NFL Network's Analytics Mock Draft 2.0 has the Arizona Cardinals changing direction after DeAndre Hopkins trade

About three weeks ago we looked at the analytics based mock draft from Cynthia Frelund of NFL Network.

In it she based her picks on what prospect would add the most wins to the Arizona Cardinals (and all other 31 NFL teams with their picks) and Frelund’s wins added model came out with CeeDee Lamb.

Today, Frelund dropped her 2020 NFL Analytics Mock Draft 2.0 and she had a different pick and some good news for Cardinals fans:

8. Mekhi Becton - OT

School: Louisville | Year: Junior

Adding ( stealing) DeAndre Hopkins and then drafting Becton increases the Cardinals’ win-total projection by more than two Ws in my model. That’s a really big jump. Becton’s athleticism fits the projected pace of play in this Kliff Kingsbury/ Kyler Murray system very well.

Becton played in an up-tempo offense at Louisville, so pace would probably be something he is comfortable with, especially since the NFL cannot go as fast as college does.

The question with Becton will be about maintaining his weight and can he pass protect consistently. However, his work in the run game and his tenacious demeanor would be a welcomed addition to the Cardinals offense.