We have a new mock draft from Draft Wire managing editor Luke Easterling. In this one, he projects what the first round of the 2021 draft could look like after trades for Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson and Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson have gone down.
Those potential trades would not affect the Arizona Cardinals with the 16th pick in the draft.
Who do the Cardinals get at No. 16?
Easterling has them selecting USC offensive lineman Alihah Vera-Tucker.
The Cards have one of the NFL’s most dynamic quarterbacks in Kyler Murray, but just because he can run for his life and make plays outside the pocket doesn’t mean he should have to do it all of the time. Arizona should use this pick on the best offensive lineman available, whether at tackle or along the interior, and Vera-Tucker is the clear choice in this scenario.
Cornerback Jaycee Horn is still on the board in this mock draft. He probably will be in play, considering the great need the Cardinals have at the position this offseason.
Sitting with the 16th pick, an offensive lineman, a pass rusher, receiver or cornerback are the likely target.
Vera-Tucker makes a lot of sense. He might not start as a rookie, as offensive line coach Sean Kugler prefers to avoid that, but as the Cardinals build their team around quarterback Kyler Murray, giving him protection up front is a good plan.
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