# | Team | Player | Pos | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Jalen Carter Georgia, Jr
|
DL | ||||
The Bears appear to be a team headed in the right direction, in large part because they've found their franchise QB in Justin Fields. But there's a lot of work to do on the other side of the ball after moving on from Robert Quinn and Roquan Smith. Both Jalen Carter and Will Anderson Jr. will be options here, and both are layup selections. Or, more likely, the team will choose to trade out of the No. 1 pick when a QB-needy team (or teams) comes calling. |
||||||
2 |
Bryce Young Alabama, Jr
|
QB | ||||
Bryce Young might be historically undersized by successful NFL QB standards, but we don't care. He's been that good for Alabama, dragging that team to victory just about every week. And he did it with none of the playmakers who made life so much easier for Tua Tagovailoa and Mac Jones in previous years. |
||||||
3 |
Will Anderson Jr. Alabama, Jr
|
EDGE | ||||
Will Anderson Jr. could very easily be the No. 1 pick in this draft, but the Cardinals land the elite pass rusher here after a forgettable season that will see a lot of changes in the coming months. |
||||||
4 |
C.J. Stroud Ohio State, Jr
|
QB | ||||
Since Andrew Luck's retirement, the Colts have had little success turning to QBs nearing the end of their careers, and it's safe to assume that owner Jim Irsay will be looking for the team's next face of the franchise. C.J. Stroud has flown under the national-media radar all season, but some NFL teams will tell you he'll be in the running for QB1, and his performance in the College Football Playoff semifinal game vs. Georgia showed that he can beat you with his arm and his legs. |
||||||
5 |
Tyree Wilson Texas Tech, Sr
|
EDGE | ||||
Tyree Wilson is a high-motor player who consistently finds his way into the backfield. He's still raw, but the physical tools are there, and when he puts it all together he is going to be a problem. The Seahawks could go QB here, but Geno Smith remains the best option. In the meantime, the team fixes its front seven. |
||||||
6 |
Myles Murphy Clemson, Jr
|
DL | ||||
Murphy turned 21 in early January, and while we'd like to see him play with more consistency ... he just turned 21 in early January. He has all the physical tools you look for in an elite edge defenders, and it's easy to see him in a few years being dominant. And that, in large part, is what makes him such an interesting prospect. |
||||||
7 |
Will Levis Kentucky, Sr
|
QB | ||||
Jarrett Stidham balled out in Week 17 against the 49ers, but it's hard to imagine he'll be in the team's long-term plans as a starter. And with Derek Carr set to be somewhere else in 2023, drafting a QB seems to be a high priority. Will Levis, who definitely looks the part, was plagued by injuries and poor play all fall. That said, NFL teams love how he projects to the next level, but he'll be a controversial talking point in the coming months. |
||||||
8 |
Joey Porter Jr. Penn State, Jr
|
CB | ||||
Joey Porter Jr. is the prototypical big, physical cornerback who looks like he belongs in the NFL. He can sometimes get a little too handsy downfield, but he checks many of the boxes of what teams look for when drafting DBs. |
||||||
9 |
Anthony Richardson Florida, Soph
|
QB | ||||
Anthony Richardson is one of the most exciting prospects in this class. The problem: he's short on experience, and while his physical tools are rare, the Panthers are in dire need of a starting QB right now. David Tepper could choose to go the free agency route (again), but that has been, shall we say, a crapshoot. At the end of the day, Carolina may have to move inside the top five if it's a quarterback it really wants with Day 1 starter potential. |
||||||
10 |
Christian Gonzalez Oregon, Soph
|
CB | ||||
Christian Gonzalez, a Colorado transfer, is a big-time athlete who is still growing into the position. He has the size, strength and speed to line up against NFL wide receivers; he just needs to improve in run support. |
||||||
11 |
Paris Johnson Jr. Ohio State, Jr
|
OT | ||||
Paris Johnson, who played left tackle for the Buckeyes this season, also has experience on the interior; either way, he is a Day 1 starter whom Tennessee could use. |
||||||
12 |
Jordan Addison USC, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Jordan Addison isn't a big target, but he's one of the most dynamic players in the country who can line up anywhere. The Texans drafted their QB of the future second overall, and now they give him an explosive playmaker. The only question is whether Addison or Quentin Johnston will be WR1. Two different body types, two different playing styles -- both dominant. |
||||||
13 |
Broderick Jones Georgia, Soph
|
OT | ||||
Broderick Jones had had a strong '22 campaign for the Bulldogs, where he faced some of the best defensive players in the country every day at practice for the past two years. |
||||||
14 |
Peter Skoronski Northwestern, Jr
|
OT | ||||
Peter Skoronski is solid and consistent, which are two of the best things you can say about an offensive lineman. The biggest issue he'll face during the pre-draft process will be arm length and whether his NFL future is at tackle or guard. |
||||||
15 |
Quentin Johnston TCU, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Quentin Johnston is an above-the-rim playmaker whose athleticism and contested-catch abilities make him in the running for WR1. The Packers have inexplicably shied away from WRs in the first round, but it's probably time to change that, no matter who the quarterback will be next season. |
||||||
16 |
O'Cyrus Torrence Florida, Jr
|
OL | ||||
O'Cyrus Torrence transferred from Louisiana and didn't miss a beat. He was dominant for Florida and is a plug-and-play player at the next level. |
||||||
17 |
Devon Witherspoon Illinois, Jr
|
CB | ||||
Devon Witherspoon had a great season for the Illini, and while there will be questions about his slight frame, you wouldn't know it watching him play. |
||||||
18 |
Deonte Banks Maryland, Jr
|
DB | ||||
Maryland teammate and fellow CB Jakorian Bennett got much of the buzz in the fall, but Deonte Banks put together the type of season that will land you in the top-50 conversation. He's a fluid athlete who is also a big, physical corner who can match up with NFL wide receivers. |
||||||
19 |
Brian Branch Alabama, Jr
|
S | ||||
Brian Branch isn't the first name you hear about when the conversation turns to Alabama's defense, but maybe he should be. He's a sure tackler, can blitz off the edge, and is solid in coverage. And if Nick Saban trusts him, that's all you need to know about his NFL prospects. |
||||||
20 |
Kelee Ringo Georgia, Soph
|
CB | ||||
The Georgia-to-first-round pipeline continues. A year after five Bulldogs went in Round 1, expect a handful this time around too. Ringo is a long, physical corner who has matched up against some of the best players in the country. |
||||||
21 |
Michael Mayer Notre Dame, Jr
|
TE | ||||
Michael Mayer is more Gronk than Kelce, but that's not a bad thing. And in Los Angeles, he'll get plenty of opportunities with Justin Herbert, Keenan Allen, Mike Williams and Josh Palmer. |
||||||
22 |
Bijan Robinson Texas, Jr
|
RB | ||||
Bijan Robinson is special, and while he is probably one of the best players in this class, he could still be around late in Round 1 because he's a running back. And while the Ravens and offensive coordinator Greg Roman have parted ways, it's fair to assume the team will still revolve around Lamar Jackson and the run game. J.K. Dobbins showed flashes after returning from ACL surgery, but there isn't a lot of depth behind him. A backfield of Jackson, Dobbins and Robinson is a problem for the rest of the AFC, even if Baltimore has more pressing needs here. |
||||||
23 |
BJ Ojulari LSU, Jr
|
EDGE | ||||
BJ Ojulari, whose brother played at Georgia and plays for the Giants, had a solid campaign for the Tigers, and he has many of the same explosive qualities that made his brother so hard to block for the Bulldogs. Ojulari could end up being better than Azeez, and that's saying something. |
||||||
24 |
Dalton Kincaid Utah, Sr
|
TE | ||||
Dalton Kincaid could end up being one of the best rookie offensive weapons in 2023, especially if Doug Pederson uses him like the Jags used Evan Engram in '22. Engram and two other Jacksonville TEs are currently free agents, though the team could certainly decide to re-up the former Giants first-rounder who is coming off a career year. Even still, Kincaid would only make Trevor Lawrence's life easier in '23. |
||||||
25 |
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Ohio State, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Jaxon Smith-Njigba barely saw the field during the 2022 season because of injuries, but he's still one of the top wideouts in the class. And with Daniel Jones about to get paid, the Giants might as well get him some more weapons. |
||||||
26 |
Jalin Hyatt Tennessee, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Jalin Hyatt wasn't in the first-round conversation heading into the season, but he's a great example of a player who took advantage of his opportunities, thanks in large part to Hendon Hooker's Heisman Trophy campaign. Hyatt is a bona fide deep threat who consistently runs past defensive backs who were helpless to do much about it all season. |
||||||
27 |
Cam Smith South Carolina, Jr
|
CB | ||||
The Bills don't have a lot of needs -- and safety, interior offensive line, or even running back (if, say, Bijan Robinson is still sitting there) could be options here. But cornerback could be a target, as well. Cam Smith is a first-round talent who can be a Day 1 contributor. |
||||||
28 |
Anton Harrison Oklahoma, Jr
|
OT | ||||
There was some thought that Anton Harrison might return to Oklahoma for an NIL deal that was too good to pass up, but instead he opted for the NFL. He's one of the top tackles in the class, and now the question is whether he finds his way into Round 1 or goes early on Day 2. |
||||||
29 |
Drew Sanders Arkansas, Jr
|
LB | ||||
Drew Sanders is a former five-star who transferred from Alabama after the 2021 season, and all he's done is show out for the Razorbacks. He was an edge rusher for the Crimson Tide, but he lines up all over the defense for Arkansas and has been a one-man wrecking crew when he's on the field. |
||||||
30 |
Darnell Washington Georgia, Jr
|
TE | ||||
Darnell Washington is listed at 6-7, 265 pounds (he actually plays bigger than that), and while he's growing into his role as a receiver, he's essentially another offensive tackle when he's inline. Basically, he'd serve two roles in Kansas City: receiver in a high-powered offense and an extra blocker. |
||||||
31 |
Jahmyr Gibbs Alabama, Jr
|
RB | ||||
he Eagles haven't taken a RB in the first round since 1986 (!), but we said the same thing about Andy Reid and RBs right until the moment he selected Clyde Edwards-Helaire a few years ago. And while CEH may not be the best example of why Philly might consider a back here, Gibbs has drawn comparisons to Dalvin Cook and Alvin Kamara as both a runner and a receiver. He would be yet another weapon for Jalen Hurts in this offense. |
# | Team | Player | Pos | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Will Levis Kentucky, SrMOCK TRADE from CHI
|
QB | ||||
Mock Trade from: CHI The Colts have been aggressive at quarterback of late, but the last two veteran quarterback acquisitions have flopped. It's time to get a youthful passer in Indianapolis, and Levis, while far from perfect, has No. 1 overall pick traits. |
||||||
2 |
Bryce Young Alabama, Jr
|
QB | ||||
The Texans upgrade the quarterback position in a big way with Young, who has all the improvisational brilliance to succeed in today's NFL. |
||||||
3 |
Jalen Carter Georgia, Jr
|
DL | ||||
Carter is the ideal replacement for the retiring J.J. Watt. He's a long, hyper-athletic interior rusher who disruptive on three downs. |
||||||
4 |
Will Anderson Jr. Alabama, JrMOCK TRADE from IND
|
EDGE | ||||
Mock Trade from: IND Anderson gives me serious Khalil Mack vibes, which makes this perfect for the Bears, particularly after trading back. In the trade, the Bears get this pick, the Colts' selections in Round 2 and Round 4 along with a 2024 first-round pick and third-round pick plus a 2025 second-round choice. |
||||||
5 |
C.J. Stroud Ohio State, Jr
|
QB | ||||
To get ahead of the Lions and Raiders, the Panthers make an assertive move with the Seahawks, who don't love how the board fell with Carter and Anderson off the board. Stroud is such a polished pocket passer. |
||||||
6 |
Devon Witherspoon Illinois, Jr
|
CB | ||||
Witherspoon looks like a supreme athlete, and his 2022 film was squeaky clean. He could ascend to the first cornerback off the board in this class. |
||||||
7 |
Anthony Richardson Florida, Soph
|
QB | ||||
Richardson isn't exactly the type of quarterback Josh McDaniels has worked with in the past but it's time for the Raiders offense to evolve. Richardson has big-time abilities and can be scary good if those abilities are harnessed. |
||||||
8 |
Tyree Wilson Texas Tech, Sr
|
EDGE | ||||
Wilson is a long, athletic pass-rushing specialist. Music to the ears of GM Terry Fontenot. |
||||||
9 |
Myles Murphy Clemson, JrMOCK TRADE from CAR
|
DL | ||||
Mock Trade from: CAR Murphy is not a finished product. When he is, if he learns how to utilize his hands as weapons as a pass rusher, he can be an All-Pro type. The Seahawks adore freaky athletes. In the move back, the Seahawks get Carolina's second Round 2 pick (No. 62 overall) and a fourth-round selection. |
||||||
10 |
Lukas Van Ness Iowa, Soph
|
EDGE | ||||
Van Ness is going to be a major riser during the pre-draft process. He's long, plays with a non-stop motor and has pass-rush moves to go along with smooth athleticism. The Eagles have to reload along the defensive line. |
||||||
11 |
Peter Skoronski Northwestern, Jr
|
OT | ||||
The Titans want to control the line of scrimmage and had problems doing that this season. Skoronski is one of the safer prospects in this class. |
||||||
12 |
Jordan Addison USC, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Addison can either learn lots from the similarly sized Brandin Cooks in Year 1, or act as his instant replacement. With Young and Addison, this is a quality first-round haul for Houston. |
||||||
13 |
Paris Johnson Jr. Ohio State, Jr
|
OT | ||||
Could the Jets be major players on the veteran QB market? I think they will. So for the draft, they build the offensive line with Johnson, a super-steady tackle prospect. |
||||||
14 |
Quentin Johnston TCU, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Yes, Bill Belichick dipping back into Round 1 wide receiver waters with the imposing, long-striding Johnston, who'll instantly be a threatening deep threat in the NFL. |
||||||
15 |
Brian Branch Alabama, Jr
|
S | ||||
Branch did everything on the back seven of Alabama's defense this past season. He'll be a welcomed addition to the Packers roster. |
||||||
16 |
Cam Smith South Carolina, Jr
|
CB | ||||
The Commanders have to get better play out of the outside cornerback position. Smith is a big, physical, dynamic athlete at the position. |
||||||
17 |
Joey Porter Jr. Penn State, Jr
|
CB | ||||
Another Joey Porter in Pittsburgh. This one is a lanky, twitched-up perimeter corner who plays the ball well in the air. |
||||||
18 |
Michael Mayer Notre Dame, Jr
|
TE | ||||
The Lions get an instant T.J. Hockenson replacement in Mayer, who joins a fun offense in Detroit. |
||||||
19 |
Broderick Jones Georgia, Soph
|
OT | ||||
Jones isn't ready to be a high-caliber NFL blocker right now. He has to get stronger and play with better balance. His movement skills give him plenty of upside. |
||||||
20 |
Bryan Bresee Clemson, Soph
|
DL | ||||
He's not consistent, but Bresee's flashes are jaw-dropping. He's the big-body type the Seahawks need along their defensive line. Murphy and Bresee in Round 1 for Seattle would be fantastic for this team's future. |
||||||
21 |
Jalin Hyatt Tennessee, Jr
|
WR | ||||
New offensive coordinator Kellen Moore will allow Justin Herbert to push the ball downfield more frequently than the QB did with Joe Lombardi. So it's time to get Herbert a serious vertical weapon. That's precisely what Hyatt is. |
||||||
22 |
Christian Gonzalez Oregon, Soph
|
CB | ||||
The Ravens add youth to their secondary with Gonzalez, whose film was super clean in 2022. |
||||||
23 |
Calijah Kancey Pittsburgh, Jr
|
DL | ||||
Kancey's a smaller defensive tackle, but has major juice and a developed set of pass-rush moves. He's the type Minnesota needs on the interior. |
||||||
24 |
Anton Harrison Oklahoma, Jr
|
OT | ||||
The Jaguars add to the offensive front to protect Trevor Lawrence. Harrison is a masher on the outside. |
||||||
25 |
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Ohio State, Jr
|
WR | ||||
The Giants added in the trenches early in the 2022 draft. This time, they go receiver in Round 1. Smith-Njigba is a deceptive YAC type when healthy. |
||||||
26 |
Drew Sanders Arkansas, Jr
|
LB | ||||
The Cowboys could be extremely multiple with Sanders on the defense next to Micah Parsons. Sanders is a long, athletic off-ball/edge hybrid. |
||||||
27 |
Emmanuel Forbes Miss. State, Jr
|
CB | ||||
The Bengals dip into the defensive back well early in the draft again because Forbes is a big play waiting to happen at corner. |
||||||
28 |
Andre Carter Miss. State, Jr
|
DL | ||||
With Marcus Davenport set for free agency and Cam Jordan the highest cap hit on the team in 2023, it's time for the Saints to reload at the edge rusher spot. Carter is a long, active, athletic defender. |
||||||
29 |
Parker Washington Penn State, Soph
|
WR | ||||
Washington, the Nittany Lions' leading receiver in 2022, adds a much-needed YAC weapon to Josh Allen's arsenal. |
||||||
30 |
Felix Anudike-Uzomah Kansas State, Jr
|
EDGE | ||||
The Chiefs again pick a late first-round edge in hopes of eliminating some pressure from Chris Jones on the inside. |
||||||
31 |
Bijan Robinson Texas, Jr
|
RB | ||||
Robinson running behind the league's best offensive line? Sounds like a blast for Philadelphia. Not so much for Eagles opponents. |
# | Team | Player | Pos | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
C.J. Stroud Ohio State, JrMOCK TRADE from CHI
|
QB | ||||
Mock Trade from: CHI Indianapolis trades up from No. 4 overall to select C.J. Stroud from Ohio State. Stroud has shown a complete skillset following the playoff loss to Georgia. He is young and has great size to lead Indianapolis forward with a new head coach. |
||||||
2 |
Bryce Young Alabama, Jr
|
QB | ||||
Houston named DeMeco Ryans as the team's next head coach, and now they have a new leader at quarterback. The Texans now need to make sure he has the talent around him to be successful. |
||||||
3 |
Will Anderson Jr. Alabama, Jr
|
EDGE | ||||
Arizona has lost Haason Reddick and Chandler Jones in recent years and are now losing J.J. Watt. It goes without saying that they need to find players capable of applying pressure to the quarterback. Will Anderson Jr. is one of those players. |
||||||
4 |
Will Levis Kentucky, SrMOCK TRADE from IND
|
QB | ||||
Mock Trade from: IND Indianapolis is faced with a decision between C.J. Stroud and Levis. When you explore the physical skill sets that the Colts have started since general manager Chris Ballard has arrived, it has been more of the big pocket passers. Will a new head coach prefer a different style? |
||||||
5 |
Jalen Carter Georgia, Jr
|
DL | ||||
Seattle should probably aim to take a quarterback this year, but it does not have to be so desperate that it will take any. With a run on the position occurring early, the Seahawks instead elect to address the interior defensive line with Jalen Carter. |
||||||
6 |
Tyree Wilson Texas Tech, Sr
|
EDGE | ||||
Tyree Wilson is a long, impressive looking prospect but still very much a work in progress. Detroit has bigger needs but are victims of the board. It may lean towards a more explosive talent at edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. |
||||||
7 |
Peter Skoronski Northwestern, Jr
|
OT | ||||
It is unknown where Peter Skoronski is going to play at the next level. He succeeded at left tackle for Northwestern but has traditionally short arms. What is known is that Skoronski should be a good player protecting whomever Las Vegas deems fit to run the offense next season. |
||||||
8 |
Myles Murphy Clemson, Jr
|
DL | ||||
Myles Murphy is one of the best talents in this draft class. Atlanta needs to find tentpoles moving forward, and Murphy could be one of those players on defense. |
||||||
9 |
Broderick Jones Georgia, SophMOCK TRADE from CAR
|
OT | ||||
Mock Trade from: CAR Broderick Jones is a young, but physically gifted offensive tackle. Chicago may have preferred to address the defense, but after trading back twice, the board led the team to the offensive line. The Bears will have to decide whether to keep Braxton Jones on the left side or flip him to the right. |
||||||
10 |
Cam Smith South Carolina, Jr
|
CB | ||||
Cam Smith had a much-improved 2022 season and would be a great fit in Philadelphia's defensive scheme. James Bradberry is scheduled to become a free agent, so the Eagles fill that void elsewhere. |
||||||
11 |
Paris Johnson Jr. Ohio State, Jr
|
OT | ||||
Will Tennessee retain left tackle Taylor Lewan for another year? It could potentially need to replace both starting offensive tackles next season, so it is important to get a jump on that objective early. |
||||||
12 |
Devon Witherspoon Illinois, Jr
|
CB | ||||
Houston used an early first-round pick on cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. last year, but Devon Witherspoon is arguably the best option available at this stage of the first round. The Texans acquired this pick in the Deshaun Watson deal. |
||||||
13 |
Brian Branch Alabama, Jr
|
S | ||||
Brian Branch has become one of my favorite projections for New York because of his high football acumen. The Jets had an edge to them this past season. They will be able to sustain it by adding quality players like Branch. |
||||||
14 |
Trenton Simpson Clemson, Jr
|
LB | ||||
New England has shown faith in assistant coach Jerod Mayo. It continues the good faith by giving him linebacker Trenton Simpson in the first round. |
||||||
15 |
Michael Mayer Notre Dame, Jr
|
TE | ||||
Green Bay could take a wide receiver like Jordan Addison here but instead adds a player who could also impact the run game through blocking. Michael Mayer is a well-balanced tight end. |
||||||
16 |
Christian Gonzalez Oregon, Soph
|
CB | ||||
Washington adds a big-bodied cornerback to a defense that was improved this season. Christian Gonzalez has the size to play man coverage but has also been exposed to some zone. |
||||||
17 |
Drew Sanders Arkansas, Jr
|
LB | ||||
Pittsburgh needs offensive tackle and cornerback help. Joey Porter Jr. makes a lot of sense considering team needs and his ties to the organization, but it also needs improved play at linebacker. A tandem of Drew Sanders and T.J. Watt gives Pittsburgh some flexibility to offer different looks pre-snap. |
||||||
18 |
Anthony Richardson Florida, Soph
|
QB | ||||
Detroit did not partake in the early run on quarterbacks, so it remained patient and had an intriguing talent fall to it midway through the first round. Anthony Richardson is as raw as they come, but his talent will bring Lions fans out to training camp in droves. |
||||||
19 |
Joey Porter Jr. Penn State, Jr
|
CB | ||||
Tampa Bay is now informed of Tom Brady's decision to retire. After over-committing resources the past few years, it may be time for the Buccaneers to be a bit more conservative this offseason and allow their salary cap space to return to a healthy state. The addition of Joey Porter Jr. allows them to be more flexible in the secondary. |
||||||
20 |
Nolan Smith Georgia, Sr
|
EDGE | ||||
Seattle added Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter with the No. 5 overall selection and now adds Nolan Smith, his teammate, later in the first round. With any hope, Boye Mafe will continue developing and Smith can provide some juice off the opposite side. |
||||||
21 |
Darnell Washington Georgia, Jr
|
TE | ||||
Darnell Washington is a big-bodied target for Justin Herbert, but he is also an effective blocker in the run game. |
||||||
22 |
Quentin Johnston TCU, Jr
|
WR | ||||
The addition of Quentin Johnston gives Baltimore some size in the wide receiver room. A skill talent group of Mark Andrews, Rashod Bateman and Johnston should be above average. |
||||||
23 |
Jordan Addison USC, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Jordan Addison may seem like a luxury right now, but the plan is for him to eventually take over for Adam Thielen. |
||||||
24 |
Bryan Bresee Clemson, Soph
|
DL | ||||
Jacksonville has invested significant resources into the edge rush group and now adds a plug-and-play interior defensive ceiling. The only question is, how high will Bryan Bresee's ceiling reach? |
||||||
25 |
Kelee Ringo Georgia, Soph
|
CB | ||||
Kelee Ringo has the size profile of a man coverage cornerback but got turned around too often this season. Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale should be able to help him reach his potential. |
||||||
26 |
Antonio Johnson Texas A&M, Jr
|
S | ||||
Dallas has really duct-taped its secondary together over the past few years, but it has become a need again. They could really afford to add another cornerback but add a versatile safety here. |
||||||
27 |
O'Cyrus Torrence Florida, Jr
|
OL | ||||
Buffalo needs more physicality along the offensive line, and O'Cyrus Torrence brings that to the building. |
||||||
28 |
Luke Musgrave Oregon State, Jr
|
TE | ||||
It is a really strong year for the tight end position. As a result, the run may not start until later, but, in this scenario, three go in the first round. Luke Musgrave's lack of availability this season may stand in the way of him reaching the first round, but he certainly has the ability to receive consideration. |
||||||
29 |
Lukas Van Ness Iowa, Soph
|
EDGE | ||||
Spotrac projects New Orleans to be $57 million in salary cap debt this offseason, so it is unlikely it's able to re-sign free agent edge rusher Marcus Davenport, who has a market value in excess of $20 million. The Saints keep a rotation on the edge by drafting Lukas Van Ness. |
||||||
30 |
Bijan Robinson Texas, Jr
|
RB | ||||
Bijan Robinson almost certainly will not last this long in the first round, but it is difficult to find landing spots for him. Kansas City is the beneficiary of the NFL de-valuing the running back position. |
||||||
31 |
Felix Anudike-Uzomah Kansas State, Jr
|
EDGE | ||||
Philadelphia has an aging defensive front, but it addresses it by drafting Felix Anudike-Uzomah so that it remains a strength. |
# | Team | Player | Pos | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Jalen Carter Georgia, Jr
|
DL | ||||
GM Ryan Poles said earlier this week that the Bears would have to be "absolutely blown away" to take a quarterback No. 1 overall. In my opinion, that's a smoke screen as Chicago tries to persuade as many QB-needy teams as possible to move up. Ultimately, the Bears likely trade back, but with the draft still three-plus months away -- plus the fact that multiple potential suitors have to hire new head coaches -- let's keep them at No. 1 for now. They can't go wrong with Jalen Carter or Will Anderson Jr., but Carter's ability to dominate from the interior makes him the top selection. |
||||||
2 |
Bryce Young Alabama, Jr
|
QB | ||||
The Texans should absolutely be nervous about a team jumping them for a quarterback, but in this mock they get their guy. And that guy is Bryce Young, whose poise, vision and accuracy outweigh his historically small stature (relative to successful NFL quarterbacks). Some teams may be scared away by Young's lack of size, but his skillset warrants being the first quarterback taken. |
||||||
3 |
Will Anderson Jr. Alabama, Jr
|
EDGE | ||||
It doesn't matter who the new GM and HC are come draft time: getting Will Anderson Jr. at No. 3 is a steal. He'll immediately upgrade a defense that just lost future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt to retirement. |
||||||
4 |
C.J. Stroud Ohio State, Jr
|
QB | ||||
The Colts have swung and missed (and missed again, and missed once more) at quarterback since Andrew Luck shockingly retired right before the 2019 season. After trying their luck with veterans via free agency, they're now picking high enough in the draft where it would be surprising if they didn't select a signal-caller. C.J. Stroud showed in the College Football Playoff semifinals that he's not just a pocket passer, beating the nation's best defense with his legs time and time again as he firmly established himself in the QB1 conversation. |
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5 |
Myles Murphy Clemson, Jr
|
DL | ||||
The Seahawks need to beef up their defensive front, and the best defensive prospect available at this point is Myles Murphy. His size (6-foot-5, 275 pounds) and athleticism will make him a disruptor wherever he lines up. |
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6 |
Kelee Ringo Georgia, Soph
|
CB | ||||
The Lions defense played much better the second half of the season, but it still needs more upgrades if it's going to become a consistent contender in the NFC North. Kelee Ringo's size, length and speed overshadow his lackluster interception total (four the past two seasons), although he did combined for 15 pass breakups in that span. |
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7 |
Paris Johnson Jr. Ohio State, Jr
|
OT | ||||
With the Raiders reportedly exploring trade options for Derek Carr -- and releasing him if none come to fruition -- a new QB will be under center in Las Vegas in 2023. My guess is it's a veteran, since the Raiders have the offensive skill players to compete in the AFC. With that in mind, Las Vegas adds protection for its future signal-caller in the form of Paris Johnson Jr., who was dominant at left tackle for the Buckeyes this season after moving over from right guard. |
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8 |
Tyree Wilson Texas Tech, Sr
|
EDGE | ||||
The Falcons ranked last in the NFL in sack percentage in 2022 (3.61%), which was actually better than their performance in 2021 (3.03%). Simply put, they need an alpha edge rusher to make plays in the backfield. Tyree Wilson, who racked up a combined 27.5 tackles for loss and 14 sacks the past two seasons at Texas Tech, can be that player. |
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9 |
Will Levis Kentucky, Sr
|
QB | ||||
The Panthers need a franchise quarterback in the worst way, and they'll fall in love with Will Levis' traits. Despite a frustrating season due to a porous offensive line, lackluster skill players and him being banged up, Levis has the skill set to to become a really good NFL quarterback. |
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10 |
Joey Porter Jr. Penn State, Jr
|
CB | ||||
With James Bradberry set to become a free agent, the Eagles will likely be looking for a younger, cheaper alternative. They find it with Joey Porter Jr., a long cornerback with NFL pedigree. |
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11 |
Jordan Addison USC, Jr
|
WR | ||||
The Titans have shown they're not willing to pay top dollar at wide receiver (see: A.J. Brown), and while they took Treylon Burks 18th overall last April, they still need more firepower in the passing game. Jordan Addison's pristine route-running and ability to gain consistent separation will complement Burks' style well. |
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12 |
Quentin Johnston TCU, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Pairing Quentin Johnston, potentially the No. 1 wide receiver in this class, with Bryce Young would immediately provide this offense with some firepower, especially with running back Dameon Pierce coming off an impressive rookie campaign. Not only would opposing defensive backs have to keep up with Johnston, but they'd have to deal with his 6-foot-4, 215-pound frame with the ball in the air. |
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13 |
Peter Skoronski Northwestern, Jr
|
OT | ||||
If there was one team most likely to go after a veteran quarterback, I'd pick the Jets. I mean, the owner just said that was the "missing piece" and that he'd "absolutely" pay up for one. With that in mind, whomever the Jets sign needs to be protected, and with Mekhi Becton's injury history, getting a top offensive line prospect would be smart. Peter Skoronski's measurables are nothing to write home about, but he's versatile and technically sound. He'll get the job done at a high level. |
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14 |
Broderick Jones Georgia, Soph
|
OT | ||||
The Patriots could stand to bolster the offensive tackle spot with Isaiah Wynn set to become a free agent and veteran Trent Brown coming off a disappointing campaign. And even if Broderick Jones doesn't start right away, he'll add quality depth before establishing himself as a force up front. He has all the tools to succeed; he just needs to refine them. |
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15 |
Michael Mayer Notre Dame, Jr
|
TE | ||||
Aaron Rodgers, Jordan Love, doesn't matter. Whoever is under center for Green Bay in 2023 would benefit from Michael Mayer's blocking prowess, reliable hands and ability to get open in the biggest of moments. He'd be an immediate upgrade over impending free agent Robert Tonyan. |
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16 |
Cam Smith South Carolina, Jr
|
CB | ||||
The Commanders have a formidable front -- especially with Chase Young being back -- and linebacker Jamin Davis made significant strides in his second season. What the stout defense doesn't have, however, is a shutdown corner. Kendall Fuller is a nice player, but he's not going to consistently contain the likes of CeeDee Lamb and A.J. Brown. Cam Smith could develop into that type of cover guy, as his length and instincts will translate well to the next level. |
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17 |
Anton Harrison Oklahoma, Jr
|
OT | ||||
As long as T.J. Watt is healthy, the Steelers defense will be just fine. Anton Harrison will help ensure Kenny Pickett stays clean in the pocket, Najee Harris has holes to run through, and George Pickens has time to get open. |
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18 |
Bryan Bresee Clemson, Soph
|
DL | ||||
The No. 1 high school player in the country a few years ago didn't have his best season in 2022, but the Clemson product still has everything you want in a formidable interior disruptor. Having Bryan Bresee and Aidan Hutchinson along the line will alleviate pressure on the second two levels of the defense. |
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19 |
Antonio Johnson Texas A&M, Jr
|
S | ||||
Instead of paying Mike Edwards, the Buccaneers draft his replacement. Antonio Johnson is a downhill bruiser who can also cover, be it as the deep safety or in the slot. |
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20 |
Anthony Richardson Florida, Soph
|
QB | ||||
Geno Smith deserves to be re-signed as the Seahawks starting quarterback for 2023. But after that? Who knows. So, the Seahawks use the second of their first-round picks to select Anthony Richardson, the super athletic yet very raw product out of Florida. He'll need to sit for at least a year, but if he can develop some consistency as a passer, his physical ability will make him a difficult dual-threat to defend. |
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21 |
Siaki Ika Baylor, Jr
|
DL | ||||
Several Jaguars defensive linemen are set to become free agents in 2023. They have to play Jonathan Taylor, Derrick Henry and Dameon Pierce twice per season. Need I say more? |
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22 |
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Ohio State, Jr
|
WR | ||||
It's looking more and more like the Giants and Daniel Jones are going to agree to some sort of extension. To truly know if he's the franchise quarterback, they have to surround him with high-caliber skill players. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who may have been the consensus No. 1 wide receiver if he didn't get hurt, fits the bill. |
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23 |
Bijan Robinson Texas, Jr
|
RB | ||||
While still productive, J. K. Dobbins just doesn't look right after all of his knee issues. If the Ravens retain Lamar Jackson and draft Bijan Robinson, they'll form a duo that no defense is going to have an easy time containing. |
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24 |
O'Cyrus Torrence Florida, Jr
|
OL | ||||
When you have Justin Herbert and are in a division with Maxx Crosby and Chris Jones, having quality offensive linemen is imperative. O'Cyrus Torrence was a standout at Florida after transferring from Louisiana, and there's good reason to believe he'll continue to improve at the NFL level. |
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25 |
Kayshon Boutte LSU, Jr
|
WR | ||||
Boutte is an interesting prospect. He dominated in 2020, was limited to six games in 2021 due to injuries and then endured a slow start this past season. He ended up finishing relatively strong but decided to return to LSU for another season ... that is until he changed his mind and declared for the draft weeks later. Regardless of his roller coaster of a college career, Boutte flashed his potential as an after-the-catch playmaker with a penchant for finding the end zone (14 touchdowns in first 16 career games). Without a clear No. 2 wide receiver, Dallas could certainly use someone like him. |
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26 |
Christian Gonzalez Oregon, Soph
|
CB | ||||
Christian Gonzalez was a decent prospect at Colorado, but his lack of playmaking ability was a tad concerning. Gonzalez put those concerns to rest this past season at Oregon, when he recorded a team-high four interceptions to go along with seven pass breakups. The Bengals could plug in Gonzalez for impending free agent Eli Apple and not miss a beat. |
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27 |
Devon Witherspoon Illinois, Jr
|
CB | ||||
Devon Witherspoon, coming from one of the best defenses in all of college football, will bring a tenacity and physicality that Minnesota could use in the secondary, especially with Patrick Peterson set to become a free agent. |
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28 |
Drew Sanders Arkansas, Jr
|
LB | ||||
A quiet two seasons at Alabama from Drew Sanders gave way to a first-team All-American campaign with the Razorbacks. Lining up all over the field, Sanders stuffed the stat sheet with 103 tackles (13.5 for a loss), 9.5 sacks, three forced fumbles and an interception. He'll update a solid Broncos defense that traded away Bradley Chubb. |
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29 |
Brian Branch Alabama, Jr
|
S | ||||
Jordan Poyer will be 32 by the start of next season, so if the Bills wanted to let him walk in free agency, Brian Branch would be a viable replacement. Not the most heralded on the Alabama defense, Branch did a little bit of everything for the Crimson Tide. |
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30 |
Matthew Bergeron Syracuse, Jr
|
OT | ||||
After failing to reach a long-term deal last summer, the Chiefs franchised tagged Orlando Brown Jr.. If they're not willing to make him the league's highest-paid offensive tackle, they could look to replace him with the versatile and experienced Matthew Bergeron. |
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31 |
Jahmyr Gibbs Alabama, Jr
|
RB | ||||
This would be a slam dunk for the Eagles. Let Miles Sanders walk in free agency and replace him with the do-it-all running back that is Jahmyr Gibbs. |