Welcome to my 2023 NFL Mock Draft. It's become an annual obsession, mainly out of enjoyment of watching the college tape and reviewing the teams off-season moves. As with most mock drafts, the predictions are largely inaccurate but hopefully follow some logic. It's my 10th year doing this and as ever it's an interesting Day One ahead.
The make-up of this years draft class is interesting. There is some really good depth in the class, but perhaps a lack of top-end prospects. It's a valid argument that there may be little discernible difference between the middle of the first round to the back-end of Round Two. How this influences teams draft strategies will be intriguing. Do teams strive to get into the top 10-15 picks or look to stockpile more Day Two picks and draft in quantity?
The main storylines revolve around the QB's. There are 4-5 possible Day One picks and a real choice between production and potential. There are the ongoing sagas around Lamar Jackson and Aaron Rodgers that could also influence draft day decisions around the QB's. Throw into the mix that Jalen Carter, arguably the drafts top ranked player overall, has several off-field questions and that the first 4 selections involve teams with new Head Coaches in charge (and 8 of the first 10 picks have a GM or HC entering their 2nd year or less) and it's a VERY difficult Day One to project.
There's some really good depth at corner and running back and the tight end class could prove the best for some time.... Onto the Mock . . . .
1) Carolina Panthers (via Chicago)
The Panthers revolving door of below average QB's certainly contributed in no small part to the end of the Matt Rhule (11-27) era. With a new HC in place and their best player Christian McCaffrey shipped to the 49ers, the Front Office needs this draft to pan out. They moved swiftly to secure the #1 spot. It IS a QB that the Panthers select here.
Offseason additions : QB Andy Dalton (New Orleans), RB Miles Sanders (Philadelphia), WR Adam Thielen (Minnesota), WR D.J Chark (Detroit), WR Damiere Byrd (Atlanta), TE Hayden Hurst (Cincinnati), OG Justin McCray (Houston), S Vonn Bell (Cincinnati), DT Shy Tuttle (New Orleans), DE DeShawn Williams (Denver)
Offseason losses : WR D.J Moore (t-Chicago), QB Sam Darnold (San Francisco), QB Phillip Walker (Chicago), RB D'Onta Foreman (Chicago), LB Cory Littleton (Houston), K Zane Gonzalez (t-San Francisco)
The opening selection of the draft and there isn't an obvious unanimous choice. There are possibly 4 passers likely to go in the early part of Day One but none of the class come without their flaws. Is it the highly accurate C.J Stroud from Ohio State, the diminutive playmaker Bryce Young out of Alabama, Florida's freakishly gifted Anthony Richardson or the big arm of Will Levis from Kentucky?
Stroud began as the favourite option. He is arguably the safer pick at the position but possibly without the high end potential. He shows a real smooth passing action and was the most accurate passer in college football this last year. However, there's an argument that the supporting cast elevated Stroud rather than the other way round (he's thrown to Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Marvin Harrison Jr these last few years, two of which are already first round picks and the others very likely to follow suit in 2023 and 2024).
Bryce Young is now trending towards being that first passer off the board. The 2021 Heisman Trophy winner is a complete anomaly. Everyone knows about the height issues, and at only 5'10 he may be off some teams radars, but it's his slender frame that causes most concern. There are precedents of smaller QB's having success, but they are few and far between. Kyler Murray may be the closest recent comparison, but Young is noticeably more slight than Murray, whose shown durability issues the last 2 seasons.
Despite the size concerns, it looks likely that the Panthers will select Bryce Young. Coincidentally, the Panthers will be using Chicago's #1 pick to select the lightest first round QB since the Bears drafted Jim McMahon in 1982
The pick : QB Bryce Young (Alabama)
My Take : Personally, I'd swing for Anthony Richardson but understand that Young is a high character, exciting playmaker who will become the face of the Panthers.
2) Houston Texans
Another new HC in Houston and another early draft pick. The Texans lost out on the #1 pick with a 32-31 Wk18 win over the Colts and now must sit and wait to see if their top prospect remains after the Panthers pick
Offseason additions : S Jimmie Ward (San Francisco), Sheldon Rankins (NY Jets), TE Dalton Schultz (Dallas), OG Shaq Mason (t-Tampa Bay), QB Case Keenum (Buffalo), FB Andrew Beck (Denver), DT Hassan Ridgeway (San Francisco), RB Devin Singletary (Buffalo), RB Mike Boone (Denver), LB Denzel Perryman (Las Vegas), WR Noah Brown (Dallas), LB Cory Littleton (Carolina), DE Chase Winovich (Cleveland)
Offseason losses : DE Ogbonnia Okoronkwo (Cleveland), CB Tremon Smith (Denver), WR Brandin Cooks (t-Dallas), TE Jordan Akins (Cleveland), DE Rasheem Green (Chicago), OG Justin McCray (Carolina), LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin (Detroit), TE O.J Howard (Las Vegas), QB Kyle Allen (Buffalo), WR Phillip Dorsett (Las Vegas), QB Jeff Driskel (Arizona)
The Texans have done some very sensible things this offseason in anticipation of a rookie QB. OT Laremy Tunsil was extended and veteran additions were made at TE in Dalton Schultz, WR with Robert Woods and RB Devin Singletary. The team did sign Case Keenum in the offseason but it's hardly a sexy option to wow the fanbase with new GM and HC in place.
I wonder how much Carolina's pick will influence Houston's? I don't know who the Texans prefer, but if their #1 choice isn't available, would they be OK with their 2nd ranked QB? Maybe there isn't pressure on the new regime to win immediately or provide the hope that an exciting new QB brings. Caleb Williams is likely to be available in 2024 and Houston already have two first round picks next year.
I'm going to assume that the Texans do fill that obvious need at QB. C.J Stroud began to answer questions around his mobility and improvisation skills with a sterling performance against Georgia in the college playoffs and whilst that's a very small sample size it's maybe shown enough to convince that there is more to come from C.J Stroud
The pick : QB C.J Stroud (Ohio State)
My Take : The QB pick makes a lot of sense but Stroud won't have the weapons he's been used to at Ohio State. Is he good enough to overcome with a lesser supporting cast and much tougher opposition?
3) Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals roster is arguably the worst in the NFL right now and they have a new GM in Monti Ossenfort and a new HC in Jonathan Gannon. They have no mean feat in attempting to turnaround thisfranchise. Gannon goes from having arguably the NFL's best D-line at his disposal to quite possibly the leagues worst. With a QB in place, albeit one who could miss significant time in 2023, they potentially have an opportunity at #3 to obtain much needed draft capital
Offseason additions : LB Kyzir White (Philadelphia), OC Hjalte Froholdt (Cleveland), WR Zach Pascal (Philadelphia), OT Dennis Daley (Tennessee), DE Carlos Watkins (Dallas), CB Kris Boyd (Minnesota), OG Elijah Wilkinson (Atlanta), CB Rashad Fenton (Atlanta), QB Jeff Driskel (Houston), LB Josh Woods (Detroit), DE L.J Collier (Seattle)
Offseason losses : DE Zach Allen (Denver), CB Byron Murphy (Minnesota), WR Chosen Anderson (Miami), LB Camu Grugier-Hill (Carolina), QB Trace McSorley (New England), OT Joshua Miles (Atlanta)
With two passers off the board does a QB needy team get twitchy? It's no secret the Colts have QB interest at #4. Some team could look to leapfrog them here. The Colts may even want to trade places just to avoid this scenario.
With a no-trade policy in place on my mock, consequently the Cardinals have the pick of the best non-QB options in the draft.
These options probably boil down to either interior D-line or edge rusher. These premium positions coincide with a franchise need after losing Zach Allen in free agency and the retirement of J.J Watt at the close of the '22 season.
I think Jalen Carter certainly has viable consideration unless his previous legal issues, off-field risks and unremarkable pro day have caused concerns. The alternative option may feel a little safer as a result, with Alabama's Will Anderson Jr. a consistently productive guy and much safer off-field pick.
Carter has elite power and quickness and is arguably the best Georgia lineman from the team which saw Travon Walker (#1), Jordan Davis (#13), Devonte Wyatt (#28) all become 1st round picks in 2022.
The pick : DT Jalen Carter (Georgia)
My Take : I feel the Cardinals will really want to trade out of this pick, but without takers, and with the luxury of being a new GM, assuming due diligence, why not roll the dice and pick the best player irrespective of the risk?
4) Indianapolis Colts
The Colts crumbled from favourites for the AFC South to a 4-12-1 record. GM Chris Ballard is on the hot seat and first year HC Shane Steichen will likely be opening wk1 of the season with the Colts starting a different QB on opening day for the 6th consecutive season. It's no hidden secret that the Colts are very interested in finding a QB here with the hope of some stability at the position that it's lacked since Andrew Luck's shock retirement in 2018
Offseason additions : DE Samson Ebukam (San Francisco), K Matt Gay (LA Rams), DT Taven Bryan (Cleveland), QB Gardner Minshew (Philadelphia), WR Isaiah McKenzie (Buffalo), TE Pharaoh Brown (Cleveland),
Offseason losses : CB Stephon Gilmore (t-Dallas), LB Bobby Okereke (NY Giants), CB Brandon Facyson (Las Vegas), WR Parris Campbell (NY Giants), K Chase McLaughlin (Tampa Bay), OG Matt Pryor (San Francisco), DT Bryan Cowart (KC)
With the two more productive college QB's off the board, the Colts are left with the choice of Anthony Richardson or Will Levis if they're focusing on QB. Both have cannon arms but questions marks.
Levis has the big arm but suffered a lacklustre 2022 in Kentucky. Maybe his prospects were dinted by playing through injury but they weren't helped by a below par supporting cast and ill-fitting offensive scheme.
Richardson has been compared to former Panthers 1st rounder Cam Newton (#1 overall in 2011) but its not an exact comparison. They're certainly both well built, supremely talented athletes. Richardson is arguably the most physically gifted we've ever seen at the position. However, he has only 13 starts in college, whereas Newton's 2010 season at Auburn remains one of the greatest feats seen in college football of a QB elevating talent level around him.
Richardson's combine performance was other worldly and he's a better passer than he's given credit for. He has the tools to truly excel. They are the tools of the modern NFL QB.
The pick : QB Anthony Richardson (Florida)
My Take : Richardson would be a massive gamble but HC Shane Steichen has experience developing Jalen Hurts. I love this pick for the Colts who have a serviceable QB in Gardner Minshew to bridge part of the season if Richardson isn't ready come Week 1. He could be eased into sub packages to ensure he gathers on field experience as a rookie. If your goal is Superbowl or bust...... he really could deliver either.
5) Seattle Seahawks (via Denver)
This pick comes from part of the Russell Wilson trade that was expected to commence a complete rebuild in Seattle but instead saw the surprisingly competitive Seahawks make playoff football. They're in unfamiliar drafting territory, it's the highest pick for the franchise since 2009.
Offseason additions : DT Dre'Mont Jones (Denver), S Julian Love (NY Giants), DE Jarran Reed (Green Bay), LB Bobby Wagner (LA Rams), LB Devin Bush (Pittsburgh), OG Evan Brown (Detroit)
Offseason losses : RB Rashaad Penny (Philadelphia), RB Travis Homer (Chicago), DT Quinton Jefferson (NY Jets), LB Cody Barton (Washington), WR Marquise Goodwin (Cleveland), S Ryan Neal (Tampa Bay), DE L.J Collier (Arizona), S Johnathan Abram (New Orleans), LB Tanner Muse (Pittsburgh), DT Poona Ford (free agent)
The early picks are probably the best scenario for Seattle and a great BPA/positional need match. Anderson has been consistently productive during his 3 years at Alabama, posting 34.5 sacks throughout his college career. He's more than a one dimensional edge though as he's solid against the run also. He would appear to be one of the safer picks of the draft class.
The Pick : EDGE Will Anderson (Alabama)
My Take : Anderson's spent the last few years being discussed as a top 5 pick and the fact that his 10 sacks in 2022 were considered 'underwhelming' speaks volumes of both his consistency and his brilliance in 2021. The Seahawks get the most polished edge player of this years draft class
6) Detroit Lions (via LA Rams)
The Lions turned around a disastrous 1-6 start to the season to run out 8-2 and will start 2023 full of optimism. The NFL's 4th ranked offense needs more support from the league's 32nd ranked defense. Whilst the focus in free agency was to address the secondary, the defense will surely continue to be the focus of this years draft and the Lions pick at #6 and #18 on Day One
Offseason additions : CB Cam Sutton (Pittsburgh), RB David Montgomery (Chicago), DB Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (Philadelphia), CB Emmanuel Moseley (San Francisco), OG Graham Glasgow (Denver), WR Marvin Jones (Jacksonville), LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin (Houston), LS Jake McQuaide (Dallas)
Offseason losses : RB Jamaal Williams (New Orleans), CB Jeff Okudah (t-Atlanta), CB Mike Hughes (Atlanta), WR DJ Chark (Carolina), LB Chris Board (New England), OG Evan Brown (Seattle), S Deshon Elliott (Miami), LB Josh Woods (Arizona), CB Amani Oruwariye (NY Giants), DE Austin Bryant (San Francisco)
This is a tough one to call. Devon Witherspoon looks a Dan Campbell type player. Physical and aggressive, playing well above his size. However, the Lions addressed a revamp of the secondary via free agency and whilst some of the contracts were prove-it deals, this may guide the team more towards an edge to play opposite 2022 1st rounder Aidan Hutchison.
The pick : EDGE Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech)
My Take : Wilson is a love him or hate him pick in this draft. Physically and athletically impressive, he'll need to develop some more refined pass rush skills but in a 'good' class that doesn't appear to have too many 'great' players, Wilson has sackfulls of potential (pardon the pun!)
7) Las Vegas Raiders
Just who are the Las Vegas Raiders? The team regressed to 6-11 last year following a trip to the playoffs in 2021. They did lose 9 of 11 games by less than a score but appear to have downgraded some positions in the offseason to surround Josh McDaniels with 'his guys'. They hope this will be a case of addition by subtraction. Time will tell.
Offseason additions : QB Jimmy Garoppolo (San Francisco), WR Jakobi Meyers (New England), S Marcus Epps (Philadephia), TE Austin Hooper (Cleveland), TE O.J Howard (Houston), WR Deandre Carter (LA Chargers), LB Robert Spillane (Pittsburgh), CB Brandon Facyson (Indianapolis), QB Brian Hoyer (New England), LS Jacob Bobenmoyer (Denver), CB David Long (LA Rams), DT John Jenkins (Miami), CB Duke Shelley (Minnesota), S Jaquan Johnson (Buffalo), WR Cam Sims (Washington), WR Phillip Dorsett (Houston), DE Jordan Willis (San Francisco)
Offseason losses : QB Derek Carr (New Orleans), TE Darren Waller (t-NY Giants), QB Jarrett Stidham (Denver), DT Andrew Billings (Chicago), LB Denzel Perryman (Houston), WR Mack Hollins (Atlanta), DE Clelin Ferrell (San Francisco), CB Sidney Jones (Cincinnati), OT Jackson Barton (Arizona), LS Trent Sieg (Dallas), TE Foster Moreau (free agent)
There is talk of the Raiders interest in a QB and the 3-year Jimmy Garoppolo deal does give the Raiders opportunities for manoeuvre beyond year 1. However, the most pressing needs are defending the pass, especially when playing Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert twice each a year.
I think Cornerback and Edge Rusher are understandably primary areas of need. The Raiders do not have a CB1 on the roster and may hope they can squeeze another year out of Chandler Jones opposite Maxx Crosby. With this in mind, I'll have the Raiders picking the in-your-face corner
The pick : CB Devon Witherspoon (Illinois)
My Take : Witherspoon doesn't compare athletically with some of the other corners, so #6 may seem a touch early, but you only have to watch Witherspoon's tape to love his competitive play style and despite his size, he can lay the wood in the run defense too
8) Atlanta Falcons
It appears the Falcons intend to enter 2023 with Desmond Ridder at QB, but the Falcons are back in Groundhog Day with their perennial need for an edge rusher. The Front Office preach BPA in the draft so the selection may depend on whether the Falcons have any of the remaining edge rushers in their top 10.
Offseason additions : S Jessie Bates (Cincinnati), DE Calais Campbell (Baltimore), DT David Onyemata (New Orleans), LB Kaden Elliss (New Orleans), LB Bud Dupree (Tennessee), CB Jeff Okudah (t-Detroit), CB Mike Hughes (Detroit), WR Mack Hollins (Las Vegas), TE Jonnu Smith (t-New England), QB Taylor Heineke (Washington), WR Scotty Miller (Tampa Bay), LB Tae Davis (Cleveland), OT Joshua Miles (Arizona), DE Joe Gaziano (LA Chargers), OT Ethan Greenidge (New Orleans)
Offseason losses : WR Olamide Zaccheaus (Philadelphia), CB Isaiah Oliver (San Francisco), OG Elijah Wilkerson (Arizona), QB Marcus Mariota (Philadelphia), DE Abdullah Anderson (Washington), CB Mike Ford (Cleveland), WR Damiere Byrd (Carolina), CB Rashad Fenton (Arizona), OT Chuma Odoga (Dallas)
With Anderson and Wilson off the board, do Atlanta have any other edge rushers ranked in their top 10? Nolan Smith is a possibility but feels a better fit in Dean Pees system than new DC Ryan Nielsen's.
RB Bijan Robinson has been muted as a possibility but with only 5 RB's drafted in the top 10 in the last decade (Saquon Barkley #2 in 2018, Leonard Fournette #4 and Christian McCaffrey #8 in 2017, Ezekiel Elliott #4 in 2016 and Todd Gurley #10 in 2015) the market value of RB's make high 1st round picks seemingly less likely each year. The better value picks are at cornerback or on the O-line.
The option I think the Falcons seriously consider is LT Peter Skoronski who is probably better suited inside at Guard, a position of immediate need in Atlanta. However, I think the Falcons instead look to Oregon's Christian Gonzalez, a cornerback seemingly made in a laboratory and not too dissimilar to the recent traded for Jeff Okudah.
The pick : CB Christian Gonzalez (Oregon)
My Take : Although slightly disappointed it's not Bijan purely for watchability, Gonzalez is added to a secondary that is quietly becoming a strength. He potentially forms a formidable corner tandem with A.J Terrell. The Falcons must still somehow generate pressure on opposing QB's but I'm happy if they don't force a pick
9) Chicago Bears (via Carolina)
The Bears 3-14 record 'earned' Chicago the #1 pick for the first time since 1947. The early trade out of the pick shows faith in Justin Fields and the acquisition of DJ Moore as part of the deal gives Fields a true WR1 he's lacked so far. GM Ryan Poles began to spend in free agency but needs to provide a much better supporting cast for Fields and 2nd yr HC Matt Eberflus.
Offseason additions : WR DJ Moore (t-Carolina), LB Tremaine Edmunds (Buffalo), OG Nate Davis (Tennessee), DE DeMarcus Walker (Tennessee), DT Andrew Billings (Las Vegas), RB D'Onta Foreman (Carolina), TE Robert Tonyan (Green Bay), QB Phillip Walker (Carolina), RB Travis Homer (Seattle), DE Rasheem Green (Houston), LB Dylan Cole (Tennessee)
Offseason losses : RB David Montgomery (Detroit), OT Riley Reiff (New England), DT Armon Watts (Pittsburgh), FB Trevon Wesco (Tennessee), LB Matthew Adams (Cleveland), LB Nicholas Morrow (Philadelphia)
The logical selection is for the Bears to provide some much needed protection for Justin Fields that has been sorely lacking in his pro career to date. The best O-lineman is arguably Peter Skoronski but his much mentioned shorter arms seem to necessitate a move inside. The Bears ideally need a bona fide Tackle, so I'd argue that Ohio State's Paris Johnson would be the preferred candidate. The wildcard could even be the Tennessee's huge RT Darnell Wright who is rumoured to be moving up draft boards.
The pick : OT Paris Johnson (Ohio State)
My Take : Need pick. Good college programme. Johnson is relatively raw but highly athletic and moves well in both the run and pass games.
10) Philadelphia Eagles (via New Orleans)
It almost seems unfair that the NFC Champions return one of the NFL's best rosters and have two Day One picks to strengthen further. GM Howie Roseman continues to provide a championship calibre roster though may begin to become more squeezed on the salary cap in coming years following QB Jalen Hurts 5-yr $255m contract signing pre-draft. The Eagles are always one step ahead though and the contract will likely be tiered to coincide with the upcoming TV contracts and subsequent salary cap hikes.
Offseason additions : S Terrell Edmunds (Pittsburgh), RB Rashaad Penny (Seattle), WR Olamide Zaccheaus (Atlanta), CB Greedy Williams (Cleveland), QB Marcus Mariota (Atlanta), S Justin Evans (New Orleans), DE Kentavius Street (New Orleans), LB Nicholas Morrow (Chicago)
Offseason losses : DT Javon Hargrave (San Francisco), RB Miles Sanders (Carolina), OG Isaac Seumalo (Pittsburgh), OT Andre Dillard (Tennessee), LB TJ Edwards (Chicago), LB Kyzir White (Arizona), S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (Detroit), S Marcus Epps (Las Vegas), WR Zach Pascal (Arizona), QB Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis)
There's so many options open to the Eagles here. At the skill positions, would they consider Bijan Robinson, or even one of the myriad of Tight Ends from this group? I think it more likely they stick to the mantra of building through the trenches. Yes I'd consider O-line, but I think it more likely they add to the defensive rotation as some of the stalwarts begin to age.
The pick : EDGE Nolan Smith (Georgia)
My Take : Undersized edge you say? The exact same knock on Haason Reddick, he of 16 sacks last year for this defense. Smith is a high character, high motor player with a ton of upside. His college production wasn't great in that stellar Georgia defense but it's possible this was more due to scheme than the player.
11) Tennessee Titans
New GM Ran Carthon comes in on the back of the Titans first losing season (7-10) since 2015 which saw the team close out the year with a 7 game losing streak. A host of injuries certainly contributed to the freefall but he has a big job addressing the leagues 32nd ranked pass defense and aging performers at the skill positions on offense. Ryan Tannehill will be 35 by opening day and whilst Derrick Henry put up over 1,500 rushing yards last year, he enters his 8th year at RB with over 2,000 touches on the clock.
Offseason additions : LB Arden Key (Jacksonville), OT Andre Dillard (Philadephia), OT Daniel Brunskill (San Francisco), LB Azeez Al-Shaair (San Francisco), LB Luke Gifford (Dallas), CB Sean Bunting (Tampa Bay), WR Chris Moore (Houston), FB Trevon Wesco (Chicago), LB Ben Niemann (Arizona),
Offseason losses : OG Nate Davis (Chicago), DE DeMarcus Walker (Chicago), WR Robert Woods (Houston), LB David Long (Miami), OT Dennis Daley (Arizona), LB Bud Dupree (Atlanta), TE Austin Hooper (Las Vegas), LB Dylan Cole (Chicago), CB Lonnie Johnson (New Orleans), DT Kevin Strong (Arizona), OT Le'Raven Clark (Pittsburgh), OT Taylor Lewan (free agent)
The Titans could consider WR here to partner 2022 1st rounder Treylon Burks or they could look to the trenches. I also have Will Levis on the board and a new GM could want his own QB despite the franchise selecting Malik Willis last year. However, it all starts up front and the Titans may take advantage of the highest graded lineman Peter Skoronski slipping out of the top 10. The Titans made some signings in free agency to bolster the line, but it's about getting your best 5 linemen on the field and I'd project Skoronski switching to Guard as a rookie
The pick : OL Peter Skoronski (Northwestern)
My Take : Skoronski should be ready to start Day One and with Tannehill and Henry nearing the end, this is a necessity for the Titans. Whether he's ultimately a Tackle or a Guard is the biggest question.
12) Houston Texans (via Cleveland)
The Texans are back on the board with their 2nd pick and now need to provide their rookie QB with some weapons. The Texans stay in state with Texan born TCU receiver Quentin Johnston.
The pick : WR Quentin Johnston (TCU)
My Take : The receiver class is full of smurf receivers, Johnston being the rarity of a true X-receiver at 6'4. He'll need play more to his size but has the potential to be a WR1
13) Green Bay Packers (via NY Jets)
The Jordan Love era sort of seems to be underway in Wisconsin. The annual offseason Aaron Rodgers saga seemed to come in weekly episodes but finally a deal was agreed and Aaron is off to New York. The Packers meanwhile missed the playoffs for the first time of the Matt LaFleur era and with salary cap constraints they were noticeably quiet this offseason. Assuming Love to be the default starter at QB, he currently has two 2nd year WR's and not much else to throw to at all. Could they draft a WR on Day One for the first time since 2002?
Offseason additions : S Tarvarius Moore, LS Matthew Orzech (LA Rams)
Offseason losses : QB Aaron Rodgers (t-NY Jets), WR Allen Lazard (NY Jets), DE Jarran Reed (Seattle), DE Dean Lowry (Minnesota), TE Robert Tonyan (Chicago), LB Krys Barnes (Arizona)
The Packers have gathered additional picks as part of the Rodgers trade and have specific holes to address. Aside from Rodgers, they lost two starting defensive linemen in the offseason, their WR1 and have last years 3rd string TE atop their depth chart.
The TE class is real strong and Green Bay must surely come away with at least one of this rookie group. The depth could mean the Pack feel they can be more patient and address later on but I project them pulling the trigger here. The group has a real good mix, so the Pack here can choose their preferred flavour. Mayer declared early but is a true Y tight end who is a willing and physical blocker and the most prolific tight end in school history at Notre Dame. Whilst he may lack seam splitting speed, he's the most well rounded tight end in a strong class.
The pick : TE Michael Mayer (Notre Dame)
My Take : The Packers offense will naturally evolve in the post Rodgers era. Mayer offers versatility at the position and would see plenty of opportunities in this offense as Love's safety blanket.
14) New England Patriots
The offseason in New England was not without controversy. The rumour mill had the Patriots actively shopping 2nd yr QB Mac Jones, whose relationship with Bill Belichick soured as Jones sought advice outside the organisation. The Patriots seem to have accepted some responsibility for the disconnect with Bill O'Brien replacing Matt Patricia at OC, but Jones is on a short leash.
Offseason additions : WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (KC), OT Calvin Anderson (Denver), LB Chris Board (Detroit), OT Riley Reiff (Chicago), TE Mike Gesicki (Miami), RB James Robinson (NY Jets), QB Trace McSorley (Arizona), P Corliss Waitman (Denver)
Offseason losses : WR Jakobi Meyers (Las Vegas), QB Brian Hoyer (Las Vegas), WR Nelson Agholor (Baltimore), RB Damien Harris (Buffalo), TE Jonnu Smith (t-Atlanta), CB Joejuan Williams (Minnesota), P Jake Bailey (Miami), S Devin McCourty (retired)
With Will Levis still on the board, would the Patriots fire a shot over the bow of Mac Jones?
The Patriots signed Riley Reiff this offseason to presumably man the RT position but at 34 years old he's a stopgap at best. Wright took a leap in performance last year at Tennessee with his switch back to RT (zero sacks allowed in 2022, including an impressive shut-out of Will Anderson) and is a physical, strong lineman who shifts people in the run game. He's got the traits to shift inside to Guard, so that's a potential option as a rookie, if Reiff can hold him off the RT spot.
The pick : OT Darnell Wright (Tennessee)
My Take : Both the Patriots projected starters at Tackle are the wrong side of 30. Wright is a player in his ascendancy.
15) New York Jets
The Jets hopes of reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2010 fell apart with a 6-game losing run to end the season 7-10. The streak included a horrendous finish with no touchdowns through the final 3 games of the season. All the talk during the offseason has been around the trade for QB Aaron Rodgers, which was finally confirmed this week. The Jets stuck to their guns and managed to retain a Day One 2023 pick.
Offseason additions : QB Aaron Rodgers (t-Green Bay), WR Allen Lazard (Green Bay), OG Wes Schweitzer (Washington), WR Mecole Hardman (KC), DT Quinton Jefferson (Seattle), OC Trystan Colon-Castillo (Baltimore), DB Chuck Clark (t-Baltimore), P Thomas Morstead (Miami)
Offseason losses : DE Nathan Shepherd (New Orleans), DT Sheldon Rankins (Houston), OG Nate Herbig (Pittsburgh), WR Elijah Moore (t-Cleveland), QB Mike White (Miami), RB James Robinson (New England), WR Braxton Berrios (Miami), OG Dan Feeney (Miami), WR Jeff Smith (NY Giants)
17 years at Green Bay brought zero 1st round WR's. The Jets make a statement here and go WR. Smith-Njigba is ideally suited to the slot and would provide a solid trio of starting receivers with last years 1st rd pick Garrett Wilson and one of Rodgers favourite targets Allen Lazard who moved to New York this offseason.
The pick : WR Jackson Smith-Njigba (Ohio State)
My Take : Smith-Njigba spent over 80% of his time in the slot in college last year and whilst it's a high pick for a slot receiver, it's a good fit for the offense.
16) Washington Commanders
The Commanders were another team relatively restrained in offseason moves. The imminent sale of the franchise surely contributing to their conservative approach although money was invested into the O-line. Surprisingly HC Ron Rivera proclaimed 2022 5th rounder Sam Howell his starting QB on the back of one start as a rookie, with Jacoby Brissett signed as veteran insurance, so it wouldn't appear that the team are in the market for a Day One QB.
Offseason additions : OT Andrew Wylie (KC), OG Nick Gates (NY Giants), OG Trenton Scott (Pittsburgh), QB Jacoby Brissett (Cleveland), LB Cody Barton (Seattle), DE Abdullah Anderson (Atlanta)
Offseason losses : LB Cole Holcomb (Pittsburgh), QB Taylor Heineke (Atlanta), OG Wes Schweitzer (NY Jets), CB Bobby McCain (NY Giants), WR Cam Sims (Las Vegas), OG Wes Martin (Cleveland)
There's a strong need for re-enforcements in the secondary but Bijan Robinson is arguably one of the top 5 players in the draft and a potential difference maker for an offense that intends to run with a 2nd-yr QB with only 1 NFL start.
Robinson is a complete back, comfortable as a runner or receiver with great vision and instincts. He improved each year, rushing for over 1500 yards with 18 rushing TD's in his final year at Texas Tech
The pick : RB Bijan Robinson (Texas Tech)
My Take : Robinson will provide a boost for whichever team drafts him. The Commanders have bolstered their O-line and now have the talented bell-cow to run behind it.
17) Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers extended Mike Tomlin's winning seasons streak to 16 years but it did take a 7-2 finish to maintain. The 2022 season was always likely to be a transition year with rookie QB Kenny Pickett starting from Wk5. He struggled early but showed enough improvement for the Steelers to be quietly optimistic.
Offseason additions : LB Cole Holcomb (Washington), CB Patrick Peterson (Minnesota), OG Nate Herbig (NY Jets), WR Allen Robinson (t-LA Rams), LB Elandon Roberts (Miami), S Keanu Neal (Tampa Bay), DT Armon Watts (Chicago), OT Le'Raven Clark (Tennessee), LB Tanner Muse (Seattle), DT Breiden Fehoko (LA Chargers)
Offseason losses : CB Cam Sutton (Detroit), LB Robert Spillane (Las Vegas), LB Devin Bush (Seattle), S Terrell Edmunds (Philadelphia), WR Steve Sims (Houston), LB Malik Reed (Miami), OC JC Hassenauer (NY Giants)
The Steelers most pressing need is probably a LT to replace Dan Moore Jr. However, I could also see an edge rusher or a cornerback at #17. Certainly Joey Porter Jr being available within this draft class makes for a good storyline and he's someone Mike Tomlin knows well and a name Steelers fans will remember fondly.
However, I feel that the run on OT's and the overall depth of the CB class makes the priority pick here the Steelers future LT.
The pick : OT Broderick Jones (Georgia)
My Take : Jones has the least number of college snaps of any of the Tackles in this draft class but has the size and raw power to have potential huge upside. It's a need pick for the Steelers.
18) Detroit Lions
The Lions second pick of Day One. Having given the Lions an edge rusher earlier, it's possible they could switch to the offense here and having traded T.J Hockenson to the Vikings in midseason, an upgrade at the position wouldn't hurt.
However, with the Steelers surprisingly not swooping on Joey Porter Jr, the Lions instead pull the trigger. Porter is best suited in man coverage playing bump-and-run. The Lions ran man coverage at the second highest rate in the NFL in 2022. It's not only a great scheme fit but Porter would also have a fantastic tutor in Aaron Glenn in Detroit.
The pick : CB Joey Porter Jr. (Penn State)
My Take : This is a solid player / scheme fit that makes a lot of sense and fills a huge need for the improving Lions.
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers won the NFC South despite a sub .500 record but quickly departed the playoffs with a homefield trouncing by the Cowboys. Gone is legendary QB Tom Brady. OC Byron Leftwich was also fired at the end of 2022.
Offseason additions : QB Baker Mayfield (LA Rams), DT Greg Gaines (LA Rams), OG Matt Feiler (LA Chargers), S Ryan Neal (Seattle), RB Chase Edmonds (Denver), K Chase McLaughlin (Indianapolis)
Offseason losses : QB Tom Brady (retired), DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches (NY Giants), S Keanu Neal (Pittsburgh), CB Sean Bunting (Tennessee), OG Shaq Mason (t-Houston), S Mike Edwards (KC), QB Blaine Gabbert (KC), OT Josh Wells (Jacksonville), WR Scotty Miller (Atlanta), WR Julio Jones (free agent), OT Donovan Smith (free agent), RB Leonard Fournette (free agent), TE Cameron Brate (free agent)
The post Brady Buccs are a hard team to predict. I did consider another LT Anton Harrison as a replacement for Donovan Smith. I also considered QB too with Levis still available. Edge rusher is also a team need.
However, with Sean Murphy-Bunting and Mike Edwards departing in free agency, I switched the pick to DB. Deonte Banks was a 4-yr starter at Maryland and is a fit as an outside, press man corner who is also more than capable in zone coverage.
The pick : CB Deonte Banks (Maryland)
My Take : The Buccs were in constant flux in the secondary last year due to injuries and the cap has weakened their core. Banks is added to the mix.
20) Seattle Seahawks
With the Seahawks already securing Will Anderson at #5 they're back on the clock here. If we look at most pressing positional needs, the interior O-line is the most obvious one to address and a successful selection here would add yet more youth to a line which enjoyed immediate success from both their rookie tackles in 2022.
O'Cyrus Torrence was a 3-yr starter at Louisiana before transferring to Florida for his senior year in 2022. At 6'5 and 340, he's a big, powerful blocker. He should be a plug and play starter as a rookie.
The pick : OG O'Cyrus Torrence (Florida)
My Take : More a positional need pick here than BPA but Torrence was the top-rated Guard in college in 2022.
xx) Miami Dolphins - pick forfeited
Miami forfeited their 1st round pick due to tampering allegations over Tom Brady and Sean Payton
21) Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers returned to the playoffs for the first time since 2018. Manner of their exit aside (squandering a 27-0 lead in Jacksonville) there is plenty of optimism that Justin Herbert can lead the Chargers further into the post season. The trade request of RB Austin Ekeler is a concern but a fit Joey Bosa and some key additions via the draft (speed on offense and improvements to the run defense please) could see the Chargers make a deeper run in 2023.
Offseason additions : LB Eric Kendricks (Minnesota)
Offseason losses : LB Drue Tranquill (KC), OG Matt Feiler (Tampa Bay), WR Deandre Carter (Las Vegas), LB Troy Reeder (Minnesota), DE Joe Gaziano (Atlanta), OT Storm Norton (New Orleans), DT Breiden Fehoko (Pittsburgh)
For all of the plaudits given to Justin Herbert it still feels to me that the offense should be more dynamic. They could look to add some deep speed at the receiver position, Zay Flowers would be an intriguing pick here. He may not be the most nuanced route runner but can flat out run. This was my pick for a while but he would be WR3 or WR4 whereas swapping the pick to TE would result in an immediate upgrade of a starter.
Dalton Kincaid is not going to be the best blocking TE in the league, he is more a hybrid WR/TE type player. Whilst he does have room to grow and improve his blocking, he owns arguably the best hands in this draft class and was the FBS leader in TE receiving yards in 2022.
The pick : TE Dalton Kincaid (Utah)
My Take : Used as a move TE, Kincaid will add playmaking ability to the Chargers offense and only make Justin Herbert even better
22) Baltimore Ravens
Not to be outdone by the Aaron Rodgers will he / wont he dramas, Lamar Jackson has provided great competition for offseason airtime with his demands for a fully guaranteed contract extension and trade request. Baltimore made the playoffs in 2022 despite losing Lamar for the final 6 games. Tyler Huntley managed to guide the team to a 3-3 finish as a game manager but the Ravens without Lamar are not the same. Greg Roman has since departed as OC and Todd Monken takes the reins after back-to-back national championships as OC at Georgia. The offensive scheme should be much improved, the big question is if they can get a motivated Lamar back in the facility?
Offseason additions : WR Odell Beckham Jr (LA Rams), WR Nelson Agholor (New England),
Offseason losses : OG Ben Powers (Denver), DE Calais Campbell (Atlanta), TE Josh Oliver (Minnesota), C Trystan Colon-Castillo (NY Jets), CB Marcus Peters (free agent), DB Chuck Clark (t-NY Jets), CB Kyle Fuller (free agent), RB Kenyan Drake (free agent), WR Sammy Watkins (free agent), DE Jason Pierre-Paul (free agent)
WR remains a possibility despite the offseason signings of Odell Beckham Jr and Nelson Agholor. However, it seems like the Ravens secondary is decimated by injuries each year. I have the Ravens taking Emmanuel Forbes. Whether the Front Office is interested or not is a question. Forbes is slight at around 165 pounds, so some teams may discount him due to this, but he is a true ballhawk. Forbes has 14 interceptions over his 3-yr college career and 6 of those were returned for TD's (an FBS record). Paired with Marlon Humphrey they could become a formidable tandem.
The pick : CB Emmanuel Forbes (Mississippi State)
My Take : A fascinating player, Forbes is arguably over aggressive but if you accept who he is, he'll provide plenty of playmaking opportunities on defense
23) Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings simply found ways to win in 2022. Despite being outscored by opponents during the regular season, rookie HC Kevin O'Connell led the Vikes to an impressive 13-4 record. They unfortunately fell to the NY Giants in the wild card round of the playoffs but life as a Vikings fan was never boring last season.
Offseason additions : TE Josh Oliver (Baltimore), CB Byron Murphy (Arizona), DE Marcus Davenport (New Orleans), DE Dean Lowry (Green Bay), WR Brandon Powell (LA Rams), LB Troy Reeder (LA Chargers), CB Joejuan Williams (New England)
Offseason losses : DT Dalvin Tomlinson (Cleveland), WR Adam Thielen (Carolina), CB Patrick Peterson (Pittsburgh), LB Eric Kendricks (LA Chargers), TE Irv Smith (Cincinnati), CB Duke Shelley (Arizona), CB Kris Boyd (Arizona)
The two most pressing positional needs were addressed in the offseason allowing the Vikings to potentially go BPA in the draft early on. However, the way my mock has fallen has left QB Will Levis dropping to #23. Kirk Cousins will be 35 by the season opener and enters the final year of his guaranteed money. This would seem to be the ideal opportunity for Minnesota to draft Cousins eventual successor and give him time to develop.
The pick : QB Will Levis (Kentucky)
My Take : Prototype size, strong arm, mobile and tough, Levis should be every bit the franchise QB. The questions on his production are hopefully more to do with scheme and supporting cast than his skill set.
24) Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars became only the second team in NFL history to start 4-8 and make the playoffs (small disclaimer on the 17-game season and additional playoff berths aside). It took a 5 game win streak to close the regular season but they were worthy winners of the AFC South. After impressively rallying from a 27-0 deficit to beat the Chargers, the Jags eventually fell to the eventual Superbowl champion Chiefs. Optimism surrounds the start of 2023 in Duval
Offseason additions : OT Josh Wells (Tampa Bay), RB D'Ernest Johnson (Cleveland), DE Michael Dogbe (Arizona), DE Henry Mondeaux (NY Giants)
Offseason losses : OT Jawaan Taylor (KC), LB Arden Key (Tennessee), TE Chris Manhertz (Denver), WR Marvin Jones (Detroit), DT Corey Peters (retired), CB Shaquill Griffin (free agent), TE Dan Arnold (free agent)
Lukas Van Ness has been projected anywhere from top 10 to a top 30 pick. He needs some coaching up as at 6'5, 270 pounds, he was heavily reliant on his bullrush power as a one-trick-pony in college. However, he has size, explosive twitch and strength. In fact, he looks the prototype Trent Baalke pick.
The pick : EDGE Lukas Van Ness (Iowa)
My Take : Despite the addition of Travon Walker #1 overall in 2022, the Jaguars team sack total only moved from 32 to 35 last year. The Jaguars adding Van Ness to the rotation can only help.
25) NY Giants
The Giants surprisingly made the playoffs last year under 1st year HC Brian Daboll, achieving their first winning season since 2016. After a road playoff win in Minnesota, the Giants eventually succumbed to divisional rivals Philadelphia in a 38-7 trouncing but exceeded all expectations.
Offseason additions : LB Bobby Okereke (Indianapolis), DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches (Tampa Bay), WR Parris Campbell (Indianapolis), WR Jamison Crowder (Buffalo), CB Bobby McCain (Washington), CB Amani Oruwariye (Detroit), WR Jeff Smith (NY Jets), OC JC Hassenauer (Pittsburgh)
Offseason losses : OG Nick Gates (Washington), S Julian Love (Seattle), OC Jon Feliciano (San Francisco), WR Richie James (KC), DE Henry Mondeaux (Jacksonville), WR Kenny Golladay (free agent), LB Oshame Ximines (free agent)
The Giants were tied for dead last in the NFL for interceptions in 2022. Some playmaking talent in the secondary is much needed, even despite the acquisition of 2 CB's via free agency. The Giants could look at CB but with 5 corners off the board, they have the option of possibly their 6th rated corner or the best Safety in this class.
The pick : S Brian Branch (Alabama)
My Take : Lacking ideal size for Safety, this is the only reason why Branch could fall this far. He was a versatile piece of the Saban's Alabama defense and despite his size limitations he's a leader with sure-fire tackling skills and a surprisingly effective blitzer. He shouldn't escape a Day One pick.
26) Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys failed to repeat as NFC East Champions but made the playoffs as a Wild Card. The 2022 Cowboys will be remembered for beating Tom Brady in his last ever game, their first road playoff victory since 1992.
Offseason additions : WR Brandin Cooks (t-Houston), CB Stephon Gilmore (t-Indianapolis), RB Ronald Jones II (KC), LS Trent Sieg (Las Vegas), OT Chuma Edoga (Atlanta),
Offseason losses : OG Connor McGovern (Buffalo), TE Dalton Schultz (Houston), LB Luke Gifford (Tennessee), WR Noah Brown (Houston), DE Carlos Watkins (Arizona), LS Jake McQuaide (Detroit), RB Ezekiel Elliott (free agent), OT Jason Peters (free agent), LB Anthony Barr (free agent), WR T.Y Hilton (free agent)
The Cowboys would supposedly like to see Bijan Robinson fall this far and even if he doesn't, would the team consider Jahmyr Gibbs in the 1st round to complement the returning Tony Pollard?
Instead I've taken a bit of a wildcard shot with Calijah Kancey of Pitt. He wins on quickness and posted 7 sacks in 2021 and followed it up with 7.5 last year. However, there aren't many DT's at his height (5-11) or short arm length in the NFL. There are questions how he'd hold up on the interior, particularly in the run game, but people have mentioned some comparisons with Aaron Donald with his quickness and hand usage. I think a more apt comparison is former Viking John Randle. It's a boom or bust pick.
The pick : DT Calijah Kancey (Pittsburgh)
My Take : Kancey was an interior disruptor in college with 27.5 tackles for loss in 25 games over the last 2 years. Can his game translate into production in the NFL?
27) Buffalo Bills
The Bills clinched the AFC East for the 3rd consecutive season but after disposing of Miami 34-31 they fell in the divisional round of the playoffs for the second year in a row, the Bengals victorious 27-10 in Buffalo. The Bills are talented but have seen their main AFC rival Chiefs and Bengals both make the Superbowl in recent years while they have fallen short. What do they need to take the next step?
Offseason additions : OG Connor McGovern (Dallas), WR Deonte Harty (New Orleans), S Taylor Rapp (LA Rams), OG David Edwards (LA Rams), WR Trent Sherfield (Miami), RB Damien Harris (New England), QB Kyle Allen (Houston)
Offseason losses : LB Tremaine Edmunds (Chicago), QB Case Keenum (Houston), RB Devin Singletary (Houston), WR Jamison Crowder (NY Giants), WR Isaiah McKenzie (Indianapolis), S Jaquan Johnson (Las Vegas),
Stefon Diggs aside, the supporting cast of receivers were underwhelming last year. After Gabe Davis playoff heroics of 2021 he seemed set for a breakout year but while he had over 800 receiving yards he was ultimately a disappointment in this offense, suffering 7 drops and not being as dynamic after the catch as the Bills had hoped.
With this in mind, I have Buffalo adding to their depth here. Jordan Addison had a highly productive college career and was not afraid to test himself with a transfer ahead of his junior year to USC. After posting 100 catches and 1593 yards as a sophomore at Pitt, knowing Kenny Pickett was moving to the NFL, Addison transfered across country and proved he could be successful at a higher level too. Addison has quickness to get open but is also elusive with the ball in his hands. He would seem a good fit for the Bills needs as a dynamic slot receiver.
The pick : WR Jordan Addison (USC)
My Take : A slight, wiry WR, his frame may put some teams off but he's similar in build to the Eagles WR Devonta Smith, who went #10 overall in 2021.
28) Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals reached the AFC Championship for the second consecutive season, again meeting the Chiefs at Arrowhead. This time they were unable to overcome their rivals in a closely fought 23-20 loss to the eventual Superbowl champs.
Offseason additions : OT Orlando Brown Jr (KC), S Nick Scott (LA Rams), TE Irv Smith (Minnesota), CB Sidney Jones (Las Vegas), OG Cody Ford (Arizona),
Offseason losses : S Jessie Bates III (Atlanta), S Vonn Bell (Carolina), TE Hayden Hurst (Carolina), RB Samaje Perine (Denver), CB Eli Apple (free agent), CB Tre Flowers (free agent)
I'm going with a need pick for the Bengals. Hayden Hurst moved on in free agency and whilst Irv Smith was signed, he's missed time in 2 of his 3 NFL seasons to date. Conscious that Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins also both become unrestricted free agents after 2023 and knowing the franchise will need extend Jamarr Chase at some point too, I have the Bengals future proofing their offense with the selection of Luke Musgrave.
The pick : TE Luke Musgrave (Oregon State)
My Take : Musgrave has only limited playing experience due to injuries but is a highly impressive athlete with excellent size/speed ratio. Your buying into the tools with this pick but in limited game time he's demonstrated he's a willing blocker and decent route runner too. A proper high upside pick who would have been much further up draft boards if he'd played more than 2 games in 2022.
29) New Orleans Saints (via SF > MIA > DEN)
In the Saints first season without Sean Payton they posted a 7-10 record. This was their worst season since 2005, oh yes, the season before Payton arrived. The Saints had mortgaged future years cap space in Brees/Payton's latter seasons and the salary cap took it's toll this offseason with a number of key starters departing on defense, as well as their co-DC Ryan Nielsen who left for Atlanta. Despite the cap constraints, the Saints still managed to sign Derek Carr who will start at QB as the Saints try to stay competitive in an open race for an NFC South in transition.
Offseason additions : QB Derek Carr (Las Vegas), DE Nathan Shepherd (NY Jets), DT Khalen Saunders (KC), RB Jamaal Williams (Detroit), CB Lonnie Johnson (Tennessee), S Johnathan Abram (Seattle), WR Bryan Edwards (KC), OT Storm Norton (LA Chargers)
Offseason losses : DT David Onyemata (Atlanta), LB Kaden Elliss (Atlanta), DT Shy Tuttle (Carolina), DE Marcus Davenport (Minnesota), QB Andy Dalton (Carolina), WR Deonte Harty (Buffalo), S Justin Evans (Philadelphia), DE Kentavius Street (Philadelphia), WR Marquez Callaway (Denver), OT Ethan Greenidge (Atlanta), WR Jarvis Landry (free agent), RB Mark Ingram (free agent)
With 4 defensive linemen departing in free agency it wouldn't surprise anyone if the Saints addressed their D-line early. Myles Murphy has the prototypical frame and length for DE in the pro's and displayed versatility playing across the line at Clemson. He looks a good scheme fit for the Saints
The pick : DE Myles Murphy (Clemson)
My Take : Murphy is the sort of player you'd create in the labs to play NFL Defensive End. I question why he never topped more than 7 sacks a season in his 3 years at Clemson, but don't doubt the potential upside.
30) Philadelphia Eagles
Their second pick of Day One. Ideally I wanted to mock OG O'Cyrus Torrence here but with him gone earlier than expected, I initially started projecting a pick based on the Eagles continuing their succession planning with a depth pick in one of the areas where they have aging starters. Having earlier taken an Edge rusher, my consideration was the interior defensive line or adding youth to their cornerback group.
However, I then thought how could the Eagles get even better with immediate help? The best answer I came up with was Jahmyr Gibbs from Alabama. It's possibly counter intuitive to how the Eagles value runnign backs but it's a luxury pick I'd like to project.
Gibbs is not a power back by any means, but he's lightning fast, with great vision and top-level receiving skills. Adding Gibbs to the RB group headed by Penny and Gainwell,would further enhance the Eagles run game.
The pick : RB Jahmyr Gibbs (Alabama)
My Take : Gibbs in an RPO offense, behind the NFL's best O-line could prove a fantastic change up option as the Eagles try to return to the Superbowl again
31) Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs parted ways with their superstar WR Tyreek Hill and revamped their defense with an influx of youth and proceeded to up their 2021 win total by 2 games to a 14-3 record on their way to becoming Superbowl champions. League MVP Mahomes continues to excel and the Chiefs should again be the team to beat in 2023
Offseason additions : OT Jawaan Taylor (Jacksonville), DE Charles Omenihu (San Francisco), LB Drue Tranquill (LA Chargers), S Mike Edwards (Tampa Bay), QB Blaine Gabbert (Tampa Bay), WR Richie James (NY Giants), DT Byron Cowart (Indianapolis)
Offseason losses : OT Orlando Brown Jr. (Cincinnati), WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (New England), OT Andrew Wylie (Washington), S Juan Thornhill (Cleveland), DT Khalen Saunders (New Orleans), WR Mecole Hardman (NY Jets), FB Michael Burton (Denver), RB Ronald Jones II (Dallas), WR Bryan Edwards (New Orleans), DE Frank Clark (free agent), RB Jerick McKinnon (free agent)
Looking ahead, the Chiefs have an impending decision on DT Chris Jones after this year and have not resigned Frank Clark as of the draft. George Karlaftis has a good rookie season but I expect more investment in the D-line.
I have listed Bryan Bresee or Mazi Smith on the interior but instead opted for edge rusher Felix Anudike-Uzomah. He posted 19.5 sacks over his last 2 college seasons and provides power and an array of moves to succeed.
The pick : EDGE Felix Anudike-Uzomah (Kansas State)
My Take : Anudike-Uzomah has good college production and will slide into the D-line rotation. I wonder if the Chiefs would have preferred Gibbs making it to #31?
