Here are the picks for our NFL mock draft. More specifically: picks #16-20. Here we go.
16. Seattle Seahawks: Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
Here, Seattle adds a dog in Turner, who has improved every single year (66.7 PFF grade in 2021 to 81.6 PFF grade in 2023). With 11 sacks for the Crimson Tide this past year, it’s hard to find what not to like about the talented edge rusher.
His acceleration and ability to change direction bodes well to be an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. This is relevant, as that is the type of defense Seattle will run under new head coach Mike MacDonald.
Also, Turner’s speed and bend are ready for the NFL level, showing he is ready to contribute from day one. For a team with Boye Mafe (nine sacks in 2023) on one side, Turner would be a welcoming addition to make the pass rush even more dangerous.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
Another edge rusher goes off the board, this time with the talented Verse to Jacksonville. A powerful player, his violent hands when swiping offensive linemen’s arms off of him combat his short arm length. Besides, why does arm length matter when you’re still getting sacks (11 in 2023).
His strength helps him beat blocks consistently, with his swim move being a dependable one to help get to the quarterback.
With 11 sacks and 36 QB hurries, Verse is a great player. But, with Travon Walker and Josh Allen already on the team, why would they draft him? Well…
It would be a surprise if the Jaguars took a pass-rusher at No. 17 overall after they passed on several options in the draft, free agency and trade deadline in 2023 based on the premise that they already had two starters. That scenario hasn’t changed, especially after Josh Allen and Travon Walker combined for 27.5 sacks.
The Jaguars lacked pass-rush depth behind Allen and Walker, however, and have pending free agents in backup pass-rushers Dawuane Smoot and K’Lavon Chaisson.
John Shipley of Jaguar Report FN on Jared Verse possibly being drafted by Jacksonville
You can never have too many pass rushers. Adding Verse would create a deadly trio that AFC South quarterbacks will have to watch out for.
18. Cincinnati Bengals: Troy Fautanu, T, Washington
With the ability to play center or guard, Fautanu comes to help save quarterback Joe Burrow from getting hit more than he needs to.
Last year, the Bengals allowed 50 sacks, eighth-most in the league. But, the offensive line is getting revamped, as they signed Trent Brown to play RT from free agency and in this mock, draft the athletic Fautanu.
In the past three seasons, Fautanu allowed just three sacks. He has fast feet and his hands are excellent at the point of attack while also being able to latch on to defenders. Though his pass blocking is excellent, Fautanu needs to improve his run-blocking abilities, grading out around the average in terms of that category (61.9). There are also times when he is overaggressive and his lower half isn’t the strongest.
Regardless, these are all issues that can be fixed. Fautanu is an excellent prospect who could easily slide to left guard with Orlando Brown Jr. already manning the left tackle position.
19. Los Angeles Rams: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
Remember when many of us NFL fans clowned the Rams for not having notable names on the defense other than Aaron Donald? Well, Donald is gone now and now they have no guys that stand out.
Until, this offseason, of course. Los Angeles brought back dependable cornerback Darious Williams and is mocked here to draft the talented Arnold. One of the highest-graded defensive backs last season (88.4), he had five interceptions in 2023 while holding quarterbacks to a 50.7 passer rating when targeted.
Arnold is simply an athlete. His speed, especially recovery speed, will help him keep up with the NFL’s star receivers while rarely letting them get many steps on him. Whether it’s man or zone defense, he is a great asset to have.
The Rams haven’t had a top cornerback since Jalen Ramsey was there. Arnold, along with the recently signed Williams, gives them a solid 1-2 duo.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU
With the trade of Diontae Johnson to Carolina, the Steelers could use a wideout to throw to outside of George Pickens. Enter Thomas, who is 6’4″ with a combination of top speed and size to demand the attention of the secondary at all times.
PFF describes Thomas as similar to Martavis Bryant, who Steeler fans should be familiar with. Thomas is a threat vertically, and his technique and footwork were improved in 2023 compared to previous seasons.
However, one concern is his ability to beat press coverage, as he didn’t face a lot of it in college. Regardless, if he can show that he can win those one-on-one matches at the NFL level consistently and beat his man down the field, then a team like the Steelers will have another dependable weapon for Russell Wilson or Justin Fields to throw to.
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