Not all NFL mock drafts are the same. Many approaches can be applied to a projection.

With two weeks remaining before the event, mock drafts at this juncture tend to be based on what analysts believe will happen. These projections are typically built around needs, team visits, reported interest and any possible inside information. They're not necessarily what someone thinks should happen.

The Bleacher Report Scouting Department of Alex Ballentine, Brandon Thorn, Brent Sobleski, Cory Giddings, Derrik Klassen, Kris Knox and Matt Holder decided to take the opposite approach with its penultimate effort.

B/R will post a final mock draft the morning of the the first round, which falls on Thursday, April 25.

This version is built around the belief of what the scouting staff would do in the place of the teams. Some picks will stay the same. Others will have a new player at the same position. Others will go in completely different direction. Specific talents won't necessarily fall where they're expected, with the B/R's latest draft board serving as the primary guideline to this approach.

This path allows for the picks to cut through lying season like a hot knife through butter.

It's now time for the scouts to pound the table for where they believe certain talents should land through this year's first three rounds.

1. Chicago Bears (from Carolina): QB Drake Maye, North Carolina

A quarterback to the Chicago Bears with the No. 1 overall pick is a lock. But it shouldn't be the slam dunk of a selection that it's being made out to be.

USC's Caleb Williams is extremely talented. He'll come off the board shortly. But he's not Bleacher Report's top quarterback.

"North Carolina's Drake Maye should be an easy prospect to buy into for any organization," Klassen said. "He is young (21), athletic and aggressive. Maye's arm is as good as anyone's in the class and his best throws to all three levels are absolutely indefensible. Maye also brings great pocket presence and the ability to throw in crowded spaces, something the Bears' last quarterback was lacking."

No one is denying the ability of the other available quarterbacks. Just because someone develops into the consensus pick at No. 1 doesn't mean it's the right selection. Ask the Carolina Panthers.

Maye has the prototypical size, arm talent and playmaking ability to be the class' best QB prospect.

2. Washington Commanders: QB Caleb Williams, USC

Much like the Chicago Bears, the Washington Commanders are quarterback shopping, and they paved the way for one to be the selection with this year's second overall pick.

However, head coach Dan Quinn and Co. must wait to see what the Bears do before finalizing their plans. As of now, Caleb Williams is a massive favorite to become the No. 1 overall pick.

But here, Williams is still available for the Commanders because his status as QB1 isn't a foregone conclusion among the B/R Scouting Department.

"Williams, like Drake Maye, checks just about every box," Klassen said. "Williams is a slippery, explosive athlete with mind-bending arm talent and all the confidence in the world to wield it. The accuracy to all three levels and pocket management from Williams are top-tier stuff.

"In Washington, the main concern is that their putrid offensive line will only exacerbate Williams' tendency to hold onto the ball."

A reunion with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury certainly doesn't hurt matters.

3. New England Patriots: QB Jayden Daniels, LSU

If the New England Patriots don't take their future franchise quarterback now, when will they do so?

It's a legitimate question considering LSU's Jayden Daniels isn't necessarily a top-10 talent in this year's class. In fact, he finds himself in the latter half of the first round among B/R's rankings.

But the need for the position is far too big to go in any other direction. Jerod Mayo can begin his tenure as the Patriots head coach with an elite athlete behind center and someone who continually improved throughout his collegiate career.

"New England is coming off a Mac Jones/Bailey Zappe era that completely lacked explosive ability," Klassen said. "Daniels changes everything.

"Daniels is an A-tier rushing threat with a delightful deep ball. Those two traits alone will change the makeup of the Patriots offense. Better yet, Daniels brings a decent floor with his accuracy and ball security.

"The questions with Daniels will be whether he attacks the middle of the field more in the NFL and whether his scramble-to-run play style will bite him."

4. Arizona Cardinals, WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State

According to Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort, the team is open to trading out of the fourth overall slot.

Let's shut that down now, slam the door closed and never talk about it again.

Why?

The Cardinals have no reason to trade out of the spot when 1) they're staring at an opportunity to select the class' No. 1 overall prospect, who happens to be the best incoming wide receiver since Calvin Johnson, and 2) already own six selections among this year's top 90.

"The best player in the draft falls to the fourth pick simply because it's to the first team that doesn't need a quarterback," Klassen said. "It really is that simple.

"Ohio State's Marvin Harrison Jr. brings size, speed, fluidity and outrageous ball skills. Harrison is all of 6'3" and 209 pounds but runs routes with the snappiness and technique of a light 6-footer. With the ball in the air, Harrison has rare ability to track the ball and contort his body to find it at its earliest point. Maybe Harrison's YAC is more serviceable than threatening, but the rest of his game is outstanding."

5. Los Angeles Chargers: WR Rome Odunze, Washington

Washington's Rome Odunze doesn't necessarily feel like a Jim Harbaugh-like selection for the Los Angeles Chargers, but the new head coach may have no choice but to take a wide receiver over a lineman.

This offseason, the Chargers released Mike Williams and traded veteran stalwart Keenan Allen to the Chicago Bears. If the whole premise of Harbaugh going to Los Angeles was built around having Justin Herbert in place, the quarterback needs some quality weapons.

"Odunze instantly gives the Chargers a new No. 1 receiver," Klassen said. "Odunze can sort of offer the best of both worlds between the Chargers' two departing receivers. Odunze brings the same smooth movement ability and effortless route running of Allen while also being equipped with the size and ball skills of Williams."

Interestingly, Harbaugh's squads faced both Odunze and the Chargers' first-round pick last year, Quentin Johnston, during the previous two college football postseasons. The coach should know exactly what he has in both of them.

6. New York Giants: WR Malik Nabers, LSU

The New York Giants believed enough in Daniel Jones to sign him to a four-year, $160 million contract extension last offseason. While the front office may still be interested in adding someone else to the quarterback room, the more pressing venture is to find Jones the type of weapons where he can actually succeed.

Darius Slayton, Wan'Dale Robinson and Jalin Hyatt all provide useful traits. Not a single one of them scares the opposing defense. The same can't be said of LSU's Malik Nabers.

"Nabers isn't exactly the big-bodied X-receiver the Giants need," Klassen said, "but he's too good to pass up with this pick. Nabers' explosive ability is unrivaled in this class, particularly with the ball in his hands.

"LSU's all-time leading receiver is a terrifying YAC threat with his blend of speed, balance and vision. However, Nabers is also impressive before the ball, especially when he gets to use his explosiveness to snap off sharp routes."

7. Tennessee Titans: OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame

There may not be a more perfect pairing between prospect and team than Notre Dame's Joe Alt to the Tennessee Titans.

The Titans fielded the league's worst offensive line a year ago. They already brought in free-agent center Lloyd Cushenberry III, but his acquisition is not nearly enough.

By adding the class' top offensive tackle prospect in Alt, the Titans can form one of the league's best left sides.

"The Titans have a hole at both tackle spots, and in this scenario, they would get their pick of the class," Thorn said. "Alt has a special blend of size (6'9", 321 lbs) and technique that would be honed even more under legendary line coach Bill Callahan in Tennessee, securing the left side with last year's first-rounder Peter Skoronski at left guard for the foreseeable future."

While the right side may still be in question, the Titans are clearly building toward a strong foundation to help in quarterback Will Levis' development.

8. Atlanta Falcons: CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo

The Atlanta Falcons got their guy in quarterback Kirk Cousins. The team's offense is built to win now. The defense is still missing a few pieces. So, Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot can take the first defender off the board in Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell.

"The Falcons should be in the market for a cornerback, and the versatile Mitchell is a perfect fit," Giddings said. "The speedy cornerback excels in man coverage, with fluid movement and top-notch ball skills. Mitchell outperformed his competition at the Senior Bowl and combine, which has placed him in a position to not only be the first cornerback off the board but also the top defender overall."

Mitchell's selection provides an outside corner with the size and speed to bookend A.J. Terrell, which allows Dee Alford and Clark Phillips III to take the majority of slot reps.

What looks like it could be an elite offense paired with a sturdy secondary will allow the Falcons to set the pace and play from ahead in games.

9. Chicago Bears: OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State

The Chicago Bears will have their quarterback of the future in place by the time they're on the clock again. The next step proves to be far more interesting, because the organization can go in multiple directions.

Another offensive weapon wouldn't be a bad idea at all. Maybe the team looks to pair a talented pass-rusher opposite Montez Sweat, who played exceptionally well for the Bears after his acquisition. Offensive line should still be on the table.

The final choice is the correct one in this particular scenario. Penn State's Olu Fashanu can be an immediate upgrade as a pass-protector on the rookie's blind side.

"Fashanu has a case for being the best tackle prospect in the class, especially as a pass protector, which is exactly where current starting left tackle Braxton Jones struggles the most," Thorn said. "This would not only upgrade the left tackle spot and link a true blind-side protector with Chicago's new quarterback, but it would also bolster its depth by allowing Jones to be a swing tackle."

10. New York Jets: TE Brock Bowers, Georgia

Serious thought went into the New York Jets adding more talent to the offensive line with the current ages of their bookend offensive tackles and Tyron Smith's extensive injury history. But the Jets are going for broke this season, with a 40-year-old quarterback coming off a ruptured Achilles tendon.

There's no better investment than landing arguably the greatest tight end prospect of all time and the class' second-ranked prospect regardless of position.

"Georgia's Brock Bowers is too good for the Jets to pass up," Klassen said. "More slot player than tight end, Bowers is a unique YAC threat for his 240-pound body type. He is a long, agile player with outstanding speed and balance in the open field.

"The two-time John Mackey Award winner isn't just a YAC guy, though. He offers an impressive catch radius and filthy route-running skills, not to mention the ability to line up anywhere. Bowers is more a roadblock than a road-grader in the run game, but that's fine given his other skills."

11. Minnesota Vikings: QB J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

The Minnesota Vikings land their quarterback of the future and didn't even trade up to do so. Shocking, isn't it? Not entirely.

Let's not forget that certain prospects are propped up throughout the predraft process. A year ago at this time, Will Levis was viewed as a potential top-five selection. He fell into the second round.

While the previous example isn't meant to downplay the talent of Michigan's J.J. McCarthy, it shows how certain "truths" leading up to the event can be misleading. Furthermore, McCarthy is graded as a fringe first-round talent by the B/R Scouting Dept. In essence, this could be viewed as a reach.

Whatever the case, this pairing is a perfect match.

"With Drake Maye off the board, McCarthy is the class' ideal quarterback for Vikings head coach/offensive play-caller Kevin O'Connell," Klassen said. "McCarthy offers great throwing velocity, pocket toughness and unwavering confidence throwing over the middle of the field. O'Connell can use all of those traits to get productive play out of McCarthy early on while the young quarterback cleans up his footwork and touch accuracy."

12. Denver Broncos: Edge Jared Verse, Florida State

With J.J. McCarthy coming off the board one pick earlier, the run of first-round-caliber quarterbacks is complete. Insert sad face emoji for the Denver Broncos.

Even though Jayden Daniels and McCarthy can be viewed as reaches based on B/R's latest draft board, they're still first-round-caliber prospects. The same can't be said of the next tier of quarterback prospects, with no other signal-caller falling within the top 60 overall.

Thus, the Broncos need to change gears and look elsewhere. They could do worse than selecting B/R's top-rated defensive prospect, Florida State's Jared Verse.

"Denver could use some help on the edge as it is currently slated to start Baron Browning and Jonathon Cooper," Holder said. "Verse would walk in as the team's most talented player at the position, and his physical playing style next to Zach Allen would go a long way toward rebuilding Denver's defensive front."

An identity needs to be built somewhere. If the Broncos can't find their quarterback, Allen, Verse and cornerback Patrick Surtain II provide a spark on defense.

13. Las Vegas Raiders: OT JC Latham, Alabama

Like the rival Denver Broncos before them, the Las Vegas Raiders aren't positioned to select a quarterback at this juncture. Maybe they'll do so later (spoiler alert).

Instead, the Raiders can go back to the well and draft an Alabama offensive lineman who can secure right tackle. Alex Leatherwood spectacularly flamed out in that role, but JC Latham is a completely different talent and fit.

"Latham's imposing blend of size (6'6", 342 lbs), power and competitive toughness just feels right in the silver and black and gives the unit one of the best run-blocking sets of tackles in the NFL with Kolton Miller on the other side," Thorn said. "Latham is the draft's most powerful blocker and would be a foundational piece for the rebuild on the right side of their line, aiding their transition into a new era of Raiders football under head coach Antonio Pierce."

14. New Orleans Saints: IOL Troy Fautanu, Washington

Washington's Troy Fautanu can fit in just about any situation, because he's athletic and talented enough to play anywhere along the offensive line.

The collegiate left tackle is often projected as a guard because of his 6'4" frame, but he has the length to stay on an island if needed.

The New Orleans Saints require help along their starting front five.

"The Saints need a starter at multiple spots on their line with the questions surrounding Trevor Penning's development, Ryan Ramczyk's health and a current hole at left guard," Thorn said. "Fautanu projects as a viable starter at each of these spots and is one of the five best blockers in a loaded class, so securing him at pick No. 14 would not only fill a need for the Saints, but also provide value."

Fautanu initially projects as the Saints' left guard but could bump outside depending on how the team's tackle situation develops.

15. Indianapolis Colts: Edge Dallas Turner, Alabama

The Indianapolis Colts set a franchise record last season with 51 sacks, which ranked among fifth overall in the league.

So a pass-rusher doesn't seem like an obvious target. Yet the the Colts lack a consistent presence off the edge to complement DeForest Buckner's interior disruption. Alabama's Dallas Turner provides the type of talent who can win clean in his one-on-one situations and make life even more miserable for opposing quarterbacks.

"Colts general manager Chris Ballard loves drafting elite athletes in general, especially when it comes to pass-rushers. Turner fits that description to a 'T' with his 8.85 RAS and 34⅜-inch arms. He'll give Gus Bradley flashbacks to prime Yannick Ngakoue, only with more athleticism and a higher ceiling."

Indianapolis has never been afraid to draft smaller and more unorthodox defensive ends. After all, Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney are the franchise's all-time-leading sack-artists. The Colts can help hide a young secondary with a juiced-up pass rush.

16. Seattle Seahawks: IOL Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State

Whether the discussion surrounds the Seattle Seahawks' new head coach Mike Macdonald or offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, they're accustomed to quality offensive line play.

The Baltimore Ravens were fantastic at the point of attack during Macdonald's tenure as the team's defensive coordinator. Meanwhile, Grubb had the nation's best offensive line blocking for him last season.

The Seahawks aren't anywhere near complete up front, particularly at guard. Oregon State's Taliese Fuaga can immediately fill one of the interior spots while reminding Seahawks faithful of another former blocker.

"Shades of Mike Iupati can be found on Fuaga's film," Thorn said. "With Seattle's penchant for bigger, hulking guards, this pairing fits in more ways than one.

"Fuaga is arguably the draft's best run-blocker, with an easy-to-project skill set inside while boosting his pass-protecting ability in the process. One glaring question from Fuaga's film is protecting his outside edge against high-side rushes from wide alignments, so eliminating that with the move to guard and pairing him with either Charles Cross or Abraham Lucas gives the unit a long-term pairing on one side of the line."

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: CB Terrion Arnold, Alabama

Once upon a time, Trevor Lawrence was viewed as the future of not just the AFC South, but the NFL. The 2021 No. 1 overall pick was also viewed as the best quarterback prospect since Andrew Luck entered the professional ranks.

Lawrence has flashed and looked the part at times. But he's now the elder statesman in his division, as he enters his fourth season.

The Jaguars must now contend with the Houston Texans' C.J. Stroud, Indianapolis Colts' Anthony Richardson and Tennessee Titans' Will Levis. All three experienced varied levels of success as rookies. As such, fortifications along the Jaguars secondary are a significant need, particularly with the additions of wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Calvin Ridley to division rivals.

Alabama's Terrion Arnold provides instant stability opposite Tyson Campbell as a physical cover corner with previous safety experience.

"Arnold is a savvy defender with the versatility to excel in either man- or zone-heavy schemes," Giddings said. "He makes quick reads and triggers to support the run. One of the best overall cornerbacks in the draft, he will fill a position of need for the Jaguars."

18. Cincinnati Bengals: WR Brian Thomas Jr., LSU

Eventually, Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins is going to get paid. It's unlikely to happen in the Queen City, where the Bengals organization will potentially look to sign teammate Ja'Marr Chase to a record-setting contract extension.

For now, Higgins looks to play under the franchise tag for one season and then test next year's market, unless the Bengals attempt to trade him during the draft.

Either way, Cincinnati has a track record of preparing for the future. The front office can do so again by drafting LSU's Brian Thomas Jr.

"Thomas doesn't exactly fit into the Bengals' wide receiver room right away," Klassen said. "Both Chase and Higgins are outside receivers, as is Thomas. However, Thomas is a quality replacement for Higgins, whenever that comes.

"Thomas, a tall and lanky prospect, offers truly special speed (4.33-second 40-yard dash) for a player of his size (6'3", 209 lbs). He's a legit vertical X-receiver with flashes of dangerous route-running ability and ball tracking. Thomas just needs the reps and experience to hone those skills a bit more."

19. Los Angeles Rams: Edge Laiatu Latu, UCLA

Some pairings simply feel right. UCLA's Laiatu Latu to the Los Angeles Rams is one of those.

"This has been a popular pick in B/R's recent mock drafts and for good reason," Holder said. "The Rams needed another edge-rusher before Aaron Donald retired and that only intensifies now that the defense can't rely on an interior defender racking up, or at least flirting with, double-digit sacks every year.

"Latu is the best pure pass-rusher in this year's class as he already has a wide array of moves to win with in one-on-one matchups."

Over the last two seasons, the unanimous All-American led all edge-defenders in overall grade, sacks, pass-rush win rate and pass-rush grade, according to Pro Football Focus.

With Byron Young's speed coming off one edge, Latu's polish working the other and Kobie Turner collapsing the pocket, the Rams will feature a promising front with the potential to control contests.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: IOL Graham Barton, Duke

Throughout the current draft cycle, Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson emerged as a favorite for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The position may remain the same, but the prospect has changed.

Duke's Graham Barton is next in line to fill the longstanding tradition of sensational Steelers snappers. Barton, who started at left tackle the last three seasons, began his collegiate career over the ball. His position flexibility makes him one of the class' most valuable blockers.

"Pittsburgh has a couple of openings both on the outside and inside of their line and could go with a more transitional tackle prospect here," Thorn said, "but with Barton it adds a true five-position skill set.

"Barton likely slides inside at center since the Steelers haven't been able to find a high-end center since the retirement of Maurkice Pouncey. Barton's athletic ability, play strength and sustain skills would do that while giving the unit a true building block alongside last year's first-round pick Broderick Jones."

21. Miami Dolphins: IOL Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon

The center is one of the most important players in the Shanahan scheme and its derivatives. The offense's center serves as the spearhead for the zone-heavy system, particularly with the zone-stretch.

With Connor Williams still unsigned and coming off a torn ACL, the Dolphins change direction to finish their offensive front.

"Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson is a weapon on the move in the run game," Thorn said. "Miami's rare ability to create advantageous angles for its line to gain leverage on defenders makes this a match made in heaven that would fully unlock JPJ's superpowers as a player.

"The Dolphins did sign Aaron Brewer at center this offseason, which could mean the reigning Rimington Trophy winner takes over at either guard spot as a rookie with potential to man the pivot if Brewer isn't there past 2024.

"For a team that wants to be a run-first group, the addition of JPJ gives Miami a key ingredient to sustain that approach."

22. Philadelphia Eagles: CB Cooper DeJean, Iowa

The Philadelphia Eagles roster is slowly decaying due to age.

Defensive tackle Fletcher Cox and future Hall of Fame center Jason Kelce both retired this offseason. Right tackle Lane Johnson and defensive end Brandon Graham are 33 and 36, respectively. But the Eagles may look the oldest in their secondary with outside corners Darius Slay and James Bradberry. Both will be 31 or older at the start of the regular season.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson's return certainly helps. At the same time, a legitimate investment in a top incoming talent could go a long way to eventually transition away from the team's veteran cornerbacks.

Iowa's Cooper DeJean is one of the class' best athletes, and he's very versatile.

"After suffering a broken fibula in November, DeJean was finally able to test at his pro day," Giddings said. "He showed his explosive overall athletic ability that flashed during the season. He has the necessary speed to run with most receivers and the added ability of being a premium returner at the next level."

23. Minnesota Vikings (from Houston via Cleveland): DL Byron Murphy II, Texas

After adding a new franchise quarterback without trading up for his services, the Minnesota Vikings benefit by addressing another area of need with their second opening-round selection.

"Minnesota's interior pass rush was terrible last season as Harrison Phillips led the group with a career-high three sacks," Holder said. "It wasn't as if Phillips or any other defensive tackle was getting consistent pressure.

"Texas' Byron Murphy II can help fix the problem while also adding a quality run defender. His run-stopping ability gives him a significant edge to be an immediate starter over free-agent signing Jerry Tillery.

"The only issue here will be avoiding confusion between cornerback Byron Murphy Jr., who is already on the roster, and defensive tackle Byron Murphy II."

All joking aside, Murphy led the Big 12 Conference in quarterback pressures last season and he's the class' best interior pass-rusher.

24. Dallas Cowboys: OT Amarius Mims, Georgia

When the Dallas Cowboys are cooking, their offensive line sets the table.

This offseason, the longtime standout unit lost both stalwart left tackle Tyron Smith and center Tyler Biadasz to free agency. The Cowboys don't have an immediate replacement for either. Georgia's Amarius Mims probably isn't one because he's raw. However, the 6'8", 340-pound prospect has all of the tools to develop into an elite blocker.

"Dallas has been ahead of the curve in offensive line evaluation and development going back decades, consistently investing in the position with premium draft capital and hitting on those investments," Thorn said. "While Mims' eight career starts clouds the picture with his projection to the NFL, the tools and natural ability are clearly in place to become a high-end starting tackle over time, and the Cowboys are in desperate need of those traits at left tackle.

"Dallas can also place Mims next to an elite, young guard in Tyler Smith, with Zack Martin leading the room, providing a strong environment for a rookie to thrive."

25. Green Bay Packers: CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama

Alabama's Kool-Aid McKinstry going to the Green Bay Packers really comes down to how much the organization still likes their previous cornerback investments.

Some tension and injuries issues exist with the squad's top corner, Jaire Alexander. Meanwhile, Eric Stokes has struggled, dealt with some injuries and the organization must make a decision on his fifth-year rookie option this offseason.

All of this is to say that cornerback should very much be in play for the Packers, particularly with a prospect as talented as McKinstry.

"McKinstry is a long-limbed cornerback with great size," Giddings said. "He plays with good lateral movement when in press and quickly gets in phase and into the hip pocket. He's a long strider with the top-end speed to carry defenders deep and does a good job sinking hips when getting out of breaks. The two-time first-team All-SEC selection is calm with the ball in the air and does a good job of getting his head around to play the ball.

"McKinstry can immediately take over a starting spot if necessary or provide quality depth at the onset of his career."

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Edge Chop Robinson, Penn State

Every team is looking for effective pass-rushers. Most prefer to invest first-round picks in the type of prospects who project as every-down defenders early in their careers. Penn State's Chop Robinson doesn't. But that's OK.

"Tampa Bay is a great situation for Robinson," Holder said. "He's a project who shows high-level athleticism but needs to refine his technique.

"Meanwhile, the Buccaneers have Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, who can start next season but is only signed through 2024, paving the way for the Penn State product to step into a bigger role in Year 2."

Robinson has the quickest first step of any defensive line prospect in this year's class. He's lightning off the edge. But a smaller frame doesn't necessarily project as being able to handle the rigors of facing NFL offensive linemen on a down-by-down basis.

As the 21-year-old prospect matures and continues to develop, he can eventually provide the Buccaneers defense with a premier pass-rusher, which it currently lacks.

27. Arizona Cardinals (from Houston): DL Jer'Zhan Newton, Illinois

Two approaches can be taken when adding a prospect. Either a team can address a weakness or take a position already filled and turn it into a strength.

Going into the offseason, the Arizona Cardinals fielded the league's worst defensive front on paper. The organization didn't ignore the position group by any means. It spent money. But the addition of a top interior defender like Illinois' Jer'Zhan Newton can actually make it an area of strength.

"While the Cardinals signed defensive linemen Bilal Nichols, Justin Jones and Khyiris Tonga during free agency, none of them have the potential to be a well-rounded player like Newton does," Holder said. "The Illinois product was very disruptive as a pass-rusher and run defender in college, and he'd immediately be Arizona's most talented player among the position group.

"This may be more of a 'best player available' type of pick, but it also improves the defense tremendously."

28. Buffalo Bills: WR Keon Coleman, Florida State

With Stefon Diggs now gone in a trade to the Houston Texans, the Buffalo Bills' need to add another weapon grew exponentially.

Florida State's Keon Coleman may not be the fastest target. Detractors will almost certainly point toward his underwhelming 4.61-second effort in the 40-yard dash at the NFL combine.

In doing so, they'll overlook what the 6'3", 213-pound target immediately provides to the Bills offense.

"Coleman offers a blend of size and contested-catch skills that are missing in Buffalo right now," Klassen said. "Though Coleman offers just average speed and hit-or-miss route-running ability, he is great at the catch point. That was especially true in 2022 at Michigan State.

"Additionally, Coleman is a powerful, explosive YAC threat, so much so that he returned punts for Florida State in 2023."

Josh Allen needs weapons since Khalil Shakir, Curtis Samuel and Mack Hollins are currently his top targets. Coleman helps create a larger margin for error as a downfield target with a ridiculous catch radius.

29. Detroit Lions: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson

The Detroit Lions tried to make significant investments in the secondary last offseason. Of the team's three big free-agent signings, only Emmanuel Moseley is back on another one-year, prove-it deal.

To the organization's credit, general manager Brad Holmes did acquire Carlton Davis III and a pair of sixth-round draft picks from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a third-round selection.

But a talent infusion is necessary after finishing among the bottom six in pass defense last season. Clemson's Nate Wiggins immediately brings speed and competitiveness to the group.

"Wiggins helped his draft stock in a big way at the NFL Scouting Combine," Giddings said. "He's on the thinner side (173 lbs) but lit up Lucas Oil Stadium with a 4.28-second 40-yard dash. He then showed very good movement during the on-field drills.

"During contests, Wiggins displays good patience when playing in press and uses his hands and length very well to disrupt receivers at the line of scrimmage. He can be immediately inserted into the lineup opposite Davis."

30. Baltimore Ravens: OT Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma

After Derrick Henry's free-agent addition, a dominant Baltimore Ravens run game looks to be even more deadly.

However, the ground-and-pound approach is missing key ingredients along the offensive line that can't be overlooked. The Ravens must address multiple holes along their front five after trading away right tackle Morgan Moses and both starting guards, John Simpson and Kevin Zeitler, signing elsewhere.

"Baltimore is undergoing a massive overhaul of its offensive line," Thorn said. "It is likely that one of those guard spots will be filled by someone currently on the roster with the right tackle spot being the most likely to be addressed via the draft, making the selection of Oklahoma's Tyler Guyton a seamless fit.

"While Guyton is far from a finished product, his ease of movement at his size (6'8", 322 lbs) with a strong anchor provides a strong nucleus to build off. Being teammates with Ronnie Stanley, one of the more technically savvy tackles in the league, would help Guyton meet his potential."

31. San Francisco 49ers: CB Khyree Jackson, Oregon

Oregon's Khyree Jackson is an older prospect after attending a pair of community colleges and then joining the Alabama Crimson Tide before transferring to the Oregon Ducks.

Obviously, Jackson is a well-traveled prospect. But his on-field performance during the 2023 season indicates a first-round talent.

"Jackson can overwhelm receivers with his 6'4" frame," Giddings said. "Even as a bigger corner, he flashes fluid hips when opening and swiveling, though some lateral tightness exists when in press.

"The first-team All-Pac-12 performer can be handsy at times and play out of control. However, he counters those bad habits with very good ball skills to locate and high-point the football."

If the San Francisco 49ers are ever going to overcome Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs to become the best team in professional football, Kyle Shanahan's squad must find a way to slow the game's best passing offense.

32. Kansas City Chiefs: OT Kingsley Suamataia, BYU

Protect Patrick Mahomes at all costs.

With Mahomes still only 28 years old, the Kansas City Chiefs' championship window is wide open for an extended period.

The Chiefs can't necessarily bring in a long-term solution at left tackle through free agency or trade, though. Eventually, Kansas City will look to sign both center Creed Humphrey and right guard Trey Smith to top-of-the-market contracts.

An investment in a gifted offensive tackle prospect, who will be on a rookie deal for the next four to five years, is a wise move.

"Kansas City needs to address it left tackle spot in the draft with 2023 third-round pick Wanya Morris being the only viable potential starter on the roster," Thorn said. "By adding BYU's Kingsley Suamataia, he gives the Chiefs a more natural left tackle and better athlete than Morris, although both need significant technique work to fully unlock their upside.

"Having All-Pro Joe Thuney at left guard with Andy Heck coaching the unit and Andy Reid calling plays remains as good of a situation as it gets for a young lineman to develop, so the rawness of Suamataia's game becomes less of a concern the more you analyze what will be around him."

Second Round

33. Carolina Panthers: WR Roman Wilson, Michigan

TRADE: Raiders trade the 44th, 112th and 148th overall draft picks to the Patriots for the 34th selection.

34. Las Vegas Raiders (from New England): QB Bo Nix, Oregon
35. Arizona Cardinals: IOL Cooper Beebe, Kansas State
36. Washington Commanders: IOL Jordan Morgan, Arizona
37. Los Angeles Chargers: DL Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson
38. Tennessee Titans: DL Darius Robinson, Missouri
39. Carolina Panthers (from NY Giants): Edge Bralen Trice, Washington
40. Washington Commanders (from Chicago): CB T.J. Tampa, Iowa State
41. Green Bay Packers (from NY Jets): S Tyler Nubin, Minnesota
42. Houston Texans (from Minnesota): LB Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M
43. Atlanta Falcons: WR Jalen McMillan, Washington
44. New England Patriots (from Las Vegas): WR Adonai Mitchell, Texas
45. New Orleans Saints (from Denver): S Kamren Kinchens, Miami
46. Indianapolis Colts: WR Xavier Worthy, Texas
47. New York Giants (from Seattle): S Kitan Oladapo, Oregon State
48. Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Ja'Lynn Polk, Washington
49. Cincinnati Bengals: DL Braden Fiske, Florida State
50. Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans): OT Patrick Paul, Houston
51. Pittsburgh Steelers: WR Ladd McConkey, Georgia
52. Los Angeles Rams: DL Brandon Dorlus, Oregon
53. Philadelphia Eagles: LB Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson
54. Cleveland Browns: CB Kamari Lassiter, Georgia
55. Miami Dolphins: DL Michael Hall Jr., Ohio State
56. Dallas Cowboys: IOL Zach Frazier, West Virginia
57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: IOL Christian Haynes, Connecticut
58. Green Bay Packers: RB Trey Benson, Florida State
59. Houston Texans: TE Cade Stover, Ohio State
60. Buffalo Bills: S Cole Bishop, Utah
61. Detroit Lions: WR Xavier Legette, South Carolina
62. Baltimore Ravens: S Calen Bullock, USC
63. San Francisco 49ers: WR Malachi Corley, Western Kentucky
64. Kansas City Chiefs: WR Ricky Pearsall, Florida

Third Round

65. Carolina Panthers: TE Ja'Tavion Sanders, Texas
66. Arizona Cardinals: CB Cam Hart, Notre Dame
67. Washington Commanders: Edge Jonah Elliss, Utah
68. New England Patriots: OT Blake Fisher, Notre Dame
69. Los Angeles Chargers: RB Audric Estimé, Notre Dame
70. New York Giants: QB Michael Penix Jr., Washington
71. Arizona Cardinals (from Tennessee): Edge Chris Braswell, Alabama
72. New York Jets: S Javon Bullard, Georgia
73. Detroit Lions (from Minnesota): IOL Dominick Puni, Kansas
74. Atlanta Falcons: Edge Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan
75. Chicago Bears: WR Jermaine Burton, Alabama
76. Denver Broncos: QB Spencer Rattler, South Carolina
77. Las Vegas Raiders: CB Max Melton, Rutgers
78. Washington Commanders (from Seattle): WR Johnny Wilson, Florida State
79. Atlanta Falcons (from Jacksonville): LB Junior Colson, Michigan
80. Cincinnati Bengals: IOL Christian Mahogany, Boston College
81. Seattle Seahawks (from New Orleans via Denver): IOL Isaiah Adams, Illinois
82. Indianapolis Colts: RB Braelon Allen, Wisconsin
83. Los Angeles Rams: LB Payton Wilson, North Carolina State
84. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Roger Rosengarten, Washington
85. Cleveland Browns: Edge Austin Booker, Kansas
86. Houston Texans (from Philadelphia): DL Kris Jenkins, Michigan
87. Dallas Cowboys: WR Troy Franklin, Oregon
88. Green Bay Packers: IOL Hunter Nourzad, Penn State
89. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: WR Jamari Thrash, Louisville
90. Arizona Cardinals (from Houston): WR Devontez Walker, North Carolina
91. Green Bay Packers (from Buffalo): LB Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State
92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Detroit): RB Ray Davis, Kentucky
93. Baltimore Ravens: OT Brandon Coleman, TCU
94. San Francisco 49ers: DL Maason Smith, LSU
95. Kansas City Chiefs: CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri
96. Jacksonville Jaguars: DL Leonard Taylor III, Miami
97. Cincinnati Bengals: TE Theo Johnson, Penn State
98. Pittsburgh Steelers (from Philadelphia): CB Mike Sainristil, Michigan
99. Los Angeles Rams: OT Kiran Amegadjie, Yale
100. Washington Commanders (from San Francisco): S Jaylin Simpson, Auburn