2021 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after national championship

DeVonta Smith, Alabama football (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
DeVonta Smith, Alabama football (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /
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North Dakota State football
Trey Lance, North Dakota State football (Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images) /

QB. 9. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Trey Lance. player. 45. North Dakota State

North Dakota State was planning on playing a spring football season with the rest of the FCS, but Trey Lance decided it was in his best interest to opt out.

This was probably the right move because he’s already considered a top-10 pick and there’s no need to risk an injury, especially when the season would be going on during the time of the NFL Draft. It does give college football fans who were looking forward to a nice dose of Lance this spring one less thing to watch.

But the Broncos will benefit from a fresh quarterback who has decided to focus on NFL Draft preparation. This may not be the biggest need for the organization, especially because they like what they have in Drew Lock, but the jury is still out on the young quarterback and Lance would need a year or two of learning anyways.

If Lock doesn’t work out, Lance would be the perfect insurance. If he does work out, Denver will have a nice trade piece in Lance.

In his first full year as a starter with powerhouse North Dakota State, Lance passed for 2,786 yards and 28 touchdowns with zero (yes, zero) interceptions. He also showcased his accuracy, completing 67 percent of his throws. Oh yeah, and he can move, rushing for 1,100 yards and 14 touchdowns as a sophomore.

Lance can play in the elements which is why Denver might just be the perfect fit.