NFL mock draft 2.0: KC Chiefs trade way up for bold selection

The Chargers are perpetually the media’s darling during the offseason. Every season, analysts look at their talent and wonder whether they could make a deep playoff run. Last season, they lost in embarrassing fashion to the Jaguars in the Wild Card Round after a total defensive collapse and meltdown. Now they have to think about the future of that defense. With an aging Khalil Mack and injury-prone Joey Bosa, adding Lukas Van Ness would be a great investment for the future. Van Ness is a powerful pass-rusher with deceptive speed.

The Ravens are in desperate need of receivers. While Mark Andrews is a great safety blanket, the only other receiver they are relying on is an aging, injury-prone Odell Beckham Jr. Quentin Johnston would provide an option that could make plays on the boundaries and catch tough passes in the middle of the field. NFL teams like to build a receiving room with a variety of skill sets. Johnston provides a skillset and body type that they do not yet have. For a quarterback that needs some encouragement and consoling, Johnston would make for a great fit at 22.

The Vikings have perpetually been bad in coverage. While Harrison Smith is back on a restructured deal, he has seemingly lost a step. With the addition of Byron Murphy this offseason and the drafting of Andrew Booth a season ago, it’s time for them to add a new free safety to learn from and play alongside Smith. Branch is a playmaker that does not shy away from physicality. In Minnesota Branch could be a game-changer for that defense.

Jacksonville has some great potential. After playing the Chiefs close in the Divisional Round, they have to look for a way to put themselves in a position to defeat some of the tough opponents in the playoffs. Brian Bresee could be that piece. With tremendous upside and physical tools, Bresee is a monster against the run. With some room to grow in his pass rush, Bresee could one day be a top-notch defender. For a team that needs to hold offenses down, in order to let Trevor Lawrence thrive, Bresee would be a slam-dunk selection at 24.

The Giants have Darren Waller and a bunch of guys. It is about time that they invest in a first-round option at wide receiver in the hopes of securing a top option. Addison is a strong route runner that can make defenders miss in the open field. While he doesn’t have the same potential that some of the other top receivers in this class have, he will be an early contributor and could develop into a star.