Mock Draft Watch: Khalid Kareem Getting 1st Round Love in 2020
By J.P. Scott
One of the most prestigious and accurate NFL Mock Draft sites has Khalid Kareem being selected in the first round in 2020.
As the NFL Scouting Combine approaches and the 2019 draft season gets into full swing, we’re already starting to see some 2020 mocks. One such mock draft has Notre Dame defensive end Khalid Kareem being selected in the first round.
Walterfootball.com’s most recent 2020 mock draft has Kareem being selected with the 30th overall pick by the New England Patriots. Kareem is the only Notre Dame player projected in round one.
On one hand it seems silly to put any stock into a mock draft so far out. On the other hand, it’s nice to know that a national outlet that specializes in the NFL Draft says Notre Dame has a first round talent at defensive end for the 2019 season.
In terms of reasoning and fit, I agree with the site’s assumption that New England will lose Trey Flowers in free agency. Bill Belichick is not a fan of keeping guys he drafts past their rookie deals when he knows they are going to demand big money in free agency. He sees value in veterans he can pick up on the cheap and the rookie contract structure.
Kareem has a similar playing style and body type to Flowers, so it all makes sense.
Ian Book Among Early Heisman Favorites. dark. Next
As these 2020 mock drafts roll out, it shouldn’t surprise anyone to see offensive tackle Liam Eichenberg or safety Alohi Gilman sneak their names into a first round selection, as they should also be among the best players in the country at their respective positions.