2018 NFL Mock Draft: Mid-July Update
By Jon Dove
This draft order was developed by using Peter King’s most recent Power Rankings. Try not to focus on the order it’s something that will be fluid all year.
1. New York Jets- Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming
Josh Allen might not come from a school with the pedigree of USC, but he’s an elite prospect. This kid has big-time arm strength, poise in the pocket and top-end athleticism. He has taken major strides in his development each year.
The New York Jets need a new face of the franchise and Allen has the skill set needed to fill that role.
2. Cleveland Browns- Sam Darnold, QB, USC
The Cleveland Browns have a handle of quarterbacks on their roster, but each of them come with plenty of question marks. If they are drafting this high again they won’t be able to pass on a talent like Sam Darnold.
One interesting storyline might be whether or not Darnold would go back to school to avoid landing in a situation like Cleveland.
3. San Francisco 49ers- Mason Rudolph, QB, Oklahoma State
Most of the people covering the NFL Draft feel that UCLA’s Josh Rosen is one of the top three quarterbacks in this class. However, I have Mason Rudolph rated slightly higher which is why he comes off the board here.
Rudolph features a big frame, excellent arm strength and underrated athleticism. He also shows a good feel for the position. This is a quarterback who throws a beautiful deep ball and can go through his progressions.
The 49ers are said to be targeting Kirk Cousins in the offseason, but there will be a lot of suitors for the veteran quarterback’s services.
4. Los Angeles Rams- Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama
The wide receiver situation for the Los Angeles Rams has been an a problem for the past several years. It’s even more of an issue now that they team has a lot invested in former No. 1 pick Jared Goff. The Rams need to surround him with enough talent to succeed.
Calvin Ridley is a well-rounded receiver prospect who could immediately become the team’s No. 1 target.