NFL draft, first-round mock picks 1-10, and Cleveland Browns pick No. 26
By Greg Newland
4. Atlanta Falcons – Zach Wilson, QB, BYU
The Atlanta Falcons are in a tricky spot in more than one way. One, do they really want to draft a quarterback now? Matt Ryan is older, but still has another year or two left of solid football. Two, if they know they need to go quarterback because of being in the top five, will their guy fall to No. 4.
The New York Jets unfortunately hold the keys to that answer.
Many speculate that the Falcons have their eyes set on quarterback Zach Wilson of BYU. Wilson appears to have all the talent in the world but has drawn some comparisons to Johnny Manziel. Not only was he a one-year wonder in college, but he also has some disciplinary concerns.
The Falcons are praying that the Jets go with Fields decide they are happy with Sam Darnold but don’t be shocked if the Falcons get antsy to move up and get their guy.
5. Cincinnati Bengals – Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon
After winning a few games at the end of the year, many believed that the Bengals may have fallen out of the Penei Sewell sweepstakes, but the emergence of quarterbacks (per usual) has the talented left tackle available at number five for the Bengals.
If Sewell is on the board, this pick will take about one second to fill out. The Bengals have an extremely talented quarterback in Joe Burrow, and they must find a way to protect him. What better way to do this than with a guy who received a second-place Heisman vote as a sophomore?
Sewell didn’t play a snap in 2020, but his athleticism, strength, and quickness will likely make him the next great tackle in the NFL. After watching some tape, this guy could be one of the best ever.