The annual NFL Draft is upon us, and the excitement is palpable as teams prepare to select the best available talent to help them compete for the Lombardi Trophy. With the first round of the draft set to take place on April 28, many fans and analysts are eagerly anticipating which players will be chosen by which teams.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive mock draft of the first round, making bold predictions and providing analysis on each pick. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into our complete NFL first-round mock draft.

1. Jacksonville Jaguars – Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson There’s not much debate here, as Lawrence has been the consensus top prospect in this year’s draft for quite some time. The Jaguars have a new head coach in Urban Meyer and are in need of a franchise quarterback to build around. Lawrence has all the tools to be that player, with his accuracy, arm strength, and mobility. He’s the clear choice at No. 1.
2. New York Jets – Zach Wilson, QB, BYU The Jets traded away Sam Darnold, signaling their intention to take a quarterback with the second pick. Wilson has been gaining momentum in recent weeks and is now widely considered the second-best QB in the draft. He has a quick release, great arm talent, and is a strong athlete. Wilson has the potential to be the Jets’ franchise quarterback for years to come.
3. San Francisco 49ers (from Miami Dolphins via Houston Texans) – Mac Jones, QB, Alabama This pick has been the subject of much speculation, with many believing the 49ers will select Ohio State’s Justin Fields or North Dakota State’s Trey Lance. However, recent reports suggest that Jones is the favorite to be San Francisco’s choice. He has been praised for his accuracy, decision-making, and ability to read defenses. Jones is a smart and efficient passer who could thrive in Kyle Shanahan’s system.
4. Atlanta Falcons – Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida The Falcons are reportedly open to trading down from this spot, but if they stay put, Pitts would be an excellent pick. He’s a matchup nightmare with his size, speed, and athleticism, and has drawn comparisons to former All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates. Pitts would provide an immediate impact in the Falcons’ passing game and give Matt Ryan another weapon to work with.
5. Cincinnati Bengals – Penei Sewell, OT, Oregon Protecting Joe Burrow should be the Bengals’ top priority, and Sewell is the best offensive tackle in the draft. He’s a dominant run blocker and has the agility and technique to be a top pass protector as well. Sewell is a plug-and-play starter who would provide an immediate upgrade to Cincinnati’s offensive line.
6. Miami Dolphins (from Philadelphia Eagles) – Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU The Dolphins traded down from the third pick, but they still have a chance to add a dynamic playmaker to their offense with Chase. He opted out of the 2020 season but was dominant in 2019, catching 84 passes for 1,780 yards and 20 touchdowns. Chase has a rare combination of size, speed, and physicality, and would give Tua Tagovailoa a true No. 1 receiver.
7. Detroit Lions – Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama The Lions traded away Matthew Stafford and need to give Jared Goff some weapons to work with. Waddle is one of the fastest players in the draft and has the ability to take the top off the defense on any play. He’s also a threat in the return game and could provide an immediate impact on special teams.