Quarterback class, offensive weapons headline 2021 NFL Draft

Jack Hagen | Sports Editor

April 15, 2021

This year’s NFL Draft holds one of the most talented quarterback classes ever. Leading the pack is Clemson star quarterback Trevor Lawrence who, without a doubt, will be the first overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars. The athleticism and arm strength partnered with a 6’6″ frame is very rare. He is the heavy favorite to not only go number one, but continue on to have a long, successful career in the NFL.

With that being said, that only scratches the surface of the talent this draft class holds. Some other notable quarterbacks include Justin Fields (Ohio State), Zach Wilson (BYU), Trey Lance (North Dakota State), and Mac Jones (Alabama).

“Zach Wilson’s pro day was very impressive,” junior Kaden Giles said. “I think he is going to be very successful in the NFL.”

In the media, these stars often overshadow the large group of receivers that could make just as big of an impact on any team. Yet again, the SEC seems to produce absolute studs in this position. LSU standout Ja’Marr Chase is predicted to go first at the position, with Alabama’s Jaylen Waddle and the Heisman winner Devonta Smith right behind him. Florida’s Kyle Pitts is also making a big splash — even though he is actually a tight end — as he ran wide receiver numbers at his pro day workout, including posting a 4.44 40-yard dash time. Look for all of these offensive college stars to be taken in the top fifteen picks.

“This draft class is one of the best we have seen in a while,” junior Ryan Dunbar said. “I believe when it’s all said and done, Devonta Smith will go down as the best player to come out of it.”

However, often some of the biggest future stars are taken later in the draft. These guys come in with  a chip on their shoulder and push a little harder each and everyday to prove why they should’ve gone higher. Some of the most famous examples of this include legend Tom Brady (Buccaneers) and Packer’s superstars Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams. There are a few guys like this that would be good to keep an eye on because they just may make a splash their rookie season in the NFL.

For whatever reason, Alabama’s running back Najee Harris projects to fall to the early second round. Harris is someone who definitely stood out finishing in the top five of Heisman voting. He most famously helped take control of his Alabama team and led them to a championship alongside teammate Mac Jones. Any team who get this guy will be getting a steal that will give them a monster presence in their backfield.