2018 NFL Mock Draft: The final one before the draft gets underway
. Linebacker. Boise State. Leighton Vander Esch. 19. player. 123
It seems like every week there is a Cowboys topic on rather Sean Lee will be able to play. Taking a physical stud like Vander Esch will help cushion the loss Anthony Hitchens and help take some pressure off Lee and Jaylon Smith.
Dallas can’t go offense here because they have neglected the defensive side of the ball for some time now. They will be getting back a healthy offensive line and a non-suspended Ezekiel Elliott, so defense must be the focus. (Justin)
Previous Pick: Unchanged
50. . Center. Iowa. James Daniels. 20. player
Daniels is arguably the best center in this class and is a great athlete for his position. Big, mobile and equally good at the run and pass, Daniels can step in and start for the Lions immediately to give Matthew Stafford some much-needed help.
The Lions have been unable to produce a 1,000-yard rusher for several seasons and that is due in part to the play of their offensive line. They have added pieces like Taylor Decker, TJ Lang and others, but Daniels makes plenty of sense for a team that needs to protect it’s franchise leader in Stafford and also give him help by opening up holes in the run game. (Stephen)
Previous Pick: Isaiah Wynn
player. 56. . Linebacker. Alabama. Rashaan Evans. 21
The Bengals linebacking corps leaves a lot to be desired. Other that Vontaze Burfict, when he is not suspended, the group is average at best. Now with the news of Burfict being shopped, this pick seems destined to happen.
Evans will step in day one as the starting middle linebacker. He will help bring stability to a position that has been a revolving door as of late.
He will be aided by the stellar play of Geno Atkins and make 100+ tackles a year. (Justin)
Previous Pick: Unchanged