2018 NFL Mock Draft: Mid-August Update
By Jon Dove
1. New York Jets- Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming
Josh Allen has been the top pick in all of my 2018 NFL Mock Drafts. He is the most athletically gifted quarterback in this class and features a ton of upside. Allen would immediately become the face of the New York Jets franchise.
His gunslinger attitude might scare some people, but he has the arm strength to back it up. I love the way he doesn’t hesitate to attack the defense. This will help him produce explosive plays on a consistent basis at the next level.
2. Cleveland Browns- Sam Darnold, QB, USC
Sam Darnold is only slightly behind Josh Allen in my rankings. He could very easily pass Allen as the season progresses. It’s his poise, leadership and decision making that really stands out. There are many quarterbacks who have his feel for the game.
Darnold isn’t just a heady player as he also possesses deceptive athleticism and a strong arm. The one area he needs to improve is shortening his throwing motion. However, this is a potential franchise quarterback who should be selected inside the top-5 picks.
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3. San Francisco 49ers- Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
The 49ers are in need of a franchise quarterback, but miss out on the top rated quarterbacks in this draft. They could target a more risky player like UCLA’s Josh Rosen or follow through with the long-rumored Kirk Cousins signing.
Saquon Barkley is a dynamic athlete who routinely produces big plays. He’s a versatile runner who picks up yards with power and speed. Barkley is also a very good pass catcher which means he doesn’t need to share the load.
4. Los Angeles Rams- Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama
The Los Angeles Rams have been searching for a true No. 1 receiver for a long time. They really haven’t had anyone seize that role since Torry Holt retired. This problem has made life more difficult for the quarterbacks who have come through this franchise.
Los Angeles cannot let this trend continue and must surround Jared Goff with more playmakers. Calvin Ridley has the talent to end their search. He’s a big-play threat who has the length to win in contested situations.
Ridley, Goff and Todd Gurley would give the Rams a strong offensive trio.