NFL Draft Mock 5.0: Two-round mock, post-free agency
By Ian Cummings
Picks 33-36
33. Arizona Cardinals – Oklahoma WR Marquise Brown
Marquise “Hollywood” Brown shouldn’t go this high. He brings undeniable speed and playmaking ability, but he’s still a bit one-dimensional, and he’ll have to add weight if he wants to hold up at the NFL level. But if there’s one thing we’ve learned from Kliff Kingsbury’s desire to draft Kyler Murray, it’s that he’s a mad scientist who’s willing to make bold, high-risk decisions to complete his desired concoction. Pairing Murray with his go-to college weapon shows there’s a method to the madness, even if it is, ultimately, madness.
34. Indianapolis Colts (via NYJ) – Penn State CB Amani Oruwariye
The Colts have three starting cornerbacks as is. Kenny Moore had a breakout year in 2018, Quincy Wilson underwent some development, and Pierre Desir was re-signed to provide quality play in a substantial role as well. That said, cornerback is one position you can never be too deep at, and with this pick, the Colts add immense starting potential in Penn State’s Amani Oruwariye. Oruwariye has all the tools to flourish in the NFL, and with low bust potential, he’s the kind of high-floor, high-upside prospect Chris Ballard should covet.
35. Oakland Raiders – Alabama RB Josh Jacobs
The Oakland Raiders’ offensive overhaul isn’t done yet. After adding Antonio Brown, Tyrell Williams, and Trent Brown in free agency, then Garrett Bradbury and Noah Fant in Round 1, the Raiders turn to their running back stable, where there is a void to be filled. Running backs have become fairly replaceable over the years, but if you can add a talented one, it’s another weapon to balance your offense. Josh Jacobs, with his vision, tenacity, and later quickness, is an immediate upgrade at running back for Oakland, and he offers yet another dynamic weapon to a much-improved core.
36. San Francisco 49ers – Boston College OG Chris Lindstrom
Before free agency, cornerback would have been a very compelling choice at this NFL Draft pick for the 49ers. But then the 49ers added Jason Verrett to play with Richard Sherman and Akhello Witherspoon. Verrett, if he can stay healthy, is one of the most naturally gifted cornerbacks in the league, and while such a thing is no guarantee, the 49ers simply have to give him the chance. So with their second-round pick, they instead address the interior line, where an upgrade can be had over Joshua Garnett and Laken Tomlinson. Chris Lindstrom is that upgrade; he’s a do-it-all lineman whose technical proficiency gives him an edge in any arena.