ESPN Projects Bo Nix to Second Round
On Monday we posted an article linking to PFF and its updated NFL mock draft. That mock draft included three Oregon players projected to go in the first round.
ESPN analyst Jordan Reid posted his mock draft on Tuesday with a much different feel to it. Reid had only one Oregon player going in the first round with Bo Nix and Troy Franklin landing in the second round of the NFL draft. In fact he didn’t have any Oregon players drafted in the top 20.
Here is a look at his predictions and analysis from those picks. FWIW, Reid had Nix going ahead of Michael Penix in the NFL draft.
21. Miami Dolphins – Jackson Powers-Johnson
Robert Hunt, Connor Williams and Isaiah Wynn are all set to become free agents. That likely leaves a major void along the interior offensive line for Miami. Powers-Johnson played all 792 snaps of his 2023 season at center, but he also has experience at guard in 2021-22 and is capable of playing any position inside. His sturdy base and raw strength are two of his best traits, and I see day one starter potential.
39. NY Giants – Bo Nix
In this scenario, the Giants missed out on the QBs at the top of the draft, but why not take a chance on a Day 2 option to get some competition for Daniel Jones (who is coming off a torn ACL)? The accuracy and decisiveness of Nix pairs well with offensive coordinator Mike Kafka’s scheme. Nix threw 45 TD passes and three interceptions in 2023 while completing 77.4% of his passes.
57. Tampa Bay Bucs – Troy Franklin
The Buccaneers re-signed Mike Evans on Monday, but they still need youth in that position group. Franklin is explosive and serves as a true “best player available” approach here.
