This is the seventh in a series of eight 2020 NFL Draft posts that will cover who teams should, could, and ultimately will end up drafting in the first round. Today we look at the NFC South.
Atlanta Falcons
Should. The Falcons have the 16th selection in the draft. Offensively, they are pretty strong. An insurance policy for Todd Gurley might be needed, but this could be addressed in a later round. Defense should be their main focus. If Javon Kinlaw is available, he could anchor their interior pass rush for years to come.
Could. They could take a RB, but given how frequently later round and un-drafted RBs have exceeded expectations in recent years, this should not be their move. Plenty of talent will be available at this position in rounds 2 and 3.
Will. Javon Kinlaw will likely be the selection at this spot.
Carolina Panthers
Should. The Panthers have the seventh pick in the draft. They lost their defensive captain when Luke Kuechly retired. Isaiah Simmons could be available here. If not, the team should consider trading down and taking Javon Kinlaw later in the draft.
Could. The team could reach and take Derrick Brown or Kinlaw at this pick. This would be a mistake given that they can trade down and still acquire one of these two talents.
Will. Simmons will be the pick, if he is there. If not, Brown will be a Panther.
New Orleans Saints
Should. The Saints have the 24th pick in the draft. While offensive line could be an option, top tackles and guards will likely be off the board by this pick. Patrick Queen, one of the best LBs in this draft, should still be available at this spot. He could help anchor New Orleans’ defense for years to come.
Could. The Saints could take a CB to pair with Marshon Lattimore, but they would be reaching if they take this approach at pick 24.
Will. They will select Patrick Queen.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Should. The Bucs have the 14th pick in the draft. In order to capitalize on the acquisition of Tom Brady, OL needs to be the pick. If Mekhi Becton or Andrew Thomas slide, they should take them. If not, the team should trade back and acquire a guard later in the draft.
Could. They could reach for a RB, but this would be a mistake. This position could be addressed in later rounds, if the team is finished with the Ronald Jones experiment.
Will. They will take an OL. The team has done everything else right to set up Tom Brady for success. No reason to lose composure here.
