2021 NFL Mock Draft: Mac Jones explodes into top 5 in final edition

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 11: Mac Jones #10 of the Alabama Crimson Tide in action during the third quarter of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Hard Rock Stadium on January 11, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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EVANSTON, ILLINOIS – OCTOBER 26: Daviyon Nixon #54 of the Iowa Hawkeyes is blocked by Rashawn Slater #70 of the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field on October 26, 2019 in Evanston, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

player. 87. Scouting Report. Rashawn Slater. OT. Northwestern. 8. Pick Analysis

A few weeks ago, I may have thought that Justin Fields dropping out of the top five would be perfect for the Panthers because they could finally address the quarterback position with a franchise player. But since the Panthers added Sam Darnold, adding some protection for him will be key.

Carolina is looking at either a cornerback or an offensive tackle here and I don’t see them reaching for Caleb Farley, Jaycee Horn, or Patrick Surtain here.

There are some top-tier offensive tackles in this draft class and some experts believe that Rashawn Slater is actually a better prospect than Penei Sewell (I don’t) so snagging him at No. 8 overall would be a win.

Slater opted out of the 2020 season in order to prepare for the draft and he’s going to be one of the first names off the board at the position and I think the 8-12 range is a sweet spot.

Get Darnold some protection right away.

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