In this mock draft, the primary focus is on building a defense-oriented class—identifying immediate starters and quality depth pieces to strengthen that side of the ball in new defensive coordinator Christian Parker’s system. We will also make select additions on offensive coordinator Klayton Adams’ side to ensure the roster remains balanced, competitive, and complementary in all phases.

Round 1, Pick 12: Avieon Terrell (CB, Clemson) 5’11", 180 pounds

Scheme Fit: High. Christian Parker has explicitly called the nickel corner position "very important" in his new defense.

Why it works: Terrell is praised for his inside-outside versatility. While he can play the boundary, his "buttery hips," quick twitch, and willingness to tackle in run support make him the ideal candidate to be Parker’s "star" nickel.

Round 1, Pick 20: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (S, Toledo) 6’3", 201 pounds

Scheme Fit: High. Parker’s scheme thrives on "tweener" safeties who can play in the box.

Why it works: McNeil-Warren is a "hair-on-fire" downhill player with nine career forced fumbles. He fits the mold of a versatile safety/linebacker hybrid (similar to Markquese Bell) that Schottenheimer and Parker want for their "multiple" looks.

Round 4, Pick 112: Nadame Tucker (EDGE, Western Michigan) 6’2 247 pounds

Scheme Fit: Perfect. A 3-4 defense requires explosive stand-up outside linebackers.

Why it works: Tucker is a pure disruptor (14.5 sacks in 2025). He played in a pro-style system at WMU that used Chargers-style NFL concepts. He provides the "multiple front" flexibility Parker needs to transition away from the traditional 4-3 DE.

Round 5, Pick 150: Kaleb Elarms-Orr (LB, TCU) 6’2", 234 pounds

Scheme Fit: Good. Parker needs "smart communicators" to handle the complex adjustments of a shell defense.

Why it works: Elarms-Orr is a high-IQ technician who excels in zone coverage and "instructing players" on the field. He fits the 3-4 inside linebacker (ILB) profile perfectly as a coverage specialist.

Round 6, Pick 177: Jamarion ”Jam” Miller (RB, Alabama) 5’10", 209 pounds

Scheme Fit: One-cut physical runner with sub 4.5 speed with potential RB2/RB3 behind Javonte Williams

Why it works: Adams wants a "great jab" in the run game. Miller is a 209 -pound downhill hammer with "spectacular vision" and a low center of gravity. He is exactly the type of physical, under-center back Klayton Adams would use in his run game.

Round 6, Pick 216: Romello Brinson (WR, SMU) 6’2", 190 pounds

Scheme Fit: Deep-threat WR depth piece WR4/5 who can stretch out a defense.

Why it works: He provides outside receiver depth with deep threat ability, with reliable hands and good body control.

Round 7, Pick 226: Xavian Sorey Jr. (LB Arkansas) 6’2", 228 pounds

Scheme Fit: Athletic Will Linebacker who can "run to the ball and tackle and add value on special teams.

Why it works: Sorey adds speed and ability to be a blitzer/QB Spy in certain sub-packages. Ready to step in and compete for a role on kick-coverage teams.