2021 NFL Draft: Team Needs and Draft Capital
After a flurry of free-agent moves, most NFL teams know what their biggest roster holes and needs are as we approach the NFL Draft. As NFL front offices spend the next month putting the finishing touches on their big boards and running through draft-day scenarios, we take a closer look at each team's biggest needs, as well as going over their draft capital for 2021 and 2022. Also, 4for4 will be live on YouTube for the first two days of the draft, breaking down every pick from a fantasy football perspective. Subscribe to our YouTube channel so you don't miss it!
2021 NFL Draft and Time
Date: Thursday, April 29 (Round 1), Friday, April 30 (Rounds 2 and 3), Saturday, May 1 (Rounds 4-7)
Time: 8:00 p.m. ET (Round 1), 7:00 p.m. ET (Rounds 2 and 3), 12:00 p.m. ET (Rounds 4-7)
Channel(s): NFL Network and ESPN
4for4 2021 NFL Draft Resources
2021 NFL Draft Top 150 Big Board
2021 NFL Draft Team Needs and Draft Capital
Draft Capital as of 4/23/2021
Arizona Cardinals
Draft Capital
- 2021: 16, 49, 161, 245, 249
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: OT, CB, TE
- Tier 2: EDGE, Interior DL, RB, Interior OL
First-Round Names to Watch: Christian Darrisaw, Teven Jenkins, Jaycee Horn, Alijah Vera-Tucker
Offensive tackle, cornerback and tight end are the biggest areas of need for the Cardinals. Honestly, they could use a boost to their depth at just about every skill position, but lack a true threat at tight end, despite flashes from Dan Arnold down the stretch. The signing of J.J. Watt drops edge down to a tier-two priority but the Cardinals could still use impact players on every level of their defense entering 2021.
Atlanta Falcons
Draft Capital
- 2021: 4, 35, 68, 109, 149, 180, 183, 184, 188, 220
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: EDGE, LB, Safety
- Tier 2: LB, Interior DL, RB, CB
First-Round Names to Watch: Justin Fields, Trey Lance, Kyle Pitts, Patrick Surtain II
The Atlanta Falcons are in a curious spot. This draft lacks the blue-chip defensive prospects everyone is excited about in the top five. With a 35-year-old quarterback in tow, Atlanta Could play the long game and draft the heir apparent to Matt Ryan. Beyond drafting a quarterback at four or adding to their offense, which already has plenty of capital sunk into it, the Falcons' best move would be to drop down towards the teens and add additional assets.
Baltimore Ravens
Draft Capital
- 2021: 27, 31, 58, 94, 105, 132, 136, 172, 185, 211
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7. Have an additional fifth in the Orlando Brown Jr. trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: EDGE, Safety, WR
- Tier 2: OL, Interior DL
First-Round Names to Watch: Azeez Ojulari, Rashod Bateman, Terrance Marshall, Trevon Moehrig-Woodard
The Ravens have spent much of free agency working to bring back some of their edge depth, but it has also dwindled quickly and become a strong need after previously being among the deepest positions on the team. Since the end of the Earl Thomas debacle, safety is also a need on defense. With depth at tight end and running back looking strong, the Ravens' main concern on offense is finding a true go-to target on the outside for Lamar Jackson. The Ravens now have two picks at the end of the first round after the Orlando Brown Jr. trade and could potentially grab a weapon for Lamar Jackson as well as add an impact edge rusher.
Buffalo Bills
Draft Capital
- 2021: 30, 61, 94, 162, 175, 214, 237
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: CB, EDGE, RB
- Tier 2: OL, Interior DL, TE
First-Round Names to Watch: Greg Newsome II, Najee Harris, Travis Etienne, Joseph Ossai, Jayson Oweh
The Buffalo Bills finally shattered the ceiling last season and reached the AFC Championship game on the strength of Josh Allen and their wide receivers. On offense, the Bills could stand to add a dynamic runner to the mix, or if they think running backs don’t matter, they can continue to add to their offensive line. On defense, the Bills can use a corner across from Tre'Davious White and add more edge pressure as Jerry Hughes is approaching his mid-thirties. After a failed attempt to sign Rob Gronkowski, tight end is also an option in the middle rounds despite some recent growth from Dawson Knox.
Carolina Panthers
Draft Capital
- 2021: 8, 39, 73, 114, 152, 192, 194, 223
- 2022: Hold picks in rounds 1, 3, 5, 6, 7. Their second and fourth rounders were traded to the Jets in the Sam Darnold trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: CB, TE, LB
- Tier 2: QB, OL, WR
First-Round Names to Watch: Kyle Pitts, Justin Fields, Trey Lance, Micah Parsons
The Panthers have been one of the most connected teams to quarterbacks in this draft despite receiving solid play from Teddy Bridgewater last season. The Panthers' offense ran through their wide receivers last season, but they lost Curtis Samuel to Washington, so adding a receiving weapon like Kyle Pitts cannot be written off—especially with nearly zero production from their tight ends last year. The Panthers can also use a quarterback on defense, so they may look for a middle linebacker at some point in the draft. The Panthers have a well-balanced roster but seem to lack blue-chip prospects, so a best player available approach is likely the call.
Chicago Bears
Draft Capital
- 2021: 20, 52, 84, 165, 205, 209, 222, 229
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: QB, OT, CB
- Tier 2: WR, Interior DL, EDGE
First-Round Names to Watch: Mac Jones, Rashod Bateman, Teven Jenkins, Greg Newsome II
Despite signing Andy Dalton, the Bears' biggest question in both the short and long term is the quarterback spot. Beyond who is under center, issues also exist at both tackle spots and out wide at receiver beyond Allen Robinson. After cutting Kyle Fuller due to cap issues, the Bears also lack proven performers at cornerback. With Akiem Hicks also likely looking to be on the outs with the team, defensive line is also a question mark. The Bears seemingly now have holes all over and lack premium picks to fill them.
Cincinnati Bengals
Draft Capital
- 2021: 5, 38, 69, 112, 150, 191, 203, 236
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: OT, WR, EDGE
- Tier 2: CB, TE, Interior OL
First-Round Names to Watch: Penei Sewell, Kyle Pitts, Rashawn Slater, Ja'Marr Chase
The Bengals have made a number of moves in free agency, giving them the option to go best player available in the draft. While there is a strong debate between getting Joe Burrow more protection or more playmakers, few have mentioned defensive options for the Bengals in the first round. While the Bengals added a ton of defensive depth after basically signing an entirely new cornerback room, they still lack true blue-chip players who are difference-makers on a down-by-down basis, outside of maybe Jessie Bates. Expect the Bengals to add both protection and weapons for Burrow during the draft, but if a defensive gem were to fall, the Bengals would be in a strong position to strike.
Cleveland Browns
Draft Capital
- 2021: 26, 59, 90, 92, 111, 133, 170, 212, 259
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-6. They traded a conditional 7th-round pick to Detroit for David Blough.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: EDGE, CB, LB
- Tier 2: Safety, Interior DL
First-Round Names to Watch: Joseph Ossai, Christian Barmore, Daviyon Nixon, Trevon Moehrig-Woodard
After coming off their first playoff berth in years, the Browns look to supplant a roster that looks solid heading into 2021. The Browns are looking to add players across from studs Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward. They could also use a backer who excels in coverage, but one who can attack behind the line of scrimmage isn’t a bad idea either. After letting Larry Ogunjobi leave in free agency, the interior of the Browns' defensive line is also a liability. So is the second safety spot.
Dallas Cowboys
Draft Capital
- 2021: 10, 44, 75, 100, 116, 139, 180, 193, 228, 239
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: CB, EDGE, OL
- Tier 2: Safety, Interior DL
First-Round Names to Watch: Caleb Farley, Jaycee Horn, Patrick Surtain II, Rashawn Slater
After locking down Dak Prescott, the Cowboys' biggest issue has been solved this offseason. Since letting Byron Jones leave in free agency, the Cowboys have lacked a true shutdown corner. Luckily for them, this draft has three quality candidates. The Cowboys also have decisions to make along the offensive line in the next few years, and this class has a number of solid prospects who can line up on the offensive edges. Outside of that, Dallas could use some safety help and impact players on the defensive interior.
Denver Broncos
Draft Capital
- 2021: 9, 40, 71, 115, 153, 238, 240, 255
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: CB, LB, OL
- Tier 2: Safety, Interior DL, QB
First-Round Names to Watch: Micah Parsons, Caleb Farley, Jaycee Horn, Patrick Surtain II, Rashawn Slater
The Denver Broncos looked like they were 100% in on taking a corner until Chicago was forced to release Kyle Fuller and they scooped him up. They still could use another corner, but the Fuller signing allows the team to look at the best player available on the board at nine overall. If not a corner, an impact lineman or linebacker could be in play for the Broncos as they look to solidify their roster around the quarterback, whether it ends up being Drew Lock or a surprise pick early in the first round.
Detroit Lions
Draft Capital
- 2021: 7, 41, 72, 102, 113, 154
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7. Hold an additional 1st-round pick acquired from the Los Angeles Rams as part of the Matthew Stafford trade, also hold two conditional 7th-round picks from the New England Patriots and the Cleveland Browns.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: CB, LB, WR
- Tier 2: EDGE, Interior DL, Safety, QB
First-Round Names to Watch: Micah Parsons, Trey Lance, Jaycee Horn, Patrick Surtain II, Justin Fields
The Lions have holes at seemingly every position on the football field, but their largest stems from whether or not Jared Goff is the future at quarterback. If he is not, quarterback instantly becomes their number one need. Aside from quarterback, the Lions have needs everywhere on both sides of the ball. Whether it be an impact offensive player at receiver to see if Goff has the stuff, or a blue-chip defender who will add some of the toughness Dan Campbell seeks, the Lions need to start this regime on the right foot.
Green Bay Packers
Draft Capital
- 2021: 29, 62, 93, 136, 143, 174, 179, 215, 221, 258
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: CB, LB, WR
- Tier 2: Interior DL, OL
First-Round Names to Watch: Rondale Moore, Kadarius Toney, Alex Leatherwood, Tyson Campbell, Greg Newsome II
The Packers were basically a cornerback away from playing in the Super Bowl with Kevin King being picked on by Tom Brady and the Buccaneers, so adding a top corner wouldn’t be a bad move. Beyond that, a gadget wide receiver who can make things happen with manufactured looks could be a big boost for an offense that lit it up last season. The Packers also have questions at offensive tackle due to David Bakhtiari's injuries and at center due to Corey Linsley’s departure in free agency. The Packers had maybe the least impactful draft in 2020—they can’t afford to do that again in 2021.
Houston Texans
Draft Capital
- 2021: 67, 110, 148, 159, 196, 204, 213, 234
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-6. Also hold an additional 4th-round pick from the Los Angeles Rams.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: CB, EDGE, OL
- Tier 2: TE, Interior DL, WR
First-Round Names to Watch: N/A (Laremy Tunsil trade)
The Houston Texans have given up a ton of draft capital in the last two drafts to get Laremy Tunsil in order to provide protection for Deshaun Watson. Outside of Watson, the Texans lack elite players across the board, and they also lack premium draft capital to address their biggest needs.
Indianapolis Colts
Draft Capital
- 2021: 21, 54, 128, 166, 207, 250
- 2022: Traded a conditional 2nd-round pick to the Eagles for Carson Wentz. Currently, hold all other picks.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: CB, WR, OT
- Tier 2: EDGE, Interior DL, Safety
First-Round Names to Watch: Rashod Bateman, Teven Jenkins, Samuel Cosmi, Tyson Campbell
The Indianapolis Colts made their big splash in acquiring Carson Wentz to hopefully be the short-term and long-term answer at quarterback. Outside of that, the Colts need a new left tackle after the retirement of Anthony Castonzo, as well as a new No. 1 receiver for Wentz to target. The Colts' defense could also use a bonafide CB1, and depth pieces at edge, interior defensive line and safety.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Draft Capital
- 2021: 1, 25, 33, 45, 65, 107, 131, 146, 171, 251
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7. Hold an additional 5th-round pick from the Minnesota Vikings as part of the Yannick Ngakoue trade. Also hold a conditional 7th-round pick from the Ravens.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: QB, WR, TE
- Tier 2: EDGE, CB, Safety
First-Round Names to Watch: Trevor Lawrence, Kadarius Toney, Rondale Moore, Azeez Ojulari
The Jaguars have a long list of holes, but getting a quarterback like Trevor Lawrence can help smooth over some of those rough spots. They could also use playmakers at every offensive position and still have a lot of questions of defense to balance it out. Luckily, Jacksonville has as much draft capital as anyone, including four picks in the top 45. After Lawrence, the Jaguars could go a number of different ways, like adding pieces to surround Lawrence, or finding impact defenders.
Kansas City Chiefs
Draft Capital
- 2021: 63, 145, 176, 182, 208
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-4, 6-7. Traded their 2022 fifth in the Orlando Brown Jr. trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: Interior OL, OT, EDGE
- Tier 2: LB, WR
First-Round Names to Watch: Orlando Brown Jr.
The Chiefs' offensive line's inability to protect Patrick Mahomes may have cost them the Super Bowl. They also released their two longtime tackles, and depth on the interior is severely lacking. Adding multiple offensive line pieces throughout the draft is probably in the best interest of the team. Outside of the offensive line, there is a need at the No. 2 WR spot with Sammy Watkins leaving in free agency. On the defensive side of the ball, the Chiefs could use more pressure from everywhere on the field, and a linebacker who can get sideline to sideline wouldn’t be a bad addition either.
Las Vegas Raiders
Draft Capital
- 2021: 17, 48, 80, 81, 122, 163, 168, 201
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-6. Hold an additional 5th-round pick acquired from the New England Patriots as part of the Trent Brown trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: LB, OT, EDGE
- Tier 2: Interior OL, Safety, Interior DL
First-Round Names to Watch: Micah Parsons, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Gregory Rousseau, Jaelan Phillips
Many of the Raiders' current holes are a result of some big draft misses at safety and at edge. They could also use an impact linebacker who can defend sideline to sideline, as well as cover players like Travis Kelce in the division. The Raiders also had a surprise revamp of their current offensive line, either trading away or releasing 80% of last season's starters. Oakland has plenty of roster holes overall but they produced enough offensively last season that a few tweaks on the defensive side could yield major improvements in 2021.
Los Angeles Chargers
Draft Capital
- 2021: 13, 47, 78, 98, 119, 160, 186, 199, 242
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: OT, LB
- Tier 2: CB, WR
First-Round Names to Watch: Rashawn Slater, Christian Darrisaw, Jaylen Waddle, Jaycee Horn
After hitting a home run with Justin Herbert last year, the Chargers need to add more pieces around and in front of him. Adding pieces along their offensive line during the draft is a must, especially on the edges, as they have added multiple pieces along the interior of the line. Outside of tackle, the Chargers might be able to go with a best player available strategy and add an impact field-stretcher on the outside, or a lockdown corner after releasing Casey Heyward. The Chargers look to have a deep roster of playmakers on the defensive side of the ball, but more pass-rushers and more coverage help is never a bad idea.
Los Angeles Rams
Draft Capital
- 2021: 57, 89, 104, 142, 210, 254
- 2022: Hold picks in rounds 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7. Their 2022 1st-round pick was sent to the Detroit Lions in the Matthew Stafford trade. Their 4th-round pick was sent to the Houston Texans in the Brandin Cooks trade. Acquired a conditional 7th-round pick from the Miami Dolphins in the Aqib Talib trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: OT, LB
- Tier 2: EDGE, WR, CB
First-Round Names to Watch: N/A (Matthew Stafford trade)
The Rams made the move to acquire Matthew Stafford from the Lions. He will be the only new first-round pick in town for at least the next two seasons, as the others were shipped off with Jared Goff to Detroit. Despite going all-in at quarterback, the Rams are top-heavy with a number of big contracts and the depth is lacking. The Rams have question marks along the offensive line, and their defense is starting to get pilfered for their high performance.
Miami Dolphins
Draft Capital
- 2021: 6, 18, 36, 50, 82, 157, 232, 260
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 2-6. They also traded a conditional 7th-round pick to the Los Angeles Rams and hold two conditional 7th-round picks from the New England Patriots and Tennessee Titans. They also acquired an additional 1st-round pick from the San Francisco 49ers.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: OT, WR, EDGE
- Tier 2: LB, Safety
First-Round Names to Watch: Penei Sewell, Ja'Marr Chase, Najee Harris, Jaelan Phillips, Zaven Collins
The Dolphins missed the playoffs by one game but get a top-three pick thanks to the Texans. After adding Will Fuller in free agency, the team can go best player available or move down to acquire even more picks. They can likely add an impact tackle like Penei Sewell or a wideout like Ja'Marr Chase, and then look to the defensive side of the ball with their second first-round pick. With two other picks in the top 50, the Dolphins can get a number of instant contributors in their quest to make the playoffs.
Minnesota Vikings
Draft Capital
- 2021: 14, 79, 91, 120, 126, 135, 144, 158, 169, 200, 224
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: EDGE, OT
- Tier 2: LB, Safety, CB
First-Round Names to Watch: Kwity Paye, Gregory Rousseau, Christian Darrisaw, Alijah Vera-Tucker
The Minnesota Vikings have long been on the hunt for an offensive tackle, but that is not their biggest need. Led by a defensive-minded coach in Mike Zimmer, they have to generate a pass rush with their front four. Getting an edge defender who can create havoc or a corner who can lock down a team’s top receiver should be of high priority. Outside of adding an impact defender, the Vikings should be looking to add a player on the offensive edge to better protect Kirk Cousins.
New England Patriots
Draft Capital
- 2021: 15, 46, 97, 121, 123, 140, 178, 189, 198, 244
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-4 and 6-7. They also acquired two additional conditional 7th-round picks, and traded away two conditional 7th-round picks and a 5th-round pick.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: QB, EDGE, WR
- Tier 2: LB, Interior DL, CB
First-Round Names to Watch: Mac Jones, Micah Parsons, Jaycee Horn, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
The New England Patriots' largest question remains the quarterback position. Although they added offensive skill position depth that was lacking last season at wide receiver and tight end, the Patriots still lack offensive skill power. On defense, they need help at edge. However, with rumors swirling of a potential Stephon Gilmore trade, more coverage pieces, both at corner and at linebacker, might be another area to look at. While the scheme has always ruled in New England, and they have had blue-chip prospects on both sides of the ball, those blue-chippers have dwindled over the last few years, leaving more kinks in the Patriots' armor.
New Orleans Saints
Draft Capital
- 2021: 28, 60, 99, 106, 134, 219, 230, 257
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-4 and 6-7. They traded away a conditional 5th-round pick as part of the Kwon Alexander trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: Safety, CB
- Tier 2: WR, LB, QB
First-Round Names to Watch: Trevon Moehrig-Woodard, Kadarius Toney, Rondale Moore, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
The Saints are in search of a new identity because of Drew Brees' retirement. Outside of the quarterback position, which looks to be solved in the short term with the duo of Jameis Winston and Taysom Hill, the Saints have one of the better rosters in the NFL. They could use another safety with Marcus Williams on the franchise tag and Malcolm Jenkins aging (he's 33). The Saints can also use another linebacker who can cover and get sideline to sideline. Outside of that, adding a piece to throw the ball to for whoever may be under center is in the team’s best interest.
New York Giants
Draft Capital
- 2021: 11, 42, 76, 117, 197, 202
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: EDGE, OL, WR
- Tier 2: LB, Safety, CB
First-Round Names to Watch: Micah Parsons, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Jaelan Phillips, Jaylen Waddle, Rashawn Slater
The Giants' defense started to put pieces together last season and added some reinforcements in free agency. They could still use a blue-chip edge prospect, despite re-signing Leonard Williams. The Giants could also use a rangy playmaking linebacker who can cover the backs and tight ends in the division. On offense, the Giants could continue to bolster their offensive line further by adding a tackle or an interior lineman. On the outside, adding to the wide receiver position, despite paying Kenny Golladay the big bucks and adding John Ross’s speed, they may look to add even more help at wideout. However, it might be overkill at this point.
New York Jets
Draft Capital
- 2021: 2, 23, 34, 66, 87, 108, 147, 155, 187, 227
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-3 and 5-6. They also hold an extra 1st-round pick, an extra 2nd-round pick, an extra 4th-round pick, an extra 5th-round pick, and two 6th-round picks.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: QB, WR, EDGE
- Tier 2: CB, LB, OL, RB
First-Round Names to Watch: Zach Wilson, Justin Fields, Najee Harris, Alijah Vera-Tucker, Greg Newsome II
The Jets are officially starting a new chapter with a new quarterback under center, after trading Sam Darnold to the Carolina Panthers. While all indications are that the new signal-caller will be Zach Wilson, all options beyond Trevor Lawrence are on the table. The Jets also hold an additional first-rounder from the Jamal Adams trade, and that pick can go in a variety of ways. They could add another weapon for their new quarterback or work to protect him, but more than likely, they will give this one to new head coach Robert Saleh and add an impact defender. The Jets will also have a bevvy of draft picks as they enter the 2022 NFL Draft, giving them more weaponry to build the roster in future seasons.
Philadelphia Eagles
Draft Capital
- 2021: 12, 37, 70, 85, 124, 151, 190, 225, 226, 235, 241
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7. They also hold an additional 1st-round pick from the Miami Dolphins and an additional conditional 2nd-round pick (that can become a 1st-round pick) as part of the Carson Wentz trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: OL, WR, CB
- Tier 2: Safety, LB, EDGE
First-Round Names to Watch: Patrick Surtain II, Jaycee Horn, DeVonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle, Rashawn Slater
The Eagles decided to make the move from six down to 12, likely because they want to give Jalen Hurts at least one season leading the offense. The Eagles could equip Hurts with a weapon on the outside, or add a piece on the offensive line across from Lane Johnson, as Andre Dillard hasn’t proven himself after being a first-rounder two seasons ago. The Eagles also have a major need on the outside after Darius Slay struggled in his first season in Green. Philly could also use an impact linebacker, despite being unlikely to take one in the first round. Whether it be adding pieces on offense or defense early, the Eagles need to add weapons on the outside for Hurts to give him the best opportunity for success.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Draft Capital
- 2021: 24, 55, 88, 129, 141, 217, 247, 256
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-4 and 6-7. Also acquired an additional 7th-round pick.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: RB, OL, CB
- Tier 2: LB, QB, EDGE
First-Round Names to Watch: Samuel Cosmi, Teven Jenkins, Alijah Vera-Tucker, Najee Harris
The Pittsburgh Steelers look to be running it back with nearly the same roster they fielded last season, except there are some notable kinks on the offensive line. Maurkice Pouncey retired and Alejandro Villanueva is still a free agent. To fix those issues, the Steelers will likely need to spend premium capital on the offensive line. Outside of the line, the Steelers could use a runner who can set the tone for the offense—one of the reasons Najee Harris can't be written off in the first round. The Steelers also need a replacement for the departed Bud Dupree, who posted 19.5 sacks over the last two seasons.
San Francisco 49ers
Draft Capital
- 2021: 3, 43, 103, 118, 156, 173, 181, 195, 231
- 2022: Hold picks in rounds 2, 4, 5 and 7. Traded away their 1st-, 3rd- and 6th-round picks. Acquired a conditional 5th-round selection as well.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: QB, OL, CB
- Tier 2: Safety, RB
First-Round Names to Watch: Justin Fields, Trey Lance, Mac Jones.
The San Francisco 49ers pushed their chips into the middle of the table, sending away three first-round picks to acquire the third overall selection in this draft. While we don’t know which quarterback they will draft, we do know that the pick will likely be a quarterback, mostly because it wouldn't make much sense to trade away this much capital for a non-quarterback. Many are speculating on whether attending the Mac Jones Pro Day while avoiding Justin Fields's Pro Day is a sign or a smokescreen. Expect the speculation to continue until the 49ers are on the clock.
Seattle Seahawks
Draft Capital
- 2021: 56, 130, 252
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 2-7. Hold an additional 4th-round pick acquired as part of the Jamal Adams trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: EDGE, CB, OT
- Tier 2: Interior DL, RB, OL
First-Round Names to Watch: N/A (Jamal Adams trade)
The Seahawks got to see their first-round pick this season on display all of last year in Jamal Adams, who set an NFL record for single-season sacks by a defensive back. In fact, just four years into his career, Adams is already sixth on the all-time list for career sacks by a defensive back. He could break the record this season with nine sacks. The Seahawks have the fewest picks in the draft, and with their first pick not coming until 56, they will still have plenty of holes to plug.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Draft Capital
- 2021: 32, 64, 96, 138, 177, 218, 253, 261
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-5 and 7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: Interior DL, Interior OL, RB
- Tier 2: EDGE, LB
First-Round Names to Watch: Jalen Mayfield, Alijah Vera-Tucker, Najee Harris, Christian Barmore, Daviyon Nixon
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have retained most of their Super Bowl squad via free agency, leaving them with fewer holes to fill. The Bucs could likely use a long-term right tackle or a short-term right guard. No sane team ever turns down more pass-rush help, whether it be on the inside or the edge.
Tennessee Titans
Draft Capital
- 2021: 22, 53, 86, 101, 127, 167, 206, 216, 233
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-6. Traded away their 7th-round pick as part of the Isaiah Wilson trade.
Team Needs
- Tier 1: EDGE, CB, Interior DL
- Tier 2: LB, OL, WR
First-Round Names to Watch: Azeez Ojulari, Rashod Bateman, Trevon Moehrig-Woodard, Greg Newsome II, Tyson Campbell
The Tennessee Titans have posted some solid seasons over the last two years on the back of King Derrick Henry and Ryan Tannehill, despite their defense taking a step back in 2020. On offense, the Titans could use a wide receiver to complement A.J. Brown, or more impact players along the offensive line. The Titans seem much more likely to add a defender in round one with a running mate for Harold Landry or trying to find a top corner after Adoree' Jackson and Malcolm Butler failed.
Washington Football Team
Draft Capital
- 2021: 19, 51, 74, 83, 125, 164, 246, 248
- 2022: Hold all picks in rounds 1-7
Team Needs
- Tier 1: QB, OT, CB
- Tier 2: Safety, WR, LB
First-Round Names to Watch: Alijah Vera-Tucker, Mac Jones, Jaycee Horn, Caleb Farley, Trevon Moehrig-Woodard
The Washington Football Team signed Ryan Fitzpatrick as a stop-gap quarterback option, but that doesn’t mean they are set at the position. Quarterback remains their top position of need but they could also use an offensive tackle to replace the departed Trent Williams. On defense, the Football team could use reinforcements in the secondary as it will only add to the effectiveness of their front four. If a top corner were to fall, it would be a difficult proposition for Washington to pass on.
