The NFL playoffs are immutable and that means that the order of the 2021 NFL draft for non-playoff teams is also set.
The Jaguars will presumably select Clemson’s quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, in first place overall, so the conversation really starts in second place. Will the Jets defeat a quarterback or move on with Sam Darnold? Interestingly, the three teams that separate at the top of the order also have a second choice in the first round.
The story before the draft will be the defenders and where they are selected. Teams usually go up to guarantee the right to select a defender, so it can be a year of intrigue trying to decipher which teams can switch. The Patriots can be a surprise team among teenagers looking to scale a quarterback. There were rumors a few years ago that they might try to negotiate with Baker Mayfield.
There was much discussion about the Eagles and their antics on Sunday Night Football impacting the draft order. After losing, he moved up three places in the order. Could they be a surprise team in the market for a quarterback? Offensive line, cornerback, linebacker and wide receiver are some of the other positions that may interest general manager Howie Roseman.
There is a lot of time to discuss these situations that could occur, but speculation was removed from the dispatch project.
Here is the official application for the April draft:
- Jaguars (1-15)
- Jets (2-14)
- Dolphins (via HOU) (4-12)
- Hawks (4-12)
- Bengals (4-11-1)
- Eagles (4-11-1)
- Lions (5-11)
- Panthers (5-11)
- Broncos (5-11)
- Cowboys (6-10)
- Giants (6-10)
- 49ers (6-10)
- Chargers (7-9)
- Vikings (7-9)
- Patriots (7-9)
- Cardinals (8-8)
- Raiders (8-8)
- Dolphins (10-6)
19-32 to be determined after the playoffs
Follow the CBS Sports simulation project page to stay up to date on the latest projections for your favorite team!