Football Fans Share their Thoughts on the NFL Draft

By Derrick Edafe, Staff Writer

This year, the National Football League (NFL) did not hold their annual combine, where top scouted collegiate players get to showcase their abilities in front of NFL teams and the country. Instead, athletes had their “professional day” tryouts at their respective colleges. 

The NFL came out with their draft board, and they have the First 10 picks as Trevor Lawrence #1 to Jacksonville, Zach Wilson #2 to the New York Jets, and Mac Jones #3 to San Francisco. That is three Quarterbacks right away. The #4 pick, Kyle Pitts, Tight End from Florida, is projected to go to the Atlanta Falcons, at #5 Penei Sewell, offensive tackle for Oregon, may go to Cincinnati. Miami sits at #6 and possibly looking for receiver Ja’Marr Chase from LSU. At #7 we have Justin Fields, Ohio State Quarterback, who the Denver Broncos could take. Chicago Bears are projected North Dakota State Quarterback Trey Lance at #8, at #9 the Detroit Lions could take Micah Parsons, Linebacker from Penn state. The Dallas Cowboys sit at #10, and they’re also predicted with a defensive choice in Cornerback from Alabama, Patrick Surtain II. 

Sophomore health sciences major Rudy Silvera expects quarterbacks to go in the first three spots.

“Obviously Trevor Lawrence at #1, Zach Wilson #2, and then at #3, everyone says Mac Jones, but I think the 49ers should go Justin Fields,” he said. “They have many playmakers on their team. I feel Fields being more mobile than Jones could open up an already explosive offense.” 

Sophomore business administration major Anthony Gambino believes Smith is the top receiver in this year’s class.

“Without a doubt, Devonte Smith. He won the Heisman as a receiver, that’s irregular. I know people and scouts are saying his size is a problem being underweight, but he’s the best football player in college football. He deserves to be called the best receiver,” he said.

Undecided junior Damien Caffrey thinks that the best receiver is Ja’Marr Chase.

“He’s a stud. He had such a crazy season, he was able to sit out the following year and prepare for this year’s draft. He’s tough,”  he said.

Caffrey hopes that the Jets’ first-round pick works out this season.

“I’m okay with Zach Wilson as our pick, but another QB in the draft, I hope this one pays off,” he said.

Silvera has high hopes for the Giants’ potential.

“I’m a Giants fan,” he said. “We are currently rebuilding. With a few trades this off-season, we could use a young defensive star in edge rusher Kwity Paye.”

  The first-round of the NFL Draft takes place on April 29 at 8 p.m. on ABC, ESPN and NFL Network. Rounds two & three will be on Friday, April 30 at 7 p.m.. Finally, rounds four through seven will be on Saturday, May 1 at noon.