2026 PRZIA “Re-Draft” Round 1 (Junior Class ONLY)

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of my favorite articles to write every year on the Nebraska side of my PRZ coverage is my "Re-Draft" feature during the NFL draft weekend, so I am jumping over to do one for Iowa as well. In this "Re-Draft," I use some of the top players in Iowa to showcase my GM skills as I re-do (or undo) some of the picks from the NFL draft. In this article, I will use only players from the 2027 class to fill out my draft board.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Check out how my 1st Round Iowa Re-Draft turned out:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">1. Las Vegas Raiders</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1644900' first='Tru' last='McBride'], QB - Fort Dodge - 6'3" 220 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/tru_mcbride" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@tru_mcbride)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>There was no way the Raiders were leaving without their QB1 here, and they got their guy in Fort Dodge's [player_tooltip player_id='1644900' first='Tru' last='McBride']. Tru is a player who possesses the measurables, arm talent, and tremendous upside to lead this franchise into the future.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/21486745/690e1fb9df5b76d55b311c1d' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2d88"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">2. New York Jets</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2110269' first='Jerrence' last='Knoblock'], DE/EDGE - 6'6" 220 lbs - Iowa Commit - <a href="https://x.com/KJerrence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@KJerrence)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>There is a ton of talent here with no real wrong answer for a talent-needy team like the Jets. The safe bet seems to load up the trenches on defense, where you can always use some help, and boy, do they get it in fast-rising defensive end/EDGE [player_tooltip player_id='2110269' first='Jerrence' last='Knoblock'], who gives them a lengthy, explosive player to pressure QBs.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/17075250/69653f661777e1c61dcdc72b' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2de7"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">3. Arizona Cardinals</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1204515' first='Will' last='Slagle'], OT - Grinnell - 6'4" 305 lbs - Iowa State Commit - <a href="https://x.com/slagle_will" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@slagle_will)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Cardinals went RB in the actual draft, but with concerns about the offensive line, I would prefer to address that at #3. [player_tooltip player_id='1204515' first='Will' last='Slagle'] is an instant upgrade on the offensive line, providing them with a tough, physical run blocker who can bring the juice and the needed protection in the pass game.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">4. Tennessee Titans </span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1197458' first='Landon' last='Blum'], WR - Woodbine - 6'4" 205 lbs - Penn State Commit - <a href="https://x.com/landon_blum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@landon_blum)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Last year's #1 pick Cam Ward is smiling ear-to-ear knowing he has a BIG TIME weapon heading to Nashville in Woodbine's [player_tooltip player_id='1197458' first='Landon' last='Blum']. Landon is a taller, big-bodied receiver who can take the top off a defense, win the 50/50 ball, and has a massive QB-friendly catch radius.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16568301/695d684f916747260c47c4ce' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2e23"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">5. New York Giants</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1197438' first='Jaxx' last='DeJean'], WR/TE - OABCIG - 6'4" 220 lbs - Iowa Commit - <a href="https://x.com/Jaxxdejean35">(@Jaxxdejean35)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>This is a pick that I didn't fully grasp until after making it. On paper, you have the Giants taking a talented pass-catcher who can line up anywhere on offense and has a nose for making explosive plays. Then you realize we are all in store for an elite brother vs brother divisional rivalry matchup between the DeJean bros... sign me up right now!</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/20086024/692237a56e314385f62e1af9' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2e5b"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">6. Kansas City Chiefs</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1393166' first='Nate' last='Brenneman'], OT - Rock Valley - 6'7" 250 lbs - Iowa Commit - <a href="https://x.com/Nate_Brenneman_" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@Nate_Brenneman_)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Chiefs are a team that surprisingly has quite a few pressing roster needs, so there were many directions to go with this pick. Ultimately, providing Mahomes security, especially as he returns from a major injury, outpaces the other needs so Rock Valley's [player_tooltip player_id='1393166' first='Nate' last='Brenneman'] is the selection. Nate is a towering tackle prospect with even higher upside, bringing a great mix of athleticism, size, and power to the trenches.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19687995/690142650d2241dbb093dfc0' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2e90"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">7. Washington Commanders</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='466364' first='Tate' last='Wallace'], LB - Regina - 6'3" 225 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/tatewallace_2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@tatewallace_2)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>It seemed like there was no wrong answer for the Commanders as long as they went defense, and that's what they do here as they snag the top LB on the board. Regina's [player_tooltip player_id='466364' first='Tate' last='Wallace'] is a hard-hitting, dynamic linebacker who possesses the range and football IQ you love to see out of your defensive field generals.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/18011744/69233b106700aae655b8cd16' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2ecd"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">8. New Orleans Saints</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1609271' first='Gavin' last='Stecker'], LB - Bettendorf - 6'3" 210 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/gstecker24" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@gstecker24)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>We go back to back on 'backers here as the New Orleans Saints add some needed talent to their defense and a replacement for long-time star LB Demario Davis. Bettendorf's [player_tooltip player_id='1609271' first='Gavin' last='Stecker'] fits the mold of the modern versatile defender who can be moved around and used as a defensive chess piece.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">9. Cleveland Browns</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1207826' first='Will' last='Clausen'], OT - Cedar Rapids Prairie - 6'6" 280 lbs - Minnesota Commit - <a href="https://x.com/WillClausen27">(@WillClausen27)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Browns went OL in the actual draft, and that makes sense here as well with CR Prairie's [player_tooltip player_id='1207826' first='Will' last='Clausen'] on the board. Will is a pretty clean prospect with great measurables, power to drive defenders, and overall technically sound.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/26617551/690c15efac71975b97fe194f' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2f03"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">10. New York Giants </span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1197445' first='Savion' last='Miller'], RB - Iowa City - 5'10" 195 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/savionmiller_18" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@savionmiller_18)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Skattebo's run last season was very fun to watch, but short-lived as he went down with an injury. This opens the door for the Giants to draft a player with more punch and explosiveness in Iowa City's [player_tooltip player_id='1197445' first='Savion' last='Miller']. Miller's presence should take some of the load off QB Dart's shoulders.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19445933/68f46065f570566c0b07f483' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2f37"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">11. Dallas Cowboys</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1197483' first='Braylon' last='Bingham'], LB - Pleasantville - 6'2" 180 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/braylonbing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@braylonbing) </a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Defense was the only answer here, and the Cowboys snag a big one! LB [player_tooltip player_id='1197483' first='Braylon' last='Bingham'] is another versatile athlete with a well-rounded skill set that should help improve the Cowboys' low-ranked pass and rush defensive rankings.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16846904/692357636700aae655b8e06a' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2f6c"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">12. Miami Dolphins</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1204437' first='Jordon' last='Green'], WR - Waukee Northwest - 5'11" 170 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/jordon07797172" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@jordon07797172)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Miami Dolphins are another team with a ton of roster holes that need to be addressed big time. With their top pick, I think they try to replace Jaylen Waddle with a playmaking receiver who can attack all levels of the field and can win at the catch point.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/18391569/6928e8f4ee61bcc45223b20a' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2f9e"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">13. Los Angeles Rams</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1694834' first='Reid' last='Steger'], OT - Kuemper Catholic - 6'6" 300 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/ReidSteger27" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@ReidSteger27)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>On the flip side of the Dolphins, the Rams don't seem to have many glaring needs, but can use young talent to keep extending their championship window. Kuemper Catholic's [player_tooltip player_id='1694834' first='Reid' last='Steger'] brings massive upside to the offensive line, which might be preparing for retirements and free agency after this season.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23006236/694911f6e371a29ddc9e0ed2' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf2fd1"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">14. Baltimore Ravens</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1616410' first='Drake' last='Buthe'], OL - Glenwood - 6'5" 265 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/ButheDrake" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@ButheDrake)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>This seems like a very Ravens-type of prospect as they fill a huge need with a clean prospect who brings a physical mentality to the gridiron. Glenwood's [player_tooltip player_id='1616410' first='Drake' last='Buthe']'s length and athleticism should fit well in this run-heavy offense.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19428229/69225d816e314385f62e2ddb' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3003"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1198829' first='Kason' last='Clayborne'], LB - Sioux City East - 6'3" 220 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/KasonClayborne" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@KasonClayborne)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lose their defensive cornerstone in Lavonte David, but might have stumbled upon their defensive thumper for the next 15 years in Sioux City East's [player_tooltip player_id='1198829' first='Kason' last='Clayborne']. The Bucs get a guy who can play off-ball, mug the LOS, and has the athleticism to drop into coverage.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19342604/68c8d1949a17d0054c71426f' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf305c"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">16. New York Jets</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1366537' first='Isaiah' last='Hansen'], RB - Newton - 6'0" 190 lbs - Iowa State Commit - <a href="https://x.com/isaiah_hansen2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@isaiah_hansen2)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Just like the Jets' #2 pick, there are no wrong answers here with a loaded board, so I think we give them an exit strategy to the whole Breece Hall saga. However, Isaiah is more than just an exit strategy; he is a super-explosive RB with a good mix of strength and speed that gives this offense some much needed playmaking power.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19574284/6936eb4e1c78b3303ade270e' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3091"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">17. Detroit Lions</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2043381' first='Brendan' last='Meaney'], OL - Janesville - 6'6" 260 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/BrendanM_95" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@BrendanM_95)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Detroit Lions quickly went from a rock-solid unit that was among the best in the league to one filled with question marks after free agency and retirements took their toll. Janesville's [player_tooltip player_id='2043381' first='Brendan' last='Meaney'] gives the Lions a plug-and-play lineman who would be a perfect fit opposite of Penei Sewell, but could even move inside to guard. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/18879556/6911185c9b365dab526dca7f' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf30c7"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">18. Minnesota Vikings </span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1198818' first='Rowan' last='Doak'], S - Ankeny - 6'5" 205 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/DoakRowan80228" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@DoakRowan80228)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Vikings stunned me in the actual draft when they passed on Oregon S Thieneman, but I won't make that mistake in my re-draft. The Vikings get Harrison Smith's successor in a tall, big-bodied safety like [player_tooltip player_id='1198818' first='Rowan' last='Doak'], who has the type of versatility that should flourish in Brian Flores' scheme.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/18225948/693b1a90540685f13c7734c8' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf30fd"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">19. Carolina Panthers</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1617623' first='Cade' last='Newman'], TE - Ankeny Centennial - 6'5" 220 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/CadeNewman17" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@CadeNewman17)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Defense could've gotten some attention here, but I like the idea of loading up young QB Bryce Young with weapons, especially after seeing how Tet McMillan helped elevate his game. Ankeny Centennial's [player_tooltip player_id='1617623' first='Cade' last='Newman'] provides Young with a massive receiving target with a very-friendly catch radius and toughness to go over the middle of the field.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/18226614/69a5146af121451289c25dfc' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3132"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">20. Philadelphia Eagles</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1693007' first='Bennett' last='Stecker'], WR/TE - Spirit Lake - 6'5" 200 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/BennettStecker">(@BennettStecker)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>I think we saw on draft night that the Eagles might actually move on from AJ Brown this offseason. So we make sure the offense doesn't miss a beat and snag speedy receiver [player_tooltip player_id='1693007' first='Bennett' last='Stecker'] from Spirit Lake, giving Hurts a deep-ball threat. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/20241266/6908052f0815db8cab8ce1c6' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3164"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">21. Pittsburgh Steelers</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1643647' first='Trent' last='Wesselmann'], OL - Gilbert - 6'5" 290 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/WesselmannTrent" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@WesselmannTrent)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Steelers don't get their pick snatched here as they get their guy in Gilbert's Trent Wesselman. Wesselman fits the gritty, tough mentality of the Pittsburgh Steelers, as shown by his willingness to get after it in the run game.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16874596/6914f6be757dcf64992a1516' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf319c"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">22. Los Angeles Chargers </span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1283377' first='Lucas' last='Diehl'], DL - Kuemper Catholic - 6'3" 265 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/LucasDiehl2027" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@LucasDiehl2027)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The offensive line was seriously considered here as franchise star Justin Herbert got battered last season. However, with their offseason moves, I feel comfortable taking a high-caliber DL like [player_tooltip player_id='1283377' first='Lucas' last='Diehl'] from Kuemper Catholic, who can make an impact from his DE spot and when moved to the inside... great motor.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19761200/695f1e0b2c666b6442d99f9c' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf31d2"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">23. Dallas Cowboys</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1688977' first='Trevon' last='Keely'], DB - Greene County - 6'2" 160 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/TrevonKeely" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@TrevonKeely)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Cowboys continue to rebuild their defense through the draft, this time adding a speedster to their secondary. Greene County's [player_tooltip player_id='1688977' first='Trevon' last='Keely'] is a lengthy, twitchy cornerback with legit track speed to stay right in a receiver's pocket.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23260709/690a9183dd5da57f80886a87' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3204"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">24. Cleveland Browns</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1610013' first='Nathan' last='Mahr'], Crestwood - 6'5" 205 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/MahrNate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@MahrNate)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>With the Browns defense vastly outpacing the offense, we'll continue adding talent here with the selection of Crestwood's [player_tooltip player_id='1610013' first='Nathan' last='Mahr']. Nate continues the trend of athletic, taller receivers who can force defenses to respect his deep threat ability.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19418074/6902451d0d2241dbb0944a8a' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3235"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">25. Chicago Bears</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1361315' first='Ben' last='Booth'], DT - Valley - 6'2" 245 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/BenBooth61" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@BenBooth61)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>GM Ryan Poles will look to keep the massive momentum of last season's playoff appearance going by addressing a huge need on defense. They pick up defensive tackle [player_tooltip player_id='1361315' first='Ben' last='Booth'], who instantly helps shore up a weak run defense and provides additional value with his ability to rush the passer as an interior DL.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19688807/69237a12535a35ca251e8bd1' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3268"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">26. Houston Texans</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1741932' first='Alexander' last='Huhn'], OT - Cedar Falls - 6'5" 250 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/alexander_huhn1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@alexander_huhn1)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Leaving the first round without a new bodyguard for CJ Stroud should be a fireable offense; fortunately, we saved everyone's job with the pick of Cedar Falls' [player_tooltip player_id='1741932' first='Alexander' last='Huhn']. Alex is a player who stands out with his length and growing frame, combined with his mobility and athleticism, to get out in space and mirror pass rushers.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19627675/692a412c84423567d990977a' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf329a"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">27. Miami Dolphins</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1105157' first='Christopher' last='Ford'], CB - Sioux City East - 5'10" 175 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/CFORD_9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@CFORD_9)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>We continue to look at the skill positions for the Dolphins, who got a pass-catcher with their first pick, and now add a lockdown corner. Sioux City East's Chris Ford has a proven track record of locking down opposing receivers and forcing turnovers. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19131917/68fe64c5da5bee2fb1c2b45e' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf32cf"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">28. New England Patriots</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1204441' first='Preston' last='Mensah'], OL - Iowa City - 6'4" 305lbs - <a href="https://x.com/PrezzzyyPM" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@PrezzzyyPM)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>As a Patriots fan, it felt good to make this pick and ensure that franchise QB Drake Maye has the protection he needs. Preston possesses the size and power to dominate at the point of attack and could potentially be a swing T/G.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19337299/68ffb1c0c0556aa610d9c54f' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3304"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">29. Kansas City Chiefs</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1105160' first='Dawson' last='Whitinger'], LB - Ankeny - 6'2" 215 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/Dawsonwhitinger" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@Dawsonwhitinger)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Chiefs saw a good amount of production walk away in free agency so reloading with LB [player_tooltip player_id='1105160' first='Dawson' last='Whitinger'] makes sense. Dawson gives you a LB who can go sideline-to-sideline, downhill, and can cover like a safety.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19973371/69322054b85b285f7776623f' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf3339"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">30. New York Jets</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1204436' first='Mack' last='Heitland'], QB - Waukee Northwest - 6'1" 180 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/mack_heitland" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@mack_heitland)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Jets sneak back in towards the end of the draft to snag their franchise QB in Waukee Northwest's [player_tooltip player_id='1204436' first='Mack' last='Heitland']. Mack is a smart QB who can efficiently carve up defenses with sound decision-making and accurate passes. Heitland, Hansen (pick #16), Garrett Wilson, and Mason Taylor are quite the young offensive core!</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/18395167/693084f70f1c57866b7fff1e' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf336d"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">31. Tennessee Titans</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1677050' first='Elijah' last='Dreyer'], DL - Marion - 6'4" 240 lbs - Illinois State Commit - <a href="https://x.com/ejwdreyer22">(@ejwdreyer22)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Offense with the top pick, now let's shift over to a defensive unit that was near the bottom in the league in several metrics. [player_tooltip player_id='1677050' first='Elijah' last='Dreyer'] should help elevate the pass rush as he provides a nonstop motor and great athleticism/twitch at the line of scrimmage. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19915244/69327449af641c02818fa89b' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf33a0"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">32. Seattle Seahawks</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1617589' first='Stanley' last='Cooper'], RB - Southeast Polk - 6'0' 225 lbs - <a href="https://x.com/StanleyCoo4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(@StanleyCoo4)</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>We saw the Seahawks take an RB to end day one of the draft, and I think that should stay the same, given the impact their running game had in the final stretch of the season. Southeast Polk's [player_tooltip player_id='1617589' first='Stanley' last='Cooper'] is a handful to tackle at the RB position and has the burst to break away when he sees daylight.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19409304/68f45ae4ae7d4c8615d44e5a' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69eca7cbf33d0"} /--> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Make sure to follow&nbsp;<em>@PRZ_OscarG</em>&nbsp;for more news on Nebraska and Iowa HS recruiting.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->