Fit and situation are often overlooked when it comes to projecting talent to the NFL level despite both being critical to the success or failure of so many prospects.

"NFL careers are much more circumstantial than most people realize," former NFL offensive lineman Ross Tucker wrote after laying out how multiple issues outside of his control impacted his seven-year career.

Talent is always present. But it's not always placed in the right position to flourish. Thus, the situation in which an individual is placed should always be taken into account, before and after the fact.

This latest mock draft is meant to take those factors into consideration and how they'll determine who is slotted where.

Order was determined by submitted power rankings going into training camp, which will publish on Monday.

As opposed to other much-too-early mocks, the Carolina Panthers are not on the clock. Instead, a squad in desperate need of a quarterback change opens this edition.

1. New York Giants: QB Carson Beck, Georgia

The New York Giants may think they're closer to the team that went to the postseason in 2022 than the one that fell to 6-11 last season. The possibility of being even worse probably hasn't even entered the organization's mind.

Yes, the Giants brought in Brian Burns, Jon Runyan and Jermaine Eluemunor and then drafted wide receiver Malik Nabers with the sixth overall pick. But this standing has everything to do with concerns over whether Daniel Jones is a franchise quarterback. Clearly, this projection doesn't believe so.

Jones' injuries and inconsistencies are simply too much for the Giants to overcome. The franchise can go in another direction with Georgia's Carson Beck leading the way. Beck is an efficient distributor from the pocket. He'll get the ball out quickly, accurately and in rhythm to help an offense finally find its footing.

Other Fits: Quarterback or bust

2. New England Patriots: Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee

An elite defender from Tennessee joining Jerod Mayo's defense sounds like the perfect pairing.

The New England Patriots drafted Mayo out of Tennessee with the 10th overall pick in the 2008 draft. What will be 17 years later, with Mayo now established as the team's head coach, the organization can make a similar addition by adding James Pearce Jr. to be the centerpiece of its defense.

Pearce was arguably the best pure pass-rusher in the nation a year ago as a true sophomore. The 6'5", 242-pound defender registered 14.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks on his way to becoming a first-team All-SEC selection.

Matthew Judon is on the last year of his current deal. The Patriots can replace or complement him, if re-signed, with a defender who can consistently win one-on-one matchups.

Other Fits: OT Will Campbell Jr., LSU; WR Luther Burden, Missouri; CB Will Johnson, Michigan

3. Carolina Panthers: OT Will Campbell, LSU

An offensive tackle may seem like a luxury pick by the Carolina Panthers after the organization chose Ikem Ekwonu with the sixth overall selection just two years ago.

As of now, Ekwonu hasn't proved he's a capable starting left tackle. He can be a devastating run-blocker. But his pass-blocking skills are still a work-in-progress. If the latter doesn't improve, the Panthers must do something to make sure the diminutive Bryce Young doesn't consistently take a beating.

LSU's Will Campbell has been a top-notch blindside protector since his true freshman season. The 6'6", 320-pound blocker can still improve his play-strength, but he doesn't turn 21 until January.

In this scenario, Ekwonu can become a long-term solution at one of the guard spots, even after the Panthers spent lavishly on Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis just this offseason.

Other Fits: Edge James Pierce Jr., Tennessee; CB Will Johnson, Michigan, DL Mason Graham, Michigan

4. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

From a skill perspective, Colorado's Shedeur Sanders isn't a top-10 prospect. He has the ability to be, though. His status will be determined this fall based on how he performs with a better supporting cast, namely his offensive line.

However, everyone understands that quarterbacks are always pushed up boards because of positional value. Michael Penix Jr., J.J. McCarthy and Bo Nix weren't top 12 talents in this year's class, yet they went that high.

Desperation plays a part, and the Las Vegas Raiders are desperate. No one is looking at the current makeup of their quarterback room, with Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew II, and thinking the solution is on the roster.

Sanders' evaluation will vary across the draft landscape, but he's far more talented than what the Raiders currently feature.

Other Fits: Quarterback or bust

5. Arizona Cardinals: Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia

The Arizona Cardinals entered this past season with the league's least talented roster. To no one's surprise, the team finished with only four wins, landed dead last in the NFC West, and claimed a top-four draft pick. The building up of the roster will continue into next offseason.

With wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. already added, a defensive centerpiece needs to be acquired.

Georgia's Mykel Williams presents as much upside as any talent in the upcoming class. His preseason draft ranking will vary from top of the class to much further down the board. Where he ultimately lands will depend on his growth this fall as he makes the transition from an interior defender to working off the edge.

At 6'5" and 265 pounds, Williams can be an explosive game-wrecker.

Other Fits: Edge Abdul Carter, Penn State; DL Deone Walker, Kentucky; CB Will Johnson, Michigan

6. Denver Broncos: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri

The Bo Nix experiment will have gotten off to a rocky star if the Denver Broncos find themselves in next year's top 10. Nix is Sean Payton's handpicked guy, though. Thus, any failures (or successes) the Broncos experience this coming season must be done with Nix in mind.

To capitalize on the quarterback's skill set, Missouri's Luther Burden III is the perfect addition.

Nix experienced success at Oregon when he was able to make quick reads, get the ball out of his hand with lightning speed and deliver it with accuracy. That approach can let Burden go to work.

According to Pro Football Focus' Max Chadwick, Burden's "725 yards after the catch ranked third among all FBS receivers this past season while his 314 receiving yards after contact were the fourth-most."

Other Fits: OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas; DL Deone Walker, Kentucky; CB Will Johnson, Michigan

7. Seattle Seahawks: QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama

Alabama's Jalen Milroe landing this high may be surprising since he's yet to put a complete season together that makes him worthy of being a first-round draft pick. This pairing is based on two factors.

First, Milroe started slowly after taking over as the Crimson Tide's starting quarterback and was even benched at one point. But he returned to the lineup and played exceptionally well down the stretch, with 17 total touchdowns over the final six games. He'll need to do the same for an entire season.

Second, the ties that bind are strong between the Seahawks coaching staff and Alabama.

Seattle's new offensive coordinator, Ryan Grubb, previously served in the same role with the Washington Huskies. Former Huskies head coach Kalen DeBoer is in his first year as the Crimson Tide's head coach. Offensive coordiantor/quarterbacks coach Nick Sheridan and co-offensive coordinator JaMarcus Shephard followed DeBoer from Seattle to Tuscaloosa.

No professional team will know Milroe more intimately than the Seahawks during next year's draft cycle.

Other Fits: DL Mason Graham, Michigan; Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia; TE Colston Loveland, Michigan

8. New Orleans Saints: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

This particular pairing will come down to what the New Orleans Saints plan to do at quarterback.

Derek Carr will still have two years remaining on his current deal after the upcoming season concludes. Either the Saints continue forward with Carr or attempt to replace him. Since three quarterbacks are already off the board, the organization chooses the former.

In doing so, the Saints can maximize Carr's remaining time by surrounding him with the best possible talent. Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan can provide a Marques Colston-esque target. McMillan is a 6'5" receiver who should fit in nicely alongside the smaller Chris Olave and speedy Rashid Shaheed (if he's re-signed).

The varied skill sets should really open up New Orleans' passing attack and make it a top-10 unit.

Other Fits: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado; OT Emery Jones Jr., LSU; S Malaki Starks, Georgia

9. Washington Commanders: CB Travis Hunter, Colorado

Colorado's Travis Hunter may not be the first cornerback off the board, with Michigan's Will Johnson and Notre Dame's Benjamin Morrison possibly in the same class. Hunter could be the first cornerback selected and still not technically be depending on how an organization projects him at the next level. Some may view him as a wide receiver prospect.

In this instance, the Washington Commanders can use him both ways, though primarily on defense.

Benjamin St-Juste is set to be a free agent after this season. Hunter can pair with Emmanuel Forbes and give head coach Dan Quinn a play-making duo in his secondary, as he had when he was the Dallas Cowboys' defensive coordinator.

Plus, the Commanders gain the added of benefit of using Hunter in some offensive sub-packages to complement Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.

Other Fits: Edge Abdul Carter, Penn State; LB Harold Perkins, LSU; OT Emery Jones Jr., LSU

10. Minnesota Vikings: CB Will Johnson, Michigan

The Minnesota Vikings are relatively thin and young at the cornerback position.

Veterans Byron Murphy Jr. and Shaquill Griffin are scheduled to be free agents after this season. Josh Metellus, Akayleb Evans and Andrew Booth Jr. are up the following year.

The addition of top corner talent will go a long way to solidifying the Vikings' back end.

The 6'2", 202-pound Will Johnson is a tailor-made NFL corner, with outstanding coverage skills. He allowed a measly 29.1 passer rating when targeted as a true sophomore, per Pro Football Focus' Max Chadwick.

Minnesota should jump at the opportunity to select Johnson, because odds are he'll go much higher in the process. Still, it's an ideal pairing to address a premium position for the long haul.

Other Fits: DL Mason Graham, Michigan; DL Deone Walker, Kentucky; S Malaki Starks, Georgia

11. Tennessee Titans: OT Emery Jones Jr., LSU

The Tennessee Titans offensive line should take a significant step in the right direction during the upcoming season. But it's not enough.

After fielding the league's worst front five, the organization signed center Lloyd Cushenberry III to a four-year, $50 million free-agent contract. General manager Ran Carthon also drafted Alabama's JC Latham with the seventh overall pick to man left tackle. Most importantly, offensive line coach Bill Callahan joined his son, Brian, as part of the Titans new staff.

The group being better than last year's feels like a foregone conclusion. The unit isn't complete, though. The right side remains questionable.

LSU's Emery Jones is a natural right tackle who entered the Tigers lineup as a true freshman. He and Latham can give the Titans a young and exciting tackle tandem to keep Will Levis (or whomever) upright for the next decade.

Other Fits: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State; S Malaki Starks, Georgia; LB Barrett Carter, Clemson

12. Chicago Bears: Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M

Montez Sweat was everything the Chicago Bears hoped he'd be after the organization used a second-round pick to acquire him from the Washington Commanders at last year's trade deadline. Now, he needs a running mate.

Nic Scourton may not be on the radar for many after playing for the 4-8 Purdue Boilermakers last season. But he did register 15 tackles for loss and 10 sacks while earning second-team All-Big Ten honors.

Scourton is a bit of an old-school defensive end. He's 6'4" and 280 pounds, but with the upfield quickness to consistently threaten the edge, not including his wicked spin move. After transferring to Texas A&M this offseason, the junior prospect should be placed under a bigger spotlight against SEC competition.

Other Fits: OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas; DL Tyleik Williams, Ohio State; Edge JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State

13. Los Angeles Chargers: DL Mason Graham, Michigan

Jim Harbaugh should be giddy to land a former player the caliber of Michigan's Mason Graham.

Graham is similar to when Jalen Carter came out of Georgia. Despite playing on a loaded defense, it's easy to identify both as the most talented individual on the field. Graham has the power, short-area quickness and lateral agility to overwhelm offensive linemen, which he regularly does at the collegiate level.

The Chargers are weak along their defensive interior. Furthermore, the team will likely look to move away from Khalil Mack, who will turn 34 next year.

With this pic, Los Angeles would feature a strong inside-out duo with Graham and Joey Bosa.

Other Fits: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona; TE Colston Loveland, Michigan; LB Harold Perkins Jr., LSU

14. Dallas Cowboys: WR Evan Stewart, Oregon

The Dallas Cowboys have two major decision looming, with both quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb requiring long-term contract extensions before they become free agents next offseason.

The assumption is that both will eventually get done, though the Cowboys haven't done themselves any favors by waiting so long. Even with both back in the fold, more reinforcements are necessary to help the team's passing attack.

Oregon's Evan Stewart provides a different skill set, with startling stop-start ability and change-of-direction movement. He can be a difference-maker opposite Lamb, after no wide receiver on the roster managed more than 54 receptions and 657 yards last season. Brandin Cooks is scheduled to be a free agent after the upcoming campaign anyhow.

Other Fits: QB Conner Weigman, Texas A&M; DL Deone Walker Kentucky; CB Tacario Davis, Arizona

15. Jacksonville Jaguars: CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame

The Jacksonville Jaguars have made numerous draft investments in the secondary yet will still be looking to find a more permanent solution along the back end.

Over the last five draft classes, Jacksonville has selected 13 defensive backs, including the 2020 ninth overall pick, C.J. Henderson, who hasn't been with the Jaguars since the 2021 campaign.

When looking at the squad's current setup, Tyson Campbell is a free agent after this season and Ronald Darby turns 31 in January. A true front-line starter at outside corner could go a long way in the AFC South, which features significant young talent at the quarterback position.

Notre Dame's Benjamin Morrison has the length, physicality and instincts to be a high-level NFL CB. Over the last two seasons, the true junior has 23 defended passes and nine interceptions.

Other Fits: OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas; S Malaki Starks, Georgia; DL Kenneth Grant, Michigan

16. New York Jets: DL Deone Walker, Kentucky

Technically, quarterback Aaron Rodgers has one more season left on his contract after the upcoming campaign. If he wants to play, the New York Jets are probably going to ride with him until he doesn't.

Obviously, quarterback will remain in play. But the Jets may not be forced to select one early in the process.

Instead, general manager Joe Douglas can turn his attention to the defensive line, where Javon Kinlaw and Leki Fotu are free agents after this season. The 6'6", 345-pound Deone Walker is a wrecking ball in the middle of the line. The Kentucky defender isn't just a space-eater; he can collapse the pocket, as evidenced by 7.5 sacks last season.

Other Fits: QB Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss; OT Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona; CB Denzel Burke, Ohio State

17. Indianapolis Colts: TE Colston Loveland, Michigan

Rumors persisted that the Indianapolis Colts were enamored with Georgia tight end Brock Bowers throughout this year's predraft process. General manager Chris Ballard even confirmed that the Colts tried to trade into this year's top 10.

Whether Indianapolis actually did so for Bowers hasn't been confirmed. However, the tight end position can be deadly in Shane Steichen's offense, and the organization is always enamored with big, athletic targets.

Michigan's Colston Loveland isn't as productive or decorated at Bowers. Still, he's a smooth 6'5", 243-pound receiving threat who can control the middle of the field for quarterback Anthony Richardson. His profile should increase this season as the Wolverines' primary receiving threat.

Other Fits: S Malaki Starks, Georgia; CB Tacario Davis, Arizona; DL Walter Nolen, Ole Miss

18. Cleveland Browns: OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

The Cleveland Browns have fielded one of the game's best offensive lines for some time. But cracks are starting to show.

Left tackle, in particular, is a potential sticking point.

Jedrick Wills Jr. failed to live up to expectations after being the 10th overall selection in the 2020 NFL draft. Injuries and inconsistencies have plagued his career. Wills is playing under his fifth-year rookie option this season, with a contract extension in doubt.

Texas' Kelvin Banks Jr. can provide some flexibility. Banks' draft stock will vary depending on team preferences. The former 5-star recruit has been a Longhorns starter at left tackle from day one. However, he's listed at 6'4". Some organizations may project him to guard. Realistically, the Browns could address either position to replace Wills or an aging Joel Bitonio (32).

Other Fits: IOL Tate Ratledge, Georgia; CB Sebastian Castro, Iowa; LB Barrett Carter, Clemson

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: RB Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers can't run the football. It only makes sense to select the top running prospect and finally rectify the situation.

In fact, Tampa finished dead last in rushing offense during each of the last two seasons.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield experienced a career turnaround last year. Both he and the franchise's all-time leading receiver, Mike Evans, are back after signing contract extensions this offseason.

Why not alleviate the pressure placed on both while making the offense even more effective?

The interview process will be important for Oklahoma State's Ollie Gordon II after a June 30 DUI arrest. On the field, Gordon is the class' top runner, coming off a nation-leading 1,732 rushing yards. The 211-pound back also snagged 39 passes for 330 yards.

Other Fits: CB Denzel Burke, Ohio State; WR Isaiah Bond, Texas; LB Barrett Carter, Clemson

20. Philadelphia Eagles: Edge Abdul Carter, Penn State

Vic Fangio brings a different defense to the Philadelphia Eagles. But the organizational approach to talent acquisition shouldn't change.

General manager Howie Roseman will invest heavily in the defensive front. The Eagles want to come at opposing quarterbacks in waves. As of next offseason, Brandon Graham will be retired, while Josh Sweat and Zack Baun will be free agents.

Penn State's Abdul Carter can be an ideal replacement, as he transitions from linebacker to a full-time edge defender this fall. He'll fit in nicely as an outside linebacker in Fangio's scheme, as part of a rotation with Bryce Huff and Nolan Smith Jr.

Carter provides Fangio with a chess piece that can be moved all around the defense and used in a variety of pressure packages.

Other Fits: S Malaki Starks, Georgia; TE Mitchell Evans, Notre Dame; OT Ajani Cornelius, Oregon

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: QB Will Howard, Ohio State

Will Howard isn't a name brought up with next year's top quarterback prospects. But he has a legitimate chance to be a top option.

Howard transferred from the conservative, run-driven Kansas State offense to Ohio State's high-octane scheme. Furthermore, Howard is a sturdy 6'4", 237-pound quarterback, with good mobility to contribute in both phases of the game. Last season, league coaches named him second-team All-Big 12 after he posted 2,994 yards from scrimmage and 33 total touchdowns.

Considering the awesome surrounding cast that Ohio State currently features, Howard can post monster numbers and skyrocket up draft boards.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, meanwhile, don't know what they have at quarterback. Russell Wilson or Justin Fields may secure the spot and sign a contract extension. As of now, they're unknown quantities and not signed beyond this season.

Other Fits: QB Conner Weigman, Texas A&M; CB Jabbar Muhammad, Oregon; DL Tyleik Williams, Ohio State

22. Atlanta Falcons: Edge Jack Sawyer, Ohio State

The Atlanta Falcons should have finally solved the puzzle to the problems they faced on offense, with the signing of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins and the selection of Washington's Michael Penix Jr. in this year's draft.

The defense isn't complete. Far from it.

Atlanta's pass rush requires a significant boost. Grady Jarrett can only do so much from the interior. Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree tied for the team lead in sacks last season. Neither re-signed.

Ohio State's Jack Sawyer still has plenty of untapped potential. The former 5-star recruit has gradually improved each season. He benefitted last season when moving from a Joker role back into more of a traditional defensive end, though he can add that element to Raheem Morris' defense in certain situations.

Other Fits: Edge Patrick Payton, Florida State; DL Kenneth Grant, Michigan; LB Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma

23. Los Angeles Rams: OT Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona

Matthew Stafford's time as a starting NFL quarterback is nearing an end. The pounding he's received over time has taken its toll. Stafford turns 37 in February. He has two seasons remaining on his contract beyond the upcoming campaign.

Two solutions exist. Either the Rams prepare for their future by selecting Stafford's successor, or they draft extra protection to make sure they can get the most out of the veteran quarterback's remaining years.

Left tackle Alaric Jackson re-signed this offseason but only on a one-year deal. Right tackle Rob Havenstein is signed through 2025, though he turns 33 next year.

Arizona's Jonah Savaiinaea is a powerful right tackle who may take over the Wildcats' blindside duties this fall. He's also experienced at guard.

Other Fits: CB Dorian Strong, Virginia Tech; S Kevin Winston Jr., Penn State; Miami QB Cam Ward

24. Baltimore Ravens: IOL Tyler Booker, Alabama

While the thought of a backfield featuring both quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry is exciting, reality could slap the Baltimore Ravens in the face this fall.

The Ravens offensive line finds itself in a transitory phase. General manager Eric DeCosta traded veteran right tackle Morgan Moses to the New York Jets. Left guard John Simpson is also in the Big Apple after a signing a free-agent deal to play for Gang Green. Plus, stalwart right guard Kevin Zeitler joined the Detroit Lions

Considering that Ronnie Stanley has never played a full regular-season slate, center Tyler Linderbaum is the anchor to a front in turmoil.

Alabama's 6'5", 342-pound Tyler Booker is the perfect road-grader at guard to reestablish dominance at the point of attack.

Other Fits: WR Tory Horton, Colorado State; RB Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State; Edge Princely Umanmielen, Ole Miss

25. Green Bay Packers: CB Jabbar Muhammad, Oregon

The Green Bay Packers must decide what they prefer to do long-term at the cornerback position.

First, Eric Stokes is a free agent after this year. A bigger decision looms as to whether Jaire Alexander remains in the team's long-term plans. If the Packers choose to move past Alexander, the team can save $17.5 million next offseason by designating him a June 1 release.

The selection of Oregon's Jabbar Muhammad would provide the Packers with one of the class' most instinctual and best playmaking defensive backs.

According to Pro Football Focus' Max Chadwick, the Washington Huskies transfer "led all cornerbacks this past season with 19 forced incompletions, 17 of them coming in single coverage."

Other Fits: LB Barrett Carter, Clemson; IOL Jonah Monheim, USC; DL Howard Cross III, Notre Dame

26. Cincinnati Bengals: Edge JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State

The Cincinnati Bengals love two things: drafting prospects from Ohio State and getting ahead of potential problem areas. Let's do both.

Three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Trey Hendrickson (all with the Bengals) requested a trade this offseason, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero (h/t Bobby Kownack). Sam Hubbard will be entering the final year on his current deal next offseason.

Enter Ohio State's JT Tuimoloau.

Tuimoloau flashed dominant tape. That level of play isn't always apparent, though. He has the power to play through bigger and longer offensive tackles. He simply needs to be more consistent as a pass-rusher to elevate his draft status. Even now, he's already in the first-round conversation despite 8.5 sacks over the last two seasons.

Other Fits: IOL Tyler Booker, Alabama; WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State; TE Luke Lachey, Iowa

27. Miami Dolphins: S Malaki Starks, Georgia

When a roster is loaded like the Miami Dolphins', they can look to invest in elite talent at non-premium positions.

With Tua Tagovailoa at quarterback, Terron Armstead/rookie Patrick Paul at left tackle, Bradley Chubb/Jaelan Phillips/Chop Robinson as edge-rushers and Jalen Ramsey playing corner, the Dolphins are well-built from a traditional standpoint.

However, they have a potential glaring hole at safety after the 2024 campaign. Both Jevon Holland and Jordan Poyer are pending free agents.

Georgia's Malaki Starks can immediately step in as a complete safety prospect. The 6'1", 205-pound defensive back is physical against the run and also shows good ball skills (14 defended passes and five interceptions over the last two years).

Other Fits: LB Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma; RB Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State; WR Isaiah Bond, Texas

28. Buffalo Bills: CB Tacario Davis, Arizona

The Buffalo Bills thought they were going to have the league's best cover corner on the roster through the 2025 season. Unfortunately, Tre'Davious White's four-year contract extension didn't see its conclusion. Instead, injuries basically wiped out the last three seasons before the organization cut White this offseason.

Rasul Douglas is now the Bills' top corner, though he's a free agent after the 2024 season. A more permanent solution should be added to the secondary.

Arizona's Tacario Davis brings something entirely different to the unit. Davis is a 6'4" tarantula at cornerback who reroutes and completely smothers opposing wide receivers. He might be the Bills' best chance to knock the likes of Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and Garrett Wilson off their routes.

Other Fits: S Xavier Nwankpa, Iowa; OT Wyatt Milum, West Virginia; Edge Kaimon Rucker, North Carolina

29. San Francisco 49ers: CB Denzel Burke, Ohio State

A secondary overhaul, specifically cornerback, is looming for the San Francisco 49ers.

The following corners are set to test free agency next offseason: Charvarius Ward, Deommodore Lenoir, Isaac Yiadom, Ambry Thomas, Rock Ya-Sin, Kemon Hall and Chase Lucas.

The Niners can re-sign one or two, of course. Still, an investment in the secondary would be wise.

Ohio State's Denzel Burke blossomed this past season. In fact, he allowed a microscopic 17.7 passer rating when targeted in single coverage, per Pro Football Focus. Burke returned to Columbus to be a part of a loaded Buckeyes roster with lofty expectations. If the senior prospect continues his upward trajectory, he won't last until the late first round.

Other Fits: WR Tez Johnson, Oregon; OT Earnest Greene III, Georgia; Edge Patrick Payton, Florida State

30. Kansas City Chiefs: OL Earnest Greene III, Georgia

The Kansas City Chiefs already started to prepare for what may be the inevitable. Both center Creed Humphrey and right guard Trey Smith are set to become free agents after the 2024 season. Each could easily reset their respective positional markets.

During this year's draft, the Chiefs drafted three offensive linemen. The second-round selection of Kingsley Suamataia is a long-term play at left tackle. Hunter Nourzad is insurance at center. Finally, C.J. Hanson was a small-school tackle prospect who'll provide depth and compete at guard.

Georgia's Earnest Greene III covers a lot of bases. He's the Bulldogs' starting left tackle. He earned a nod on the first-team All-SEC Freshman squad. But he's often projected inside because of his (listed) 6'4", 320-pound frame.

Whether at tackle or guard, Greene will benefit the Chiefs' front five.

Other Fits: WR Isaiah Bond, Texas; Edge Landon Jackson, Arkansas; RB Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State

31. Houston Texans: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

Emeka Egbuka can't possibly think of a better situation at the professional level than reuniting with quarterback C.J. Stroud.

Two seasons ago, Egbuka caught 74 passes for 1,151 yards. His numbers were nearly on par with Marvin Harrison Jr.'s.

Last year, Egbuka dealt with an ankle injury that eventually required surgery. It limited his effectiveness and production. Despite being a potential early-round draft pick, the now-senior returned to campus.

The Texans are quite talented at wide receiver with Stefon Diggs, Robert Woods, Nico Collins and Tank Dell. However, the first two aren't signed beyond the upcoming season. A trio of Collins, Dell and Egbuka as long-term targets for Stroud has strong potential to be elite.

Other Fits: LB Harold Perkins Jr., LSU; CB Quincy Riley, Louisville; Edge Dani Dennis-Sutton, Penn State

32. Detroit Lions: LB Harold Perkins Jr., LSU

The Detroit Lions have a legitimate shot to finally break through with the franchise's first Super Bowl appearance and then win a Lombardi Trophy. They were one decent half of football away from possibly achieving both this past season.

Now operating at a new standard, the Lions are looking for complementary pieces to address specific areas. Despite featuring Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit finished among the league's bottom 10 in total sacks.

LSU's Harold Perkins Jr. can provide the Lions with a supercharged version of James Houston. As an undrafted rookie in 2022, Houston surprised everyone by registering 10 sacks. Perkins presents a similar skill set as a highly athletic off-ball linebacker who's comfortable rushing the passer and playing off the edge. He can be a defensive weapon if deployed correctly.

Other Fits: DL Tonka Hemingway, South Carolina; CB Ricardo Hallman, Wisconsin; OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State