2023 NFL Draft Guide
Big Board w/ 100+ Player Profiles - Full Positional Rankings - Full Two Round Mock Draft
The 2023 NFL Draft is almost upon us! This article serves as a one stop shop to all my opinions and evaluations about the 2023 class. Below you will find my final Big Board with all 115 prospects I have evaluated and a short description for each player. Each player will have a link to their full player profile at the bottom of their bio for a more detailed breakdown. This article also includes my positional rankings and a full two round mock draft at the end.
Final 2023 Big Board
1. Will Anderson Jr - EDGE - Alabama (Early First Round Grade)
Will Anderson has shone as one of the most talented and productive defensive lineman in college football for the better part of two years. Anderson likely will be a stand up end at the next level where his athleticism and power can stand out. He has all the physical tools to be a top tier pass rusher in the NFL, when those tools are layered on top of high IQ, and a relentless motor you get a top of the draft caliber prospect. Anderson should challenge to not just be the top defender off the board but the top player come draft night.
2. Bijan Robinson - RB - Texas (Early First Round Grade)
Bijan Robinson has everything you want in a franchise running back. Elite footwork, vision and balance are all hallmarks of the Longhorn stars game. Robinson is a true three down weapon that can break down a defense as a ball carrier and pass catcher. The best RB prospect since Saquon Barkley has very few holes and should instantly become one of the best playmakers in the NFL.
3. Jalen Carter - IDL - Georgia (Early First Round Grade)
Jalen Carter is a complete player with few weaknesses and a lot of strengths there isn’t much to knock in his game. Critics have questions about his lack of traditional production (9 sacks in 3 years) and his one year sample size as a starter. There are also the lingering issues of his off field questions. However, given his physical tools and refined technique as a pass rusher Carter has all the tools to be a #1 overall pick. Most teams will look past the noise and the questions and see on film a true game wrecker that has the ability to single handedly change how a team plays defense.
4. Brian Branch - SAF - Alabama (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Brian Branch is the perfect player for the modern day NFL given his football IQ, versatility and short area athleticism. Overall, Branch should be a Day 1 impact player that will improve an NFL team’s defense in the run game, zone coverage and positional flexibility from the first day he enters the building. He will likely be the first safety off the board and could even sneak into the Top-20 picks as the type of contributions he brings have never been more valuable than in today's NFL.
5. Christian Gonzalez - CB - Oregon (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Christian Gonzalez has the physical measurables of a CB built in a lab. Teams looking for a top tier CB in the draft that has the IQ and athleticism to fit any scheme and line up all over the formation will have a close eye on him. Gonzalez fits the mold of a top NFL corner when it comes to his physical profile, when combined with his instincts and ball skills he has all the makings of CB1 in this class.
6. Devon Witherspoon - CB - Illinois (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Devon Witherspoon was arguably the best corner in all of college football in 2022. Witherspoon is in the conversation for the top CB in the 2023 class due to his nasty demeanor and sticky man coverage ability which put him in a rare air in terms of CB prospects. However, questions about his size knock him down a few spots as he will not meet certain teams thresholds. Witherspoon projects as a legit CB1 at the next level who thrives best in a man heavy scheme. His coverage ability and ball skills indicate that he should be an immediate impact player at the next level.
7. Bryce Young - QB - Alabama (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Bryce Young is an undersized yet electric player maker. One of the best players in college football consistently displayed poise, accuracy and play making under pressure. His height and size will be the everlasting questions when it comes to his NFL success. However, when it's all said and done Young is a high floor prospect at the position and his ability to play in and out of structure combined with his intangibles on and off the field give him a strong case to be the #1 overall pick.
8. Joey Porter Jr - CB - Penn State (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Joey Porter Jr is a long, physical press man corner. He projects to be a first round pick given his size, athleticism and the multiple years of high quality play he has put on tape. Porter is the best press corner in this year's class. While his play style isn’t the most versatile and won’t fit every team's ideals if he lands with a man heavy defense that asks their corners to contribute in the run game he will thrive.
9. Peter Skoronski - OT - Northwestern (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Peter Skoronski is an extremely refined tackle with tons of experience and the movement skills to be a franchise tackle. His biggest question will be whether his below average length means he must move to the inside. Skoronski has the versatility and football IQ to play anywhere along the offensive line and many think he has All-Pro upside at guard. Personally I think he has shown enough to warrant starting at LT to begin his career with his inside versatility being a nice bonus. Skoronski projects as a scheme versatile tackle who should be a plug and play starter at the next level. His technique and movement skills give him one of the highest floors in this class even if the ceiling might not quite be up to par with others in this class.
10. Deonte Banks - CB - Maryland (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Deonte Banks is an uber athletic and scheme versatile cornerback prospect. Banks currently stands at the top of Tier 2 in this loaded CB class. He has the physical upside and versatility to be the CB1 when looking back at this class in ten years. Questions around his injury history and ball production limit his ability to jump into the Top 10 but he should be a first round lock. Deonte Banks projects as an immediate impact player at the next level that is scheme and alignment versatile. Given his elite athleticism and coverage ability he is one of the highest ceiling DBs in this class.
11. Tyree Wilson - EDGE - Texas Tech (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Tyree Wilson is an athletic marvel who mostly relies on motor and physical tools. His highlights are some of the most if not the most impressive in this entire draft. A team taking him is banking on their ability to develop his technique and control to harness those physical tools. Wilson possesses All-Pro upside and should be a first rounder because of it but it may take little while to be fully realized.
12. Nolan Smith - EDGE - Georgia (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Nolan Smith is an undersized EDGE that brings speed and a hard nosed mentality to a defense. Smith’s burst and bend off the edge alone makes him a first round caliber player but when you include run fits rare for a player of his size and an improving pass rush bag that should only grow deeper with reps he has an astronomical ceiling. Smith should step in Day 1 with the physical ability to hold up on the EDGE and provide rotational rushing skills. If a team is able to keep him progressing as a legit rusher with his tools he has the ability to be one of the biggest booms in this draft.
13. C.J. Stroud - QB - Ohio State (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
C.J. Stroud is the human embodiment of a JUGS machine and shows everything you want from a QB in the pocket. He has all the physical traits to be a franchise QB. The question for him is when inevitably things are not perfect around him like at Ohio State does he have the mental fortitude and creativity to make plays for his team. The Jared Goff comps are spot on as he looks like a sure fire #1 pick when kept clean but in this day and age to be a star you need to create and right now he just doesn’t do enough of it. With his physical tools he should still be a Day 1 pick but it will take a good coaching staff to unlock that ceiling.
14. Paris Johnson Jr - OT - Ohio State (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Paris Johnson Jr is built like a prototypical left tackle with tremendous size, length and athleticism. He is far from a finished product but 2022 was Johnson’s first year at left tackle so it is not shocking he is a little rough around the edges. Given his athletic traits, a young declaring age (21 on draft night) and his flashes of high level hand and footwork he should challenge for the top tackle in this class. Players at a premium position with his ceiling often don't have to wait too long on the first night to hear their name called even if they are a bit rough around the edges.
15. Anton Harrison - OT - Oklahoma (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Anton Harrison has the prototypical size and length of an NFL level franchise LT. With his pass protection skills and movement abilities he has a sky high ceiling. There will be questions about his technique but he might be worth the risk, especially given his age (21 on draft night) and upside. Harrison projects as a starting NFL LT tackle who best fits in a pass first offense that majors in zone run concepts. He should be a lock to be a Top 50 pick in April with a legit shot to sneak into the Top 20.
16. Broderick Jones - OT - Georgia (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Broderick Jones is an athletic tackle who checks all the size boxes from a franchise blindside protector. He is a little raw but comes in on draft night on the younger side at 21 and with his physical talent and SEC pedigree he has the chance to be a Top 15 pick and maybe even the top tackle off the board. Teams in the first round that need a franchise left tackle will surely do their homework on the athletic mauler from Georgia with All-Pro level upside as a blindside protector.
17. Jaxon Smith-Njigba - WR - Ohio State (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, like most Ohio State wide receivers over the past few years, projects to be an excellent pro and should be a first round pick. He wins with short area quickness and top tier route running. However, with his lack of speed and limited reps succeeding on the outside in college teams will ultimately question his upside and ability to be a WR1. The answers to these questions will largely determine whether he is a Top-15 or Top-40 pick.
18. O’Cyrus Torrence - IOL - Florida (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
O’Cyrus Torrence is a big powerful guard that mauls in the run game. Torrence projects as an impact starter with experience at both guard spots. His ideal landing spot is a gap scheme team that can take advantage of his power and length. Torrence has the ability to make an impact in both the run and pass game and be a quality contributor from the jump which gives him the rare chance to be a first round guard.
19. Michael Mayer - TE - Notre Dame (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Michael Mayer is the traditional Y TE. He is scheme versatile, an outstanding blocker and an extremely effective receiver. His ability to step in Day 1 of his pro career as a starting caliber TE with no true weakness is rare for a rookie. He should hear his name called sometime late Day 1 and can be expected to immediately upgrade most team’s starting TE spot.
20. Myles Murphy - EDGE - Clemson (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Myles Murphy is a former 5 Star recruit with tremendous athleticism and upside. He has all the physical tools that NFL teams look for in a pass rusher in terms of length, bend and burst but he must continue to add nuance to his game. His physical tools are quite rare to find in college players, which likely means he will still be a first round player, even if he is not considered the blue chip prospect he once was. Teams in the mid to late first round will have him marked down on their boards as a high ceiling prospect with considerable physical tools that needs some coaching up. Murphy's ceiling projects to be a scheme versatile athletic game wrecker in all aspects which makes him more than worth taking a chance on.
21. Anthony Richardson - QB - Florida (Early First Round Grade)
Anthony Richardson is the most physically gifted quarterback we have seen since Cam Newton. He was a first year starter in 2022 and has all the talent in the world. He just needs to clean up his processing skills and make some mechanical tweaks. Richardson comes ready made in terms of the tools a quarterback needs; when combined with better than expected poise and pocket maneuverability he is not the typical project quarterback. Lack of polish may ding his draft stock due to a perceived low floor but with his talent and the growth he has shown over the past 9 months he should hear his name called early night one.
22. Jahmyr Gibbs - RB - Alabama (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Jahmyr Gibbs is a fleet footed and dynamic running back, who excels on third down. Gibbs should step in Day 1 at the NFL level and be a high level playmaker and big play threat. At his size he will probably never be a true workhorse back but his play style is tailor made for the modern NFL offense and should be a high pick because of the dynamism he possesses.
23. Zay Flowers - WR - Boston College (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Zay Flowers is one of the most explosive and dynamic wide receivers in this class. Lack of size may relegate him to being a slot only at the next level but in a league that lives 11 personnel that’s completely fine. Flowers projects as a high end WR2 at the next level that will add a layer of explosiveness, separation and YAC ability to whatever offense he lands with.
24. Dawand Jones - OT - Ohio State (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Dawand Jones is a big and powerful right tackle. His size and length are top notch, when paired with his above average quickness for his size and excellent technique he has all the makings of a Top 50 player. Jones may not be the type of tackle for every team, but teams looking for a right tackle that is an excellent run blocker should be very interested. He projects to be a quality starter with the physical tools and upside of a Pro Bowl caliber tackle.
25. Dalton Kincaid - TE - Utah (Early Second Round Grade)
Dalton Kincaid is a tremendous receiving tight end that has a legit shot to be the TE1 in this class. Yes there are questions about his size, but in a league built on finding mismatches his receiving work is extremely appealing. Few players have the movement and ball skills that Kincaid has. Kincaid projects best in a pass heavy attack that takes advantage of his ability to win from a variety of alignments. Best paired with a TE2 that excels in blocking, Kincaid will thrive best when allowed to be a dynamic player maker down the middle.
26. Lukas Van Ness - EDGE - Iowa (Early Second Round Grade)
Lukas Van Ness is a long, powerful defensive line prospect. A large amount of Van Ness evaluation comes down to projection, something that was made more difficult by his usage rate and alignment in college. Fans of Van Ness will point to his elite physical tools and younger age (21 on draft night) as reasons to buy into his ceiling. While questions will always linger about his lack of polish and top end bend off the edge. Van Ness projects as a physically talented project with tons of upside. His best home at the next level should be on the outside shoulder of the tackle. Van Ness likely gets his name called on Day 1 due to his physical traits as a team tries to teach and develop the finer parts of his game.
27. Kelee Ringo - CB - Georgia (Early Second Round Grade)
Kelee Ringo is a long athletic corner who excels in zone. Ringo won’t be every team's cup of tea given his issues with footwork and lack of comfortability playing underneath. However, he is a top tier athlete and is one of the youngest defenders in this class (20 on draft night), indicating large amounts of room for growth. Teams that run a lot of Cover-3 will rate him higher on their boards than most other teams given his zone coverage upside. A raw talented player Ringo has the chance to sneak in the back half of the first round if a team falls in love with his upside and believes they can utilize his current strengths in their defense as he develops a more well rounded cover skillset.
28. Bryan Bresee - IDL - Clemson (Early Second Round Grade)
Bryan Bresee is an extremely talented yet incomplete defensive line prospect. Bresee was thought of as a potentially high first round pick coming into the year because of his natural talent. That natural talent still exists but his game lacks nuance and refinement at this point in time. Teams with the time to let him develop will have a talented ball of clay they can mold, but expecting immediate contributions from him will lead to disappointment. Breese's physical skill set indicates a high ceiling that should make him at worst a Day 2 pick in this draft.
29. Darnell Wright - OT - Tennessee (Early Second Round Grade)
Darnell Wright is a nasty powerful offensive tackle. Wright has experience at both tackle spots but he projects to stay on the right side in the NFL which is where he really shined during his time in college. He will likely thrive in a gap scheme that can take advantage of his physical power and hide his average mobility. Wright’s combination of refined hand work, physical stature, and consistent high floor play in a premier conference makes him a real candidate to be a first round pick and the top right tackle off the board come draft night.
30. Adetomiwa Adebawore - IDL - Northwestern (Early Second Round Grade)
Adetomiwa Adebawore is an athletic freak that can line up all along the defensive line. 2022 was a glimpse into what Adebawore can be as a pro. Finally getting more reps at his true home in the interior, he was able to display what his world class athleticism can accomplish. There still remains a large projection in terms of his development at this point but the flashes combined with his physical profile are worth betting on. Adebawore projects as a high upside 3 technique who can be a true game wrecker on all three downs. His impact will take some time as he becomes more accustomed to his role and the speed of the NFL but his upside could be worth the wait.
31. Keion White - EDGE - Georgia Tech (Early Second Round Grade)
Keion White is one of the more athletic EDGEs in this class when it comes to height, weight, speed. Players of his talent caliber don’t grow on trees so expect him to go early in this year's draft. In a deep EDGE class however, lack of polish, and a late breakout age may knock him out of the first round despite his talent. White projects as a solid number 2 pass rusher at the next level with the physical tools to turn into a number 1 with proper coaching.
32. Drew Sanders - LB - Arkansas (Early Second Round Grade)
Drew Sander is one of the more unique linebacker prospects in this draft given his unique role and recent transition to the linebacker. With his athleticism, third down value and ahead of schedule instincts as an off ball linebacker he has the ability to challenge for the LB1 spot in a weaker class.
33. Jordan Addison - WR - USC (Early Second Round Grade)
Jordan Addison is a highly advanced wide receiver with elite college production. Early in the draft process he was firmly in consideration for WR1 in this class due to his route running and ability to make difficult catches. Some teams may have questions about his long term ceiling due to some physical limitations but his floor is extremely high and skill set will translate Day 1.
34. Will Levis - QB - Kentucky (Early Second Round Grade)
Will Levis is built and talks like a franchise caliber quarterback The physical tools and off field intangibles will make scouts drool over him but until he can put it together consistently I struggle to see him as a top tier QB prospect. Guys with his talent are rare so he will go high in the draft, it will come down to landing spot for him and whether his NFL home can put the right pieces around him and develop him. If his future team is able to do that he could become an All-Pro caliber player at his ceiling but his floor could cost people their jobs.
35. Keeanu Benton - IDL - Wisconsin (Early Second Round Grade)
Keeanu Benton is a well rounded defensive lineman with an enticing athletic profile. There are a few players in this class that possess his ability to be an instant impact player while also having an untapped ceiling of his caliber. Benton projects as a scheme and alignment versatile lineman who brings ready made run defense. Given his age (21 on draft night) and athletic profile he possesses a tantalizing pass rush upside that should make him a Top 50 player come draft night.
36. Cam Smith - CB - South Carolina (Early Second Round Grade)
Cam Smith is a long, physical and instinctual outside corner. He is at his best when in off zone coverage where he can weaponize his processing skills and first step burst. Smith is excellent at playing the ball both coming downhill and with his back turned. He does a tremendous job using his length to attack the ball in flight. Smith is a willing and capable run defender as well. A larger corner he shows no issues running the alley and brings power behind his pads as a tackler. Smith’s ability to play in the box also gives him slot and potentially safety versatility. Smith is a work in progress as a man coverage corner. His press technique is wildly inconsistent and quick route runners are able to expose his poor lateral transitions. Smith is high hipped and stiff in his back pedal, he struggles to turn and run with deep threats despite his above average long speed (4.43 40). Cam Smith best fits as an outside corner in a zone heavy coverage scheme that takes advantage of his instincts and length. He projects as an early Day 2 pick that could slide into the back half of the first round if a team is willing to take a shot on his traits developing into a more complete coverage profile.
37. Calijah Kancey - IDL - Pittsburgh (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Calijah Kancey possesses one of the most unique profiles in this year's class. His blend of quickness and movement skills make him an impact splash player on the defensive line. However his long term success is dependent on him being an extreme historical outlier. Kancey is scheme specific and will struggle to make an impact on run downs. He projects as a rotational early down defender that makes his money as a sub package pass rusher.
38. B.J. Ojulari - EDGE - LSU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
BJ Ojulari is a lengthy speed rusher with top end SEC production. Ojulari has all the tools to be a top tier pass rusher at the next level, he is just very raw right now and will struggle on early downs for the first couple years of his career. Teams willing to bet on his physical talents, must bank on their ability to develop his pass rush plan once they get him in their building with the hope he can reach his All-Pro caliber ceiling.
39. Jack Campbell - LB - Iowa (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jack Campbell is built like an early 2000’s linebacker but he has more than enough athleticism to thrive in today’s game. His ability as a run defender and zone coverage defender makes him a strong candidate for LB1 in this class. Campbell projects as a true MIKE backer in the NFL with his strong run defense and leadership skills. He will never be the most electric player on a defense but it's hard to imagine him not being the staple of a defense's spine for a long time.
40. Darnell Washington - TE - Georgia (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Darnell Washington is one of the most uniquely talented players in this class, his ability to block in the run game at his size makes him a Top 50 player in this class. Flashes of impact play in the passing game and a special athletic profile gives him tantalizing upside. Washington will not be for every team but if put in the right offense with his ability to impact both the run and pass game he has a chance to be one of the most unique weapons in the league.
41. Quentin Johnston - WR - TCU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Quentin Johnston has all the physical tools to be a dominant WR at the next level especially given his above average quickness and route running at his size. However, if he does not expand his route tree and learn to play to his size he is at risk of being a player who largely wins with just his athleticism. Johnston’s physical tools should lead to him hearing his name called in the Top 50 of draft night; if a team can unlock a more aggressive mindset he could be a star.
42. Felix Anudike-Uzomah - EDGE - Kansas State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Felix Anudike-Uzomah is a well rounded pass rusher with plus flexibility. Questions about Anudike-Uzomah lacking a true elite trait will likely knock him out of the first round due to a perceived lower ceiling. However, his well rounded game with few weaknesses indicates a high floor player with some quality pass rush upside. Anudike-Uzomah projects as an Early Day 2 pick that can step in immediately as a quality rotation player and potentially develop into a high end #2 pass rusher down the line.
43. Will McDonald IV - EDGE - Iowa State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Will McDonald will have a lot of fans given his first step quickness and ability to turn the corner. His athletic traits and experience should make him an immediate impact rusher, especially when he moves to his proper position. Some teams will have valid concerns about his age and ability to be a 3 down starter at his size but his pass rush acumen in a spread out, pass heavy NFL is more valuable than ever. McDonald should see his name called early on Day 2 of the draft if not Day 1 by a team looking to add some juice to their pass rush.
44. Josh Downs - WR - North Carolina (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Josh Downs is an undersized yet electric receiver that projects to be a strong WR2 and a primary slot at the next level. His best fits will be with teams that have an established WR1 on the outside. Downs will add a layer of creation and big play ability to whatever offense he joins, while also providing tremendous special teams value.
45. Cedric Tillman - WR - Tennessee (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Cedric Tillman is a smooth mover at 6’3” with the ball skills and YAC ability to be a strong #2 at the next level. His physicality as a run blocker and his foot speed should allow him to play outside and power slot even if he didn’t show that much in college. In a draft class that lacks many big bodied receivers that can attack the ball in the air he projects as a strong Day 2 candidate.
46. DJ Turner - CB - Michigan (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
DJ Turner’s tremendous athletic profile and high level production in college indicates a quality NFL starter. However, questions about lack of size and man coverage ability likely makes him scheme specific and may hurt his overall draft stock. DJ Turner projects as a starting caliber corner with both inside and outside versatility at the NFL level.
47. Isaiah Foskey - EDGE - Notre Dame (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Isaiah Foskey is one of the higher floor EDGE rushers in this year's class with above average traits across the board. However a lack of an elite trait at his age indicates he is probably close to his ultimate ceiling. He projects to be a Day 2 player in the draft that can step in right away and contribute in a pass rush rotation. Foskey’s long term outlook indicates him being a strong No. 2 rusher with the athleticism to play all three downs, who wins with effort and technique.
48. John Michael-Schmitz - IOL - Minnesota (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
John Michael-Schmitz is a well rounded and highly intelligent center prospect. He displays excellent footwork and hand placement in both the run game and pass game. Michael-Schmitz has tons of starting experience and does an excellent job communicating and setting protections. He is a well rounded player but lacks any elite traits. Michael-Schmitz does not displace well in the run game and has average length for the positions. He has good first step quickness but struggles to redirect in space. He has the versatility to be a C or G and play in a variety of schemes but best projects as a zone scheme center. Michal-Schmitz is a high floor player who does a lot of things well and should be able to step in Day 1 at center in the NFL.
49. Daiyan Henley - LB - Washington State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Daiyan Henley is a hyperactive linebacker with plus movement skills. Henley displays excellent pursuit speed and the ability to make splash plays. He projects as an impact third down player with his ability to play out in space and make an impact as a blitzer. Henley is more of an active player as opposed to being instinctual. He tends to false step in the run game and relies on his athleticism to recover. Henley is extremely tough and willing to take on contact but is undersized for the position. He struggles to disengage from larger blockers at the point of attack and relies on speed and quickness to make plays in the box. Daiyan Henley projects as a starting caliber WILL backer that wins with speed and motor at the NFL level. He should be a special teams ace from the get go with the upside of a starting WILL who excels out in space.
50. Sydney Brown - SAF - Illinois (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Sydney Brown has one of the highest floors of any defensive backs in this class. His football IQ, versatility and motor indicate he is at worst a strong special teams player. Given his strong testing numbers and ball production in 2022 he projects to be a Day 2 pick in this year's draft. Brown best fits as a starting SS safety in a defense that allows him to move around and play freely in space. Landing with a team that takes advantage of his versatility and ability to fly downhill will allow him to fully unlock his skillset at the next level.
51. Luke Musgrave - TE - Oregon State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Luke Musgrave is a big athletic tight end who possesses all the tools to be an impact player at the next level. He displays excellent body control as a route runner and at the catch point. He has the frame and length to be an impact blocker as well. Limited production in Oregon State’s offense and an injury in 2022 leaves him rather undeveloped. He needs to become more refined as a route runner and add mass to his frame. Musgrave projects as a starter at TE with legit Pro Bowl upside if he can reach his full potential.
52. Jordan Battle - SAF -Alabama (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jordan Battle is a versatile safety with multiple high end traits for the position, who should be a quality starter. Lack of range and man coverage ability limits his projection as a high end player but if paired with an athletic rangy safety partner his plus traits should shine. Battle projects as a strong safety at the next level who thrives in two high looks, as well as down around the line of scrimmage. With his experience and SEC production Battle should be able to step in on day one for an NFL team.
53. Tuli Tuipulotu - EDGE - USC (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Tuli Tuipulotu looks the part of a quality NFL edge defender. His movement skills and flexibility at his size are ready made for the NFL. He has the versatility to play in a 3-4 or 4-3 defense as well. Tuipulotu does have some length questions and needs to become more consistent as a run defender but given his collegiate production and young declaration age (20 on draft night) there is plenty of untapped potential. Tuipulotu projects as a Day 2 pick with scheme versatility that should be able to win with his athleticism right away and become a strong #2 options for a defensive line down the road.
54. Michael Wilson - WR - Stanford (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Michael Wilson is a traditional X receiver with plus movement skills for his size. He has a NFL ready frame and knows how to get open. Medicals are a big red flag for the Senior Bowl stand out, having only played in 12 games over the past 2 years. Long speed is also a big question for him. Wilson is one of the few players in this class with size and movement skills on the outside, if his medicals check out he should be a strong Day 2 pick.
55. Trenton Simpson - LB - Clemson (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Trenton Simpson has rare athletic tools and with his ability to fly down hill he will add juice to a defensive back-seven from the start of his career. In the right defense, one that takes advantage of his strengths coming downhill and playing in space he can be a tremendous weapon. However, if the wrong team takes him and tries to make him into a traditional stack linebacker they will waste his potential. Simpson projects as a weak side flow backer that thrives out in space. He should make an early impact in nickel defense and on special teams with the upside of an All-Pro linebacker if a coaching staff can teach him how to harness his skillset.
56. Jonathan Mingo - WR - Ole Miss (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jonathan Mingo is a strong athlete at his size and displays a well rounded game. His route running ability and long speed indicated he has the ability to be a strong WR2 at the next level. His versatility and movement skills indicate future growth as an all around player. Mingo projects as a Day 2 pick who should be an immediate impact starter. He best fits as a secondary pass catching option in an offense that likes to move around their players in creative ways. His floor is as an auxiliary pass catcher but if a team can unlock his full potential he has the ability to be a versatile mismatch at the next level.
57. Emmanuel Forbes - CB - Mississippi State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Emmanuel Forbes is a long, fast corner with exceptional ball skills. He will thrive in a zone heavy scheme that highlights his instincts and closing speed. His wire thin frame (0th %) is a major concern and raises questions about his long term durability. Despite Forbes being an outlier when it comes to size he had a chance to be a very sought after prospect given his penchant for taking the ball away. He projects as an early Day 2 pick and an instant impact starter at the next level.
58. Marvin Mims Jr - WR - Oklahoma (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Marvin Mims is another skinny but dynamic receiver in the 2023 class. He shows excellent ability to threaten defenses vertically and has the juice to be an impactful player with the ball in his hands. Given his size and limited route tree he doesn’t project to be more than a WR 2 at the next level. Mims best fits as a field stretcher and play maker that operates on a low target volume, high efficiency game script player.
59. Derick Hall - EDGE - Auburn (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Derick Hall has the physical profile and off field intangibles of a long time NFL pro. His blend of explosion and power will be highly coveted in Day 2 of the draft. Lack of bend and being alignment specific may limit his long term ceiling at the next level. Hall projects best as a secondary pass rusher who compliments a star with his motor and power. Improving his technique at the next level should unlock more of his physical tools and make him a high floor consistent secondary option.
60. Jartavius Martin - CB - Illinois (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jartavius Martin brings a lot of great things as a defensive back in terms of athleticism, versatility and effort. The flashes on his tape indicate he should be a starting caliber safety in base with the versatility to rotate down into the box in nickel. However, until he becomes more consistent as a coverage player and displays the ability to translate his athleticism better he projects as largely just as nickel. Martin brings enough physical traits and potential upside to make him a Top 75 player in this class. He projects as an instant impact nickel and special teams contributor with the physical tools and upside to develop into a versatile safety on the back end.
61. Mazi Smith - IDL - Michigan (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Mazi Smith projects to be a strong run defender at the next level with enough athleticism and size to play anywhere from the 0T to the 4i. Questions about his length and pass rush capabilities could knock down his draft stock. Smith is likely a rotation player at the next level who can soak up quality early down reps. He does have the ability to turn into an every down starter if an NFL team can teach him how to convert his power into more consistent pass rush pressure.
62. Steve Avila - IOL - TCU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Steve Avila is an experienced guard with years of high level play at multiple positions along the offensive line. He projects as a starting guard in a gap scheme with center versatility. Power run teams that will take advantage of his downhill power and nasty demeanor will be the best places for him to see success.
63. Antonio Johnson - SAF - Texas A&M (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Antonio Johnson is a long physical safety with multi positional versatility. He best fits as a big nickel or box safety where he can use his size and instincts to be an impact run defender. His length and spatial awareness make him a strong zone defender in the overhang role. Johnson is an average athlete and it limits his ability to play deep safety. He lacks the long speed or burst to play 10+ yards back. While he is able to use his length versus bigger targets, his poor lateral agility and stiff hips limit his man coverage ability. Johnson projects as a box safety in base sets that moves to nickel on passing downs. His physical profile and multi year SEC production should find him as a mid Day 2 pick.
64. A.T. Perry - WR - Wake Forest (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
A.T. Perry has the physical makeup of a true WR1 on the outside. His wingspan, body control and long speed make him a difficult player to contain on the perimeter. There will be questions about his ability to separate at the next level but if he can continue to refine his release package and improve his physicality at the catch point he has the potential to be a starter at X for a long time.
65. Tyjae Spears - RB - Tulane (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Tyjae Spears is one of the most explosive and productive backs in this class. After a standout Senior Bowl he is firmly on Day 2 radar for NFL teams as an home run threat back with significant three down upside. He projects to be a starting caliber back that at worst adds some serious juice to a committee.
66. Sam LaPorta - TE - Iowa (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Sam LaPorta is a well rounded tight end that has very few weaknesses in his game. His ability to win as a receiver and blocker from a variety of alignments is very valuable. LaPorta will never be an explosive focal point in a team passing offense but should be a quality contributor. LaPorta projects as a starting caliber tight end who provides a high floor in the passing game and with continual growth as a blocker should be an above average NFL tight end.
67. Jalin Hyatt - WR - Tennessee (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jalin Hyatt was a breakout receiver in 2022 displaying his speed and deep threat ability. He may take a period of time to adjust to an NFL level playbook that asks more of him as a route runner. Regardless of the scheme transition Hyatt is arguably the best deep threat in this year's class and his athletic abilities should translate Day 1 even in a reduced role making him an instant impact player at the back end of the Top 50.
68. Gervon Dexter - IDL - Florida (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Gervon Dexter is a big athletic defensive line prospect. In a weaker IDL class Dexter’s movement skills and size present an intriguing ceiling. Dexter projects as a Day 2 pick who is very raw but possesses a high ceiling given his physical traits. He will function as an early down rotation player early in his career as he learns to refine his game to become a more complete three down player.
69. Blake Freeland - OT - BYU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Blake Freeland is a tall offensive tackle with tremendous straight line athleticism. Freeland is not going to be rated highly on every team's board. His unique physical make up and lack of flexibility raise questions to his scheme versatility and long term home at left tackle. However, he possesses unteachable traits in terms of size and burst. Freeland projects best as a starting tackle in a wide zone scheme that uses large amounts of play action. If he finds a landing spot that highlights his physical tools and uses scheme to cover up his limitations he has the potential to be an above average starter at tackle.
70. Siaki Ika - IDL - Baylor (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Siaki Ika is a massive defensive tackle that loves to stall the run game. The impact Ika makes as a run defender will make him a highly coveted prospect in a thin IDL class this year. If he can bottle some of his pass rush success from 2021 and become a league average push rusher he could be one of the more impactful nose tackles in the league.
71. Julius Brents - CB - Kansas State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Julius Brents projects as a Day 2 pick who’s best traits are his length and explosiveness. One of the more physical players in this class he will bring a nice edge to a defensive backfield. Brent’s safety versatility is also a nice feather in his cap. Teams that value length and zone coverage ability should be interested in him starting around the middle of Round 2.
72. Joe Tippmann - IOL - Wisconsin (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Joe Tippmann is a long athletic center prospect. Few interior offensive lineman in this class possess Tippmann’s physical tools. His size and athleticism gives him both scheme and positional versatility. A large amount of his negatives can be coached out of him over time and given his high football IQ improvement is to be expected. Tippmann projects as a Day 2 pick that can be an immediate starter at the NFL level. Given his physical stature and quick feet he has the potential to land a starting gig at either center or guard for his future NFL team.
73. Tucker Kraft - TE - South Dakota State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Tucker Kraft is a tough physical combo tight end. He is a strong athlete with prototypical size. He displays the ability to be more than a traditional Y TE and contribute as a pass catcher both from in line and slot alignments. Kraft features strong hands and plus build up speed as a pass catcher. Questions about transitioning from a small school and injury concerns should knock him down the draft a bit but he projects to be an impact player with a good shot to be a team's TE1.
74. Zach Charbonnet - RB - UCLA (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Zach Charbonnet has a lot of traits NFL teams will like when it comes to vision, balance and power, but his lack of explosiveness may hurt his overall ceiling. He should be able to step in Day 1 as the power back in a committee and thrive in early down work with his tackle breaking ability and leg drive. Those talents alone should make him a Day 2 pick and if his passing game involvement can develop at the next level he should be a quality starter even if he doesn’t light up the stopwatch.
75. Kendre Miller - RB - TCU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Kendre Miller is a physical north south runner with tremendous contact balance. Miller projects as a high floor running back which should make him in the range of being a late Day 2 pick where he will have the ability to step in Day 1 as the body blows back in a committee. Miller shows the potential to be a dependable starter that can soak up a majority of a backfield carries, should his pass protection improve.
76. Christopher Smith - SAF - Georgia (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Chris Smith, like most safeties in this class, has an underwhelming athletic profile (2.94 RAS) which limits his projected ceiling. However, he is a smart, versatile player who can make an impact at a variety of positions. Smith projects as a potential starter at safety that will thrive in a scheme that moves him around and plays a lot of 2-high. While he may never have All-Pro caliber ceiling he has a high floor, at worst he projects as a strong SAF3 and special teams star.
77. Luke Wypler - IOL - Ohio State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Luke Wypler is a high floor player who should have no problem starting from his first day in the NFL. He lacks a true elite trait but he also possesses no true weaknesses. Center is a position where IQ and technique reign supreme and physical limitations can often be covered up. Wypler projects as a starter center with scheme versatility and the ability to play guard in a pinch.
78. Roschon Johnson - RB - Texas (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Roschon Johnson is a big powerful back with plus contact balance. Johnson will never likely have the billing of a super star running back to due lack of big play traits. However in the right situation with a bigger role Johnson should end up being an above average NFL starter that doesn’t have a ton of tread on his tires. With his leg drive, contact balance and three down ability he should be a reliable starter for any team he ends up on.
79. Garrett Williams - CB - Syracuse (Third Round Grade)
Garrett Williams is a smooth moving and instinctual outside corner. He displays oily hips and easy movement skills to mirror threats in off coverage. Williams excels in off man and zone coverages where his agility and instincts can shine. Despite his average size he is a willing and capable run defender. Williams struggles with physicality in coverage both at the top of routes and at the catch point. He displays plus body control and soft hands but struggles to attack balls in their primary windows. Williams has the instincts and ball skills for better ball production but struggles to aggressively attack balls in the air. Williams has a lot of excellent traits for a NFL CB and would likely be getting more hype if not for a torn ACL cutting his 2022 season short. He projects as a late Day 2 pick. Williams ideally fits in a zone heavy defense with potential CB2 upside.
80. Eli Ricks - CB - Alabama (Third Round Grade)
Eli Ricks is a high ceiling corner that possesses rare physical tools. His lack of quickness and acceleration ability likely limits him to being an outside corner in a scheme that primarily runs Cover 1 and Cover 3. With more reps and coaching Rick’s footwork and impact in the run game should improve over time. Eli Ricks projects a high upside scheme specific corner. Given his physical tools and SEC pedigree he should comfortably find himself inside the first 100 picks.
81. Hendon Hooker - QB - Tennessee (Third Round Grade)
Hendon Hooker was one of the brightest stars of the 2022 college football season. He lit up the college football world before suffering an injury late in the season. Hooker is experienced, mobile with a plus NFL arm. Questionable pocket presence combined with his age and injury history drops him below the top two tiers of QB’s in the class but he has shown enough to be a strong consolation prize on Day 2.
82. Cody Mauch - IOL - North Dakota State (Third Round Grade)
Cody Mauch is a tough, nasty offensive lineman from North Dakota State with plus movement skills. Mauch looks the part of an offensive lineman with the long haired and chipped tooth and it translates to the field. He has the power to displace in the run game and the movement skills to be a plus blocker on the move. Shoddy footwork and below average length likely signal a future move to guard, a position he repped at the Senior Bowl, but his best long term home may be at center. Mauch is a small school player who will be making a position change so it may be a year or two before becoming an impact starter but has the tools to be an intriguing Day 2 pick. Cody Mauch projects as a Day 2 IOL prospect that will provide versatility early on and can hopefully take over a starting spot in a year or two.
83. Andrew Vorhees - IOL - USC (Third Round Grade)
Andrew Vorhees age and physical profile does not indicate a massive ceiling but he is the type of player you know what you are getting game in and game out. He is a long physical player that has enough movement skills to play in most schemes. Experience playing both sides at tackle and guard is extremely valuable to any team trying to “get their best five” out there at all times. However, his off season injury and declaration age (24 on draft night) likely will knock him down on draft night. Vorhees projects as a starter at either guard spot in the NFL that is scheme versatile. His best fit is at LG in a gap run scheme.
84. Devon Achane - RB - Texas A&M (Third Round Grade)
Devon Achane will bring an instant jolt of speed and elusiveness to whatever offense he joins. At his size he will never hold a full time workload and may have some seasons with nagging injuries, despite his ability to reduce his strike zone and protect himself. Achane projects best as a change of pace back in a zone scheme that makes his impact on third down and in the return game. A successful career would require Achane to be an outlier at his size but he has the combination of athleticism and vision to get it done.
85. Tank Bigsby - RB - Auburn (Third Round Grade)
Tank Bigsby is a rugged north south runner that is excellent at finishing his runs. He displays tremendous contact balance and an uncanny ability to reduce his strike zone as a runner. Bigsby is not a big play threat nor does he offer much on third down. He also has questionable vision, getting far too bounce happy for a back of his size. Bigsby projects best as an early down runner in a zone run scheme. His blend of balance, power and footwork indicates he can be a strong rotational back that can shoulder a large amount of the workload in an NFL offense.
86. Xavier Hutchinson - WR - Iowa State (Third Round Grade)
Xavier Hutchinson may not have the highest ceiling in this class due to limited athleticism but he does a lot of things well. He has the route running, blocking ability and ball skills to stick as a high floor role player in the NFL. Hutchinson projects best as WR2/3 in offense that utilizes him as a power slot. He will make his money on third down and the red zone while also being a strong contributor in the run game.
87. Jayden Reed - WR - Michigan State (Third Round Grade)
Jayden Reed is an experienced receiver that runs a fully fleshed out route tree. He displays quick feet and is able to maintain a large majority of his speed through his breaks. A smooth mover with strong body control he is excellent at adjusting to errant throws. Despite his feisty mentality Reed struggles with size. His lack of length and limited explosiveness indicate a long term home in the slot. Reed projects best as a high floor WR2/3 in an offense. His blend of route running, body control and effort will make him an instant contributor at the next level.
88. Kenny McIntosh - RB - Georgia (Third Round Grade)
Kenny McIntosh has the physical tools to be a dependable three down back at the next level, he just needs more experience. Teams on Day 2 of the draft looking for a solid back with upside likely will wind up with a player who’s pro career outshines his collegiate one.
89. Clark Phillips - CB - Utah (Third Round Grade)
Clark Phillips is an undersized defensive back with tremendous instincts and a junkyard dog mentality. A tremendous coverage player, Phillips high IQ allows him to anticipate routes in man and jump balls in zone. He shows excellent first step quickness and soft hands which translated to elite ball production in college. Despite his stature he is more than willing to get physical with bigger players in the run game and in coverage. However, Phillips is extremely small, sub 20th percentile height, weight and length measurables raise questions about how he holds up at the next level. When combined with below average testing numbers he looks destined to be a slot only at the next level. Clark Philips tape is good enough to overcome a poor draft process and he still is a likely a fringe Day 2 pick. He projects best as a starting nickel and special teams ace in the NFL where his mentality, intelligence and short area quickness can shine.
90. Matthew Bergeron - OT - Syracuse (Third Round Grade)
Matthew Bergeron is a mean nasty tackle that excels in the run game. He displays the power to displace defenders in the run game, athleticism to block in space and hand power to dictate reps. Bergeron has quite a long way to go as a pass protector. He struggles with poor footwork and anchor ability in pass pro. His hands, while powerful, are inconsistent and often miss their mark. Given his athletic profile Bergeron can stick at tackle where his issues are fixable but many protect him as an instant impact guard. Despite his potential as a tackle, his upside as an All-Pro caliber guard may be too good for the team to pass up. Matthew Bergeron projects as a run-first offensive lineman that has T/G versatility on both sides of the line.
91. Chandler Zavala - IOL - North Carolina State (Third Round Grade)
Chandler Zavala is a powerful guard who is excellent in the run game and pass protection. There are very few concerns in his game that cannot be fixed with technique. The biggest questions on his report will be age (24 on draft night) and the recurring back injury. If Zavala’s medical check out he projects as a starting caliber left guard preferable in a gap run scheme that can be found on Day 2 of the draft.
92. Tyler Steen - OT- Alabama (Third Round Grade)
Tyler Steen is an athletic, nasty offensive tackle. It’s rare that Alabama’s starting left tackle does not elicit more fanfare this late in a draft cycle, especially with the athletic profile Steen has. Steen is a smooth mover with left right versatility, who only got better over the course of the year. Questions about balance and length may indicate a future move to guard but the Vanderbilt transfer shows enough starting caliber tackle traits that he deserves a shot outside first. Steen projects best as a swing tackle with starting caliber upside in a zone run scheme. His athleticism and experience should allow him to start at four spots along the line in a pinch as he works to improve his technique and eventually move into a starting role.
93. Tank Dell - WR - Houston (Third Round Grade)
Tank Dell is an extremely dynamic playmaker who will add a level of explosiveness to an offense. There are legit questions about his ability to hold up at the next level given his size and the history of players like him at the position. The optimism that he has enough in his game to overcome this and become a star is lessened by his drops and lack of game changing long speed. Dell projects as a WR2/3 who plays a majority of his snaps in the slot. His return and YAC ability will add juice to whatever team he joins. With the proper play calling Dell can be a weapon versus man and with the ball out in space.
94. Parker Washington - WR - Penn State (Third Round Grade)
Parker Washington lacks the physical traits to ever be a true alpha wide receiver, however, given his route running ability and dependable hands he should be a high floor instant impact player. He projects best as a high volume slot that acts as a teams WR2/3 in the NFL. His draft range starts towards the middle half of Day 2, when teams look for auxiliary pieces for their offense.
95. Mekhi Blackmon - CB - USC (Third Round Grade)
Mekhi Blackmon is a physical scheme versatile coverage corner. Blackmon has an aggressive mentality in coverage and loves to attack receivers. His quick feet and strong instincts make him excellent at anticipating routes in both man and zone. Blackmon times his challenges well and does a tremendous job of attacking the ball in the air, which resulted in strong ball production in college. Despite his physical playing style, Blackmon does not have the ideal frame for an outside corner. Below average length and weight will likely limit the amount of reps he can play on the outside. When he is beaten at the top of the routes he grabs far too often, which will be a major concern in the flag-happy NFL. Blackmon struggles to hold up in the run game at his weight as well and can be bullied at the catch point in coverage by bigger receivers. Durability questions will also linger given his missed time over the past few years. Given his age teams will not expect him to be able to significantly add more weight. Blackmon projects as a scheme diverse corner who can play outside or in the slot. His physical mentality and instincts make him a strong special teams player and CB3 with developmental upside.
96. Riley Moss - CB - Iowa (Third Round Grade)
Riley Moss projects as a zone-heavy corner where he can use his closing speed and instincts to make an impact. A highly productive collegiate player he displays strong football IQ and route recognition. He is a strong candidate to go Day 2 with his athletic profile and special teams ability. Moss has the upside of a potential starter in the NFL at multi spots in a defensive backfield, preferably one that loves zone.
97. Byron Young - IDL - Alabama (Third Round Grade)
Byron Young is a long, physical defensive lineman who shines on early downs. A powerful run defender, he displays excellent strength at the point of attack, routinely taking on and beating double teams. Young uses his long arms and powerful hands to pop and shed lineman at the point of attack. He displays above average processing ability as a read and react player in the run game. Most of his third down impact comes from the occasional bull rush or hustle sack, but Young lacks the athletic profile to be an impact pass rusher. Below average quickness at the snap and poor body control limits his ability as a rusher. Young projects as a strong early down contributor who will shine at 3T in a two gap scheme. His draft range should start late Day 2 as a rotational player that will add length and power to a team's run defense.
98. Zacch Pickens - IDL - South Carolina (Third Round Grade)
Zacch Pickens is a long athletic interior defensive lineman. The former 5-Star recruit displays excellent first step quickness to win as a penetrator. South Carolina often used him as a two gap player where he struggles with size and power but he showed flashes as a penetrator. Pickens had an up and down career but his blend of quickness, length and hand power is rare. He projects best as a 3T in a one gap scheme with the versatility to reduce inside on passing downs.
99. Nick Saldiveri - OT - Old Dominion (Third Round Grade)
Nick Saldiveri is an athletic versatile tackle who excels out on the move. He has an excellent first step that allows him to consistently execute reach blocks and pull out on the move. Saldiveri shows the lateral agility to mirror in pass protection and redirect in the run game. He brings excellent versatility showing the ability to play both sides at tackle as well as slide inside to guard. Saldiveri struggles to drive block at the point of attack. Average core strength and questionable balance leads him to whiff too many blocks. Poor hand placement and an inability to reset his poor initial strikes gets him in trouble in the run and pass game. If Saldiveri wants to stick at the NFL level he must improve his technique in order to sustain blocks. Saldiveri’s biggest issues are fixable and with his athleticism deserves a shot to stick at tackle, but given his average length and questionable balance his future home may be at guard. He projects as a swing tackle in a zone run scheme with guard versatility.
100. Jammie Robinson - SAF - Florida State (Third Round Grade)
Jammie Robinson is an experienced, intelligent player who brings a lot of great things to a defense. However below average size and athletic testing will likely limit him to a rotational role at the next level. Robinson projects as an excellent NCB or SAF3 at the next level. He will play best in a defense that asks him to play down around the box where his instincts and tackling can shine. Robinson is a high floor player who at worst should be a special teams standout, but in the right spot he has the upside of a Pro Bowl Caliber nickel player.
101. Ji’Ayir Brown - SAF - Penn State (Third Round Grade)
Ji’Ayir Brown is a high IQ safety who makes his impact in the run game. Penn State used Brown how an NFL team likely will, by moving him all over and putting him in situations where he can read and react. An excellent blitzer and spy player he can make an impact on passing downs without being in coverage all the time. Brown projects to be a Day 2 player with starting safety upside and a floor of a standout special teams player.
102. JL Skinner - SAF - Boise State (Third Round Grade)
JL Skinner is a unique player in terms of his physical profile. He has an old school build with exceptional linear athleticism. Despite his alignment versatility, his size and questionable lateral agility gives him scheme limitations that may reduce the amount of landing spots he has in the draft. Skinner projects best in a zone heavy scheme in a simplified role down around the line of scrimmage. His best fit is as a low hole/robber player similar to how Kam Chancellor used to play for the Legion of Boom Seahawks.
103. Luke Schoonmaker - TE - Michigan (Third Round Grade)
Luke Schoonmaker is a high floor player that does most things you want from a tight end at least at an average level. He lacks an elite trait or the physical profile to be a high upside difference maker especially at his age. He projects best as a high end TE2 or low end TE1 at the next level. He fits best in an offense that operates out of 12 personnel a lot and manufactures production for their pass catches via schemed looks.
104. Andre Carter II - EDGE - Army (Third Round Grade)
Andre Carter II is a tall, explosive pass rusher who is set to be the highest academy player drafted in a long time. Carter had some fantastic production in his college career but competition level will be a concern. Carters length and footwork are NFL ready if he can add some mass to his frame as well as improve his pass rush arsenal he could end up being a very good #2 at the next level.
105. Olusegun Oluwatimi - IOL - Michigan (Fourth Round Grade)
Olusegun Oluwatimi has the experience and technique to be a starting caliber center at the next level. Lack of power and leverage in the run game likely means he is best suited to play in a zone run scheme at the next level. Oluwatimi projects as a fringe Day 2 pick in this year's upcoming draft as a high floor, zone scheme center who should be able to be an immediate starter.
106. Zack Kuntz - TE - Old Dominion (Fourth Round Grade)
Zack Kuntz is a long athletic, move tight end. The Penn State transfer has limited tape having only started 15 games despite being almost 24. Kuntz lit up the NFL combine by testing as a near 100th percentile athlete. On the field he displays fluid movement skills at his size routinely shaking defenders smaller than him. As a blocker his best moments come out in space where his foot speed and length can shine. Despite his size Kuntz does not play like a traditional tight end, instead he operates more as a big wide receiver. He struggles to sustain or create displacement on his blocks in the run game. As a pass catcher physical defensive backs can disrupt his route timing and bully him at the catch point. He will need to greatly improve his ball skills and route running to become an impact NFL player. Kuntz projects as an early Day 3 pick as a developmental TE2. Given his athletic profile and a frame that can fill out more he is a worthwhile stash and develop candidate.
107. Dorian Williams - LB - Tulane (Fourth Round Grade)
Dorian Williams has the physical profile and motor skills to stick at the NFL level. Only a one year starter he has room to grow when it comes to play processing and instincts. Williams possesses ideal physical tools for the modern day WILL backer and given some time could develop into a quality starter. Williams projects as a special teams star and sub package linebacker in his early years with the potential to one day take the starting WILL spot in a defense.
108. Rashee Rice - WR - SMU (Fourth Round Grade)
Rashee Rice is a physical receiver with tons of collegiate production. Rice should be a stalwart special teams player at the worst. In the right system he can be a solid WR3 due to his blocking and dependable hands. He should be able to carve himself out a nice role in the NFL as a QB’s safety blanket that does the little things well. Rice projects as a strong number three receiver that adds a layer of physicality and reliable ball skills to an offense.
109. Tanner McKee - QB - Stanford (Fourth Round Grade)
Tanner McKee is an old school QB prospect prototype. Big, tall with a live arm that works best from the pocket. McKee has the arm talent to fit tight windows across the field. His best moments in terms of anticipation and processing come from clean pockets. However he lacks the ability to create off-platform, a trait that is needed in the modern game. McKee is not a mobile player and struggles to make plays with pressure in his face. His spotty accuracy and touch decrease when asked to create on the move in the face of pressure. There is a fair counter argument to be made surrounding the Stanford offense not giving him much to work with but McKee lacks the traits to be seen as more than a back up at this time. He projects as a late Day 2 pick with some developmental upside given his frame and arm talent.
110. Henry To'oTo'o - LB - Alabama (Fourth Round Grade)
Henry To'o To'o is a fast instinctive linebacker who’s best reps come out in space. However, inconsistencies in the run game and struggles disengaging from blockers will likely limit his pro ceiling. The most optimistic projections for To’o To’o would be a starting MIKE backer in a defense with a strong front four that allows him to play out in space. A more realistic projection for him would be a fringe Day 2 pick that provides depth as a sub package player and stars on special teams.
111. Ivan Pace Jr - LB - Cincinnati (Fourth Round Grade)
Ivan Pace is an undersized linebacker that wins with motor and agility. He lacks the size traditionally needed to play stack linebacker and is an average athlete. Pace best projects a MIKE backer in a defense that uses its linebackers aggressively around the line of scrimmage. He will also provide strong special teams versatility and should be a fun sub package player on third down with his unique pass rushing skillset.
112. Jarrett Patterson - IOL - Notre Dame (Fourth Round Grade)
Jarrett Patterson’s blend of experience and technique is a lot to like. While his lack of physical traits may cap his ceiling he has the intangibles to have a long career. Patterson projects best as a guard in a gap scheme offense. His ability to be a Day 1 starter and an interior swing player holds a lot of value. Patterson may never be a star but he is the type of player every team would love to have as a way to insulate risk.
113. Jaren Hall - QB - BYU (Fourth Round Grade)
Jaren Hall is an experienced dual threat QB who loves to create outside the pocket. He flashes the mobility and arm talent to be a creative playmaker off platform. Hall is a strong rhythm passer who had the BYU offense running on all cylinders. There will be a decent learning curve for Hall at the next level after leaving the Cougars RPO heavy attack. He will need to improve his processing and begin to throw with more anticipation at the next level. Hall must improve his pocket footwork and decision making as well. Hall projects as a backup quarterback with some intriguing development tools.
114. Dorian Thompson-Robinson - QB - UCLA (Fourth Round Grade)
Dorian Thomson Robinson is a highly experienced quarterback who only got better over the course of his college career. Despite his below average size DTR is a weapon in the running game. His mobility allows him to make plays out of structure and create off platform throws. DTR is at his best as a passer in the short to intermediate area where he displays strong accuracy as a rhythm passer. Despite his NFL caliber arm talent DTR’s release is elongated and loopy. He also struggles to read out route concepts and throw with anticipation. If he wants to stick as a starter at the next level he must improve his touch down the field as well as his performance under pressure. DTR projects as a backup quarterback who’s mobility and experience can be used to start in a pinch. His best fit would be in a PA action heavy offense that has strong offensive weapons around him.
115. Zach Evans - RB - Ole Miss (Fourth Round Grade)
Zach Evans has the athletic profile of a starting caliber NFL back. His blend of speed and agility makes him a dynamic open field threat but his lack of power and feel for the game holds him back. His athletic tools should make him a good special teamer and rotational back but unless he can improve his pass game work or his vision he may find himself a more of a backup.
Positional Rankings
Quarterbacks
Bryce Young - QB - Alabama (Early First Round Grade)
C.J. Stroud - QB - Ohio State (Early First Round Grade)
Anthony Richardson - QB - Florida (Early First Round Grade)
Will Levis - QB - Kentucky (Early Second Round Grade)
Hendon Hooker - QB - Tennessee (Third Round Grade)
Tanner McKee - QB - Stanford (Fourth Round Grade)
Jaren Hall - QB - BYU (Fourth Round Grade)
Dorian Thompson-Robinson - QB - UCLA (Fourth Round Grade)
Running Backs
Bijan Robinson - RB - Texas (Early First Round Grade)
Jahmyr Gibbs - RB - Alabama (Early First Round Grade)
Tyjae Spears - RB - Tulane (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Zach Charbonnet - RB - UCLA (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Kendre Miller - RB - TCU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Roschon Johnson - RB - Texas (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Devon Achane - RB - Texas A&M (Third Round Grade)
Tank Bigsby - RB - Auburn (Third Round Grade)
Kenny McIntosh - RB - Georgia (Third Round Grade)
Zach Evans - RB - Ole Miss (Fourth Round Grade)
Tight Ends
Michael Mayer - TE - Notre Dame (Early First Round Grade)
Dalton Kincaid - TE - Utah (Early Second Round Grade)
Darnell Washington - TE - Georgia (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Luke Musgrave - TE - Oregon State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Sam LaPorta - TE - Iowa (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Tucker Kraft - TE - South Dakota State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Luke Schoonmaker - TE - Michigan (Third Round Grade)
Zack Kuntz - TE - Old Dominion (Fourth Round Grade)
Wide Receiver
Jaxon Smith-Njigba - WR - Ohio State (Early First Round Grade)
Zay Flowers - WR - Boston College (Early First Round Grade)
Jordan Addison - WR - USC (Early Second Round Grade)
Quentin Johnston - WR - TCU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Josh Downs - WR - North Carolina (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Cedric Tillman - WR - Tennessee (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Michael Wilson - WR - Stanford (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jonathan Mingo - WR - Ole Miss (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Marvin Mims Jr - WR - Oklahoma (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
A.T. Perry - WR - Wake Forest (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jalin Hyatt - WR - Tennessee (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Xavier Hutchinson - WR - Iowa State (Third Round Grade)
Jayden Reed - WR - Michigan State (Third Round Grade)
Tank Dell - WR - Houston (Third Round Grade)
Parker Washington - WR - Penn State (Third Round Grade)
Rashee Rice - WR - SMU (Fourth Round Grade)
Offensive Tackle
Peter Skoronski - OT - Northwestern (Early First Round Grade)
Paris Johnson Jr - OT - Ohio State (Early First Round Grade)
Anton Harrison - OT - Oklahoma (Early First Round Grade)
Broderick Jones - OT - Georgia (Early First Round Grade)
Dawand Jones - OT - Ohio State (Early First Round Grade)
Darnell Wright - OT - Tennessee (Early Second Round Grade)
Blake Freeland - OT - BYU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Matthew Bergeron - OT - Syracuse (Third Round Grade)
Tyler Steen - OT- Alabama (Third Round Grade)
Nick Saldiveri - OT - Old Dominion (Third Round Grade)
Offensive Guard
O’Cyrus Torrence - IOL - Florida (Early First Round Grade)
Steve Avila - IOL - TCU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Cody Mauch - IOL - North Dakota State (Third Round Grade)
Andrew Vorhees - IOL - USC (Third Round Grade)
Chandler Zavala - IOL - North Carolina State (Third Round Grade)
Offensive Center
John Michael-Schmitz - IOL - Minnesota (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Joe Tippmann - IOL - Wisconsin (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Luke Wypler - IOL - Ohio State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Olusegun Oluwatimi - IOL - Michigan (Fourth Round Grade)
Jarrett Patterson - IOL - Notre Dame (Fourth Round Grade)
Interior Defensive Line
Jalen Carter - IDL - Georgia (Early First Round Grade)
Bryan Bresee - IDL - Clemson (Early Second Round Grade)
Adetomiwa Adebawore - IDL - Northwestern (Early Second Round Grade)
Keeanu Benton - IDL - Wisconsin (Early Second Round Grade)
Calijah Kancey - IDL - Pittsburgh (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Mazi Smith - IDL - Michigan (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Gervon Dexter - IDL - Florida (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Siaki Ika - IDL - Baylor (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Byron Young - IDL - Alabama (Third Round Grade)
Zacch Pickens - IDL - South Carolina (Third Round Grade)
EDGE Defender
Will Anderson Jr - EDGE - Alabama (Early First Round Grade)
Tyree Wilson - EDGE - Texas Tech (Early First Round Grade)
Nolan Smith - EDGE - Georgia (Early First Round Grade)
Myles Murphy - EDGE - Clemson (Early First Round Grade)
Lukas Van Ness - EDGE - Iowa (Early Second Round Grade)
Keion White - EDGE - Georgia Tech (Early Second Round Grade)
B.J. Ojulari - EDGE - LSU (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Felix Anudike-Uzomah - EDGE - Kansas State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Will McDonald IV - EDGE - Iowa State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Isaiah Foskey - EDGE - Notre Dame (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Tuli Tuipulotu - EDGE - USC (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Derick Hall - EDGE - Auburn (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Andre Carter II - EDGE - Army (Third Round Grade)
Off Ball Linebacker
Drew Sanders - LB - Arkansas (Early Second Round Grade)
Jack Campbell - LB - Iowa (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Daiyan Henley - LB - Washington State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Trenton Simpson - LB - Clemson (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Dorian Williams - LB - Tulane (Fourth Round Grade)
Henry To'oTo'o - LB - Alabama (Fourth Round Grade)
Ivan Pace Jr - LB - Cincinnati (Fourth Round Grade)
Cornerback
Christian Gonzalez - CB - Oregon (Early First Round Grade)
Devon Witherspoon - CB - Illinois (Early First Round Grade)
Joey Porter Jr - CB - Penn State (Early First Round Grade)
Deonte Banks - CB - Maryland (Early First Round Grade)
Kelee Ringo - CB - Georgia (Early Second Round Grade)
Cam Smith - CB - South Carolina (Early Second Round Grade)
DJ Turner - CB - Michigan (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Emmanuel Forbes - CB - Mississippi State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jartavius Martin - CB - Illinois (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Julius Brents - CB - Kansas State (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Garrett Williams - CB - Syracuse (Third Round Grade)
Eli Ricks - CB - Alabama (Third Round Grade)
Clark Phillips - CB - Utah (Third Round Grade)
Mekhi Blackmon - CB - USC (Third Round Grade)
Riley Moss - CB - Iowa (Third Round Grade)
Safety
Brian Branch - SAF - Alabama (Mid to Late First Round Grade)
Sydney Brown - SAF - Illinois (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jordan Battle - SAF -Alabama (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Antonio Johnson - SAF - Texas A&M (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Christopher Smith - SAF - Georgia (Mid to Late Second Round Grade)
Jammie Robinson - SAF - Florida State (Third Round Grade)
Ji’Ayir Brown - SAF - Penn State (Third Round Grade)
JL Skinner - SAF - Boise State (Third Round Grade)
Mock Draft
Round 1
1. Carolina Panthers
Pick: Bryce Young - QB - Alabama
It took a while for the Panthers to land on Young after trading up with Chicago for the Number 1 Overall Pick. There were CJ Stroud, Anthony Richardson and even trade back rumors for weeks but it appears they have settled on the Alabama signal caller despite some late line movement for Will Levis. The undersized playmaker should step into a talented roster with a strong coaching staff, a benefit few top picks have.
2. Houston Texans
Pick: Will Anderson - EDGE - Alabama
It’s no secret that the Texans wanted Bryce Young, with him gone the #2 pick is a mystery. It sounds like the Texan’s are not sold on the QB’s in this years class and would like to trade back, but it takes two to tango. If the Texans cannot move and must make the pick it’s between Will Anderson and Tyree Wilson. The pick appears to be a coin flip at this point but Anderson is too good of a player in my opinion to pass up even if the ceiling of Wilson is intriguing.
3. Las Vegas Raiders
Pick: CJ Stroud - QB - Ohio State
*Trade*
Arizona gets: 2023 First Round Pick (#7), 2023 Second Round Pick (#38), 2024 First Round Pick
Las Vegas gets: 2023 First Round Pick (#3), 2024 Fifth Round Pick
Despite the signing of Jimmy Garoppolo the Raiders were firmly in the mix for the #1 pick before Carolina traded up signaling they are not settled at QB. Arizona is a heavy trade back candidate at #3 giving Vegas the perfect landing spot to jump too. CJ Stroud is a highly accurate, intelligent prospect who should be able to do everything Garoppolo can but with more upside.
4. Indianapolis Colts
Pick: Anthony Richardson - QB - Florida
Indianapolis seems content to sit and wait and see what QB falls to them. The two toolsy prospects in Richardson and Levis are on the board in this case. Despite the rumors of their interest in Levis, Richardson provides better upside and is simply a better prospect. After seeing what Coach Steichen did with Jalen Hurts last year in Philly it’s hard not to get excited about what he can do with Richardson.
5. Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Jalen Carter - IDL - Georgia
Seattle badly needs defensive line help that is no secret. Jalen Carter is arguably the best player in this entire draft. For a franchise that historically has been okay taking riskier players, Carter's talent might be too much to pass up.
6. Detroit Lions
Pick: Devon Witherspoon - CB - Illinois
The Lions could go a number of ways with this pick but the trade of Jeff Okudah leaves a lack of youth in their corner room. Witherspoon is a sticky man coverage corner that brings a fire and mentality Dan Campbell will love.
7. Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Christian Gonzalez - CB - Oregon
*Trade*
Arizona gets: 2023 First Round Pick (#7), 2023 Second Round Pick (#38), 2024 First Round Pick
Las Vegas gets: 2023 First Round Pick (#3), 2024 Fifth Round Pick
Arizona has one of the worst defensive rosters in football. There's really no other way to put it and one player can’t fix it. A small trade back gets them some extra picks stockpiled and they are still able to add a top defensive player in this class in Christian Gonzalez.
8. Atlanta Falcons
Pick: Tyree Wilson - EDGE - Texas Tech
The Falcons are another team that must continue to add to their defensive roster if they want any hope of competing. Their EDGE room is one of the weakest groups on this team. Wilson will add a level of athleticism and power that they sorely lack.
9. Chicago Bears
Pick: Paris Johnson Jr - OT - Ohio State
The Bears top goal this offseason is supporting and protecting Justin Fields. They already went out and got him a WR1 in DJ Moore and now it's time to build the line in front of him. Paris Johnson is a long, athletic and versatile offensive lineman. He provides Day 1 impact at multiple positions and is snug fit in the Bear’s zone heavy scheme.
10. Philadelphia Eagles
Pick: Peter Skoronski - OT - Northwestern
The Eagles just went to the Super Bowl and don’t have as many holes as the typical team picking Top 15. They do need a new RG and to plan for the eventual departure of franchise legend Lane Johnson. Peter Skoronski is arguably the best offensive lineman in this class. His ability to play both tackle and guard perfectly solves the Eagles short and long term issues.
11. Tennessee Titans
Pick: Will Levis - QB - Kentucky
The Titans have been sniffing around the QB market all off season and it is likely they may even trade up for one. In this mock Levis slides to 11 and they gladly take him. Levis has a very similar play style to current QB Ryan Tannehill but would reset their QB contract clock and bring more long term upside.
12. Houston Texas
Pick: Jaxon Smith-Njigba - WR - Ohio State
If the Texans truly are going to go the no QB route in 2023 they must build the best roster they can for however they drop in next year. After the trade of Brandin Cooks their WR room is barren. JSN brings a level of polish, route running and separation this team sorely needs.
13. Green Bay Packers
Pick: Myles Murphy - EDGE - Clemson
After the trade of Aaron Rodgers the Packers get to jump up two spots in the first round. Packers fans will clamor for a WR or OT but with JSN off the board there isn’t a player who’s talent meets the teams thresholds at #13. Knowing the Packers brass they cannot pass up on athletic EDGE rushers. Myles Murphy was a former blue chip prospect who never quite rounded into form but has all the physical upside in the world.
14. New England Patriots
Pick: Broderick Jones - OT - Georgia
The Patriots badly need to improve their offensive line. Broderick Jones is a high upside athletic mauler who can step in Day 1 at either tackle spot. An improved running game and pass protection will be huge for a Patriots offense that was very poor and one dimensional last year.
15. New York Jets
Pick: Darnell Wright - OT - Tennessee
The Jets offensive line was a mess last year and it's difficult to depend on any of their young options being quality contributors this year. It’s very likely with the Jets trade back they will not have the opportunity to take a first round tackle. Lucky for them Wright is still on the board at #15 in this mock and should be able to add stability to the RT position in 2023.
16. Washington Commanders
Pick: Deonte Banks - CB - Maryland
Corner is not the most pressing need for Washington but the talent is too good to pass up here. Fuller is getting older and having the opportunity to set up a DB duo of Benjamin St Juste, who was a nice surprise in 2022, and Banks is very intriguing.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Joey Porter Jr - CB - Penn State
Pick #17 is here and the Steelers have been left out of the tackle run. If they chose not to trade up to secure one of the top tackles in this class Joey Porter Jr is a nice fall back option. Porter fits a need at defensive back and should make fans happy given the familial connections.
18. Detroit Lions
Pick: Calijah Kancey - IDL - Pittsburgh
Kancey is a tough player to place in mocks given his unique frame and skill set. The Lions are a team with enough beef up front to take the swing on the undersized yet explosive defensive lineman and hope his pass rush upside makes it worth it.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick: Anton Harrison - OT - Oklahoma
The Bucs let long time LT Donovan Smith go this off season and it leaves a massive hole at tackle even if they flip Tristan Wirfs to the left side. Anton Harrison is a young athletic tackle with plenty of upside. His first year in the NFL may be a little rocky but for a Bucs team that is not expecting to compete this year they can afford to let him work through his issues.
20. Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Nolan Smith - EDGE - Georgia
Seattle double dips into the Georgia well here at 20 after taking Carter at #5. Uchenna Nwosu was a solid player in 2022 for Seattle but he is a pending free agent in 2023. Smith can step in as a supercharged version of Nwosu with significantly more upside.
21. Los Angeles Chargers
Pick: Bijan Robinson - RB - Texas
The Chargers need more playmakers on offense and Bijan Robinson might be the best playmaker in this entire class. With Austin Eckler asking for a trade it’s the perfect time to sub in a cheaper and more talented back and ensure there is not a repeat of the 2022 Wild Card Game fiasco.
22. Baltimore Ravens
Pick: Lukas Van Ness - EDGE - Baltimore
EDGE might not be the biggest need for Baltimore but the value of a player like Van Ness may be too hard to pass up. A classic Ravens player given his power and positional versatility, Van Ness would represent an excellent long term pairing opposite David Ojabo.
23. Minnesota Vikings
Pick: Zay Flowers - WR - Boston College
Corner is probably the Vikings biggest need but the board did not fall favorably here. Zay Flowers would be the perfect complement to Justin Jefferson in the slot and would provide Kirk Cousins with an electric check down option underneath.
24. Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick: Brian Branch - SAF - Alabama
The Brian Branch slide finally stops here. Jacksonville needs help at both nickel and safety on their defense. Branch would immediately add an injection of versatility and intelligence to an up and coming Jaguars team.
25. New York Giants
Pick: Quentin Johnston - WR - TCU
For better or worse the Giants have paid Daniel Jones, and they need to get him some help. After spending Free Agency accumulating the Walmart Slot Receiver Infinity Stones they need to add some size and juice to the outside. Opinions are split on Johnston but he is a long, athletic X receiver with a tremendous amount of upside.
26. Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Michael Mayer - TE - Notre Dame
Dallas lost Dalton Schultz this offseason and have done very little to replace him. Mayer is not the sexiest first round tight end but he is very well rounded and tailor made to make a Day 1 impact. For a team that would like to run the ball more in 2023, a quality Y TE is a great addition.
27. Buffalo Bills
Pick: Dawand Jones - OT - Ohio State
If the Buffalo Bills would like to be a Super Bowl winning team they need a more balanced offensive approach and new RT. Jones can solve both of those issues at #27. A big powerful tackle he will improve their ability to run downhill while also keeping Josh Allen cleaner that he was in 2022.
28. Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Dalton Kincaid - TE - Utah
Joe Burrow has excelled by making average tight ends into quality contributors in his NFL career, so why not give him a great one. Kincaid will never be much of a blocker but he is a top tier receiving threat that would make this offense a nightmare to guard and can take the slot role from Tyler Boyd when he leaves after this year.
29. New Orleans Saints
Pick: Keion White - EDGE - Georgia Tech
Every year there is one surprise pick of the first round. Keion White is a big, athletic tweener defensive lineman that the Saints love to take. The surprise draft night invite could see himself wearing the gold and black next year.
30. Philadelphia Eagles
Pick: BJ Ojulari - EDGE - LSU
EDGE is not a major need for the Eagles but their core group isn’t getting younger and contracts will be due soon. Ojulari would be a strong rotation player early on in his career before stepping into a bigger role in a couple years.
31. Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Will McDonald IV - EDGE - Iowa State
The defending Super Bowl champs brought in a power rusher in George Karlaftis in 2022 and now add some speed opposite him. McDonald is far from a perfect prospect but he is a ready made speed rusher who should be 5 to 6 sack player from the get go.
Round 2
32. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Jack Campbell - LB - Iowa
The Steelers again miss out on the run of tackles and must pivot to a backup plan. Jack Campbell has the frame of an old school linebacker with modern day athleticism and instincts. He should be able to step in a fill a hole left by Ryan Shazier that was never really filled.
33. Houston Texans
Pick: Adetomiwa Adebawore - IDL - Northwestern
The Texans defensive line require more than a singular pick investment to make it NFL caliber. Their interest in Tyree Wilson indicates they have interest in athletic, toolsy players up front, something Adebawore would add in spades at #33.
34. Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Jordan Addison - WR - USC
It looks extremely likely that DeAndre Hopkins will be moved before the season, likely some point on draft weekend, leaving a big hole at WR. Addison's ability to generate separation would be a nice compliment to the speed of Hollywood Brown on the outside for this Cardinals offense.
35. Indianapolis Colts
Pick: Emmanuel Forbes - CB - Mississippi State
The Colts moved on from Stephon Gilmore this offseason leaving a massive hole at CB. Forbes is extremely light but is a tremendous zone coverage corner with excellent ball skills who should be a Day 1 contributor.
36. Los Angeles Rams
Pick: Kelee Ringo - CB - Georgia
This Rams roster is a far cry from where it was two years ago when they won a Super Bowl. They need tons of help on the defensive side of the ball, especially at CB. Ringo won’t be for every team but he is young, uber athletic and has tons of upside, making him worth a swing for a rebuilding team.
37. Seattle Seahawks
Pick: John Michael Schmitz - IOL - Minnesota
After attacking the defensive line in the first round the Seahawks move to the offensive side of the ball in the 2nd. Michael Schmitz is a high floor and experienced lineman with C/G versatility and would join the Seahawks a nice young core in Cross, Lucas and Lewis.
38. Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Felix Anudike-Uzomah - EDGE - Kansas State
*Trade*
Arizona gets: 2023 First Round Pick (#7), 2023 Second Round Pick (#38), 2024 First Round Pick
Las Vegas gets: 2023 First Round Pick (#3), 2024 Fifth Round Pick
The Cardinals use the extra pick they got from the Raiders to add to the defensive line. They need tons of help on the defensive side of the ball, especially at EDGE. Anudike-Uzomah may never be a star but he has the athleticism and bend to be a quality No 2. rusher from the get go.
39. Carolina Panthers
Pick: Josh Downs - WR - North Carolina
After the departure of DJ Moore the Panthers did a good job in Free Agency adding veteran pieces to support their young QB but need a more long term answer at the position. Downs isn’t the most physically imposing player but he is quick, dynamic and an excellent ball winner for his size.
40. New Orleans Saints
Pick: Brian Bresee - IDL - Clemson
New Orleans had a pretty sizable exodus along their defensive line this spring. While they added some nice veterans they need some long term solutions in that room. Bresee is a high upside penetration style 3T that needs some time to get up to NFL speed.
41. Tennessee Titans
Pick: O’Cyrus Torrence - IOL - Florida
The Titans lost long time guard Nate Davis this offseason and didn’t do anything particularly impressive to fill the void. Torrence is a big powerful guard who would fit perfectly in the run first gap scheme the Titans run.
42. Green Bay Packers
Pick: Darnell Washington - TE - Georgia
The Packers lost long time tight end stalwart Mercedes Lewis this offseason so why not replace him with a younger juiced up version. Starting off the Jordan Love era by giving him a massive red zone threat and tremendous blocker should ease the transition.
43. New York Jets
Pick: Keeanu Benton - IDL - Wisconsin
The Jets have a star in Quinnen Williams at DT but he lacks a true running mate. Benton is a run first nose tackle with some intriguing pass rush upside. He would be able to play next to Williams or slide over to 3T should contract negotiations stall.
44. Atlanta Falcons
Pick: Drew Sanders - LB - Arkansas
The Falcons linebacker room is quite poor, and that's being nice. After adding Tyree Wilson in the first round, putting another athlete behind him in Drew Sanders would be perfect. Sanders has the speed to play off the ball while also brining unique third down versatility as a former EDGE.
45. Green Bay Packers
Pick: Jonathan Mingo - WR - Ole Miss
The Packers finally take a WR! There will be a lot of clamoring for one earlier than this but the value in this WR class is the depth. Mingo has the size and athleticism to play outside or in the slot. He also will bring tremendous blocking, something the Packers will need with the departure of Allen Lazard.
46. New England Patriots
Pick: Jaylin Hyatt - WR - Tennessee
The Patriots badly need to add juice and explosion to their offense. While the pairing of Hyatt with Mac Jones isn’t the cleanest, his ability to stretch defenses vertically should help open up space for other players.
47. Washington Commanders
Pick: Jahmyr Gibbs - RB - Alabama
Washington had one of the most inefficient running games in all of football last year. Brian Robinson is a nice power back but they need more juice to this new Eric Bieniemy led offense. Jahmyr Gibbs would add a level of speed and third down impact Antonio Gibson never really has.
48. Detroit Lions
Pick: Sam LaPorta - TE - Iowa
Lions fans clearly feel some type of way about taking tight ends early given their recent history. However, this offense never really replaced Hockenson and needs another playmaker given the Jameson Williams suspension. LaPorta may never be a star but he projects as an instant impact player who will provided solid all around contributions.
49. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Matthew Bergeron - OT - Syracuse
The Steelers finally get their tackle. Bergeron is an athletic and nasty offensive lineman with T/G versatility. He definitely needs to get his technique cleaned up but has the upside and mentality to that it’s worth the swing in the middle of the second round.
50. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick: Isaiah Foskey - EDGE - Notre Dame
Isaiah Foskey feels like the forgotten man in this EDGE class. He is not the biggest or the fastest but he has an excellent collection of pass rush moves and high end college production. He should be a Day 1 starter for a Bucs team that needs help on the EDGE.
51. Miami Dolphins
Pick: Luke Musgrave - TE - Oregon State
Mike Gesiki never fit the new look Dolphins offense and finally moved on this spring. Musgrave is a big athletic tight end who should be able to contribute as a receiver and blocker for a Dolphins team with Super Bowl aspirations if he can stay healthy.
52. Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Julius Brents - CB - Kansas State
Seattle loves their long physical corners. Brents excels in zone coverage with his 99th percentile wing span and would give Seattle the tallest and most explosive CB duo in the league with him and Tariq Woolen.
53. Chicago Bears
Pick: Joe Tippman - IOL - Wisconsin
The Bears must continue to improve the offensive line in front of Fields. Tippmann has the athleticism and size to thrive in the Bears zone running scheme. He still needs some work in terms of technique but the Bears have time to bet on his upside.
54. Los Angeles Chargers
Pick: Marvin Mims Jr - WR - Oklahoma
The Chargers need speed and explosiveness in their offense. The offense inability to stretch the field without Mike Williams in the lineup reduced their margin of error by a massive degree. Mims is far from a perfect WR prospect but he projects as one of the best deep threats in this class that will help open up space for the other weapons underneath.
55. Detroit Lions
Pick: Daiyan Henley - LB - Washington State
Hard Knocks star Malcom Rodriguez was a great find on Day 3 last year for the Lions but they need some more juice at the linebacker position. In my opinion if Henley was a little bit bigger he would be the consensus LB1 in this class. He may struggle at times in the run game at his size but he projects as a stellar coverage WILL that wins with speed and agility.
56. Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick: Tuli Tuipulotu - EDGE - USC
The Jaguars have made no secret they are interested in adding an EDGE in the draft given their Top 30 visit list. Tuipulotu is a versatile athletic lineman with plenty of upside given his physical profile and age.
57. New York Giants
Pick: Steve Avila - IOL - TCU
The Giants need some help on the interior offensive line in a big way. Avila is a fantastic pass blocker with tons of experience. His C/G versatility would allow the Giants to get their best 5 out in front of Daniel Jones on Week 1.
58. Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Mazi Smith - IDL - Michigan
Mazi Smith could very likely be the pick at 26 for Dallas. He is a powerful run stuffer at NT with the burst and athleticism that indicates future pass rush upside.
59. Buffalo Bills
Pick: Trenton Simpson - LB - Clemson
Buffalo lost Tremaine Edmunds in Free Agency this offseason and needs a replacement. Simpson is far from complete as a player but his athleticism and motor should pair nicely with the intelligence of Matt Milano.
60. Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Sydney Brown - SAF - Illinois
The dependable safety tandem of Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell departed this offseason leaving a hole in the Bengals defensive back 7. Dax Hill, their 2021 first round pick, is slated to step in at SS alongside Nick Scott but they could use another body in that room. Brown is a versatile and intelligent safety that can play a variety of defensive back positions as well as special teams.
61. Chicago Bears
Pick: Derick Hall - EDGE - Auburn
The Bears have one of the worst EDGE groups in the entire NFL. Derrick Hall doesn’t project to be a star but his power and motor should make him a solid number two rusher. He also is said to be a tremendous leader and will be a excellent culture player in a young Bears locker room.
62. Philadelphia Eagles
Pick: Antonio Johnson - SAF - Texas A&M
The Eagles lost CGJ this offseason and it has left their safety room a bit thin. Antonio Johnson’s first round hype has cooled since the summer but his length and IQ are still very intriguing. He provides multi alignment and scheme versatility along the back end.
63. Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Cedric Tillman - WR - Tennessee
The Chiefs WR room is full of a lot of explosive yet undersized play makers heading into the draft but it lacks size with the departure of Juju Smith Schuster in Free Agency. Cedric Tillman projects as one of the best pure X WRs in this class and would bring an injection of size and ball skills to this offense.