There was plenty of movement during the 2023 NFL free agency period, and that in turn will impact the 2023 draft. Many franchises transformed with the new additions, from new quarterbacks to impact defenders. Free agency is just a fraction of the offseason and the way teams fill roster spots, while the draft will allow GMs to bring in young talent to further reshape rosters.
But needs and weaknesses have obviously shifted over the past month, as holes are filled and created as players sign new deals. So with the draft quickly approaching, ESPN analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid gave each team’s top five remaining needs heading into April 27, when Round 1 begins at Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri. Which teams need a quarterback? Who should tap into this year’s deep cornerback class? Let’s find out.
Jump to a team:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LV | LAC | LAR | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
AFC EAST
Top needs: ILB, WR, CB, IOL, RB
The Bills lost key defender Tremaine Edmunds in free agency and haven’t replaced him in free agency, which could open the door for a first-round linebacker pick. Trenton Simpson (Clemson) could be in play with the No. 27 overall selection.
But a “best player available” approach at receiver or cornerback shouldn’t be ruled out, as the team could upgrade the WR2 or CB2 positions because both have sometimes been weaknesses. Stefon Diggs‘ 1,429 yards was 593 more than the next receiver on the roster had last season. On the other hand, the Bills’ defense allowed a middle-of-the-pack 63.5% completion percentage last season. In a deep cornerback class, the Bills should leave Day 2 with at least one addition in that area. — Miller
Top needs: RB, TE, IOL, EDGE, ILB
The Dolphins have had a busy offseason signing instant-impact players. Adding cornerback Jalen Ramsey and linebacker David Long Jr. to Vic Fangio’s defense proved that the team continues to operate with an all-in approach. Many of Miami’s holes are on offense, where another dynamic runner could be added and a versatile tight end would make sense after losing Mike Gesicki in free agency. The Dolphins’ 1,686 rushing yards were among the NFL’s worst, while their 491 receiving yards by tight ends ranked last.
The Dolphins don’t have a Day 1 pick, but they do have two picks (Nos. 51 and 84 overall) on Day 2. In those spots, tight end Luke Musgrave (Oregon State) is a versatile player who would make sense in coach Mike McDaniel’s offense, while running back Devon Achane (Texas A&M) could be a third-round option as a dynamic runner and pass-catcher. — Reid
Top needs: RT, CB, WR, DE, DT
Despite what the Patriots have done over the past 25 years, this is a franchise in transition. That means virtually every position is a possibility in Round 1. A true “best player available” approach is in play here, but restocking both sides of the line will be a big priority.
If Lukas Van Ness (Iowa) or Paris Johnson Jr. (Ohio State) are available, each should be considered a favorite to land at No. 14 overall to provide long-term security at defensive end or left tackle, respectively. Trent Brown is turning 30, and Isaiah Wynn is still a free agent. It’s no secret that wide receiver has been a weakness, too — New England’s 2,421 receiving yards by wide receivers ranked 21st in the NFL last season — so additions there in Rounds 2-3 are needed. The 6-foot-1, 204-pound Rashee Rice (SMU) would give Mac Jones a big-bodied target who can win on intermediate routes. — Miller
Top needs: QB, OT, DT, IOL, ILB
Assuming the Jets fill their need at quarterback with the potential trade for Aaron Rodgers, their biggest holes remain along the offensive and defensive lines. They were decimated by injuries at offensive tackle a season ago, so finding a young option with the No. 13 pick is a high priority. Ohio State’s Paris Johnson Jr. is an intriguing prospect who could solve many of their issues there.
The Jets could continue to add to the trenches using their back-to-back picks in the second round (Nos. 42 and 43), too. Joe Tippmann (Wisconsin) or Luke Wypler (Ohio State) could be viable Day 2 options with a hole at center. It’s also reasonable to assume that one of those second-round picks could be sent to Green Bay as a part of a deal for Rodgers. — Reid
AFC NORTH
Top needs: WR, CB, EDGE, OL, RB
The Ravens once again find themselves in a familiar position: needing a wide receiver. After ranking last in the NFL in receiving yards by wide receivers (1,517), they are in a prime spot with the No. 22 overall pick to take one of the top wideouts on the board. Quentin Johnston (TCU) makes sense, as he projects well with new offensive coordinator Todd Monken’s scheme. Pairing him with Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews could really advance the offense.
On the defensive side, finding another corner and defensive lineman is paramount. The Ravens’ lack of depth in the secondary was evident after being plagued by injuries last season. Baltimore loves having players with long arms and ball skills on the outside, so cornerbacks Emmanuel Forbes (Mississippi State) and Darius Rush (South Carolina) would check a lot of boxes. — Reid
Top needs: CB, S, TE, RB, IOL
We saw in last season’s playoffs how opponents can pick apart this secondary when the front four can’t get to the quarterback. The pass defense allowed 7.2 yards per attempt over the Bengals’ three postseason contests, ranking 10th among playoff teams. Mike Hilton is solid at cornerback, but the outside coverage spots could use upgrades. The same could be said at free safety, where Nick Scott is replacing Jessie Bates III. With an offense built for shootouts, the secondary has to be a continual focus of team building.
Adding depth at tight end and running back are smart mid-draft targets, even after signing Irv Smith Jr. to challenge for the starting tight end job. — Miller
Top needs: DT, ILB, WR, RB, S
The Browns are without a draft pick until No. 74 overall after acquiring wide receiver Elijah Moore in a trade with the Jets. Interior defensive line remains the team’s biggest hole, even though Cleveland signed Dalvin Tomlinson in free agency. But this defensive tackle class is considered one of the weakest position groups because it lacks depth. Jaquelin Roy (LSU) and Keondre Coburn (Texas) could be available in the third round, though.
Linebacker is another position the Browns could address. It is also pretty thin, and DeMarvion Overshown (Texas) and Dorian Williams (Tulane) are Day 3 prospects who could make some sense. — Reid
Top needs: RT, WR, ILB, CB, NB
The Steelers’ first pick is at No. 17 overall and could go in many directions. Right tackle is a clear need, and Tennessee’s Darnell Wright has good value at that spot. He’s a fantastic run-blocker.
The defensive depth chart is full of short-term fixes and future needs. A best available at cornerback can’t be ruled out, with 32-year-old Patrick Peterson and 27-year-old Levi Wallace slotted into starting roles. And while linebacker isn’t a likely Round 1 pick, having Elandon Roberts and Cole Holcomb penciled in as starters leaves room for upgrades. Additionally, adding another receiver would be a very Steelers-like pick, as Diontae Johnson and George Pickens could use another running mate. — Miller
AFC SOUTH
Top needs: QB, WR, DE, CB, ILB
The Texans are expected to use the No. 2 overall pick to select a franchise quarterback. With another pick in the first round at No. 12, they should look to find him a pass-catcher, especially after the Texan’s leading receiver, Brandin Cooks, was traded to the Cowboys. Getting the quarterback pick right and adding an early-impact player with the other first-rounder is most important to restore confidence in Houston.
With 12 selections, general manager Nick Caserio can be aggressive in remaking the roster. Even after a defensive spending spree in free agency, he should look to add at defensive end, cornerback and linebacker fairly early in the draft. — Miller
Top needs: QB, CB, IOL, EDGE, WR
General manager Chris Ballard enters what’s potentially the most important draft of his tenure. The Colts could target their next franchise quarterback with the No. 4 overall pick or trade up one spot with the Cardinals to ensure their preferred selection.
Cornerback is another area of big need, as they allowed a 68% completion percentage, ranked 31st in the NFL. The Colts could remain at No. 35 overall in Round 2 and take the best player available at the position, but a small trade up into the back end of the first round also could be an option. Kelee Ringo (Georgia) and Julius Brents (Kansas State) are two prospects who fit the team’s scheme. — Reid
Top needs: DE, DT, CB, TE, RB
The Jaguars were one of the best NFL stories of 2022, but their playoff run exposed some weaknesses up front on defense. Developing last year’s first overall pick, Travon Walker, is key, but so is adding more talent alongside him. Jacksonville could take the best defensive lineman available at No. 24 overall, perhaps one of the Clemson duo of defensive end Myles Murphy or defensive tackle Bryan Bresee.
Finding more bodies at cornerback outside of the first round will be key to winning the AFC South and competing in the conference. Landing a playmaking tight end and more depth at running back should be addressed, too. — Miller
Top needs: IOL, WR, TE, CB, EDGE
The Titans’ biggest needs are along the offensive line and behind wide receiver Treylon Burks. Holding the No. 11 overall pick, Tennessee is in range to kick off the run on offensive tackles. Peter Skoronski (Northwestern) and Paris Johnson Jr. (Ohio State) are two players the team could target. The Titans released Taylor Lewan this offseason and are looking for the next star at tackle.
Wide receiver could also be a Day 1 option, and Ohio State’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba would be a great fit. North Carolina’s Josh Downs is a Day 2 option, too. There isn’t much depth behind Burks on the roster right now. — Reid
AFC WEST
Top needs: IOL, EDGE, RB, CB, OT
The Broncos don’t have a pick until the third round, but they have back-to-back opportunities to make key selections (Nos. 67 and 68).
In an expensive free agency period, they added defensive end Zach Allen, offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey and guard Ben Powers. They could now target Luke Wypler (Ohio State) to fill the void at center — Russell Wilson was tied for the most-sacked quarterback in the NFL last season (55) — or wait until Day 3 for someone like Olu Oluwatimi (Michigan), who has a chance to be a Day 1 starter. Zach Harrison (Ohio State) and Tuli Tuipulotu (USC) are two other options the team could explore at Nos. 67 and 68 overall to provide depth at edge rusher. — Reid
Top needs: WR, DT, DE, TE, RT
The Chiefs won a Super Bowl without a 1,000-yard wide receiver, but that’s not a strategy worth trying again. General manager Brett Veach has to add a pass-catcher at some point early in the draft, especially because JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman signed elsewhere. And considering 34-year-old Travis Kelce‘s importance in this offense, it would be smart to invest an early selection in finding his eventual replacement at tight end — even if that means in the first round.
The team likes Lucas Niang at right tackle, but health has been an issue, and he’s untested; adding depth behind him is a savvy move. On defense, DT Chris Jones was unstoppable last year, but a boost beside him is needed. The same could be said for the spot opposite George Karlaftis at defensive end, depending on where free agent signee Charles Omenihu lines up. — Miller
Top needs: DT, CB, IOL, TE, OT
The Raiders might still be in the quarterback chase at No. 7 overall, but the signing of Jimmy Garoppolo eases the need to find one right away.
The franchise could pivot to focusing on cornerback, where the team lacks dependable outside options. Christian Gonzalez (Oregon) or Devon Witherspoon (Illinois) are intriguing choices inside the top 10, but if the team wants to wait until Day 2, DJ Turner (Michigan) could be a primary target. The offensive line is also another position the team must address. Despite signing Jermaine Eluemunor, right tackle is a major question mark. The Raiders could target a tackle in this year’s top-heavy class with one of their three picks on Day 2. — Reid
Top needs: WR, DE, DT, IOL, CB
The Chargers’ roster is in good shape and has no pressing needs. Whoever is drafted in Round 1 won’t be an impact player right away, but depth is needed across the board. Considering Keenan Allen will be 31 years old next season, it isn’t out of the question that the team selects a wide receiver at No. 21 overall. The same goes for a third pass-rusher to develop behind 32-year-old outside linebacker Khalil Mack.
As for Year 1 impact guys, a third defensive tackle and a third cornerback could get on the field, but those seem like midround additions. — Miller
NFC EAST
Top needs: TE, RB, WR, CB, ILB
Dallas filled many of its needs by trading for wide receiver Brandin Cooks and cornerback Stephon Gilmore and retaining linebacker Leighton Vander Esch and offensive tackle Tyron Smith. But it lost running back Ezekiel Elliott and tight end Dalton Schultz, so watch those positions. Even after adding Cooks, a young receiver can’t be overlooked, too, if a player Dallas likes alongside CeeDee Lamb slips to No. 26 overall. The first order of business should be loading up the targets around quarterback Dak Prescott.
The Cowboys have to get younger across the board with this class, including on defense. Dallas has seven total selections to do so. — Miller
Top needs: CB, IOL, WR, DT, RB
The Giants have a large quantity of receivers since bringing back Darius Slayton and adding Parris Campbell, but they still lack a high-end option who could eventually turn into a WR1. Wide receiver remains arguably the Giants’ top need, and they could have many options with the No. 25 overall pick. Keep an eye on Zay Flowers (Boston College) and Quentin Johnston (TCU), who are completely different types of targets.
Cornerback will be worth watching, and with 10 total draft picks, the Giants can also find a center of the future in the middle parts of the draft — perhaps Michigan’s Olusegun Oluwatimi or Arkansas’ Ricky Stromberg. — Reid
Top needs: S, DT, RB, DE, OT
For the No. 10 overall selection, a true best player available approach should let Philadelphia add a premium player.
Beyond that, the losses of C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Marcus Epps need to be addressed, so expect safety to be an early focus. This draft isn’t loaded at the position, but there are NFL starters available. The Eagles draft ahead very well but could also look to fill in the gap at defensive tackle left by Javon Hargrave departing in free agency, even with Jordan Davis waiting in the wings. Early-round depth picks who can develop into starters at defensive end, running back and right tackle are important in this draft class. — Miller
Top needs: CB, IOL, OT, RB, ILB
The Commanders’ first selection comes right in the heart of the first round at No. 16 overall. Washington is expected to be in the running on cornerbacks and offensive tackles, and it could choose many different routes to address some of its biggest needs.
Giving Kendall Fuller and Benjamin St-Juste help at corner is perhaps the most likely Round 1 outcome for the Commanders. If they opt to go on the other side of the ball at offensive tackle, Broderick Jones (Georgia) and Darnell Wright (Tennessee) are potential solutions to provide competition to Charles Leno at left tackle and patch a line that allowed 48 sacks last season. — Reid
NFC NORTH
Top needs: OT, DT, EDGE, IOL, CB
The Bears have added many key players this offseason to a roster that lacked high-end talent. Adding to the trenches continues to be critical, and general manager Ryan Poles could be aggressive there, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Last season, safety Jaquan Brisker was the team’s leader in sacks (4.0). With the No. 9 overall pick, there will be plenty of options. Lukas Van Ness (Iowa) and Myles Murphy (Clemson) are plug-and-play options on the edge.
The Bears could also spearhead the run at offensive tackle. Last year’s fifth-round pick, Braxton Jones, was one of the biggest surprises of the season, and the Bears could keep him at his original spot or look to transition him to the other side. — Reid
Top needs: DT, LB, DE, WR, TE
With two first-round selections, Detroit can make huge gains following a shocking jump during the 2022 season. Up first will be addressing the defensive line — either at tackle with Jalen Carter (Georgia) if he’s available or defensive end. Detroit ranked 30th in the NFL in opponent yards per attempt (5.2) and passing yards per game (245.8). The Lions got great production from linebackers James Houston, Malcolm Rodriguez and Alex Anzalone last year, and it’s expected they’ll take on larger roles in 2023, but don’t be surprised if Detroit backstops those spots with depth.
The 2023 draft is pivotal for Detroit with eight selections and a chance to take the NFC North. The Lions have made improvements defensively in free agency, signing Cameron Sutton, Emmanuel Moseley and Alex Anzalone, but there is still a lot of work ahead. — Miller
Top needs: TE, S, WR, EDGE, DT
With the Jordan Love era on the horizon (pending a Rodgers trade), the Packers should continue to add playmakers to expedite his development. Christian Watson looked great in his rookie year, but Allen Lazard signed with the Jets, further weakening the receiver room.
Last season’s leading tight end, Robert Tonyan, departed in free agency, so tight end is also a position to focus on early. Michael Mayer (Notre Dame) is an Day 1 option, while Tucker Kraft (South Dakota State) could be a solve on Day 2. Safety is another high-priority position, and a versatile type is needed. Jartavius Martin (Illinois) and Ji’Ayir Brown (Penn State) are two possibilities and have worn multiple hats in the secondary. — Reid
Top needs: CB, WR, DT, QB, DE
The reigning NFC North champions have a legitimate shot at repeating but must address their defense. Finding a starting cornerback remains a post-free-agency priority and should be a Round 1 target if Deonte Banks (Maryland) or Emmanuel Forbes (Mississippi State) are available at No. 23 overall. Minnesota added Byron Murphy Jr. but lost Patrick Peterson at corner.
At receiver, it’s more about depth than high-end impact, so that could be addressed on Day 2. The same goes for defensive tackle. And given that Kirk Cousins‘ contract expires after the 2023 season and there is no long-term solution at quarterback on the roster, drafting a passer in the first three rounds seems likely. — Miller
NFC SOUTH
Top needs: DE, WR, QB, CB, DT
Second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder is the team’s answer for now, but a quarterback selection wouldn’t shock anyone if Will Levis (Kentucky) or Anthony Richardson (Florida) fall to No. 8 overall. The Falcons finished 31st in the NFL in sacks last season, and they have done nothing throughout free agency to truly address the edge of the defense. With eight total selections, the pass rush should see an upgrade.
Finding a speed receiver to pair with Drake London should be another early priority for the front office. Atlanta traded for Jonnu Smith to pair with Kyle Pitts at tight end, but it needs to surround Ridder with more talent outside. — Miller
Top needs: QB, WR, ILB, EDGE, CB
The Panthers are in prime position to select their franchise quarterback at No. 1 overall. And many believe that the decision will come down to C.J. Stroud (Ohio State) and Bryce Young (Alabama). Check the box and start adding around him.
To that point, Carolina also needs help at wide receiver after DJ Moore was traded to the Bears in the deal to move up to No. 1 overall. Adam Thielen and DJ Chark help, but more playmakers are needed. The Panthers could target Josh Downs (North Carolina) or Jalin Hyatt (Tennessee) in Round 2 with the No. 39 overall pick. Carolina could also use some depth at linebacker, and I think Daiyan Henley (Washington State) could be a great late-Day 2 or early-Day 3 addition. — Reid
Top needs: DE, DT, WR, TE, CB
Signing quarterback Derek Carr filled the biggest hole on the roster, but there is still work to be done. Michael Thomas is returning after essentially being two years away from the game and is now 30 years old, so wide receiver could be a target at the end of Round 1.
The defensive line is an area to improve on, too, with Marcus Davenport leaving in free agency without a replacement on the roster. After adding defensive tackles through free agency, that’s more of a depth need but still something to address. And tight end and cornerback might be Day 3 fits. — Miller
Top needs: OT, EDGE, QB, DT, S
The Buccaneers have a major need at offensive tackle after the release of Donovan Smith, and the team could explore finding an answer in Round 1. Darnell Wright (Tennessee) and Anton Harrison (Oklahoma) are two good fits for Tampa Bay. And on the other side of the ball, Isaiah Foskey (Notre Dame) and Derick Hall (Auburn) fit the type of defensive lineman Tampa Bay has drafted in the past.
Tampa Bay is also turning the page at QB after Tom Brady‘s retirement. Newly signed Baker Mayfield and 2021 draft pick Kyle Trask are expected to compete for the QB1 spot, but neither should be considered the long-term solution under center. Bringing in more options would be smart. — Reid.
NFC WEST
Top needs: EDGE, DT, CB, IOL, WR
A strong argument could be made that the Cardinals currently have the worst roster in the NFL. They lost key players in cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. and defensive end Zach Allen, and they face an uphill battle in adding immediate-impact talent.
With eight total picks and an opportunity to add even more pending a trade of the No. 3 overall pick and/or wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, general manager Monti Ossenfort will take the first step toward replenishing the roster. The Cardinals’ focus should remain on adding talent at premium positions to coach Jonathan Gannon’s defense, with this year’s class being strong at edge and cornerback. If the Cards draft Will Anderson Jr. from Alabama at No. 3, that’s a step in the right direction. — Reid
Top needs: CB, DE, DT, WR, QB
We could have listed every position here and been fine. The Rams went all-in to win Super Bowl LVI and paid the price in 2022. They also just traded away Jalen Ramsey. Now the roster needs an influx of youth and depth in a hurry. With 11 selections in the draft — albeit none in Round 1 — the Rams can at least add a lot of contributors.
That should start on defense, where the roster has been gutted by trades and departures in free agency. Long, mobile cornerbacks and quick defensive ends are hard to find on Day 2 of the draft, but with three selections Friday night, that’s what the Rams need to find. And I listed QB here because Los Angeles really needs some backup options for 35-year-old Matthew Stafford. — Miller
Top needs: OT, S, EDGE, DT, TE
The 49ers’ first selection doesn’t come until the latter portion of Day 2, as they have three third-round compensatory selections (Nos. 99, 101 and 102). With 11 total draft picks, San Francisco has an opportunity to add a lot of depth to an already stacked group.
Offensive tackle is one area to watch after San Francisco lost right tackle Mike McGlinchey to the Broncos in free agency. Jaelyn Duncan (Maryland) and Wanya Morris (Oklahoma) fit the team’s outside zone scheme and could be late-Day 2 options who eventually develop into starters. — Reid
Top needs: DE, WR, CB, NT, C
The Seahawks made splashy additions on defense with defensive end Dre’Mont Jones, safety Julian Love and linebacker Bobby Wagner this offseason. However, there’s room for a marquee pass-rusher if the Seahawks like the value at No. 5 overall. That could be Will Anderson Jr. (Alabama) or Jalen Carter (Georgia) in Seattle’s versatile defensive front.
A wide receiver or cornerback at No. 20 in the first round makes sense from a future need standpoint and could be a best player available situation. Adding depth at defensive tackle and the interior offensive line should also be considered. As for quarterback, the Seahawks re-signed Geno Smith and backup Drew Lock but can’t be ruled out of making a value play in the first two rounds if they like a player there. — Miller
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