2018 NFL Mock Draft: Post Trade Deadline Update
By Jon Dove
17. Detroit Lions- Vita Vea, NT, Washington
The Detroit Lions have seen their run defense play very well this year. However, their defensive line was anchored by the aging Haloti Ngata (who also suffered a major injury). If they want to see this recent trend continue they might want to target a younger version of Ngata in Vita Vea.
18. Washington Redskins- Mason Rudolph, QB, Oklahoma State
The Kirk Cousins’ saga appears to be on pace to continue for another offseason. It still seems very likely that he won’t be with the Washington Redskins next year. This means they need to find a replacement and Mason Rudolph has the talent to fit that bill.
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19. Carolina Panthers- Sam Hubbard, Edge, Ohio State
It’s amazing to see Julius Peppers continue to produce at the ripe old age of 37. However, he isn’t going to keep going like this for much longer. The Panthers need to invest in a long-term replacement and infuse some youth at defensive end. Sam Hubbard would be a great fit as someone who can attack the edge and hold up against the run.
20. Atlanta Falcons- Quenton Nelson, OG, Notre Dame
This is one of many times I have mocked Quenton Nelson to the Atlanta Falcons. The fit is just too perfect for a team that wants to run the ball to land the mauling Nelson. His addition would help the Falcons reclaim some of the running success they had last season.
21. Jacksonville Jaguars- James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State
It’ll be interesting to see how the Jacksonville Jaguars handle the upcoming offseason. They really don’t have a major need outside of the quarterback position. However, the wide receiver spot has some pending free agents which may cause some tough decisions.
James Washington is a powerful wide receiver prospect who is always in attack mode. He would help fill the void if someone like Allen Robinson left town.
22. Cleveland Browns (via Hou)- Tarvarus McFadden, CB, Florida State
Cleveland’s roster is filled with plenty of young talent, but they have some issues in the secondary. The cornerback group could use a ball-hawking playmaker like Tarvarus McFadden. He is someone who routinely gets his hands on the ball and is a major turnover threat.
23. New Orleans Saints- Christian Wilkins, DL, Clemson
The Saints have seen their defense make strides this season which has played a major role in the team’s success. However, they still have some room to grow and areas of need. The best course of action for them would be to target the best available defender when they are on the board.
At this point, Christian Wilkins fits that bill and would be a welcome addition. His versatility would allow the Saints to continue to run a multiple defensive attack.
24. Los Angeles Rams- Uchenna Nwosu, Edge, USC
I absolutely love the way Uchenna Nwosu plays the game of football. He is a physical player who also has the quickness to get after the quarterback. Nwosu’s versatility also jumps out as he can fit multiple schemes and positions.
The Los Angeles Rams could use another edge rusher and especially someone like Nwosu who would fit Wade Phillips’ scheme.