2021 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections pre-Super Bowl week

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 01: Trevor Lawrence #16 of the Clemson Tigers looks to pass in the third quarter against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the College Football Playoff semifinal game at the Allstate Sugar Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on January 01, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 01: Trevor Lawrence #16 of the Clemson Tigers looks to pass in the third quarter against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the College Football Playoff semifinal game at the Allstate Sugar Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on January 01, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Zaven Collins #23, Tulsa Golden Hurricane (Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images)
Zaven Collins #23, Tulsa Golden Hurricane (Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images)

The Saints could have the option of going with a quarterback in the first round but unless they trade up to get their guy, the best quarterbacks available would potentially be Mac Jones or Kyle Trask so a new QB1 probably will have to wait for later in the draft or until next year. But the Saints need some help in the middle of their defense and Bronko Nagurski Trophy winner Zaven Collins out of Tulsa is the smart choice. For me, Collins is the second-best linebacker in the draft as he can perform well in all phases of his position defending both the run and the pass.

OK, the Packers have to get some type of weapon this draft for Aaron Rodgers, right? Well, you would think so and with wide receiver DeVante Adams as the solidified No. 1 receiver on the team, bringing a solid and reliable WR2 would be a heads up move. Tylan Wallace is great in short-yardage situations and is not afraid to go up and get the ball. The draft’s most underrated receiver is ready to showcase his skills on Sundays and with a quarterback like Rodgers, those skills will be shown in no time.

Given the nickname of “Baby Gronk”, Pat Freiermuth is just as athletic as he is physical in the passing game. He is not afraid to catch passes over the middle or up the seam and is ready to take on any hits opposing safeties and linebackers throw at him. With the big-play ability of Stefon Diggs and the excellent slot play from Cole Beasley, adding Freiermuth would give Josh Allen the ultimate trifecta in weapons to throw to as they look to get back to the AFC title game.