2018 NFL Mock Draft: Mid-August Update
By Jon Dove
9. Indianapolis Colts- Derwin James, DB, Florida State
The Indianapolis Colts may have added Malik Hooker in the 1st round of the 2017 NFL Draft, but that doesn’t mean they should pass up on a talent like Derwin James. Those two would make an elite safety tandem.
Both players are also very versatile which means they could be moved around the field based on matchups. General Manager Chris Ballard has made a point to upgrade the defense since taking over the job.
10. Philadelphia Eagles- Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB, Alabama
The Philadelphia Eagles cornerback situation is a complete mess. They lack top-end talent and will struggle to find consistent starters all year. However, the future is much brighter than the present especially if they can land someone like Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Next year they will welcome back a healthy Sidney Jones who fell to the 2nd round of this draft because of an injury. Jones was my top rated cornerback before he hurt himself at his pro-day. A combination of Jones and Fitzpatrick would give the Eagles two elite young starters.
11. Washington Redskins- Derrius Guice, RB, LSU
I was very tempted to have the Washington Redskins select Florida State’s Derrick Nnadi, but went with the offensive player instead. This is a franchise with a lot of questions—especially surrounding Kirk Cousins.
If they fail to strike a long-term deal with Cousins they will be in need of a new offensive leader. Derrius Guice is both a top-flight playmakers and tone setter. His hard-nosed style of running would light a spark for the entire unit.
12. Cincinnati Bengals- Connor Williams, OT, Texas
The Cincinnati Bengals offensive line is going through a transition phase with Jake Fisher and Cedric Ogbuehi taking over as the starting tackles. Their development will go a long way to deciding the team’s success.
If they are picking at No. 12 overall it’s safe to assume things didn’t go as planned. Luckily, the Bengals may have a chance to land a potential franchise left tackle in Connor Williams. He’s a great athlete who shows the foot speed needed to protect the edge.