Tag: 2023 draft

Mar 4, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Liberty wide receiver Demario Douglas (WO13) catches the ball during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

2023 NFL Draft: Five players who should’ve stayed in college

Posted on | by Field Level Media

Name, Image and Likeness agreements are one reason prospects are putting the NFL on hold, with the number of early entry players entering the draft declining from 100 to 82.

Not all underclassmen or early graduates are ready for the rigors of the pro game, and some who request an honest assessment from the advisory board can’t handle the truth.

While special cases exist, such as prospects jumping to the NFL to relieve a financial burden on their families, there are many prospects who could benefit from one more season at the college level.

Here’s a look at a few early entry options who could’ve been boosted by another year on campus:

1. Anthony Bradford, OG, LSU
A hulking 6-foot-5, 345-pound guard who started two years in Baton Rouge, Bradford’s power is interesting. He doesn’t have the movement skills that teams want and a lack of range is debilitating.

2. Brandon Hill, S, Pittsburgh
One of the biggest surprise declarations in 2023, Hill was a good player for the Panthers, but he doesn’t have any high-end traits. He isn’t a top athlete and without the size to be an impact run defender, there’s just not enough on the tape to warrant the jump yet.

3. Demario Douglas, WR, Liberty
Douglas was reasonably productive. His limited size could’ve pushed him to transfer and prove he can hang with high-level competition as he risks being undrafted.

4. Lew Nichols III, RB, Central Michigan
A serious downturn in 2022 was a hit to Nichols, who led the nation in rushing in 2021. Returning for another shot to reach previous standards was his best play.

5. Luke Wypler, C, Ohio State
Good player with average size and technique. At a position where draft picks aren’t typical investments, spending another year or two in development would’ve aided Wypler’s chances.

–Field Level Media

Sep 25, 2021; College Park, Maryland, USA; Maryland Terrapins offensive lineman Jaelyn Duncan (71) stands on the field during the second half against the Kent State Golden Flashes at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

On the clock: Miami Dolphins draft preview

Posted on | by Field Level Media

There are a couple of reasons why the Miami Dolphins have the fewest selections in this draft.

They gladly packaged up several of their 2023 picks to other teams to acquire the likes of Tyreek Hill, Bradley Chubb, Jeff Wilson Jr. and Jalen Ramsey over the past 12 months.

The Dolphins would have had the 21st overall pick in the first round, but following an NFL investigation it’s been forfeited as part of owner Stephen Ross’ punishment for tampering with Tom Brady and Sean Payton.

Miami is left with a mere four selections, the highest being a second-rounder (No. 51 overall).

Still, the Dolphins are resolute after making strides Mike McDaniel’s first year as coach. Tua Tagovailoa showed flashes of a top-10 quarterback before a string of concussions threatened his career. He’s reportedly made it to the other side, with the Dolphins confident enough in his progress to pick up the fifth-year option on his rookie deal.

Last month, McDaniel hinted at the Dolphins targeting offensive linemen in the draft as opposed to spending “$12-to-20 million to do that” in free agency.

“We’re taking our time with the market and seeing how that plays out, and there’s some stuff we have in thoughts of the draft. But of course, that will be addressed,” he said.

TEAM NEEDS
1. TE: The Dolphins have collected vertical threats at receiver but can do better than Durham Smythe at TE1 after Mike Gesicki departed for division rival New England in free agency.

2. C: Really, the entire offensive line needs to be better in 2023; Tagovailoa wasn’t the only Fins quarterback to be roughed up and injured last season. Connor Williams played every snap at center in 2022 but he could kick out to a more natural position if Miami lands a replacement.

3. RB: Will the Dolphins stick with their stable of decent rushers like former Niners Raheem Mostert and Wilson, or might they swing for the fences by taking a top running back prospect?

2023 DRAFT PICKS
Round Pick (Overall)
2. 20 (51)
3. 21 (84)
6. 20 (197)
7. 21 (238)

BEST FITS
1. C John Michael Schmitz, Minnesota: The Schmitz secret was out of the bag after the Senior Bowl, and he’s regarded by some teams as a top 25 prospect. But interior linemen and specifically centers are rarely pushed high on draft day, leaving open the chance Miami gets the top player at the position in the second round.

2. TE Tucker Kraft, South Dakota State: Possibly a first-round talent trying to overcome two questions he can’t possibly answer without taking the field: Level of competition and durability. Kraft was limited by an ankle injury and barely took the field in 2022 and he played at a lower level in the FCS. But the 6-5, 255-pounder can move, has hops and would benefit from the creative play-calling in Miami.

3. OT Jaelyn Duncan, Maryland: A four-year starter with plus athleticism, Duncan might be available late in the second round where he’s a value add for a team with little depth and no developmental options.

–Field Level Media

Oct 29, 2022; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Lawrance Toafili (9) catches a pass for a touchdown past Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets defensive lineman Keion White (6) during the game at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports

On the clock: Denver Broncos draft preview

Posted on | by Field Level Media

Projecting the priorities in the first draft for Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton and George Paton comes with some qualifiers.

Payton came on board to replace fired coach Nathaniel Hackett, and his infamous swing-for-the-fences approach in New Orleans inevitably brought a penchant for trading multiple picks and finding a way to land a player or three the team covets.

With less ammunition and a new ally in Paton, the Broncos’ brain trust can be summarized in one word: unpredictable.

Payton’s history on draft day includes attempting to move up for Patrick Mahomes while Drew Brees was still going strong, and a desire to get as many pass rushers as one team can collect.

Barring a trade, the Broncos must settle for finding value in the second half of the draft with five picks starting at No. 67.

TEAM NEEDS
1. DL: Dre’Mont Jones is a huge loss and Denver also lost DeShawn Williams from the starting defensive line.

2. CB: Finding a polished playmaker in free agency was too costly, but the void next to Patrick Surtain II must be filled for the Broncos to contend.

3. RB: Javonte Williams (ACL) should be ready to start the regular season and adding Samaje Perine as insurance was a solid find, but he’s not a gamebreaker.

2023 DRAFT PICKS
Round Pick (Overall Pick)

3. 4 (67)
3. 5 (68)
4. 6 (108)
5. 4 (139)
6. 18 (195)

BEST FITS
1. Edge Keion White, Georgia Tech: At 6-foot-5, 285, White is hard to miss on tape and his football scholarship was earned as a tight end. The type of physical force Payton likes to build with, White’s college production was modest at Old Dominion and Georgia Tech in part due to injuries.

2. CB Emmanuel Forbes, Mississippi State: A speed merchant with a 4.35 40 time, Forbes is on the light side at 170 pounds but his wheels and nearly 80-inch wingspan help him cover like syrup on pancakes.

3. QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, UCLA: One of the draft’s “slash” options who could train at quarterback, running back or receiver and be molded into a custom role in the same way Payton crafted a position for Taysom Hill in New Orleans.

–Field Level Media

Mar 3, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama defensive back Brian Branch (DB06) participates in drills at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

On the clock: Philadelphia Eagles draft preview

Posted on | by Field Level Media

Howie Roseman has two first-round picks in the 2023 draft, and the architect of the NFC champion Eagles spent sparingly in free agency.

The theme of the offseason is balance, Roseman said, and continuing to build behind Philadelphia’s established core.

Age could become a consideration as Roseman seeks new building blocks on the offensive and defensive lines, and the secondary warrants attention following a near split with cornerback Darius Slay and the exit of safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson.

With a stable crew of leaders on his defensive line, don’t rule out Roseman swinging for the fences. He’s traded a first-round pick in four of the past five drafts and a championship window doesn’t remain open for long without restoring the top-level talent.

One question you can bet is being asked in draft simulations run by NFL teams picking in the top 15: Would Roseman deal two first-rounders or two of his first three picks to get to No. 3 (Arizona Cardinals) or No. 5 (Seattle Seahawks) and have his likely choice of defensive line and secondary prospects?

TEAM NEEDS
1. DB: Terrell Edmunds signed to take over at strong safety, and the surprise of the offseason was Philly finding a way to retain James Bradberry and Slay at cornerback. Adding a free safety and insurance at corner are still priorities.

2. LB: Two starting linebackers, T.J. Edwards and Kyzir White, left in free agency. The cupboard isn’t completely bare at the position with 2022 third-round pick Nakobe Dean taking over in the middle.

3. DL: Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave will be missed after jumping for a hefty payday with the 49ers. Brandon Graham was a 2010 draft pick but would be the starter at right end if the season began today. Speed off the edge is needed and the Eagles are regulars when it comes to spending on defensive linemen in the first round as exhibited by the current depth chart featuring 2010, 2012, 2017 and 2022 first-rounders.

2023 DRAFT PICKS
Round Pick (Overall Pick)
1. 10 (10)
1. 30 (30)
2. 31 (62)
3. 31 (94)
7. 2 (219)
7. 31 (248)

BEST FITS
1. DE Will Anderson Jr., Alabama: Perhaps you’ve overlooked Philadelphia’s fondness for Crimson Tide products — Jalen Hurts, Landon Dickerson, DeVonta Smith, Josh Jobe — but Roseman never overlooks top defensive line talent. Anderson would jump right into the starting lineup and based on his college production, terrorize NFC East right tackles.

2. DT Calijah Kancey, Pittsburgh — The 2022 ACC Defensive Player of the Year was a rock star before he snagged the spotlight at the NFL Scouting Combine. His size — at 6-feet-2, Kancey is knocked for missing prototype minimums for some schemes — won’t scare away the Eagles, who covet speed and explosiveness to disrupt on the interior defensive line.

3. S Brian Branch, Alabama — Rated by Field Level Media as a top-20 player in the class, all the tools the Eagles want in a free safety are evident in Branch’s game. His versatility to be a slot corner would soften the blow of losing Gardner-Johnson in free agency.

–Field Level Media

The Jets practice at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center in Florham Park on Tuesday, June 11, 2019. General Manager Joe Douglas. Delbarton Vs West Morris

On the clock: New York Jets draft preview

Posted on | by Field Level Media

Aaron Rodgers consumed all discussion of the New York Jets’ offseason.

With two weeks to go before the NFL draft, he’s still a member of the Green Bay Packers.

Every party — the Jets, the Packers and Rodgers himself — wants a trade to be completed, but how much of the Jets’ 2023 draft capital might be part of that agreement remains a sticking point.

According to reports, general manager Joe Douglas and the Jets prefer to hold onto the 13th overall pick and use it to shore up one of the other lingering needs on a roster that could be one stellar quarterback away from the playoffs.

Douglas has said offensive and defensive line are a priority for his team-building strategy, and the O-line in particular will, eventually, have the critical task of keeping Rodgers upright.

Mekhi Becton, the Jets’ 2020 first-rounder, is recovering from a fractured kneecap that sidelined him all of last season. The Jets also brought back Duane Brown, the former All-Pro who will turn 38 in August and can serve as a swing tackle.

“That’s definitely a position where we’d like to create some more stability and continuity, especially with the injuries we sustained last year,” Douglas said of the O-line during the scouting combine.

The Jets picked up a second-round pick from the Cleveland Browns while giving up their third-rounder in order to send wide receiver Elijah Moore to Ohio. For now, that deal has New York picking back-to-back in the second round at Nos. 42 and 43.

TEAM NEEDS
1. OT: The fact that the Jets haven’t re-signed free agent George Fant signals interest in drafting a plug-and-play tackle. The combination of Becton, Brown and Max Mitchell isn’t the path to safeguarding a prized asset like Rodgers.

2. Center: Signing Wes Schweitzer (whose natural position is guard, not center) and Trystan Colon (four career starts) wasn’t enough to address a position that’s been unsettled since Nick Mangold retired.

3. ILB: C.J. Mosley is one of the highest-paid inside linebackers in the league, but he’ll be going on 33 when his current deal ends after 2024 and the Jets have few proven players behind him.

2023 DRAFT PICKS
Round Pick (Overall)
1. 13 (13)
2. 11 (42)
2. 12 (43)
4. 10 (112)
5. 9 (143)
6. 30 (207)

BEST FITS
1. OT Broderick Jones, Georgia: Lightly seasoned with 19 starts, Jones gets the attention of Douglas and most scouts in the middle of the first round based on his extremely high ceiling and athletic upside.

2. DT Gervon Dexter, Florida: When the juices are flowing for Dexter, he’s nearly unblockable. In a defense with enough alphas, he could be a role player early and impact starter by the end of the season.

3. DL Jaquelin Roy, LSU: Upside for days and can steal snaps at multiple positions.

–Field Level Media

Mar 5, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas running back Bijan Robinson (RB21) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

On the clock: Seattle Seahawks draft preview

Posted on | by Field Level Media

Head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider are giddy over their opportunities for the Seattle Seahawks in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Schneider hasn’t had a top five pick since he working in the Packers’ scouting department and Green Bay selected linebacker A.J. Hawk (2006), instead building the Seattle roster with big hits later in the draft and the occasional free agent score.

Carroll said the Seahawks, armed with the No. 5 pick from the Denver Broncos as part of the massive trade return for Russell Wilson in 2022, are exploring all avenues with their early picks. Seattle has two picks in the top 20 and four of the first 52, meaning flexibility in spades for Schneider.

Re-signing Geno Smith gives the Seahawks a quarterback starting point for next season and affords Seattle the ability to follow its typical path in the first round — trading back to add more assets.

TEAM NEEDS
1. Edge. The preference is power and versatility, but Michael Bennetts and Frank Clarks don’t grow on trees.
2. QB. In Geno we trust, right? Smith’s breakout season came late in his NFL life, but a coaching-level grasp of the offense and reliable veteran receivers helped his cause and gave the Smith resurrection story some staying power. But he faded late last season when defensive pressure in the pocket picked up, creating a shadow of doubt about continuing the dream ride.
3. NT. A meaty middle man to shore up the run defense and keep returning linebacker Bobby Wagner free to flow to the ball is on Schneider’s list, but a veteran cut might be his preferred path to improving the D-line depth inside.

2023 DRAFT PICKS
1. 5 (5)
1. 20 (20)
2. 6 (37)
2. 21 (52)
3. 20 (83)
4. 21 (123)
5. 16 (151)
5. 19 (154)
6. 21 (198)
7. 20 (237)

BEST FITS
1. RB Bijan Robinson, Texas: Nobody knows better than Seattle the benefit of a game-changing running back. Rashaad Penny left in free agency and Kenneth Walker’s ankle issues in the second half of last season served as a reminder that two is better than one lead back. Robinson at 5 would be a mic drop but it’s not a stretch to think he’d be the top player on the Seahawks’ board if Will Anderson Jr. is gone.

2. Edge Byron Young, Tennessee: Poor man’s Micah Parsons? Not exactly. Young is light for a defensive end at 252 pounds, but his 4.42 40-yard time is indicative of a pocket-wrecking pass-rush specialist who could blossom into much more under Carroll’s tutelage.

3. DL Jalen Carter, Georgia: Releasing nose tackle Al Woods was a bit of a surprise, but it came after the Seahawks’ scouting staff had time to pour over the 2023 draft in granular detail. While not a true nose tackle, Carter is the type of player Seattle covets. Yes, character questions might lead to a draft-day dive for Carter. Seattle has shown a willingness to do its own homework and Carroll takes his role as a leader of men seriously enough to believe he could shape Carter as a professional on and off the field. With a bevy of draft capital, moving around in the first round to make it happen isn’t out of the realm of possibility.

–Field Level Media

Aug 13, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus, left, and general manager Ryan Poles walk off the field after the Bears defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 19-14 at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

Bears GM: Bidding for No. 1 pick begins at two first-rounders

Posted on | by Field Level Media

No general manager cheered top quarterback performances at the NFL Scouting Combine more than Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears.

Chicago owns the No. 1 pick in the draft for the first time since 1947 but Poles, in his second season with the franchise, has no intention of drafting any of the quarterbacks who are in high demand atop the 2023 draft in April.

Any team can have the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, and Poles made the asking price crystal clear over the past week.

“I’m blessed to be able to read people,” Poles said in an interview with NBC Sports. “I can feel it. There’s urgency out there. There’s pressure.”

Reports indicate at least three teams have offers on the table to the Bears: the Houston Texans, who pick second and 12th overall in 2023; the Indianapolis Colts, who pick at No. 4 and No. 35; and the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle has a bonus first-round pick, No. 5, as a result of the Russell Wilson trade last year, as well as the No. 20 pick.

Poles, 37, doesn’t need to act with any urgency. Picks in the next three drafts can be used in trades only after the 2023 league year begins March 15. If Poles waits until draft day, 2026 draft picks can also be included.

The Bears are comfortable at quarterback with developing 2021 first-rounder Justin Fields. And with $100 million in salary cap space, the Bears are in position to assure the rebuild under way has some staying power. Moving lower than the No. 2 pick in a trade with the Texans would bring the risk for Poles that his preferred player is picked by the Arizona Cardinals at No. 3. Like Chicago, the Cardinals aren’t in this QB market.

“No one’s gonna rush me,” Poles said. “I know I can get a ‘24 one and a ‘25 one. You’re telling me for the next two years I’ll have two ones? That’s either four really good players, or if we’re cruising, we can still trade back.”

Poles is operating without a second-round pick in 2023. The Bears traded theirs, which turned out to be No. 32 overall, to the Pittsburgh Steelers at the October deadline for wide receiver Chase Claypool. When Miami forfeited its first-round pick due to tampering, the first pick of the second round became No. 32.

That intel might be good news for the Colts, who could offer No. 4 and No. 35 for No. 1.

The Texans have trump cards at nearly every turn with capital returned from the Cleveland Browns and the Deshaun Watson trade last year. In addition to the second pick and No. 12 from Cleveland, Houston has an extra third-round pick from the Browns and five of the top 73 selections in this draft.

Should Seattle veer to make a move out of general manager John Schneider’s typical lane of moving back and collecting value, this could be the year. Schneider and head coach Pete Carroll chirped of the rare opportunity and decided interest in quarterbacks in this class, which might also be calculated public discourse to entice a trade offer from another QB-needy team.

But Seattle picks fifth, 20th and 37th, with five total picks in the top 83.

The Raiders (seventh) and Panthers (ninth) are also known to be in the QB market.

“The interesting part is having a conversation with one team, and then one hour later another team texts you wanting in on the trade and they’re not afraid of what the floor of what you’re asking for is,” Poles said.

–Field Level Media

Dec 31, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) throws a pass during the second half of the Peach Bowl in the College Football Playoff semifinal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Ohio State lost 42-41. Mandatory Credit: Adam Cairns-The Columbus Dispatch Ncaa Football Peach Bowl Ohio State At Georgia

2023 NFL Draft order set 1-23

Posted on | by Field Level Media

A few more pieces to the 2023 NFL Draft puzzle fell into place this weekend.

Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud declared for the draft, but the expected top-5 pick has 72 hours to reconsider and return to the Buckeyes before the full field of eligible prospects is released to the NFL’s 32 teams.

And five teams transitioned swiftly from playoff preparation to draft preparation, learning their precise location in the first round of the ’23 draft.

The first 18 selections were assigned in order of regular-season record, worst to best, starting with the Chicago Bears (3-14) at No. 1.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost Monday and have the 19th overall selection, followed by the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Chargers, Baltimore Ravens and Minnesota Vikings.

2023 NFL Draft order (picks 24-32 determined by playoff results):
1) Chicago Bears
2) Houston Texans
3) Arizona Cardinals
4) Indianapolis Colts
5) Seattle Seahawks (via DEN)
6) Detroit Lions (via LAR)
7) Las Vegas Raiders
8) Atlanta Falcons
9) Carolina Panthers
10) Philadelphia Eagles (via NO)
11) Tennessee Titans
12) Houston Texans (via CLE)
13) New York Jets
14) New England Patriots
15) Green Bay Packers
16) Washington Commanders
17) Pittsburgh Steelers
18) Detroit Lions
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
20) Seattle Seahawks
21) Los Angeles Chargers
22) Baltimore Ravens
23) Minnesota Vikings

–Field Level Media

Feb 8, 2022; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans new head coach Lovie Smith (left) and general manager Nick Caserio (right) speak during the introductory press conference at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports

Texans, Bears in line for top draft picks

Posted on | by Field Level Media

Houston can wrap up the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft if the Texans lose for the 14th time this season in the regular-season finale Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts.

Chicago (3-13) is in position to claim the top spot if the Texans (2-13-1) beat the Colts (4-11-1) and the Minnesota Vikings beat the Bears. Indianapolis and Houston tied, 20-20, in Week 1. The Colts have one victory since Oct. 16.

Indianapolis would have the fifth pick in the 2023 draft if the season ended before Week 18.

The Texans own the first-round pick of the Cleveland Browns as payment due Houston for the Deshaun Watson trade. That pick is No. 12 entering Sunday’s games.

Seattle remains alive for the playoffs and a top three pick in 2023. The Denver Broncos’ pick goes to the Seahawks as part of the trade package for Russell Wilson.

Current NFL draft order based on 2022 regular-season records:

1. Texans
2. Bears
3. Seahawks (via Broncos)
4. Cardinals
5. Colts
6. Lions (via Rams)
7. Raiders
8. Falcons
9. Panthers
10. Eagles (via Saints)
11. Titans
12. Texans (via Browns)

–Field Level Media

Dec 4, 2021; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) celebrates with linebacker Will Anderson Jr. (31) after their win during the SEC championship game after the Georgia Bulldogs at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Top 23 prospects to watch before ’23 NFL Draft

Posted on | by Field Level Media

NFL scouts are finally settling back into their usual patterns now that COVID restrictions are in the rearview mirror, and this class figures to be top-heavy compared to the 2022 batch.

This year’s group is full of top end pass-rushing talent, but there’s no lack of depth through the back of the first round and into the second round. It would be no surprise if six or seven edge rushers were first-round picks.

The quarterback position appears to be a strong group after a down year in 2021. There are three QBs primed to go in the first dozen picks.

On the other hand, the drought of talent at offensive tackle and along the interior offensive line compounds concerns for teams looking to upgrade their quarterback’s protection. Offensive tackle is particularly light in the first couple rounds, as most of the top talent either projects as moving inside at the NFL level or lacks the playing experience that teams desire.

Here are 23 pro prospects to watch to prepare for the 2023 NFL Draft:

23. CB Kelee Ringo, Georgia (rSo.)
Reasonably sized and possessing good straight-line speed, Ringo has athleticism on his side. His length is an area of concern though, and press heavy teams may see a red flag physically.

22. S Brandon Joseph, Notre Dame (rJr.)
A transfer portal import from Northwestern who has quality range and toughness, Joseph will hope to return to his 2020 form. His special teams ability will win the hearts of coaches.

21. OLB Will McDonald IV, Iowa State (Jr.)
Despite being under 230 pounds, the slender pass rusher is a fitting style playing for the Cyclones. He’s destructive with great burst, agility and body control, but his size is the major question mark.

20. OT Carter Warren, Pittsburgh (rSr.)
Warren seemed to be on the path of a second- or third-round pick last year before taking advantage of extra eligibility, and the light tackle class could nudge him into the top 25 picks. He’s a long and athletic mover who checks all the boxes physically.

19. TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame (Jr.)
Few tight ends are put together like Mayer, and those who are lack the same level of fluidity. He is an athletic anomaly with upside as a blocker and immediate value as a receiver.

18. S Antonio Johnson, Texas A&M (Jr.)
It’s rare that defensive backs can run around in the body of a linebacker without sacrificing some athleticism, but Johnson breaks the mold. He is a fluid mover with the tools to defend both the run and pass at a high level.

17. RB Bijan Robinson, Texas (Jr.)
A throwback ballcarrier and dynamo since his freshman year, Robinson’s modest agility is offset by his excellent size and violent running style. His style of play won’t be a fit for some teams, others will covet the ground-and-pound attitude.

16. DE Brandon Dorlus, Oregon (Sr.)
A rising senior with some ‘tweener elements to his game, there will be some teams that won’t know how to utilize him. He’s quite similar to Logan Hall
from last year’s class. A team who missed out may jump the line to get Dorlus as an alternative.

15. OLB Nolan Smith, Georgia (Sr.)
Smith surprised many draftniks returning for a senior year. His size isn’t ideal, but teams looking for a 3-4 outside linebacker should swoon over the diversity of his pass-rushing skill set.

14. DE B.J. Ojulari, LSU (Jr.)
The younger brother of former second-round pick Azeez Ojulari, B.J. might be even more athletic. He has unique body control and bend, which allowed him to win consistently against top SEC tackles last year.

13. WR Jordan Addison, USC (Jr.)
Addison transferred cross country from Pittsburgh to USC after the departure of his quarterback Kenny Pickett to the NFL. He’s electric with the ball in his hands but scouts will want to see how much weight he can add.

12. OLB Isaiah Foskey, Notre Dame (rJr.)
The leader of the Fighting Irish defense with 10 sacks last year, Foskey’s output is even more impressive given the variety of ways he was used. He can do it all from playing off-ball linebacker to rushing the passer.

11. CB Cam Smith, South Carolina (rJr.)
Smith is a rising junior who emerged after highly touted teammates Jaycee Horn and Israel Mukuamu left for the pros. He has an NFL body and resume, and his performance in 2021 showed a lot of promise.

10. DE Zion Tupuola-Fetui, Washington (Sr.)
A former all-American who played close to 280 pounds in 2020, Tupuola-Fetui’s draft projection was upended by a torn Achilles in the spring
prior to his junior year. He returned in dominant fashion late in 2021 and seems primed for a breakout year at 245 pounds.

9. CB Eli Ricks, Alabama (Jr.)
Coming to Tuscaloosa by way of LSU, Ricks is a two-year starter who earned all-SEC honors. His ability to play with length and strength in press coverage bring the top-10 grade.

8. QB Will Levis, Kentucky (Sr.)
Painting in the same shades as Josh Allen, Levis has leveraged his great arm talent and plus athleticism to succeed in the SEC after transferring in from Penn
State. His statline isn’t the prettiest, but he will check most boxes for NFL teams.

7. LB Henry To’oto’o, Alabama (Sr.)
The modern-day prototype for the linebacker position starts with range and versatility, and To’oto’o has ’em in spades. His unique instincts, technique,
tackling and coverage ability push his ceiling even higher.

6. WR Kayshon Boutte, LSU (Jr.)
Boutte is a buttery smooth route runner with rare athleticism and body control. Injuries limited his output in 2021, but if he returns to 2020 form he should be a top-15 pick.

5. QB C.J. Stroud, Ohio State (rSo.)
A strong-armed passer with good size and potential, accuracy might improve with more experience. Losing two of his top receivers in Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave to the NFL will add even more to his plate. But if Stroud delivers, he’ll be a main course in the ’23 draft.

4. DE Myles Murphy, Clemson (Jr.)
A rare frame for the position and the production to match, Murphy collected eight sacks as a sophomore and should be able to reach
double-digit sacks in his final year with the Tigers.

3. QB Bryce Young, Alabama (Jr.)
Sharp, precise and controlled would be good descriptors of Young, who stands just 5-foot-11. His physical tools are just above-average, but he plays with a lightning fast release, pinpoint accuracy and natural adjustability from within the pocket.

2. DT Jalen Carter, Georgia (Jr.)
While only a modest producer in 2021, Carter was sharing time with two first-round picks along the defensive line in Jordan Davis and Devonte Wyatt. He could be in for an enormous year if Georgia gives him the lion’s share of snaps.

1. DE Will Anderson Jr, Alabama (Jr.)
A surprise snub in Heisman voting, Anderson’s 17.5 sacks and 31 tackles for a loss in 2021 led the nation. He’s a blue-chip prospect with All-Pro potential.

–By Mark Jarvis, Field Level Media