2020 NFL full first round mock draft: Raiders add a cornerback at 12
By Nick Ellis
17. Dallas Cowboys: Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
As big of a loss as the Dallas Cowboys took at cornerback this offseason, as Byron Jones landed with the Miami Dolphins, they decide to help their secondary in a different way, adding Alabama safety Xavier McKinney. McKinney would make a huge impact on the Cowboys, as their secondary is hurting badly right now, and McKinney not only can play coverage but is a hard hitter, forcing four fumbles last year at Alabama.
The Cowboys are a team that will be in the mix in the NFC East next season, and have spent money on the offensive side of the ball this offseason. With McKinney, they bolster their defensive backfield, which is needed after the loss of both Jones, and safety Jeff Heath.
18: Miami Dolphins (From Pittsburgh Steelers): K’Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
With their second pick of the first round, the Miami Dolphins add a pass rusher, bringing in LSU’s K’Lavon Chaisson. The Dolphins have multiple holes on this team, and the pass rush is one of them.
Chaisson played against some of the best offensive lines in college football and was still able to make a massive impact despite what his stats say. While he only had 6.5 sacks last season, he was a big reason in LSU’s success, making big plays in the biggest games and helping them to a national title.
19. Las Vegas Raiders (From Chicago Bears): Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
The Raiders address their need for a WR1, and although they missed out on drafting CeeDee Lamb or Jerry Jeudy, they still get an incredible talent in LSU’s Justin Jefferson. Jefferson is coming off one of the best college football seasons ever for a receiver, recording over 1,500 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Joe Burrow being Jefferson’s quarterback is hurting his stock, especially considering that Jefferson only recorded 875 yards and six touchdowns the year prior. Still, Jefferson makes the wide receiver room a strength in Las Vegas, filling the biggest need they have on that side of the ball.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (From Los Angeles Rams): Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
The Jacksonville Jaguars look to rebuild their defense during the 2020 NFL Draft, this time adding one of the best cornerbacks in the draft. Trevon Diggs from Alabama plays well in zone coverage, as well as showing great ability to press and crowd routes.
The Jaguars have lost a few key corners in the last year, so adding one in the first round seems like a must. With A.J. Bouye and Jalen Ramsey both gone, Diggs becomes their top corner, as the Jaguars continue to get younger on that side of the ball.