NFL Draft 2021: Final 32-pick Round 1 mock with trades

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Tulsa Golden Hurricane linebacker Zaven Collins (23) Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Draft Pick No. 29: Zaven Collins, Defensive End/Linebacker, Tulsa

The Green Bay Packers could go with a wide receiver here, but with quarterback Aaron Rodgers tearing apart defenses with mostly mediocre receiving talent, they can wait to address that and instead work on the defense.

Linebacker Zaven Collins is an intriguing prospect who could play either as a defensive end 4-3 “Sam” or “Mike” or a 3-4 outside linebacker depending on the scheme he’s put in.

Collins had 54 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, four interceptions (two returned for touchdowns) and two forced fumbles in 2020. He was a monster for Tulsa, and demonstrated a rare ability to make consistent plays.

Collins isn’t the most physical of linebackers and can struggle with blocks, but his speed and athleticism make up for that. As such, he is one of the more intriguing prospects in this year’s NFL Draft.