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Matt MillerESPN
The Senior Bowl and Shrine Bowl are in the rearview mirror, so it seems like a good time to reset Rounds 1 and 2 of the 2023 NFL draft. I saw a handful of risers firsthand last week in Mobile, Alabama, during three days of practice sessions, and 15 attendees make my two-round mock draft below. (Wideout Zay Flowers, who attended the Shrine Bowl, also made my top 63.)
Now, this is still a very early projection. We have the scouting combine in a month, along with pro day workouts and team interviews still ahead for prospects. A lot will change. The full draft order isn’t even set yet, since we are waiting on the outcome of Super Bowl LVII between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles to determine the final two spots in each round. (ESPN’s Football Power Index currently projects Philadelphia to win and pick last in Round 1.) Remember, there are only 31 first-round picks after the Miami Dolphins were stripped of their selection for tampering violations, which means there are only 63 selections in the opening two rounds.
All that said, here are my predictions for how the first 63 picks in the draft might play out, including landing spots for five quarterbacks — and a trade that could make sense right at the top of the board! Let’s get started.
ROUND 1
Projected trade: Colts move up for a QB
Multiple teams in the top 10 could try to move up to No. 1 to land their quarterback of choice, and the Bears — who already have Justin Fields — certainly should be listening to offers. In this scenario, the Colts take the plunge, sending the Bears the Nos. 4 and 35 picks, a fourth-rounder and a 2024 third-rounder to jump to the top.
I spoke to a few people in the league for context on what might seem like a fair deal, and this fits for both franchises. Indy can get its signal-caller, and Chicago should still have the chance to land a top defender while adding a haul of draft assets, including a valuable second-rounder.
Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
The Colts make an aggressive move here to secure the future of the franchise at quarterback, trading up to No. 1 to select Young. Yes, Young will be one of the smallest quarterbacks (6-foot, 194 pounds) drafted in the first round in the modern era, but we can’t ignore that he’s also the best — and most pro-ready — passer in this class. He compiled 79 touchdown passes over the past two seasons to just 12 interceptions.
Young is a master in the pocket with poise, vision, agility and a sixth sense that reminds me of Joe Burrow. In fact, Burrow would be my comp for Young if the latter were a few inches taller. The Colts are in a true rebuild situation, and Young could be the first piece to the puzzle.
Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
Every team that wants a quarterback in this draft should be thinking about jumping the Texans to secure its top-ranked passer, and it wouldn’t be out of the question for Houston to move up a spot itself to block others. Although Levis is one of the most polarizing players in this class because of his interceptions (23 over the past two years), he has the best arm talent in the group, along with very good pocket mobility and toughness. He wasn’t surrounded by elite talent at Kentucky and had a change at offensive coordinator that affected his development, but the Penn State transfer has to prove to teams in workouts and interviews that his decision-making can be reworked. On traits alone, Levis is a top-10 talent. It’s on the Texans to see that talent developed.
One note from the Senior Bowl: A rival scout I spoke to doesn’t think Houston will draft a quarterback. That seems hard to believe right now with the quarterback situation so unsettled there. The Texans ranked last in the NFL this season in QBR (26.0). But it’s something to file away with new coach DeMeco Ryans having a background on defense.
Will Anderson Jr., DE, Alabama
The Cardinals are in an envious position, as new general manager Monti Ossenfort can sit tight and draft the best remaining prospect here. He is essentially guaranteed a shot at Anderson or Georgia’s Jalen Carter. As Ossenfort looks to remake a roster heavy on versatile defenders and small receivers, he could start with the most important spot on defense.
Anderson dominated over the past three years at Alabama, wracking up 34.5 sacks, 184 pressures and 66 tackles for loss. His first-step quickness and relentless motor are reminiscent of Von Miller when the future Hall of Famer was coming out of Texas A&M in 2011. Anderson can line up at defensive end or as a standup rusher, and he would be a tone-setter for a defense desperately in need of an identity.
Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
The Bears traded back in this scenario but still are in position to select perhaps the top prospect in the class. In Matt Eberflus’ defense, the 3-technique pass-rusher is crucial, and Carter is a Fletcher Cox-like difference-maker there. He played in a rotation in 2021 and had an injury-plagued 2022, so we didn’t see him post great stat totals (just six career sacks). When watching the historically talented Georgia defense over the past two years, however, he was the most talented of the bunch.
Carter’s burst off the snap has the potential to be great, and he already displays an understanding of leverage, space and timing when unleashing spin and rip moves. He should enter the NFL as a high-end starter at the position on which Eberflus’ defense hinges.
Tyree Wilson, DE, Texas Tech
Seattle is in a prime position for teams wanting to trade up and secure a quarterback, but general manager John Schneider doesn’t have to trade back. With two first-rounders, he can look to revamp his defensive line the way he did the offensive line with Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas last year. Poona Ford is a free agent, and Uchenna Nwosu has only one year left on his deal.
Wilson was red hot in 2022 with seven sacks, but it’s his length, power and speed that excite scouts. He is 6-6 and 275 pounds with length, which he uses to create separation and counter around, over and under. Wilson isn’t on the level with Will Anderson Jr., but he’s not far off.
Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
The top-ranked cornerback in the class goes to the Lions, and Witherspoon is exactly what the team needs as a physical, sticky cover man with instincts and ball skills. He is 6-1 and only 180 pounds, but he plays much bigger and is the best open-field tackler among this group of corners. Plus, he allowed just two completions of over 20 yards all season to go with his three interceptions.
The Lions are another team that could trade back with a quarterback-needy club, but the risk there is sliding back too far and missing out on the top cornerback in the class after allowing a league-high 6.2 yards per play in 2022. If the front office and coaching staff are aligned on Jared Goff continuing as the signal-caller, this is the move to best improve the team.
Peter Skoronski, OT/G, Northwestern
Tom Brady announcing his retirement might have put a wrinkle in the plans for this pick, but many scouts and decision-makers in the league believe the Raiders will not draft a quarterback here. “There is no way Josh [McDaniels] is trusting a rookie quarterback with the way they struggled this year,” said one AFC area scout at the Senior Bowl. I tend to agree. McDaniels seems more likely to go after free agent Jimmy Garoppolo or re-sign Jarrett Stidham.
No matter who is playing quarterback, the Raiders have to upgrade the offensive line. Scouts I spoke to at the Senior Bowl all agreed Skoronski is the most NFL-ready of the 2023 class, although many project him to be a guard at the next level because of shorter arm length. He is physical — especially in the run game — and has the mobility to be very good at the second level. The Raiders could slide him in at left guard to form a very solid blind side for the next QB.
Myles Murphy, DE, Clemson
The Falcons might be tempted by quarterback C.J. Stroud with the board playing out this way, but rookie Desmond Ridder showed enough promise in 2022 to be given another shot as the starter. Instead, the Falcons have to address the defense and start building a unit that can compete across the board. At 6-5 and 275 pounds, Murphy is expected to perform among the top defensive ends in recent history at the combine.
One scouting source told me the junior could run in the “high-4.5-second” range in the 40-yard dash. And an AFC area scout compared Murphy’s physical traits and potential to Travon Walker‘s, so there are high hopes of what he can become. Murphy had 6.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss in 2022.
C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
It’s likely the Panthers will try to trade up to secure a quarterback, but in this mock draft, general manager Scott Fitterer can hold tight and save his draft capital with Stroud available at No. 9. Re-signing Sam Darnold as a bridge quarterback and drafting Stroud to work with new coach Frank Reich is a smart team-building move. The Ohio State quarterback has awesome accuracy to all levels of the field and showed in the College Football Playoff semifinals against Georgia what he can do as a runner and mover in the pocket.
Stroud’s 85 touchdown passes to 12 interceptions over his college career is impressive, and he finished second in QBR in 2022 (88.9). And although Stroud might need time to adjust to an NFL scheme, he has the passing ability to become the franchise quarterback this team so badly needs.
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C.J. Stroud scrambles, finds Marvin Harrison Jr. in end zone for TD
Ohio State finds the scoreboard first with a pristine pass from C.J. Stroud to Marvin Harrison Jr. in the first quarter.
Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
Hear me out! The Eagles have few needs on a roster that has been beautifully built by general manager Howie Roseman, and they do not have a ton of draft capital overall with only two picks on Day 3. With Miles Sanders hitting free agency, the Eagles need a true RB1 to work with quarterback Jalen Hurts. Robinson can be that guy. He’d also be very affordable as the No. 10 pick compared with signing a Josh Jacobs or Saquon Barkley in free agency — or even franchise-tagging Sanders. And no team came close to the Eagles’ No. 1-ranked expected points added via the run in 2022 (29.5).
Robinson is the best running back prospect since Barkley left Penn State in 2018. He’s powerful at 6-foot and 220 pounds, and he has shown both fantastic speed in the open field and the best contact balance in college football. Scouts I’ve spoken to say Robinson’s best football is still ahead of him, too, as Texas didn’t use him much in the passing game (19 catches in 2022). With over 2,600 yards and 29 touchdowns in the past two years, he is without a doubt this draft’s best back and is my No. 5 overall player.
Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
The left tackle position might not seem like a need for Tennessee, but veteran Taylor Lewan turns 32 before next season and missed all but two games of the 2022 season with a right knee injury. In fact, he hasn’t played a full season since 2017 and has just 20 starts in the past three years combined. The Titans have to get younger (and cheaper) at key positions while ensuring they hit on first-round picks. That’s why Ran Carthon was hired as general manager.
Jones is a physical, tough offensive tackle who has quick, light feet and the potential to become better shooting his hands. At 6-4 and 311 pounds, there will be questions about his length, but Jones was an elite left tackle in the SEC and is just 21 years old. He didn’t allow a single sack across 15 starts in 2022.
Jordan Addison, WR, USC
Addison has been successful at every stop throughout his college career, winning the Biletnikoff Award at Pitt before transferring to USC. In his lone season as a Trojan, Addison grabbed 59 passes for 875 yards and eight touchdowns while lining up primarily in the slot, and he dropped just two passes all season. He doesn’t have great size (6-foot, 170 pounds) but plays much more physically than you’d expect, and he’ll likely be heavier for the combine and his pro playing career. Addison’s quick cuts, strong hands and ability to sink his hips and accelerate out of breaks have him ready to immediately become Will Levis‘ new go-to target in Houston.
Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
The Mekhi Becton experiment hasn’t worked in New York after just 15 starts in his career and none since Week 1 of the 2021 season. The Jets need a left tackle, and Johnson was very good for Ohio State holding down that spot. The junior didn’t allow a sack until the Michigan game and surrendered just two on the season. A starter at right guard before this year, Johnson has the agility, balance and size (6-6, 310 pounds) to be a true Day 1 left tackle in the NFL. He’ll need to get a little stronger at the point of attack, but his frame will support that. For the Jets, with so much up in the air offensively, finding a long-term left tackle is key in this draft.
Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
Major upgrades are needed across the board, and for the first time in a very long time, New England can truly select the best prospect available. That’s Porter on my board, the son of former Steelers great Joey Porter. The younger Porter has his father’s tough demeanor on the field but is a silky smooth mover in space and has awesome length at 6-2 and 200 pounds. He grabbed just one interception in college but had 11 pass breakups, as Big Ten quarterbacks largely ignored his side of the field. With his physical play, instincts and length, Porter feels like a perfect fit in New England.
Brian Branch, S/CB, Alabama
You didn’t think I would actually put a wide receiver here, did you? Yes, it’s a need in Green Bay, but general manager Brian Gutekunst is allergic to spending first-round picks there no matter who is playing quarterback. And although a trade of Aaron Rodgers might happen and net Green Bay extra picks, we’re playing this one straight for now.
Branch is exactly what Green Bay misses in the secondary. He’s highly instinctive on the football field and has handled slot, outside corner and safety duties for Nick Saban, which is a pretty high honor. Branch is an impressive all-around football player at 6-foot and 194 pounds, which is why he grabbed two picks, had seven pass breakups, recorded three sacks and ended up with 89 tackles (12 for loss) in 2022.
Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
The quarterback situation in Washington is less than ideal with Taylor Heinicke hitting free agency and Carson Wentz no longer a viable starting option. The Commanders did draft Sam Howell in the fifth round of the 2022 draft, but rarely do Day 3 quarterbacks become franchise passers. With Richardson on the board, this is the pick that makes the most sense.
He is not a finished product after starting just 13 games in college, but his highs are incredibly high and he has the highest ceiling of this quarterback class — if he can put everything together. Richardson, who is 6-4 and 232 pounds, has the strongest arm of the class, too, and he pairs that with game-changing running ability. The downside? Nine interceptions to just 17 touchdown passes in 2022 and a QBR of 71.2 show that Richardson’s accuracy needs work before he’s a complete passer. He completed just 54.7% of his throws over his career.
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Richardson rushes impressive 60 yards for a TD
Anthony Richardson goes untouched for a 60-yard Florida TD
Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
The biggest need in Pittsburgh this offseason is along the offensive line, but with the top three tackles already off the board, the Steelers could pivot to the secondary. Gonzalez has a unique blend of traits and production. The 6-2, 200-pound cornerback is expected to test really well at the combine, with one area scout predicting times in the 4.3-second range in the 40-yard dash. But Gonzalez is more than “just” a high-level speed player; he had four interceptions and seven pass breakups in 2022 after transferring from Colorado. He’s a perfect match of need and value, and — spoiler — Pittsburgh could wait until Round 2 to address the O-line with a pair of picks.
Lukas Van Ness, DE, Iowa
After selecting the best cornerback in the draft at No. 6 (Devon Witherspoon), the Lions are back on the clock and looking to double down on defense. Van Ness is a raw pass-rusher after playing sparingly at Iowa, but he performed well enough to notch 6.5 sacks in 2022 and seven in 2021. The 6-5, 270-pound defensive end has shades of Trey Hendrickson to his game, which is why he’s seen as a potential first-rounder despite not starting for the Hawkeyes.
The Lions hit pay dirt with Aidan Hutchinson and have a very good situational pass-rusher in fellow rookie James Houston. So Van Ness could round out the defensive line group with power, length and an ability against the run that’s needed opposite Hutchinson.
Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State
With the top four quarterbacks off the board, the Buccaneers have to think about a free agent plan to add to the quarterback room after Tom Brady‘s retirement. This feels like a rebuild and not a reload, though, and that means not reaching for needs when there is value on the board.
Forbes was outstanding in 2022, grabbing six interceptions and breaking up seven passes while showing speed and instincts to play outside cornerback. At 6-foot and 180 pounds, Forbes is lean, but his length and timing make up for the lack of bulk. With Jamel Dean set to hit free agency, Forbes’ availability at No. 19 makes him a great value and fills the team’s second-biggest need, after quarterback.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
The Seahawks filled their most pressing need with Tyree Wilson at No. 5, which makes this selection about value and future needs. Wide receiver Tyler Lockett turns 31 in September, and even though he’s coming off his fourth straight 1,000-yard season, he’s not a player the team is building around long term at this stage of his career. Opposite Lockett is DK Metcalf, who is the subject of yearly trade rumors and has a contract that features an out clause in two seasons.
Smith-Njigba entered the year as my top-ranked receiver and still holds that title despite missing all but three games because of a hamstring injury. Rewatch his record-setting Rose Bowl performance against Utah from the 2021 season for a reminder of what he can do on the field. JSN went off for 15 catches, 347 yards and three touchdowns that night to cap a 95-catch, 1,606-yard season. Yes, scouts are concerned about his hamstring injury, but multiple NFL evaluators have noted that, if healthy, Smith-Njigba is the best receiver in the class.
Nolan Smith, OLB, Georgia
The Chargers have multiple options here, but the front seven is a big problem. L.A. allowed 5.9 yards per play (29th). A torn pectoral muscle in late October ended Smith’s season, but the 6-3 senior posted 11.5 sacks in his career while, like most Georgia defenders, working in a heavy rotation. He is a versatile linebacker who is comfortable standing up or playing with his hand down and has the first-step quickness to stun blockers while also being agile enough to play in space as an off-ball linebacker. That’s perfect for the Chargers’ base 3-4 scheme and today’s NFL.
Smith, just 235 pounds during the season, will need to add strength, but his ability to quickly get into the backfield gives the Chargers a long-term pass-rusher opposite Joey Bosa. And in the meantime, he can help in space at linebacker when Bosa and Khalil Mack drop down to defensive end.
Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
There will be tons of speculation between now and the draft about the Ravens’ long-term plans, given the free agent status of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Until there’s more clarity, it’s best to move forward assuming the 26-year-old former MVP will return to the Ravens. And whether it’s Jackson or someone else at quarterback, wide receiver remains a giant offseason priority in Baltimore. Both Rashod Bateman and Devin Duvernay are returning next season off injury, so the Ravens need not only more talent at the position but also a healthy contributor.
Johnston has a high-level blend of size (6-4, 215 pounds) and deep speed that helped him average 18.9 yards per catch over his three-year career. Drops can be a factor for Johnston, who had six in 2022, but his big-play ability and extended catch radius are much needed in Baltimore. No other team had fewer receiving yards from the WR position than the Ravens’ 1,517.
Drew Sanders, ILB, Arkansas
Another year with an early playoff exit despite regular-season dominance should have the Vikings back to the drawing board in terms of the roster build and what is needed to get over the hump. One area multiple NFL scouts have pointed to is the play and age at linebacker. Jordan Hicks and Eric Kendricks will play next season at 31, and only two teams allowed more yards per play (5.9) in 2022.
Sanders transferred from Alabama and immediately became a defensive leader at Arkansas. When I visited the school last fall, the defensive staff raved about his instincts and toughness. He became a three-down player with 9.5 sacks, 1 interception, 2 forced fumbles and 111 tackles in his first season as a starter. The 6-5, 232-pound junior is still developing as a linebacker but has the potential to be a force in the NFL.
Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee
Perhaps the most surprising team of this NFL season was the Jaguars, going from the No. 1 overall pick to AFC South champions. The work on the roster build is far from over, though, with multiple key starters hitting free agency. One such area of need is right tackle, where Jawaan Taylor might price himself out of the Jaguars’ comfort zone. If Taylor isn’t retained, a clear answer to the position is available from the University of Tennessee. Wright started his career at left tackle before moving to the right side in 2022. He flourished there, helping to pave the way for one of college football’s most exciting offenses.
The 6-5, 342-pound tackle just turned in a fantastic Senior Bowl performance, showing great power, length, quickness and balance for his size. He’s a plug-and-play starter on the right side. Wright allowed only one sack this season, and he didn’t have a single blown run block.
Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
If you watch a couple of games from the Giants’ 2022 season, it’s painfully obvious the team’s biggest need is at wide receiver — as long as quarterback Daniel Jones is either franchise-tagged or re-signed. The signal-caller took a huge step in his development but now needs help around him to further that growth. The only players on the roster to catch more than 50 passes in 2022 were a running back (Saquon Barkley, 57) and a journeyman receiver (Richie James, 57).
Hyatt exploded onto the scene in Tennessee’s vertical tempo offense, catching 67 passes for 1,267 yards and 15 touchdowns, all while averaging a clean 18.9 yards per catch. He is a certified deep threat, with one area scout telling me at the Senior Bowl that he’ll likely run in the low-4.3-second range in the 40-yard dash. The Giants are desperate for a receiver who can stretch the field and be Jones’ version of Stefon Diggs, whom coach Brian Daboll used so well while in Buffalo. Hyatt has the vertical speed to fit that role.
O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida
One of the top performers during Senior Bowl week was Torrence, my top-ranked player in Mobile. The 6-5, 337-pound right guard was dominant in one-on-one drills throughout the week, showing an aggressive ability in the run game. But what was most impressive during the week was his ability in pass protection, where his length showed up as pass-rushers were unable to consistently get around him. The Cowboys’ offensive line is in flux, but the addition of Torrence would allow Tyler Smith to play left tackle full time while improving the team’s overall offensive line play. The Gators big man allowed just one sack in 2022.
Cody Mauch, OT/G, North Dakota State
The Bills’ Super Bowl window is open, but for how much longer if the team fails to make investments in the run game? There’s no running back worthy of being drafted here, but there is a lineman who could help beef up the ground game. Mauch played left tackle at NDSU but projects on the inside in the NFL. At 6-5 and 305 pounds, he plays with toughness and strength in the run game. Mauch is coming from a lower level of competition, but his power and agility would immediately improve the Buffalo offensive line and give the team a boost in the passing and running games when the weather turns cold and this offense seems to slow down.
Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
The first of a loaded tight end group comes off the board as the Bengals look to develop an inside passing game to complement the outside talent assembled in Cincinnati. Mayer is a throwback tight end who reminds me of T.J. Hockenson, showcasing an in-line blocking game and terrific seam game as a receiver. Mayer, who is 6-5, 235 pounds, had 67 catches for nine touchdowns in 2022 while playing in an offense without an established quarterback. And while he doesn’t have elite speed or positional versatility, the top-ranked tight end in the class is a tremendous value at this spot, especially with Hayden Hurst hitting free agency.
Keion White, DE, Georgia Tech
Ahead of the Senior Bowl last week, I texted a handful of NFL scouts to ask their opinions on the best player in attendance. Every one of them replied, “Keion White.” Indeed, he impressed all week with power, quickness and traits that point to positional versatility in the NFL. At 6-5 and 280 pounds, White has the power to knock blockers off their spots, but he also showed a nasty spin move and more agility than expected. According to one NFL general manager with whom I spoke, he can play inside as a 3-technique or outside as a head-up defensive end — which is good because New Orleans could lose David Onyemata and Marcus Davenport to free agency. White posted 7.5 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss in 2022.
Derick Hall, DE, Auburn
Kansas City could end up at No. 30 or No. 31, of course, but we’re going off ESPN’s Football Power Index here. Either way, the Chiefs can land a difference-maker. Another huge riser during the week in Mobile, Hall made an impression at weigh-ins with 6-3, 252-pound size, 34⅜-inch arm length and an 83-inch wingspan. He continued to wow once players hit the field, too, with quickness and a long-arm rush move that he counters well with an under move.
Hall isn’t for every scheme, but in Kansas City, he can be the team’s eventual replacement for Frank Clark opposite the fantastic rookie George Karlaftis. As the Chiefs move into the big-salary years of Patrick Mahomes‘ new deal, continuing to find rookie starters and high-end contributors will be key to staying Super Bowl competitive. Hall’s value and upside (16 sacks over the past two seasons) fit what we’ve seen general manager Brett Veach do recently in the draft.
Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
The Eagles got a running back at No. 10 (Bijan Robinson) in this scenario, and some might view this pick as a luxury selection, too. Washington is one of the most impressive players in the draft class from an upside perspective, though. Yes, he was the No. 2 tight end at Georgia behind Brock Bowers and caught just 28 passes for two touchdowns in 2022, but scouts are in love with the potential he brings at 6-7 and 270 pounds with open-field agility, speed, length and power.
“I’ve never seen a tight end with his size, strength and speed,” said one longtime area scout at the Senior Bowl. Washington immediately gives Jalen Hurts a post-up option in the red zone, and, given his ability as a blocker, he will quickly provide Philadelphia the chance to run two-tight end sets; Washington and Dallas Goedert would create a ton of mismatches.
ROUND 2
John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota
The Steelers need an offensive line makeover, and Schmitz is my top-ranked center and a legitimate top-32 prospect. His quickness and power as a second-level blocker were on display at the Senior Bowl and would immediately help the Pittsburgh unit.
Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah
After landing a quarterback and wide receiver in Round 1, the Texans could keep the offensive theme going by selecting a tight end with huge potential in Kincaid. His back injury has to be vetted, but his run-and-catch ability makes him perfect for today’s NFL. Kincaid has the highest floor as a pass-catcher from this loaded tight end group — as long as he’s healthy.
Steve Avila, G, TCU
Many things need remaking in Arizona, but it all starts with the offensive line. Every position outside of left tackle D.J. Humphries could be upgraded and should be looked at closely this offseason. Avila impressed at the Senior Bowl with his power and how well he pulled and trapped in run-game drills. The Cardinals need a coach before we can talk scheme, but Avila fits any offense.
Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College
As part of our projected trade at the top of Round 1, the Bears regain their early-Round 2 pick, too, and immediately go about adding help for quarterback Justin Fields. No Bears wideout reached 500 yards in 2022, so this is a big need. Flowers, who participated in the Shrine Game, has powerful speed to take the top off a defense, and he scored 12 touchdowns on 78 catches in 2022. Even at 5-9 and 182 pounds, he can open up the field.
0:29
Zay Flowers eludes defenders for the spin-cycle TD
Zay Flowers can’t be brought down as he hits the spin cycle for the Boston College touchdown.
BJ Ojulari, DE, LSU
Positional value comes into play here, and with no left tackle of value on the board, the front office pivots to pass-rusher. Ojulari (6-3, 250 pounds) had 12.5 sacks the past two seasons while playing off the edge of the LSU defense and wearing the famed No. 18 jersey awarded to a team leader.
Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson
The Seahawks added a defensive end and receiver in Round 1 and now double back to the defensive line to build a wall against NFC West offenses. Bresee has injury questions — he missed time with a kidney issue — and his tape wasn’t as good in 2022 as it was in the past. But he has potential as a three-down defensive lineman at 3- or 5-technique.
Trenton Simpson, ILB, Clemson
The Raiders seemingly have an annual need to improve the middle of the defense, and Simpson is a threat at linebacker with pass-rush, cover and run-defense ability. The 6-3 240-pounder had 12.5 sacks, 24.5 tackles for loss and 161 total tackles over the past three years while also proving to be a menace in pass coverage.
DJ Turner, CB, Michigan
The selection of quarterback C.J. Stroud in Round 1 would give the Panthers an anchor, but now the team must find answers throughout the rest of the roster. Scouts expect Turner to be one of the winners of the combine, thanks to his world-class speed and agility. The Panthers have Jaycee Horn on one side and Donte Jackson in the slot, and adding Turner would make this a formidable young cornerback group.
Tuli Tuipulotu, DT, USC
A quarterback would be the dream here, but I don’t have a high Round 2 grade on any left on the board. Instead, the Saints could continue to add to the defensive line. Tuipulotu led the NCAA with 13.5 sacks and is an instant-impact pass-rushing interior lineman with quickness and an ability to cut through gaps.
Will McDonald IV, DE, Iowa State
The Titans are also impacted by the lack of talent at quarterback and wide receiver in this range, so they could bank on the depth at pass-rusher in this class and get a Year 1 contributor in McDonald. At 241 pounds, McDonald weighed in above expectations at the Senior Bowl. His quickness, loose hips and burst off the snap were notable throughout practice, too. The Titans have routinely missed on outside pass-rushers and would need McDonald to step right into the lineup.
Mazi Smith, DT, Michigan
The Browns’ first pick in the 2023 draft aims to shore up holes in the defense. Smith is one of the most impressive movers in the defensive tackle class and has NFL scouts talking about his rare short-area burst and power. However, 6-3, 337-pound Smith had just one sack in 2022, and teams will be doing their homework on his misdemeanor gun possession charge from October.
Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M
A do-it-all safety with impressive height-weight-speed numbers at 6-3, 195 pounds, Johnson can play free safety or nickel cornerback. And some NFL scouts say they even believe his length is suited to play outside corner. The Jets’ need for a playmaking free safety makes Johnson a great fit.
Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
The Falcons have two big pass-catching targets with Drake London and Kyle Pitts but need an intermediate option who can spark the offense with speed. Downs plays exclusively in the slot, where his burst and balance allow him to beat up cornerbacks on underneath routes with after-the-catch ability. He had 94 catches and 11 touchdowns this season.
Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State
The Packers won’t draft pass-catchers in the first round, but they love them in Round 2. With Robert Tonyan set to hit free agency, it’s time to think about an upgrade. Musgrave was the best tight end at the Senior Bowl and looks like a faster Mark Andrews at 6-6 and 255 pounds with sure hands, very good strength in the blocking game and the size to post up defenders across the middle.
Matthew Bergeron, OT, Syracuse
Bergeron would fill a huge need at a massive value. At 6-5 and 323 pounds, he doesn’t have the quickness for every team, but his power and length show up routinely. Trent Brown has only one more season under contract, and Isaiah Wynn will be a free agent this spring.
Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami-FL
The most impressive cornerback at the Senior Bowl has a shot at Round 1 on the back of expectations that he will perform well at the combine. Stevenson’s speed is easy to see, but his length and physicality in coverage stood out in Mobile, too. The Commanders’ need for an outside cornerback with speed to stay in phase matches what Stevenson brings to the table.
Sam LaPorta, TE, Iowa
The Lions traded T.J. Hockenson to the Vikings in November and can add his replacement with the surprising availability of LaPorta at this spot. He is a fantastic move blocker and a stellar receiver over the middle, and he has enough after-the-catch ability to project as a starter. LaPorta had just five touchdowns in college, but like his NFL comparison Dawson Knox, he looks to be a better pro than college player.
Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
The Steelers got a cornerback and a center with their first two picks and now find a left tackle of the future here. Harrison could be a target for teams earlier on Day 2 thanks to great length, fluid movement and a lot of upside. He’s 6-5 and 315 pounds, and NFL scouts I’ve spoken to say they believe he’ll continue to improve once he gets in an NFL conditioning and strength program.
Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland
A rebuild in Tampa meant a starting cornerback in Round 1, and the Bucs can look for an eventual replacement for Donovan Smith in Round 2. Duncan, who can play right tackle in the meantime, did well at the Senior Bowl, displaying solid movement skills at 6-5 and 298 pounds. His college tape reminds me of Brian O’Neill, a left tackle who moved to the right side in Minnesota and has been a top-five performer there.
Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
The Dolphins’ first pick in this draft could focus on cornerback.The team’s best corner in 2022 was undrafted free agent Kader Kohou, so despite the presence of Xavien Howard and Byron Jones, it could use some support there. Smith is lean at 188 pounds on a 6-foot frame but has good instincts and quick feet. And he had six interceptions over the past three years at South Carolina.
Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee
Seattle makes a move toward the future at quarterback, landing Hooker, who is arguably the best deep-ball thrower in the draft. He is an older prospect (25) and is coming off a November ACL injury, but over the past two seasons at Tennessee, he has thrown 58 touchdown passes to just five interceptions while constantly challenging defenses down the field. Hooker is no sure thing, but he’s a great investment at pick No. 52 to learn behind Geno Smith (assuming Seattle re-signs its starter) while getting healthy.
0:55
Hendon Hooker finds a wide-open Jalin Hyatt for a 55-yard Tennessee TD
Jalin Hyatt hauls in the dime from Hendon Hooker and finds pay dirt to quickly put the Volunteers on the board.
Zach Harrison, DE, Ohio State
The Bears’ defense needs a 3-technique, and it got one in Round 1 with Jalen Carter. But it also needs a big, powerful edge rusher and finds that player in Round 2 with a former five-star recruit. Harrison, who is 6-6, 272 pounds, had his best season in 2022 with 3.5 sacks and 25 pressures. He’s an easy projection to defensive end next to Carter after the Bears finished last in the NFL in sacks (20).
Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor
Los Angeles went edge rusher in Round 1 and tries to fix the run defense with Ika — the draft’s best nose tackle — here. He is massive (6-4 and 358 pounds) and fits the modern nose tackle projection with his size, power, length and surprising quickness when allowed to rush the passer. The Chargers gave up 5.4 yards per rush last season, by far the worst in the NFL.
Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama
The running back room in Detroit is highly dependent on Jamaal Williams, who is hitting free agency as he turns 28. Williams might be back on a short-term deal, but D’Andre Swift hasn’t developed into a true RB1 candidate. Gibbs, a fantastic receiver out of the backfield and a slashing runner, was compared to Alvin Kamara by one scout I talked to recently, although I see more Tony Pollard in him.
Rashee Rice, WR, SMU
The trade for suspended wide receiver Calvin Ridley bolsters an emerging pass-catcher group, but the Jaguars can’t yet count on Ridley immediately being an impact; he hasn’t played football since October 2021. Rice fits no matter Ridley’s status, as he can play outside receiver and attack 50-50 balls with good after-the-catch ability. He had 96 catches, 1,355 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2022.
Joe Tippmann, C, Wisconsin
Tippmann can be coach Brian Daboll’s New York version of Mitch Morse as an agile center who can pull, trap and lead block in the run game while captaining the offensive line. Tippmann could be drafted higher than this in April based on team need, as he’s my No. 2-ranked center in the class.
Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah
Finding a starting outside cornerback opposite Trevon Diggs — standout rookie DaRon Bland played primarily in the slot — should be on Dallas’ short list for the offseason. Phillips had six interceptions in 2022, and he has the toughness and instincts to excel playing inside or outside cornerback at 5-10 and 183 pounds. No, he doesn’t have ideal NFL size, but his on-the-ball production over the past two seasons proves he can make an impact.
Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland
After addressing the interior offensive line in Round 1, the Bills could tend to a true need on defense with a cornerback. Tre’Davious White is expected to be better this coming season once he’s further removed from a knee injury, but there is a hole opposite him. Banks, a 6-2 cornerback around 210 pounds, had just one interception in college but has the height, length and speed to develop into a starter.
Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
Three straight cornerbacks come off the board as teams try to find the answer to three-deep receiver groups like the one Cincinnati has in its own locker room. The Bengals have three cornerbacks, including starter Eli Apple, set to hit free agency in a year in which quarterback Joe Burrow is likely to get a new deal. Ringo, who had four picks over the past two seasons, has the best physical traits of any corner in this class, but his struggles in man coverage could push him to late in Round 2.
Tyler Scott, WR, Cincinnati
Quarterback and cornerback have been added to the Panthers’ depth chart, leaving wide receiver as the biggest remaining need. DJ Moore is a talented player and capable WR1, but depth is a problem. Scott is a deep threat with big-play potential and a ton of chunk plays. He scored nine touchdowns and averaged 16.7 yards per catch in 2022.
Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State
The Chiefs’ 2023 draft class continues to focus on the future, and GM Veach can take advantage of a deep tight end class. Travis Kelce is still the best tight end in football, but he’ll turn 34 early next season. Kraft is a 6-5, 255-pound three-down player who, like Kelce, can move between in-line and the slot. He’s not quite the run-after-catch threat that No. 87 is, but Kraft moves very well in space and has the size to box out defenders over the middle.
Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin
With Fletcher Cox set to hit free agency at age 32, the Eagles can start thinking about the future next to Jordan Davis. Benton was one of the winners of Senior Bowl week after showcasing his pass-rush ability and proving he has the quickness to play 3-technique in the NFL.
