2021 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after Super Bowl LV

And here we finally are at the Super Bowl champs. Tampa Bay could address needs on defense here with Jaelan Phillips and I think that’s the best value pick possible. Nick Bolton of Missouri wouldn’t be a bad choice, either, but I think the ceiling of Phillips trumps everything else.

Phillips has had an interesting career to this point. He began as a five-star recruit and was regarded by some as the No. 1 prospect in America, choosing UCLA before deciding to retire, pondering if he was truly passionate about football.

Miami courted him and he decided to five football another shot and it’s been a smart decision because he’s being graded as a first-rounder and as one of the best defensive linemen in the entire 2021 draft class.

And the reigning champs need help up front. This would be a great fit for both sides and would only help Phillips’ development.

Phillips had a breakout season in 2020 with his new school, recording a career-best 45 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks with three batted passes. His potential was finally realized and everyone got to see just what he could do with extended playing time.

Phillips is just scratching the surface, too.