The 2019 NFL draft just finished, so of course, it’s time to jump ahead a full year and take an early look at the 2020 NFL draft. That’s what ESPN’s Todd McShay just did.
In a way-too-early 2020 mock draft, McShay has the Baltimore Ravens selecting Auburn EDGE Nick Coe.
“Coe had seven sacks and 13.5 TFLs last season. Even after drafting a productive pass-rusher, Jaylon Ferguson, the Ravens could use that kind of presence on the edge.”
Even with the Ravens grabbing Louisiana Tech’s Jaylon Ferguson in the third round of the 2019 NFL draft, Baltimore still has a pretty big need at outside linebacker.
Right now, Matthew Judon is the only proven and relatively consistent pass rusher on the roster. Even if Ferguson, Tyus Bowser or Tim Williams breaks out this season, Judon is on the final year of his contract and should receive a hefty payday in free agency. It’s likely Baltimore could see Judon leave next offseason and have an even bigger hole there. Finding and drafting more outside linebackers is vital for the Ravens’ defense.
Though McShay’s mock draft should be taken with a grain of salt, it’s a great way to get some early names into your mind. Now with some prospects that could earn first-round grades put out there, fans and analysts can better watch them throughout the 2019 college season.
Coe isn’t the top EDGE prospect on McShay’s mock draft. He has Ohio State’s Chase Young and Alabama’s Terrell Lewis going before Baltimore gets on the clock at No. 19. Coe has a great chance to put up the type of production that could elevate his draft stock dramatically in his Junior season.
