Here are the picks for our NFL mock draft. More specifically: picks #11-15.
11. Minnesota Vikings: JJ McCarthy, QB, Michigan
With two first-round picks this year, there’s no need to trade up to nab their quarterback of the future. Other mocks have McCarthy going to the Giants at #6. But, fortunately for Minnesota, that is not the case here.
The Michigan product didn’t have crazy statistics across the board in 2023. But, he did grade at 90.6 according to PFF. His experience in a pro-style offense at Michigan helps, and his footwork and throwing motion is solid for the NFL. However, he does need to get stronger in order to help his arm talent be ready for the pros.
Regardless, you can’t deny he is an athlete who knew how to win during his time as a Wolverine, especially last year. With Kirk Cousins gone, McCarthy comes in and immediately is the QB1.
12. Denver Broncos: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toldeo
Despite Denver’s glaring need for a quarterback, it’s just too early to get one of the second-tier quarterbacks here, especially with other needs.
Instead, the Broncos get a corner to help lock down opposing receivers. After all, Patrick Surtain II could use some help, being the lone dependable one on the roster.
Mitchell has graded at at least a 91 according to PFF, and for good reason. When quarterbacks throw his way, their rating is just a 51.1. He was targeted 62 times but allowed just 27 catches for 290 yards and zero touchdowns. Zero. Lock them down.
With just one interception last year (compared to five the year before), that was questionable yet not too much of a concern. He does have work to do in terms of press and zone coverage. But, he has the tools to be a CB1 in the NFL.
He would align himself 8-10 yards off the line of scrimmage, keep his eyes on the quarterback and wait to pounce. His recovery speed and acceleration are both elite, even for NFL standards.
PFF on Quinyon Mitchell’s best traits
13. Las Vegas Raiders: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State
Like Denver, the Raiders could use an upgrade at quarterback. But, with Gardner Minshew being signed in free agency along with the incumbent Aidan O’Connell, it’s not too glaring of a need. Instead, the Raiders add protection for their signal-caller, whoever it may be.
Fashanu played 12 games last year after being in just eight the year before. At 6’6″, 319 lbs, he’s an athlete worth drafting in the first round. But, he does need to get stronger while also working on footwork to help maintain his blocks. But, his pass blocking is great because he does have fast feet, regardless. You can’t deny the athleticism, and Las Vegas could use a young guy like him to protect the quarterback’s blind side for years to come.
14. New Orleans Saints: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State
Three months ago, current Saints tackle Ryan Ramczyk had a nagging knee issue that prevented him from staying on the field. At that time, he was uncertain of his future in the league and currently isn’t healthy still.
With that said, New Orleans go for Fuaga here. Grading out at an 88.2 PFF grade, he did not allow a sack in 2023 while ranking among the best of the best in run-blocking and zone-blocking. Pass-blocking-wise, he is okay as his short strides affect his ability there. But, at the end of the day, what matters is that Fuaga fires off the snap with the intention of destroying the man opposite of him, with foot speed that stands out.
He can play guard or tackle in the NFL, giving the Saints flexibility depending on how Ramczyk’s health is for 2024. But, Fuaga’s IQ and strength make him a great pick for New Orleans at 14th overall.
15. Indianapolis Colts: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson
Opposite of Kenny Moore, the Colts could use another cornerback to help lockdown the weapons in the AFC South (Tank Dell, DeAndre Hopkins, Calvin Ridley, Christian Kirk, etc).
Enter Wiggins, who ran a 4.28 40-yard-dash at the combine, showing his elite speed that will translate to the next level. In terms of tools, he has it all to be a top cornerback in the NFL for years to come. Smooth and explosive, he has good arm length to deal with press coverage. His movement is fluid, turning his hips with ease without losing a step against his assignment.
When quarterbacks throw his way, they only have a 44.4 passer rating. For a Clemson team that has struggled to get back to their dominant ways under Dabo Sweeney, Wiggins was one of the few bright spots whom the Colts will be lucky to have.
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Featured Image: Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images
