The latest first-round projections for the 2021 NFL draft from ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay are out. The former Richmond QB creates an unusual scenario involving a trade that alters the general perception of the draft flow and impacts the Detroit Lions choice at No. 7 overall.
It’s always worth noting who is off the board before the Lions pick. In McShay’s latest projection, the following players are gone before the No. 7 pick:
- QB Trevor Lawrence
- QB Zach Wilson
- QB Trey Lance
- QB Justin Fields
- OT Penei Sewell
- WR Ja’Marr Chase
That leaves no viable quarterback options, which renders the arguments about the merits of taking one moot. Instead, McShay attacked the massive hole at wide receiver with the pick. He chose Alabama WR DeVonta Smith in favor of teammate Jaylen Waddle, who went at No. 8.
If Philly is on the clock and both Chase and Smith are still available, you’ll see some smiles from new coach Dan Campbell and new QB Jared Goff. It would mean one of the talented pass-catchers would be there for them. Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones Jr. and Danny Amendola are all pending free agents, meaning the most productive wide receiver on the roster returning right now is Quintez Cephus, a fifth-round rookie who had 349 yards in 2020. It’s a problem, but not one that the Heisman winner can’t help solve. Smith is explosive, piling on 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns in his senior year.
Smith lacks bulk at under 180 pounds, but his college tape and technical ability as a route-runner are exceptional for a prospect.
