catch radius. Mix that with some speed and solid route running, and well, he’s a versatile wide receiver. He’s a deceptive route runner that can make plays after he catches the ball. He can run with toughness but also has breakaway speed to take advantage of the smallest gaps in the defense. Marshall is a true athlete at the position and with his size and route running, he could be a problem for opposing defenses.

Rondale Moore, Purdue: Rondale Moore is an explosive playmaker. Purdue found ways to put the ball in his hands and well, he took off from there. Whether it was a wide receiver screen, a jet sweep, or catching the ball out of the backfield, if Moore is given space, he will make the opponent pay. His ability to run after the catch comes from his elite speed, agility, and balance. Although he is a smaller prospect, he is difficult to take down. Moore is much more than a gadget playmaker though. His route running is very sudden and sound. He also makes catches with his hands which is a good sign. Moore can stretch the field and beat defenses over the top with speed but also shows the ability to line up in the slot and make plays with his route running. Moore’s biggest knock is due to durability concerns. He played just seven games between 2019 and 2020. If Moore can stay healthy, he offers explosive playmaking ability to whoever drafts him. There’s a good amount of people who will tell you that Moore is the better prospect than Toney. I have Toney higher on my list just due to a personal preference in playstyle, but I don’t think it’s crazy to have Moore higher. Both are similar prospects.

Elijah Moore, Ole Miss: Elijah Moore is also a very similar prospect to Moore and Toney. Moore thrives in space and whoever selects him should just be looking for ways to put the ball in his hands. His route running is impressive, but I wouldn’t say his route tree is expansive as Moore or Toney. Moore will need to be in a limited role at the next level for his rookie season. Teams should look to utilize his speed, elusiveness, and quick route-running ability. He should be a good asset in the red zone and as a returner.

D'Wayne Eskridge, Western Michigan: D'Wayne Eskridge was just on another level than his opponents at Western Michigan and it was most evident after the catch. Eskridge has elite speed and he used it to outrun defenders for massive gains. His route running is also very impressive. He can be running full speed, plant his foot in the ground, and change directions to gain yards upfield. His release at the snap is also extremely impressive. When teams attempted to jam him at the line he had no issue combating that. Not to mention, he has good hands. Eskridge will see an increase in the talent level of competition at the next level, so he won’t be an immediate stud, but between his route running and speed, teams will have to respect him every time he steps foot on the field. Eskridge also did some punt and kick returning for Western Michigan. I’d expect to see him with those duties at the next level as he develops into a more prominent role in the offense.

Sage Surratt, Wake Forest: Sage Surratt appears to have what it takes to succeed at the next level. He is a big-bodied wide receiver and he certainly plays like it. His size allows him to go up and get a 50/50 ball. Surratt is no speedster, but he has enough speed with his size to stretch the field vertically. His route tree is fairly expansive, but he will need to improve his route running to stand out at the next level. Surratt is likely a day two or day three selection, but he could be one of the players who makes an immediate impact. He’s not going to line up as a team’s number one wide receiver, but he will have a role in any offense due to his versatility. You can tell he plays with grit and a chip on his shoulder.

Amon Ra St. Brown, USC: Amon Ra St. Brown is probably one of the more underrated players in this draft. A couple of years back I was a big fan of his brother, Equanimeous St. Brown who currently plays on the Green Bay Packers. Regardless, St. Brown is a versatile wideout. He can line up almost anywhere on the field. He can stretch the field vertically or play in the slot and beat teams underneath. He’s a true playmaker. Despite his flashy speed and good route running he also plays with grit.

Tylan Wallace, Oklahoma State: When watching Tylan Wallace you notice two things. One, he can stretch the field with his speed. Two, he is very good at catching the ball in traffic. Whether it be getting his feet down in bounds in a tight window or going up to get a ball, Wallace displays his athleticism often. He certainly doesn’t have the speed of other prospects in this class like Moore or Toney, but his speed is enough to stretch the field in an air raid offense. Wallace is far from a complete wideout. He will need to expand his route tree. Wallace is a nice depth addition to any team on day two and will provide immediate help in the red zone.

Dazz Newsome, North Carolina: Dazz Newsome is certainly a speedster but I would say his greatest attributes are his toughness and elusiveness. He projects to be a slot receiver at the next level, but you can’t take his speed for granted either. He worked the middle of the field and underneath a ton for the Tar Heels and saw success. This is mainly due to his ability to make quick cuts but again, also his toughness to make catches in tight windows. When Newsome gets the ball, he isn’t going to go down easy. Despite his smaller frame, he will lower his shoulder, so you better buckle your chin strap. Again, he projects mainly as a slot receiver in the league but should add some value in the return game where he also saw some success at North Carolina. He can also be used as a “gadget player” with screens, jet sweeps, and other tricky plays too.

Jaelon Darden, North Texas: Here’s a prospect that was not originally on my “watch list” until a friend recommended him to me. Like many small school prospects, Jaelon Darden was about to get overlooked. I am happy I took my friend’s advice and watched Darden’s tape. He might be one of the shiftiest players I have ever seen. I am not kidding. Go watch for yourself if you are not familiar with Darden. That shiftiness means he can be a great route runner too. To go along with that shiftiness, Darden has elite speed. Whenever he’s on the field, the opposing team must be aware of him. He also adds value to his game by being used as a returner. Again, with his athleticism, he can break off big returns and make a huge difference on special teams. His biggest knock is his size. Darden is 5’9, 174lbs. Teams fear he may be too small, but Darden has heard that his entire life, and well, he has a chip on his shoulder because of it. Darden will likely be a day three selection but can be an electric playmaker on almost any offense as he develops into more of a complete receiver.

Amari Rodgers, Clemson: As we continue down this draft class I believe we are seeing a trend. There are a ton of playmakers in this draft. Guys with speed, elusiveness and strength. All you need to do is give them the ball and let them make plays. Amari Rodgers is just that too. Rodgers was a deep threat for Clemson and if teams didn’t respect that, he was burning them. He is more than a deep threat though. He also can work underneath on short routes, catch the ball and make plays with his athleticism after. Rodgers is shifty which makes it tough for defenders, but he is also a strong and balanced runner. He should be a weapon in the slot for any offense but will need to develop more of a complete skill set before being a larger impact.

Cornell Powell, Clemson: Cornell Powell shows a lot of versatility in his game. Trevor Lawrence was Powell’s quarterback and you could tell the two had a quality relationship. Lawrence trusted him with 50/50 balls in tight windows and well, Powell made plays. Powell displays good contested catch ability due to his good hands and strength. He also uses that strength to beat press coverage. Many questions surround Powell though. He broke onto the college football scene late and didn’t show much production until his senior year. He has flaws to work on, but he has flashes of being a productive receiver at the next level. He’s a developmental project for almost any wide receiver room who can take a project on.

Running Backs: When looking at this group of running backs, I think there are some elite playmakers at the top of this class. Najee Harris, Travis Etienne, and Javonte Williams are players who will come into the league and make a difference right away. As you go down the list, you begin to see guys who are more one-dimensional in their ability but can also make an instant impact in more of a committee-style running back room. However, there are some true value picks in the draft. Kylin Hill, Jaret Patterson, and Trey Sermon are all players who could be available on day three of the draft but make an instant impact.

Where can teams find value: The best value selections for running backs almost always come on days two and three. Teams who have spent first round selections on running backs have appeared to regret it in years past. I'd look to days two and three for names like Trey Sermon, Kylin Hill, Michael Carter and Jaret Patterson.

*Note: Played for Buffalo Bills Offensive Coordinator, Brian Daboll, at Alabama in 2017 (Harris’ Freshman Year)*

Najee Harris, Alabama: Najee Harris is an elite athlete at the running back position. He’s got acceleration, the ability to cut quickly, balance, and then sums it all up with really good vision. His ability to just see a hole in the defense before it develops is top-notch. Not to mention, he has some good receiving skills out of the backfield. His ability to run routes out of the backfield is impressive for being 6’2, 229lb. He also has the breakaway speed to create chunk plays. Harris also only fumbled twice at Alabama, and only lost one of the two. Overall, he has almost everything you can ask for in a running back prospect: speed, acceleration out of the backfield, vision, balance, elusiveness, and ball security. Harris is likely a late day one selection but could fall to day two.

Travis Etienne, Clemson: If you’re playing man coverage you can’t have a linebacker on Travis Etienne. You have to respect him as a receiving threat. At the same time, he has breakaway speed, elusiveness, vision, and balance. He also was an elite kick returner averaging 25.6 yards per return his junior year and 23.6 his senior year. Etienne's an impact player who can turn nothing into something. He can stop on a dime and accelerate quickly enough to break away. He played with an elite quarterback on an elite offense but still made a massive impact with limited rushing snaps. Etienne is likely a late day one selection but could fall to day two.

Javonte Williams, North Carolina: Javonte Williams and Michael Carter were a true compliment to each other at North Carolina. Unlike Carter, Williams isn’t as difficult to get a hand on, but that doesn’t guarantee you bring him down. Williams was the true power back, getting carries in short-yardage situations and passing down blocking assignments, but he’s much more than just power. Williams has speed and agility too. Mix that with some good vision and balance, and he is a complete back. Not to mention, Williams did not fumble once all year at North Carolina. He appears to have everything you’d like in a running back prospect. Likely an early or middle-round pick in the 2nd round.

Kenneth Gainwell, Memphis: Kenneth Gainwell is a true home run hitter and playmaker. If you let him get to the second level, your defensive backs probably aren’t catching him. That speed is also dangerous in the red zone. His ability to make a quick cut and hit the hole with acceleration is elite. Gainwell also has some sneaky good balance when running. He can bounce right off a defender and keep going. He is also a great pass catcher out of the backfield. You can’t cover Gainwell with a linebacker. His play-style from college is very reminiscent of the Washington Football Team’s Antonio Gibson. I’m not saying he will play at that level in the league, but his abilities are very similar, and he needs to go to a team that will cater to his strengths.

Michael Carter, North Carolina: A true speed and elusive runner, Michael Carter can break off big plays. He is a very hard guy to get a hand on. If Carter gets a hole at the line of scrimmage, he’s going to hit it and you better hope your defensive backs can catch him. He has some good vision, lateral quickness, and balance which allows him to find the hole at the line, but his small size could limit his potential at the next level. I do have to credit him for not being afraid to lower his shoulder despite his size. He isn’t afraid to take a hit or two. Overall, I think Carter has some potential to be a very good back his rookie year in the NFL, but similar to Gainwell, he isn’t an every-down back. He would greatly benefit from being in a committee of running backs but has the potential to turn into a real playmaker if he gets in a scheme that utilizes him well.

Rhamondre Stevenson, Oklahoma: At nearly 250lbs, Stevenson is a true ground and pound running back. If Stevenson gets the second level, your defensive backs better have their chin straps buckled. He also has some elusiveness and speed to him, but he is mainly a "north and south" kind of runner. Stevenson would operate the best in a committee-style backfield, but I wouldn’t limit his potential to just being in a committee. His mix of size, speed, agility, balance, and vision reminds me of LeGarrette Blount and Brandon Jacobs, running backs who were best in a committee, but if you get them rolling, they can take over a game.

Kylin Hill, Mississippi State: Kylin Hill has an elite ability to turn nothing into something. His balance when running is elite. He also has a good top speed and excellent elusiveness. Unfortunately, he got hurt during his senior season and didn’t have a ton of rushing production in the three games he played. Hill is an elite athlete though. When you turn on his tape, you see him hurdling players, juking guys out of their shoes, and winning foot races to the end zone. He’s by no means a big guy at 5’10 209lbs, which makes his running balance impressive. He’s also a solid receiving back when called upon. It should be noted that Hill fumbled only once in college and it was recovered by his team. Overall, I think he’s yet another guy who would work best in a committee but has the potential to turn into a real playmaker if he gets in a scheme that utilizes him well.

Trey Sermon, Ohio State: I think Trey Sermon is a very interesting prospect. When you watch his game, you immediately notice his ability to accelerate quickly, make defenders miss, bounce off defenders and even hurdle them. All of these traits point to an elite athlete, but his top speed doesn’t seem on par with the rest of his abilities. He lacked the college production that many other guys on this list have, but his ability to make an impact when the ball was in his hands was seen at Oklahoma and Ohio State after he transferred. I think Sermon could be a true value pick in this draft. He is a talented back who can do many different things well, but his draft stock isn’t as high as it should be due to a lack of production and injuries. To cap it all off, his ball security is not a concern. Sermon will likely go on day two or day three.

Chuba Hubbard, Oklahoma State: Chuba Hubbard is the definition of a homerun hitter. If you give him the smallest hole, he can break off a big run. He can get to top speed very quickly and that top speed is elite. Hubbard didn’t pose much of a threat through the air, but Oklahoma State didn’t intend to maximize his receiving potential. His vision is quite impressive and when you mix that with his speed, that combination is dangerous. Unlike some of the other “home run hitters” in this draft, I think he could be an every-down back in the league. Oklahoma State used him in some short-yardage situation and he fared well in those due to his ability to find the holes at the line of scrimmage. His elite mix of speed and vision makes me wonder if he has the potential to make an impact in the kick and punt returning game. He had some experience with returning in college, but Oklahoma State preferred to keep him off the field for special teams. Something to note, Hubbard fumbled the ball ten times in his three years at Oklahoma State. Although he only lost two of them, that is certainly not a good sign and area of improvement for him.

Jaret Patterson, Buffalo: I had the pleasure of watching Jaret Patterson during his three years at the University of Buffalo. He’s a smaller back, but he does not play like a smaller back. Listed at just under 200lbs, you’d think that Patterson would be easy to bring down if you got a hand on him. He’s not. Patterson isn’t afraid to lower his shoulder at the goal line. He has an elite mix of vision and lateral quickness. He certainly benefited from having one of the best lines in the country, but I see no reason why he couldn’t have success in the NFL. I think he lacks the elite athleticism that some Power 5 athletes have, but his ability as a football player turns heads. As Bills General Manager Brandon Beane says “We don’t draft athletes. We draft football players. You can’t go wrong drafting a good football player.” That quote applies well to Patterson. His pure college production and flashes of elite skill should be enough to get him drafted in the mid-rounds. Most of all, he can be an every-down back. I don’t think he will be an immediate starter in the league, but if he is placed in the right system with a committee of running backs, he could be a true diamond in the rough.

Tight Ends: This tight end class as a whole has been overshadowed by Kyle Pitts. Pitts is the talk of this class for a good reason. He features a dynamic skill set that is not comparable to any player in the league. However, as you go down the list of tight ends, there are quality day two and day three options. These players won't provide the immediate impact of Kyle Pitts but they could develop in to quality tight ends that teams can get creative with.

Where can teams find value: Kyle Pitts appears to show a ton of value but only one team will select him and it shouldn't take long. I'd look to late day two or early day three where a player like Brevin Jordan could be slipping a bit. If not, Tommy Tremble and Hunter Long appear to have a ton of upside.

Kyle Pitts, Florida: Kyle Pitts is unlike any prospect I have seen in my life. Despite being 6’6 and nearly 250lbs, Pitts has silky smooth route running. Now combine that with his athleticism and you can see why Kyle Pitts is being called the best prospect in the draft by some. His combination of talents puts him in an elite territory almost immediately and I really don’t know how teams with a game plan for him. The best corners in the league will struggle with him due to his size. The best linebackers won’t be able to keep up with his footwork. Kyle Pitts is a matchup nightmare for any team and will cause a lot of headaches for defensive coordinators. There is one glaring flaw in Pitts' game though. Despite being labeled as a tight end, Pitts is clearly a wide receiver. At Florida, he was spread out wide often and was not an efficient blocker. Pitts should be an immediate receiving threat, but he can’t be used in the blocking game effectively.

Brevin Jordan, Miami: Miami found ways to get Brevin Jordan the ball and let him do the rest. Jordan is an athlete and he does his best work after the catch. Whether it be hurdling a defender who tries to take out his legs, sidestepping a linebacker flying by, or just lower his shoulder into a defender, Jordan is going to do whatever it takes to gain extra yards. He also possesses a fairly expansive route tree for a tight end and uses his size to his advantage when his route doesn’t create enough separation. Jordan really could be a swiss-army knife for a team. He was lined up all over for Miami and I expect that to continue at the next level.

Pat Freiermuth, Penn State: Pat Freiermuth is a great addition to any team that is looking for a traditional tight end to develop. Freiermuth can contribute right away in some areas of the game but will need to make strides in others. First off, Freiermuth is a weapon in the red zone. Penn State created plays that either got him one on one in the red zone or put him in space near the end zone. That is an excellent way to utilize him and something NFL teams should take note of. He utilizes his size to go up and grab a jump ball but can also create separation with route running. When Freiermuth is given the ball in space he is tough to tackle. He runs with physicality and isn’t afraid to lower his shoulder. Freiermuth also shows some good balance while running and agility. He lacks the top speed to create large gains after the catch but again, that is not his game. He should develop more as a blocker but as of right now, it is not his specialty. I’d expect Freiermuth to go on day two of the draft.

Hunter Long, Boston College: Hunter Long possesses a lot of traits that you love to see in a tight end. He was a reception machine for Boston College and gave his quarterback a comfortable target to throw to. Long has size and athleticism that make him tough to cover for any defender. He has a large catch radius as well as quality hands too. You could also tell that Long was comfortable with his quarterback. It happened often that the play would break down and the quarterback began to improvise. Long would help out his quarterback by improvising himself and using his catch radius to give his teammate a safe throw when things broke down. Long has some strides to make with his blocking and route running but he is used to a large volume of throws and that experience alone will benefit him greatly at the next level.

Tommy Tremble, Notre Dame: As I added tight ends to my list to take notes on, I had to add Tommy Tremble to my list. Every year it seems like we have a solid tight end prospect from Notre Dame, so I couldn’t afford to miss out on Tremble. Tremble could be a true “diamond in the rough” prospect in this year’s draft. He is an athletic tight end who plays with a chip on his shoulder. His acceleration off the line of scrimmage is impressive for a tight end and that alone will make him tough to cover at the next level. He does his best work after the catch due to his athleticism and grit. Just like Brevin Jordan, he fights for every yard. Tremble is also a vicious blocker. One play in particular really stood out to me. Tremble’s assignment was to “block and release” which often allows tight ends to catch the ball and have space to run. So, Tremble engages with a linebacker, throws him over his hip, and runs upfield. The play breaks down, Tremble works back towards the sideline and makes an impressive toe-tapping catch. Tremble has shown a high ceiling on plays like this but coming into the league he will be more of a developmental tight end. Right away he will be a solid blocker, but he will need to groom his receiving abilities. During his final year at Notre Dame, I saw noticeable strides in his game as the season went on which is promising.

Linebackers: At the top of this class, there is elite linebacker talent with Micah Parsons, Zaven Collins, and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. These guys project to be immediate starters and could be stars pretty quickly. As you continue down the list there are a few players that could be great value picks. Dylan Moses has been battling some injuries but has shown flashes of elite play. Jabril Cox and Jamin Davis are very good in coverage and their athleticism and frame make them stand out. Baron Browning is a versatile player that with some good coaching, could be a diamond in the rough.

Where can teams find value: Simple answer here. All over. The day one talent in this draft is elite. The day two and day three talent shows a ton of upside and scheme versatility amongst players.

Micah Parsons, Penn State: Micah Parsons is your classic down-hill attacking linebacker. He is an impact player and that impact can be seen on third downs. He’s fast enough to make plays from sideline to sideline, powerful enough to fight through blocks and has the technical skills to shed blocks. Not to mention, he is always focused on punching that ball out of the ball carrier’s hands. His main weakness is coverage, but it’s not a glaring weakness. He is more than capable of dropping into zone coverage if necessary. His best fit would be in an attacking-style defense that allows him to play off of his football IQ and instincts. He will be a player that the offense has to be aware of before every snap.

Zaven Collins, Tulsa: Zaven Collins is an impressive prospect. Despite being a larger linebacker at 6’4, 260lbs, Collins has the speed to make plays all over the field. When you watch him play, his football IQ stands out. He is great at reading the play and making the right decision in a split second. This can be seen in zone coverage and play-action situations. His size also allows him to make an impact in the run game and he is more than capable of getting after the passer. Most of all, he has a nose for the ball and can force turnovers. His versatility will be very useful in third-down situations.

Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Notre Dame: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is a true athlete at the linebacker position. His size can be concerning at 6’1, 215lbs, but he makes up for it with his ability to fly around the field and make plays. Owusu-Koramoah is very solid in coverage and his ability to plant his foot in the ground and break on a ball is almost cornerback-esque. He is always focused on making a play on the ball and has great pass breakup ability for a linebacker. Despite his smaller size, he can still provide solid run support. His quickness and football IQ allow him to get downhill and attack the ball carrier. He is a hard hitter. Many scouts point to his lack of size as a concern, but I think a team like the Bills could utilize him in an interesting way. I don’t think Owusu-Koramoah’s size will impair him at the next level due to his power, speed, and explosiveness. He is an elite athlete and a player the offense needs to be aware of before every snap.

Nick Bolton, Missouri: Nick Bolton is a pure tackling machine. His ability to navigate through traffic at the line and make a tackle in the running game is impressive. He can also sit in zone coverage at the sticks and attack downhill on anything that goes underneath the coverage. He’s a scrappy player who can move sideline to sideline. There’s room for improvement in his pass-rushing ability, angles to the ball, and coverage skills overall, but his potential is very high based on the skills he already has. He’s not the biggest linebacker at 6’0, 232lbs, but he makes up for it with his speed and tenacious tackling ability.

Jamin Davis, Kentucky: Jamin Davis is a prospect that some are super high on. For example, Mel Kiper mocked Davis to go in the first round while others aren’t even considering him to go on day one. Davis likely projects to be a day two selection, but I wouldn’t be surprised if a team took a chance on him at the end of day one. Davis a lot to offer. For starters his pure athleticism, length, and size are impressive. Mix that with his ability to read a quarterback’s eyes in zone coverage and his impressive man coverage skills, it’s easy to see why teams are excited about Davis. Davis showed flashes of good run support but it’s an area he could improve on. Right off the bat he should be a very solid pass coverage linebacker, but if he wants to be of elite status he will need to improve in run defense and spend time in the film room. There’s a lot to like with Davis, but there’s also some work to be done. I’d expect him to be a day two selection when it comes down to it.

Jabril Cox, LSU: Jabril Cox is a prospect I like a lot. At 6’4, 231lbs, Cox thrives In zone coverage and man-to-man coverage. His ability to drop in coverage and either read the quarterback's eyes or stick to a man is impressive. He has good ball skills, length, and speed which will allow him to come into the league and make an immediate impact. Cox didn’t just play at LSU during his college career, he also played at North Dakota State. Cox didn’t get after the passer much at LSU and that is something he could improve on considering his athleticism, size, and power. Cox reminds me somewhat of Tremaine Edmunds when he came out of college. They aren’t the same style of player, but they both are elite athletes that with improvement, could become dominant defenders. Obviously, Edmunds was much more touted out of college.

Baron Browning, Ohio State: Baron Browning may have not seen the most action while at Ohio State, but his ability to make plays while on the field was impressive. Browning played in just seven games his senior year and only made 20 tackles. However, Browning was able to force two fumbles in those 20 tackles. I think there will be some concern with Browning in the draft process considering his lack of opportunity at Ohio State, but he has sky-high potential. Browning is another athletic linebacker who is versatile. When given the opportunity to rush the passer, Browning has proved he can get pressure. Browning’s athleticism allows him to pursue the football well and his strength makes him a solid tackler. He will be a gamble of a selection considering his inability to assume a higher role in the Ohio State defense, but if placed in the right situation with coaches who will develop his game, he could be a great selection for any team on day two or three.

Dylan Moses, Alabama: Dylan Moses is a very interesting prospect in this year’s draft. Many scouts are giving him a second-round grade, but he could be a true diamond in the rough. Moses has experience playing all three linebacker positions and his versatility is impressive. Whether it be navigating the line of scrimmage to make a tackle for a loss on a run play, dropping to coverage on third down, or using his athleticism to be a quarterback spy, he can do it all. Moses tore his ACL in 2019 and since then many believe he has not been the same player, but that shouldn’t be too much of a concern in my opinion. Although Moses has not been the same player, ACL injuries are very severe and can take a long time to fully recover from. Any team who uses a second-round selection on Moses should be happy with the pick. This situation reminds me of Myles Jack. Jack was a player who was highly touted, but he fell in the draft due to concerns of a knee injury. That early second-round pick ended up being a steal for the Jaguars who now have an impact player on their defense. I’m not saying Moses will have the same comeback as Myles Jack, but between his skill and pure potential, any team should be happy to grab him in the second-round despite injury concerns.

Pete Werner, Ohio State: If you don’t know what “having a motor” means when it comes to defensive prospects, turn on Pete Werner’s tape. His endless pursuit of the football is impressive. He does not have elite speed like some of the other prospects I’ve watched, but his pursuit of the ball is impressive. Ohio State fans seemed to like Werner and rightfully so. He was given a small role in the Ohio State defense and worked his way up throughout his time there. Werner is a prospect with true versatility. This can be highlighted by his sophomore season where he had nine passes defended while also having three sacks. He’s a prospect who has athleticism, length, and football IQ, but can also get after the passer and drop in coverage. I think he will be selected slightly lower than some of the other prospects we are looking at for day two but will have a better immediate impact than them while also offering a high upside with his versatility.

Chazz Surratt, North Carolina: Chazz Surratt is yet another interesting prospect. He initially came to North Carolina to play quarterback but after some injuries, he decided his best chance of making it to the NFL would be switching to the defensive side of the ball. It’s not often you see a quarterback switch to linebacker, but Surratt made the transition pretty seamlessly for the role he was asked to play. I think that says a lot about Surratt as a teammate and a person. Surratt is a versatile and athletic linebacker that can make plays from sideline to sideline. He is also capable of getting after the passer and dropping into coverage. Surratt offers athleticism and versatility, but due to not being experienced at the linebacker position, he has a lot to learn. Surratt would best fit in a 4-3 defense as an outside linebacker where he can use that versatility and athleticism.

Cameron McGrone, Michigan: The first thing you notice about Cameron McGrone is his mixture of speed and ability to pursue the ball carrier. He is a pure tackling machine. He is also a more than capable blitzer due to his sure speed. When it comes to coverage and pure one-on-one pass-rushing, he will need to improve his mechanics, but he is a good enough athlete to make plays all over the field. McGrone thrives in situations where he can read the play and adjust to the offensive line which shows he’s more than capable to support the run defense. Although I don’t think that will be his strong suit at the next level, he is skillful enough to do so. McGrone has all the tools to do so and could be a solid playmaker in the league for a long time with development to his game.

Defensive Line: Similar to the edge class this year, this class lacks a “top-end talent.” Christian Barmore will likely be the only interior defensive lineman taken in the first round and I would be surprised if he went before the 12th selection. In years past there has been that interior defensive line prospect who goes in the top ten. Not this year. This class as a whole is thin. Granted I didn’t go too deep into the draft class for interior defensive lineman, but these handful of prospects are the projected day one and day two selections. Despite being thin at this position, there are some real quality day two players here. There’s a nice blend of 3-tech and 1-tech players who will come in and make immediate impacts. As long as a team doesn’t reach for these prospects and grabs them at their “fair value”, I’d feel confident about drafting any of them.

Where can teams find value: Teams can find value in late day two and early day three. Names like Tyler Shelvin, Jay Tufele, Alim McNeill and Tommy Togiai are good value targets.

Christian Barmore, Alabama: It feels as if every year there’s a stud, first-round interior defensive lineman from Alabama. That trend continues this year with Christian Barmore who is projected to be a top twenty selection. Barmore was consistently applying pressure to quarterbacks from the interior of the defensive line. Although he projects to be more of a 3-technique defensive tackle, he certainly could develop into a 1-technique. Barmore was pretty dominant during his final season in college, but he lacks the technique to go higher in this draft. Barmore simply beat some opponents due to his size, length, and power. Don’t get me wrong, that’s not a major red flag for Barmore, but you’d like to see him develop his pass-rushing skills more because winning with size and power doesn’t happen often in the league. Regardless, any team who drafts Barmore is getting a solid interior pass rusher with a lot of upside.

Levi Onwuzurike, Washington: Levi Onwuzurike is an explosive athlete at the defensive tackle position. When I first turned his tape on, his burst off the snap was extremely impressive. As I continued to watch him, I realized how good of an athlete he is for his large frame. His pro day numbers will approve of this. He’s an athletic interior defensive lineman who wins battles in a couple of different ways. First off, his quickness off the line means he can catch defenders on their heels and use his power to bull rush through them. He also has some solid pass-rushing moves and is pretty crafty with his hands during battles at the line. Like many other prospects, I believe Onwuzurike won many battles due to his athletic ability. Which again, means he needs to develop more pass-rushing moves. Onwuzurike has one major red flag though. He opted out of the 2020 season, so we do not have recent tape to go off of. On top of that, a few notable names in the scouting world said he was far from impressive at the senior bowl. I think Onwuzurike could drop a bit in this draft for those reasons but there’s no sign he’s out of shape. If he falls a bit, there will be a team who selects him later on day two and they should be pleased with that value.

Daviyon Nixon, Iowa: Daviyon Nixon is a versatile interior defensive lineman. Although he will do his best work as a 3-tech in the league, he could develop into a 1-tech style player. He is very good at disengaging from blocks at the line of scrimmage and using his awareness to find the ball carrier. He is just as useful in the run game as he is in the passing game. He does not have the burst of Onwuzurieke but his burst off the line is far from a concern. He is also a fantastic athlete for his size and uses that athleticism to make plays. Nixon plays with a high motor and that’s exactly what you expect from an Iowa product. He’s likely a day two selection who teams should feel pretty confident selecting.

Jay Tufele, USC: Jay Tufele is a versatile defensive lineman that teams should be happy to snag on day two of the draft. He is a three-down defensive end who can provide run support and rush the passer. This is mainly due to his athleticism. He shows a lot of explosiveness and power but also some good moves to beat offensive lineman at the line of scrimmage. He uses that initial burst to put a lineman on their heels, he disengages from the block and then finds the ball carrier to make plays. Tufele projects to be a 3-technique at the next level but could play in some exotic roles due to his versatility and athleticism.

Tommy Togiai, Ohio State: Tommy Togiai can be summed up with one word: power. Togiai is a very powerful prospect that commands a double team on passing downs. He also has active hands and keeps his head upfield to disengage and make plays on the ball carrier. He also has a good motor and is always in pursuit of the passer. These are all good traits to have for a traditional 1-tech. If you want to see Togiai’s potential watch his game versus Penn State. He tormented them. However, Togiai also has some red flags. As we’ve said multiple times, you can’t just rely on power in the league. Sure, sometimes you can bull rush an offensive lineman and get to the passer but if Togiai wants to provide a larger impact he will need to develop more pass-rushing moves. Togiai projects to be a solid run stuffer and a developmental pass rusher who at worst will eat up blocks due to teams having to respect his power.

Alim McNeill, N.C. State: Alim McNeill is certainly one of the more interesting prospects when you consider his journey to this point. McNeill was a running back in high school and well you can see some athleticism in his game still. McNeill has a lot of power and he uses it to penetrate the line of scrimmage and make plays in the backfield. He doesn’t have a ton of burst off the line of scrimmage, but his power and strong base are a force to be reckoned with. McNeill projects to be a nose tackle or a 4-3 1-technique. This is mainly due to his stout run defense and his lack of pass-rushing skills. Again, McNeill was a running back in high school, so he’s only played defensive tackle for a few years. I expect him to be a later day two selection who can offer immediate run support while developing into more of a pass-rushing role.

Tyler Shelvin, LSU: Tyler Shelvin is a name that many Bills’ fans are aware of. He has gained a ton of hype on Bills Twitter because he projects instant run support on the defensive side of the ball. Shelvin stands in at nearly 350lbs and has a ton of power that offensive lines must respect. He is quite literally on the field to eat up blocks and allow other defenders to get through the line and make plays in the backfield. I’ve been saying since the Bills drafted Ed Oliver that they needed to add a player like Shelvin to unlock Oliver’s potential. A player like Shelvin demands a double team while on the field and that could do wonders for Oliver. Now just focusing on Shelvin, he is a great run stuffer. He projects to be a 1-technique or a nose tackle. He has drawn comparisons to Vita Vea but doesn’t have the ceiling of Vea due to a lack of burst off the line. Shelvin will likely be a day two or day three selection but will provide instant run support as he develops more into a pass rusher.

Edge: This edge class is one of the most intriguing position groups from this class. In past drafts, there has always been top-tier edge talent. Nick Bosa, Josh Allen, Joey Bosa, and Chase Young are just a few. This year there isn't a player with that much draft stock. Kwity Paye headlines our list of prospects but isn't very far in front of Jaelan Phillips or Azeez Ojulari who have dropped due to injury concerns. As you continue down the list, there is a lot of late-day one talent and day two talent. Teams will have to enter this draft with a plan on who to target, see who falls, see who rises and make moves from there. In this class, I think the most important thing is getting "your guy." By that, I mean the player that fits your system and your culture. As far a day two and day three, I like Carlos Basham Jr., Ronnie Perkins, Payton Turner, and Milton Williams. These four show a ton of potential yet also the ability to contribute immediately.

Where can teams find value: There's two places teams can find value in this draft. First, the top three players in this draft are very talented and appear to be "pro-ready." There are some injury concerns with Jaelen Phillips and Azeez Ojulari but if teams aren't concerned, they are excellent selections. Second, the day two and early day three value is great for this class. Edge rushers will slip in this class and we will see who takes advantage of it.

Kwity Paye, Michigan: Kwity Paye is certainly an impressive and rare prospect. His combination of technical pass-rushing skill, size, length, and athleticism is elite. I am pretty confident in saying Paye is the most talented edge rusher in this draft. He can put his hand in the ground and rush the passer from the interior of the defensive line as well as stand up and rush from the edge. That versatility should make any team who selects him feel confident. However, his draft stock has dropped due to his lack of production. Either way, I would feel confident if I was any team that is drafting in the teens of the first round.

Jaelan Phillips, Miami: Jaelan Phillips is an impressive prospect. When you watch him, you realize how intricate he is with his technique but also how quick he is with his technique. His ability to navigate blocks at the line, move laterally and get to the ball carrier is remarkable. It’s a product of his good football IQ, his speed off the ball, his power, and his technique. Phillips also has good size at 6’5, 266lbs. Not to mention his good arm length which keeps offensive linemen from getting a hold of him. I think there’s some coaching that needs to be done. No technique is ever perfect, and every player can add more pass-rushing techniques. I think whatever team drafts him has an immediate starter for their defense. He could easily operate as a 3-4 outside linebacker or a 4-3 defensive end.

Azeez Ojulari, Georgia: Azeez Ojulari has just about everything you could ask for in an edge rusher. Whether you want him to put his hand in the ground and be a 4-3 defensive end, or rush from the edge with speed in a 3-4 defense, he is more than capable. Ojulari attacks every rush with a plan. He is very technical and is very good at getting his hands on a tackle before they can get their hands on him. His technique is very impressive and when it is mixed with his quick ball get off and power, he is a tough rusher to block. Not to mention, he is always focused on the ball. If he has a chance to punch that ball out, he’s doing it. If he’s jammed at the line and the ball is being thrown in his direction, he’s putting his hands up to tip it. He will provide an immediate impact to the team that selects him. I think his best fit would be in a 3-4 offense as an outside linebacker, but he certainly has the skill to play in a 4-3 defense as a defensive end too.

Jayson Oweh, Penn State: At 6’5, 252lbs, Jayson Oweh has the perfect mix of size, length, and speed to be a great pass rusher. However, just like many other prospects, you see the flashes, but they still need polishing. Oweh shows flashes of dominance. His elite build and athleticism are impressive and when mixed with technical pass-rushing skill, he is a fun player to watch. Due to his athleticism, he can be an edge rusher in either a 3-4 or a 4-3. He still needs to work on the technical and mechanical aspects of rushing the passer, but with improvement to his pass-rushing skills, he will be a difference-maker. I will say his awareness and ability to get off blocks are impressive at times. However, Oweh doesn’t have a ton of versatility in his game just yet. For that reason, I see him slotting into a pure pass-rushing role his rookie year.

Carlos Basham Jr., Wake Forest: I like Carlos Basham Jr’s. quickness with his hands at the line of scrimmage. His ability to move laterally and defeat the hands of a blocker is extremely impressive. He is also very good at navigating the line of scrimmage and containing the edge. He also has good size at 6’5, 285lbs. Due to that mixture of skill and size, I believe Basham will be one of the better immediate pass rushers in this year’s draft. Basham should look to trim a little weight and get more powerful, but I wouldn’t say his weight is an issue. He is still quick enough to contain most quarterbacks and set the edge when rushing the passer. However, he does not have a ton of bend in his hips so that does limit his pass-rush ability. He does offer some versatility on passing downs with his size and speed, but I think he fits best in a 4-3 scheme at defensive end.

Ronnie Perkins, Oklahoma: Ronnie Perkins is a versatile edge defender who could be used in almost any scheme due to his athleticism. Not only is Perkins athletic, but he has a high motor which can be seen by his relentless pursuit of the passer. He’s the kind of player who plays to the whistle and is always looking to make a play. His athleticism allows him to set the edge and beat defenders with speed, but he also has the power to bull rush a tackle who doesn’t respect his power. He has powerful and active hands, which is a great sign. Perkins is also a threat when it comes to run defense. Perkins has shown the ability to penetrate the offensive line and make plays on the ball carrier in the backfield. He could improve his run defense though when it comes to staying disciplined in his gap. Regardless, Perkins is a day two prospect that shows a ton of upside.

Gregory Rousseau, Miami: Every year when watching draft prospects there is one or two edge rushers that make you think “yeah this guy was born to rush the passer”, Gregory Rousseau is one of those guys. Standing in at 6’7, 253lbs , Rousseau is a dominant mix of speed, length, and size. His long reach gives him the privilege of getting his hands-on offensive tackles before they can get their hands on him. His power allows him to rush from the inside against guards and centers too. He’s an aware pass rusher who gets his hands up to knock down passes and get off blocks to make a tackle. The sky is the limit for Rousseau with his size, speed, and length. Going forward Rousseau will need to focus on the technical aspect of rushing the passer. At the college level, he won battles due to being a better athlete and more powerful than the player across from him. There will be times in the league where he can do that, but to be a good pass rusher in the league you need to have good technical pass-rushing skills.

Joe Tryon, Washington: Joe Tryon has an elite combination of size, length, and speed. He has this elite ability to get off the ball quickly, gain the edge on an offensive tackle, use his length to keep distance, and pressure the passer. However, you need much more than quickness and length at the next level. Tryon has displayed other pass-rushing moves that utilize other skills such as hand placement and power, but I think he needs to develop more pass-rushing moves to succeed at the next level. With his size and speed, if developed correctly, he could be an elite player for years to come.

Payton Turner, Houston: Payton Turner played all over the defensive line for Houston because he was that talented. It wasn’t uncommon to see Turner rushing from the interior of the defensive line as well as being a stand-up edge rusher at times. Regardless, I think Turner is best as a 4-3 defensive end who has his hand in the dirt. He also did that at Houston. Turner has good speed off the edge and when that’s mixed with his length, it is a dangerous combination. He also has good hip bend which means he can bend around the edge quicker. Turner seems to have a lot of abilities that will translate well to the next level. He’s a powerful yet athletic end who has experience rushing from all over. If Turner can develop more pass-rushing moves while adjusting to the next level, he could be a special selection.

Quincy Roche, Miami: Yes, here we are with yet another edge prospect from Miami. If you’re keeping track at home, that’s our third this year. In all seriousness, I get why all three of these guys are NFL prospects. Roche's ability to navigate the line of scrimmage and stop the run is impressive. I don’t think he poses a massive pass-rushing threat just yet at the next level. He needs to gain more power and technical pass-rushing skills to be more successful. I don’t see him slotting into a 4-3 defense at defensive end, so he’s a bit limited when it comes to versatility. However, I think Roche is a great addition to any 3-4 defense on day two or day three who is looking for immediate run support on the edge. His pass-rushing skills are impressive though and he could develop into a starter pretty quickly with good coaching

Rashad Weaver, Pittsburgh: There is a lot to like when you watch Rashad Weaver. First off, Weaver has good size, power, and length. Those are great traits to have because you simply can’t teach them. Weaver is also an aware rusher who can disengage from blocks to make plays. Weaver uses that ability and his length to get his hands on a ball carrier and sometimes even knock the ball out. These are all good traits for an edge rusher. Weaver has one glaring red flag though and that is a lack of explosiveness and speed off the edge. In the league, it is key for a defensive end to be able to “set the edge.” Without the consistent ability to do so, good tackles will just protect the interior of the line and feel confident enough in their ability to beat him on the edge. This is a similar issue the Bills had with A.J. Epenesa and they wanted Epenesa to drop weight to become more explosive. I’d say the team who selects him asks him to do the same.

Patrick Jones II, Pittsburgh: Patrick Jones had a very productive career at Pitt. Jones has some pass rushing moves and offers some solid run support. He is one hell of an athlete. However, he has multiple concerns when it comes to translating his talents to the next level. Jones doesn’t offer a lot of versatility and he is going to need to hit the weight room to get more power. Due to that, he is going to need to focus on keeping his speed while adding weight, and hand technique while pass-rushing if he wants to compete at the next level. I think if he wanted to make the transition to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, he very well could, but he doesn’t have coverage skills, so the transition would take time.

Jordan Smith, UAB: Jordan Smith is a very lengthy and fast rusher off the edge. He also has some good strength to his game and can get off blocks fairly well with technique. However, he was mainly winning battles at the line of scrimmage simply due to his speed and power. He will need to polish up his technique before wanting to assume a bigger role at the next level. I think the sky is the limit for Smith with his length and speed. He projects to be a 4-3 defensive end or a 3-4 outside linebacker. I think he will be in a pure pass-rushing role until he can get more polished at the position at the next level. He could be a day two or day three steal though when it’s all said and done.

Chris Rumph II, Duke: Chris Rumph could be the true “diamond in the rough” in this draft. When I first began to watch Rumph, I felt like I was missing something. I saw this prospect who seemingly had a lot of the tools to be successful in the league. A tenacious pass rusher who has a good combination of athleticism, size, length, bend, and technique. He seemed like the complete package for any team who was looking to add help off the edge in day two or three. However, I then realized his major concern that turned teams off: His thin frame. Rumph stands in at 6’3, 236lbs. To say Rumph is undersized is an understatement. It isn’t every day you see a 236-pound pass rusher. Oddly enough, despite his small size, Rumph was able to rush from all over the defensive line. At 236lbs, he had no issue lining up inside and making an impact due to his quick hands, quick feet, and technique. Regardless, Rumph will need to add weight if he wants to be an impact pass rusher in the league. If you want to be a “glass half full person”, it is quite impressive that Rumph was as good as he was in college despite being severely undersized for his position. Overall, Rumph shows promise because he has many of the tools to be an impact player. However, he needs to find a way to add power and size to his game while maintaining the proper technique.

Milton Williams, Louisiana Tech: Milton Williams is a prospect with a ton of upside, but he will need to be developed as a player before we can see an immense impact. Williams has traits you can’t teach: length and size. He also has a lot of power and that can be seen when he’s lined up as a 3-technique and rushing from the inside of the defensive line. That will likely be where Williams sees his best production in the league. He lacks the speed to set the edge as a rusher but could provide quality rushing defense off the edge. Whoever drafts Williams will have to realize his interesting skill set and utilize it in their defense. Again, he should be a solid interior pass rusher but more of an edge run stopper.

Hamilcar Rashed Jr., Oregon State: When you watch Hamilcar Rashed Jr., one word pops up in your mind: Athleticism. Rashed is an explosive athlete who flourished at the college level due to versatility. His explosiveness, power, and speed allowed him to pressure the quarterback from the edge as well as the inside. I do not see him being much of an impact in the league from the interior of the defensive line, but his versatility at the college level shows you the kind of athlete he is. However, like most day two or day three selections, Rashed needs to improve his technique when it comes to getting after the passer. At times it appears he has no real plan when it comes to rushing the passer. With his smaller stature, if he doesn’t improve his technique, tackles in the league will easily be able to contain him. However, if he can improve his technique and offer a variety of pass-rushing moves, he will be a problem at the next level due to his athleticism. He projects to be much more of a 3-4 outside linebacker than a 4-3 defensive end.

Cornerbacks: I have to say, I like this cornerback class. There is diverse talent all over this class. At the top of the class, you see players like Patrick Surtain II and Caleb Farley who can show elite man coverage ability. You also see Jaycee Horn and Greg Newsome who are more suited for zone coverage schemes but can offer some versatility in their game. As we head toward day two prospects, we see a lot of players who either have great technique and lack athleticism or quite the opposite. It will be interesting to see who can adapt and overcome the transition to the league. Camryn Bynum is a late-round corner I like due to his technique and ball skills. He could be a diamond in the rough for this year’s draft.

Where can teams find value: This class is very talented so I'd say any selection in the first two rounds is good value. It takes time to develop a corner and even the top corners will need time to reach their potential. Teams must be patient and get "their guy" who fits their scheme and culture.

Patrick Surtain II, Alabama: Alabama has a reputation for producing elite defensive backs and they’re looking to continue it this year with Patrick Surtain. In my opinion, Surtain is the top cornerback in this draft class. Surtain does his best work in man coverage where he can use his athleticism to stick with a player. He shows hip fluidity which is important when cornerbacks attempt to cover excellent route runners. His ability to track the ball and create pass breakups is impressive. Surtain shows some versatility in his game but he is certainly better in man coverage than he is in zone coverage. Like many young cornerbacks, Surtain will struggle at times but it would greatly benefit him to be placed in a man coverage scheme where he can develop his strengths at the next level.

Caleb Farley, Virginia Tech: Caleb Farley is near the top of this draft class for a reason. He has a blend of skills and athleticism that you don’t see often at the cornerback position. Farley has length and speed which will allow him to close space very quickly in coverage as well as break up passes. His athleticism will allow him to keep up with even the best athletes at the wide receiver position. Farley also appears to have fluid hips which will allow him to stick with the best route runners. Again, it is very rare to see immediate success from cornerbacks and I’d expect the same from Farley. Farley will fit the best in a heavy man coverage scheme and it will also allow him to develop his skillset to become a true “lockdown cornerback.” It should be noted that although Farley is one of the top prospects in this year’s draft, he is falling on some boards due to injury concerns.

Jaycee Horn, South Carolina: Although Jaycee Horn is near the top of this draft class, his play-style is not comparable to Farley or Surtain. Similar to Farley and Surtain, Horn is an elite athlete, but he isn’t suited for a heavy man coverage scheme. Horn does his best work in zone coverage. He uses his length and explosiveness to read the quarterback’s eyes and break on the ball as it’s thrown. South Carolina emphasized breaking up passes by attacking the ball and it can be seen in Horn’s game. Although his man coverage skills aren’t top-notch, he can play press coverage fairly well. Horn was placed in the slot his freshman year and that is where his press coverage skills come from. When in the press, Horn can jam a receiver at the line. Throughout his career, at South Carolina, he saw nothing but improvement in his game. Between his athleticism and length, Horn could easily develop into a solid man coverage corner, but it will take time. Until then, a primarily zone coverage scheme will benefit Horn greatly, and in a scheme like that, there’s no reason he couldn’t end up being the best corner in this class.

Greg Newsome II, Northwestern: Greg Newsome very well could be the Buffalo Bills selection at No. 30. Newsome is a very talented zone cornerback. He uses his high football IQ and athleticism to make plays all over the secondary. He is not afraid to get physical with a receiver at the line. He also has great ball skills and was known for creating pass breakups in college. His length and ability to break on the ball quickly are a big reason for this. He will fit well into any zone coverage scheme. The one knock on Newsome is his injury history. He did not complete a full season during his time at Northwestern, so it is right to mark that as a red flag.

Asante Samuel Jr., Florida State: We continue down this list with yet another prospect whose father played in the league. Asante Samuel Jr. is one good player. Samuel showed flashes of greatness at Florida State. Although he has a smaller frame he was sticky in man coverage. He has fluid hips and quick feet which allow him to stick with talented wide receivers. He certainly needs to develop his zone coverage skills to become a more versatile corner but should be able to help out secondaries immediately. His best fit is a man coverage-based scheme that will also allow him to play press coverage against slot receivers. This is mainly due to his quickness but also his lack of size.

Eric Stokes, Georgia: Eric Stokes is an absolute speedster and could very well be the fastest player in this draft. Mix that speed with some height and a good frame, and you’re probably wondering why he isn’t being talked about more. When you turn on his tape, he appears to be grabby and lacks technique that will allow him to succeed at the next level. At the college level, you can get away with poor technique and poor coverage due to being the best athlete on the field. However, in the league, that won’t fly. There are many positives with Stokes, but the red flags are there, and teams are right to be concerned. Stokes is likely a day two selection, but he could sneak into the end of day one. If a team can tap into his potential, he could be a lockdown cornerback for years to come.

Tyson Campbell, Georgia: Campbell appears to have the traits to be an elite cornerback in the league, but he just needs to polish what he already has. First off, he is an elite athlete who can run up and down the field with pretty much anybody. He also has superfluid hips and can stick with some really good route runners. Where I think he can improve is his physicality. I see little physicality in Campbell’s game. What do I mean by that? He rarely attempts to jam receivers at the line. While at Georgia, Campbell was tasked with taking on the explosive Alabama offense. Campbell was mainly on Devonta Smith but also covered Waddle a couple of plays. Now, it is not easy to cover either of those guys, especially when they have a quarterback who can throw with timing and a solid offensive line. However, Campbell lacked the physicality to jam those two at the line. I think Campbell is one of the more versatile corners we have seen so far but he needs to polish up his technique and play a bit more physical. Again, all the traits are there, now it’s time to make the jump to the league and develop more as a player.

Ifeatu Melifonwu, Syracuse: If you were to build the ideal cornerback in a lab, it would be Ifeatu Melifonwu. That last name may sound familiar to some. The first time I heard it, I was scratching my head until I remembered the show his brother, Obi, put on at the combine. Obi was the star of the combine in 2017. I think Ifeatu would have done the same had COVID-19 not canceled the combine. At 6’3, 215lbs, Ifeatu is the perfect athlete to play cornerback in the league. His mix of athleticism, length, and hip fluidity is extremely rare. You may be wondering, then why is his draft stock not higher? Well at the college level you can get away with poor technique and poor coverage due to being the best athlete on the field. However, in the league, that won’t fly. Ifeatu played a good mix of zone and man coverage at Syracuse and showed some flashes of elite play but he needs to show more consistency. He tends to get lost in zone coverage at times and blow his assignments. He also misses tackles in the open field at times. These are red flags but if he goes to the right team that will develop him as a player overall, he could be the true diamond in the rough of this draft.

Aaron Robinson, UCF: Aaron Robinson is another player that a friend put on my radar. I am yet again happy that I heard about him because he is an intriguing prospect. Robinson primarily played inside the numbers in the slot cornerback role. He has quick and fluid footwork which allows him to stick with good route runners from the slot. He also has excellent ball skills and long arms which allow him to break up passes. Robinson also played some snaps outside the numbers and shows the ability to make plays downfield, but I am unsure if he will be able to do that consistently at the next level. He offers scheme versatility and can help in the run game due to his ability to tackle.

Elijah Molden, Washington: Here we are again with yet another cornerback prospect whose father played in the league. Washington trusted Elijah Molden’s abilities and lined him up all over the field, but he was mainly playing inside the numbers. That is where we will likely see him in the league. Molden is an ideal slot cornerback. He lacks the size to play on the outside and honestly, doesn’t have the speed to keep up with elite athletes. When Molden is playing inside it allows him to play to his instincts. He is a very intelligent player and uses that to make up for his lack of speed. He will certainly need to improve his press coverage skills if he wants to succeed at the next level, but his instinctive zone coverage abilities are promising.

Camryn Bynum, California: Camryn Bynum was a pleasant surprise when I began to watch him. He has very solid technique in man and zone coverage. He has quick footwork which allows him to stick to receivers and good ball skills. Bynum didn’t force many interceptions at Cal, but he produced a lot of pass breakups. I wish he’d get a little more physical in press coverage, but he didn’t seem to struggle even against larger receivers. The biggest concerns are his lack of size and his lack of elite athleticism, in particular, long speed. However, as Bills General Manager Brandon Beane once said, “We don’t look for combine guys, we look for football players” and well, Bynum is certainly one impressive football player.

Safeties: This safety class is filled with potential. Trevon Moehrig projects to be the only first-round selection, but I wouldn't be surprised if Jevon Holland or Richie Grant were selected at the tail end of the first round. Andre Cisco and Hamsah Nasirildeen are great athletes who are a bit raw at their positions but offer a ton of upside. This class is filled with free safeties rather than strong safeties. Hamsah Nasirildeen is the only exception. He projects to be more of a strong safety or developmental "big nickel" cornerback. Value can be found all over in this class.

Where can teams find value: Similar to cornerbacks, the value is early in this draft. The top safeties offer a lot of upside and teams should look to grab "their guy."

Trevon Moehrig., TCU: Trevon Moehrig is the top safety prospect in this draft for a reason. Moehrig is a well-rounded defender who can play all over the field. Moehrig can make tackles from sideline to sideline due to his athleticism and high football IQ. His high football IQ allows him to sniff out a play, close on the ball quickly and make tackles. He also can play over the top due to his ball skills. When one on one with a receiver, Moehrig uses his length to attack the ball and generate pass breakups. When it comes to the next level, Moehrig is more suited to be a free safety rather than a strong safety. However, Moehrig could develop into a true hybrid defender and be useful all over the field.

Jevon Holland, Oregon: Jevon Holland could be one of the most underrated prospects in this draft. Holland shows a lot of tools that provide any team who drafts him with schematic versatility. Holland can play as that single-high safety who can read the quarterback's eyes and break on the ball to make plays. He also shows the ability to play in man coverage and stick with a receiver throughout his route. Holland can also play in the box, navigate the line of scrimmage and make tackles. Holland projects as a day two selection but it wouldn’t surprise me if a team fell in love with him and drafted him at the back end of day one.

Richie Grant, UCF: Richie Grant was a playmaker during his time at UCF. Throughout his three years starting at UCF he was able to generate 15 turnovers. His best year in that department came in his sophomore season with six interceptions and two forced fumbles. These turnovers are not just luck, Grant earns these turnovers. He uses his high football IQ to read the quarterback and his athleticism to jump the route. When tackling, he is looking to create turnovers by punching the ball out. When the ball is thrown his way, he shows good ball skills that create pass breakups and interceptions. There will be a learning curve for Grant at the next level, but he shows a ton of potential as a free safety at the next level.

Andre Cisco: Syracuse: Andre Cisco is one exciting prospect to watch. He shows great athleticism and length which provides him with the ability to make plays on the ball. At Syracuse, you’d see Cisco flying into a play and creating a pass breakup or interception. He was flying all over the field making plays. However, what you may not have seen is how Cisco can be looking for that “big play” often. He lacks consistency in his game and can be a liability in coverage at times. Cisco’s true knack for creating turnovers and athleticism is enough for teams to take notice. He projects to be a day two selection and a developmental free safety.

Hamsah Nasirildeen, Florida State: Hamsah Nasirildeen is the kind of prospect where the sky is the limit, but he will need to be placed in a situation where he can develop his skills. First off, Nasirildeen is a fantastic athlete. He has good size for the position but is also athletic enough to make plays from sideline to sideline. Nasirildeen plays well in press coverage due to his length and ability to get physical at the line of scrimmage. I expect Nasirildeen to have more of a limited role in a defense right off the bat, but his versatility allows for him to have many roles and the possibility of expanding his initial roles. He will need to improve ball skills and instincts in coverage, but if he does, he could be the best safety to come out of this draft.

Ar’Darius Washington, TCU: Ar’Darius Washington appears to be every bit as talented as his peers. He shows great intelligence on the football field. Not only does he read the quarterback’s eyes, but he also shows a great understanding of offensive concepts and route combinations. Just like every other guy on this list he can fly around and make plays from sideline to sideline. Washington also is a stout-run defender who is disciplined in defending his gap. The major flaw for Washington is his size. He stands in at 5’8 and 178lbs. If Washington wants to be a stud at the next level, he will need to put on weight and be comfortable playing at a higher weight.

Thank you for taking a look at our 2021 NFL Draft Guide. Feel free to check back in three to five years and see who we were right about but also wrong about! As always, Go Bills!