The Jags' top three tight ends are unsigned. Kincaid, an All-Pac-12 player (70 catches, 890 yards, 8 TDs) in 2022, might be better than all of them and would give QB Trevor Lawrence another dangerous weapon for an ascending offense.
Musgrave was getting some late-first/early Day-2 buzz down in Mobile, and while he didn't have a great week, it was certainly easy to see why teams like him. He missed most of '22 with an injury but he's well built, long, and has the athleticism to consistently separate from both safeties and linebackers. His blocking is a work in progress but he'll be a contributor in the passing game from Day 1.
The Jaguars were one of the surprise teams of the 2022 season. With the opportunity to continue to build, I believe that they need to simply continue to add talented players regardless of their position. Cam Smith is a versatile cover that can play man or zone and is very competitive—just the type of player that the Jaguars need to solidify this upward trend as an organization.
Evan Engram set career highs in receptions (73) and yards (766) in his first season with the Jaguars. Both sides want Engram to be back, but will they be able to make it work financially? Based on effective cap space from Over the Cap, the Jaguars are projected to be nearly $23 million over the cap. In terms of being used as a weapon in the passing game, Kincaid is as talented as any tight end in this class.
There's no such thing as giving Trevor Lawrence too many weapons as the Jaguars continue to build after being one of the best stories in the NFL last season. The ever-versatile Mayer is arguably the best tight end in this class and gives Jacksonville both a strong blocker and a dangerous pass catcher. If Evan Engram returns to Jacksonville, the Jags will have an elite one-two punch at the position. But if the Jaguars lose Engram to free agency, Mayer gives them a nice insurance policy.
The Jaguars' pass game took a huge step forward in Trevor Lawrence's second season. The Christian Kirk signing paid off, and Calvin Ridley -- acquired at the deadline -- should be a factor next season once he returns from suspension. But Lawrence probably still needs another pass-catcher, especially because tight end Evan Engram is a free agent and we can't be sure what Ridley will bring after missing more than a year.
Smith-Njigba is a tough evaluation. He caught 15 passes for 347 yards and three TDs in the 2021 season's Rose Bowl, capping off a 1,606-yard campaign. But he had two catches in that game that were longer than his total yardage for the entire 2022 season (43), as a nagging hamstring injury limited him to five catches over three contests. JSN displays soft hands, precise route running and good after-the-catch ability, and he could be a steal for Jacksonville if he falls here.
The Jaguars' defense has had its moments this season, but is still short a few pieces. As a red-shirt sophomore, Ringo's size/speed combination is still developing, but the former five-star recruit will compete to be the first cornerback selected solely based on his talent and potential.
Smith's a tough-minded corner who does not back down from SEC receivers and makes plays on the ball, which is the type of defender the Jaguars need opposite Tyson Campbell.
Aidan Hutchinson was a home run pick last year, and fellow rookie James Houston IV was very productive in limited playing time. Murphy would give the Lions three outstanding young edge rushers.
The Lions have the perfect situation for Richardson as he enters the league. He can sit behind Jared Goff for at least a year and then provide the rewards that come from building a team around a quarterback playing on his rookie contract.
As satisfied as they seem with QB Jared Goff, this might be the Lions' last best chance to take a young quarterback knowing Goff's contract only runs two more seasons. But barring that, Detroit has to alter what was statistically the league's worst defense in 2022. As disappointing as Jeff Okudah and these corners have generally been, Witherspoon makes perfect sense — and his willingness to tackle and mix it up behind the line of scrimmage while taking on runners seem to be a good fit for a Dan Campbell-coached team.
Another asset for Detroit's defense. The productive All-ACC edge man had 18½ sacks and 36 TFLs in three seasons with the Tigers and would make a nice bookend with DE Aidan Hutchinson.
Porter is the prototypical big, physical cornerback who looks like he belongs in the NFL. He can sometimes get a little too handsy downfield, but he checks many of the boxes of what team's look for when drafting DBs. Is this too early for Porter? Maybe ... then again, there is a premium on big, physical cornerbacks; in recent drafts Sauce Gardner, Derek Stingley Jr., Jaycee Horn and Patrick Surtain II were all taken early in the first round.
Van Ness never started a game at Iowa but that's not the point. The point is that NFL teams love his size, his athleticism, and where his game could be a couple of years from now. Purdue's George Karlaftis went at the end of Round 1 a year ago, and USC's Drake Jackson went a round later; both players were high-upside prospects who exceeded expectations as rookies. Van Ness is in the same conversation but could be the best of the bunch.
The Lions finished the year as one of the hottest teams in the NFL and have clearly placed themselves in the running for the NFC North crown next year. But they need to fix a defense that was one of the worst units in the NFL. They start to fix that by addressing the back end and drafting Oregon CB Christian Gonzalez. Gonzalez may be the best athlete of all the corners in this class and has the ability to play lockdown man-to-man coverage. Gonzalez paired with Jeff Okudah should give the Lions a nice young pair moving forward.
It is clear that Dan Campbell has a very specific culture that he is trying to cultivate and Bryan Breese fits that perfectly. Breese is a tough, hard-nosed player that is also extremely talented. The opportunity to draft Breese is a steal for the Lions and also the perfect fit for Campbell and this staff.
Cornerback is arguably the team's biggest need heading into the offseason, even though the Lions used a top-three pick on Jeff Okudah in 2020. Both Amani Oruwariye and Mike Hughes are scheduled to become free agents next month. The brother-in-law of former Lions quarterback David Blough, Gonzalez has elite speed (23.3 mph on GPS, per Bruce Feldman), smooth change-of-direction ability and excellent length. Gonzalez had four interceptions for the Ducks in '22.
Double-dipping with defensive picks in the first round is a distinct possibility for the Lions. While Detroit ranked top five in both total and scoring offense in 2022, it ranked last in total defense and only the Bears (27.2) and Cardinals (26.4) allowed more points per game than the Lions (25.1), who also ranked 28th in Football Outsiders' DVOA metric for defense. Rookies Aidan Hutchinson (9.5) and James Houston (eight) combined for 17.5 sacks last season, but Bresee has the quickness and power to be a disruptive three-technique for the Lions.
Illinois led the nation in scoring defense, and Witherspoon and the secondary were the key to the Illini's defensive emergence. Witherspoon always was assigned the opponent's best receiver, no matter if it was field, boundary or slot. According to Pro Football Focus, Witherspoon was targeted 63 times and allowed just 22 catches for 206 yards and no scores. Plus, he can bring the thunder. Witherspoon has the potential to become a shutdown corner and the toughness to further restore the roar in Detroit.
The Lions won eight of their final 10 games but were 28th or worse in the most important defensive categories, including last overall in total defense. With a pair of talented rush ends in Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston, Detroit needs a two-down run stuffer in the worst way. Ika has that ability with his 6-4, 360-pound frame to tie up blockers and quick enough footwork to close gaps.
I think Detroit sticks with Jared Goff and uses this pick on a porous defensive unit. I considered a cornerback, but Murphy has a much higher grade than my CB1 -- and the defense needs support at multiple positions. It couldn't stop anyone last season, allowing a league-high 6.2 yards per play. Adding Murphy's speed off the edge to a group that already includes 2022 first-rounder Aidan Hutchinson and surprise rookie standout James Houston immediately moves the defense forward.
Something else to watch for here: I wouldn't be surprised if Detroit slides down the board, picking up additional draft capital from a team looking to nab a quarterback. The Lions already have a second first-rounder, too.
We mentioned that the Lions might be thinking cornerback at No. 6 (ended up with a defensive end in Murphy), but they get one here with their second first-rounder at the tail end of a mini run at the position. Ringo is the fourth CB to come off the board in five picks. There will be a lot of opinions about his game, but Ringo has a lot of upside. He has speed and length, and he's very good in press coverage. Plus, he hauled in two interceptions in each of his seasons at Georgia. Jeff Okudah has flashed the traits that made him the No. 3 pick in 2020, but even if he takes the next step, Amani Oruwariye is a free agent, leaving the other outside corner spot wide open.
It appears Jared Goff may keep his job. This selection would pair nicely with former top-three pick Jeff Okudah and hopefully address a leaky pass defense for the Lions. Gonzalez has the size (6-2, 200) and physical traits that make most scouts salivate, and the Colorado transfer answered all questions regarding his ball production (four interceptions) in his only season in Eugene. His draft stock could lift off with a dynamic performance at the combine.
Bresee was the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2020 recruiting class. He showed flashes of dominance as a true freshman in 2020, but only played 152 snaps in 2021 before tearing his ACL. It appears he regained his explosiveness and remains one of the most versatile defensive lineman in this class, but his injury history has teams divided. Otherwise, I believe the Lions might consider taking him with the sixth pick.
Usually there's a cornerback who takes a big leap (figuratively and literally) at the NFL Scout Combine -- my guess is that's Gonzalez this year. The Oregon defender's size (6-2, 201) and athleticism will likely impress scouts, who, if they haven't devoured it already, will then turn to the tape where they'll see aggressive play and very good ball skills. Gonzalez could help alleviate some of the pressure on the Lions' previous top-10 corner selection, Jeff Okudah.
Mayer might end up as the second tight end off the board because he is not as quick-twitch as Dalton Kincaid and others at his position. The Lions happily select the Notre Dame standout, though, as his reliability as a pass-catcher and tenacious blocking remind me of Ravens star Mark Andrews.
A big corner (6 feet, 188 pounds) who can play wide or in the slot and should definitely flourish while improving coverage opposite Trevon Diggs if he takes No. 1 receivers.
Hyatt wasn't in the first-round conversation heading into the 2022 season but he's a great example of a player taking advantage of his opportunities, thanks in large part to Hendon Hooker's Heisman Trophy campaign. Hyatt is a bona fide deep threat who consistently stacks defensive backs who were helpless to do much about it all season.
The Cowboys' defense took a step forward this year, but there was still one glaring issue: the corner position opposite of Trevon Diggs. This position was consistently thrown at by opposing offenses. Drafting Keele Ringo with this pick allows for the Cowboys to have two CBs that have height, length, and great ball skills that should help make this one of the best defenses in the NFL.
The Cowboys need way more production, obviously, in Year 2 from third-round receiver Jalen Tolbert, but they could consider adding to their receiving corps here. Another major need is shoring up the team's corner spot opposite Trevon Diggs, as that position was a rotating door after the injury to Anthony Brown, an impending free agent. Forbes is a slender cornerback with good length, speed, instincts and ball skills. He finished his collegiate career with more pick-sixes (six) than most corners had regular interceptions.
Jerry Jones loves himself some big-name running backs (Emmitt Smith, Herschel Walker, Ezekiel Elliott), and this could be the time for a refresh while also saving cap space. Tony Pollard made the Pro Bowl, but he is set to be a free agent and fractured his left fibula in the playoffs; Ezekiel Elliott could be cut for salary cap purposes. Robinson was the best running back in college football with 1,580 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns as a junior last year. He's also a threat out of the backfield, with 60 catches in his Texas career. With Mike McCarthy taking over the offense, Robinson would be a useful and versatile weapon.
Torrence has allowed just two sacks over 47 career starts and more than 1,400 pass-block snaps. With Connor McGovern's contract expiring, there is a hole on Dallas' offensive line, and Torrence is a brick wall against power rushers. He looked great at the Senior Bowl two weeks ago, too.
The Cowboys' pick might come down to how the board plays out, though. They might be enticed by Bijan Robinson if he's available, given Tony Pollard is a free agent and Ezekiel Elliott could be a cap casualty. And the WR2 spot behind CeeDee Lamb needs consideration, because Michael Gallup didn't make much of an impact last season. Depth at cornerback and edge rush shouldn't be ignored, either. I'm intrigued by how Dallas approaches these next few months and how the board sets up for this pick in April.
The Cowboys need someone to play opposite of Trevon Diggs. Forbes is a three-year starter in the SEC and has improved every season for the Bulldogs. He will need to bulk up (his tackling is suspect), but his instincts and ball production have been phenomenal with 14 interceptions in his collegiate career — a FBS-record six returned for a TD. His ball-hawking ways will fit in nicely with Dallas.
Dallas uses first- and second-round picks on stack linebackers as often as any team in the league. Simpson's cover and run-stopping skills could be a big help for the defense if Leighton Vander Esch and/or Anthony Barr leave via free agency.
Ozzie Newsome is still in the building, and Alabama players will always be coveted by the Ravens. Baltimore will value Branch's versatility and playmaking ability.
What better way to replace a big, physical corner like Marcus Peters than with a big, physical corner like Ringo ... though he's not the takeaway machine Peters is.
Maryland teammate and fellow CB Jakorian Bennett got much of the buzz in the fall, but Banks but together the type of season that will land you in the top-50 conversation. He's a fluid athlete who is also big, physical corner who can run and match up with NFL wide receivers.
The Ravens hired Todd Monken as their new OC, which seems like a move to help Lamar Jackson. The next move that they need to make is to add some help at the wide receiver position. If Rashod Bateman can stay healthy, the Ravens have a talented young duo with him and Flowers to give Jackson an upgrade at the WR position.
Baltimore's lack of talent at wide receiver was a glaring weakness last season without Marquise Brown (traded during last year's draft) and Rashod Bateman (injured during the season). The Ravens operate a run-centered offense, but Johnston's combination of size and speed would provide the offense with a vertical threat it lacked last season. In turn, his ability to stretch the field would help to create lighter boxes for the run game.
Let's assume for now that Lamar Jackson is coming back in 2023 and get him another pass catcher. The Ravens have some talent at wideout but ended up finishing the season with Demarcus Robinson and Sammy Watkins starting in a playoff game. Smith-Njigba had a tough year, but it's still tough to pass on him here. He looked like a potential top-10 pick going into 2022 before his hamstring injury and still has a bright future as a playmaker in the slot.
This might raise some eyebrows, especially with a handful of Day 1 receivers still on the board, but GM Eric DeCosta could add another outside target to pair with Rashod Bateman and Devin Duvernay via free agency and/or on Day 2. Robinson is my No. 9 prospect, pushed down the board by positional value, and the Ravens lean on the run like few other teams. We've now watched them look to free agents and practice-squaders at running back in back-to-back years, as J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards (both entering the final years of their deals) navigated various injuries. With Robinson available, coach John Harbaugh could make a splash.
Robinson reminds me of Saquon Barkley. He forces missed tackles with ease (FBS-leading 91 in 2022), has burst through rushing lanes and can make plays in the pass game. If Lamar Jackson does indeed end up back in Baltimore, this would form a scary rushing unit for new offensive coordinator Todd Monken.
The Ravens biggest priority this off-season will be to extend Lamar Jackson and add more weapons on offense so he doesn't have to break his back (or overwhelm his legs) carrying the team going forward. The 2021 Biletnikoff Award winner (with Pittsburgh) wasn't as dominant for the Trojans last season, but he's a silky smooth route runner with enough speed to challenge a defense at every level and features inside/outside versatility.
For the third time in five years, the Ravens select a receiver in the first round. After trading Marquise Brown (No. 25 overall, 2019) during Thursday night's festivities last year, Baltimore could be looking for a speedster to play with 2021 first-rounder Rashod Bateman (No. 27). Hyatt possesses the pure speed to stretch defenses vertically.
Washington could go any number of directions here. But corner is a need, and Porter might be a big upgrade over Benjamin St-Juste in a division with big-play receivers such as A.J. Brown and CeeDee Lamb.
The Washington Commanders need another young building block in the corner room and that's exactly what Joey Porter Jr. provides. Offering top-end length, ball skills, and athleticism, Porter Jr. profiles as a No. 1 corner in the NFL.
With all the talk about needing a quarterback, don't dismiss just how promising and talented Sam Howell is. The defense needs more playmakers, too, and there are a slew of great corners on the board.
As the lone NFC East team to not make the playoffs, the Commanders have a number of needs to figure out in the draft. Branch can play all over the back end and provides plenty of leadership for a team undergoing a bit of a transition.
Christian Gonzalez moves like a sports car on a football field. He has Tesla traits and in terms of burst/agility/speed, he's CB1 in this draft. Can he be physical enough down to down in coverage? Will he tackle? Taking it a step further, have we seen enough from him yet? Another 2023 cornerback prospect, another round of questions. But it's also undeniable that Gonzalez has loads of talent. He would be a very nice value at No. 16.
With recent reports that the Commanders are telling prospective offensive coordinators that Sam Howell is the QB for the team going forward, it seems likely that QB is not an option for Washington in the first round.
Cornerback, however, is.
Again, this is a deep and talented group, and seeing how people stack this cornerback class will be fascinating. Ringo combines sprinter's speed with the size and length needed at the position. His straight-line speed is a weapon on defense, and his film is complete with examples of him matching vertical routes, or breaking on shallow crossers in man coverage and disrupting at the catch point. His PBU against Georgia Tech this season on a 3rd and 13 is a prime example. He handles zone coverage responsibilities well, but his best role is likely as a corner in a heavy man-coverage scheme.
Ah, the ultimate wild card in this draft. Here in this mock, I have Richardson going No. 16, but the truth is that his range is anywhere from No. 7 overall with the Raiders all the way to No. 26 with the Giants. Richardson's numbers might scare teams, but his tape shows more promise than the raw data.
In his lone year of starting, he recorded 19 big-time throws and 13 turnover-worthy plays with just a 63.1% adjusted completion percentage (ideally, would want to be over 70%). But in a world of what could be, Richardson is as physically gifted as they come with his arm talent and his rushing ability. The ceiling is there, it's just a bit inconsistent. This is a true home-run swing that could change everything in Washington.
Here's yet another team with quarterback issues, as the Commanders traded for Carson Wentz last offseason (which cost them their third-rounder this year) but turned back to Taylor Heinicke down the stretch. Neither is likely to be their Week 1 starter; I wonder whether they will be players in the veteran-signal-caller market and bring in someone to compete with Sam Howell. No matter who is playing quarterback, though, they have to improve along the offensive line. Jones is a 310-pound mauler who didn't allow a single sack as the Bulldogs' left tackle in 2022. I wouldn't be shocked if he went in the top 10.
The Seahawks need to beef up their defensive front, and the best defensive prospect available at this point is Myles Murphy. His size (6-foot-5, 275 pounds) and athleticism will make him a disruptor wherever he lines up.
Geno Smith deserves to be re-signed as the Seahawks starting quarterback for 2023. But after that? Who knows. So, the Seahawks use the second of their first-round picks to select Anthony Richardson, the super athletic yet very raw product out of Florida. He'll need to sit for at least a year, but if he can develop some consistency as a passer, his physical ability will make him a difficult dual-threat to defend.
The Seahawks run defense has been a glaring weakness and will need to be addressed if they plan on challenging the 49ers in the NFC West — defensive tackle Poona Ford will be an unrestricted free agent after this season. Bresee was the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2020 recruiting class. He showed flashes of dominance as a true freshman in 2020, but only played 152 snaps in 2021 before tearing his ACL. It appears he regained his explosiveness and remains one of the most versatile defensive lineman in this class.
The Seahawks double-down on their defensive line. Any team struggling to stop the run will be in on the 6-foot-4, 358 pound Ika. Of course, he plugs up the middle of the field, but he's also athletic enough to pressure the quarterback.
Murphy is an exciting player whose burst and power to speed transitions are mesmerizing qualities to watch. Extremely aggressive at the point of attack, Murphy utilizes his brute strength to overpower opponents. His ability to rush the passer is equaled by his effectiveness and tenacity against the run.
In a rebuilding season, the Seahawks making it to the playoffs was an unexpected accomplishment. In addition, the resurgent play of Geno Smith as a starting signal caller might redirect Seattle's team-building decisions. Richardson struggled some in 2022 as well and was doubted by many to be first round material, but finished strong by season's end. It's possible the Seahawks see a little of Smith's perseverance in Richardson's tenacious playing style.
The Seahawks can bolster their defensive line with the pick they got from the Russell Wilson trade. Murphy gives their defensive line another high-upside, young player to develop alongside players like Tariq Woolen and Jordyn Brooks.
Tyler Lockett won't play forever and the Seahawks could use a talented third receiver to make their offense really pop. Smith-Njigba didn't play much this season for Ohio State due to a hamstring injury, but he's still regarded as one of the best wide receivers in the upcoming draft.
The Seahawks need to do a better job of getting to the quarterback and also stopping the run, especially after that disaster against Josh Jacobs and the Raiders, and subsequently, D'Onta Foreman and the Panthers.
The Seahawks have to add more athleticism and beef to the interior of their defensive line. Bresee is a specimen who can wreak havoc at any position up front.
Pete Carroll and Co. emerge from the Russell Wilson trade as a playoff outfit equipped with a top-five pick and an apparent answer at quarterback, so long as the team opts to bring back Geno Smith. And though last year's class set a high bar for early contributors, Seattle is well positioned to fortify its defensive front. Murphy should be stout against the run from Day 1 with significant room for growth as a pass rusher, especially if the 6-5, 275-pounder can better translate his abundant athleticism into a finishing touch.
If the Seahawks bring back Geno Smith at quarterback, the veteran would stand to benefit greatly from the addition of another pass catcher to an offense that has tilted heavily toward DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. While Mayer won't have anyone confusing him for Kyle Pitts or Travis Kelce given his athletic limitations, the 6-4, 265-pounder is one of the most sure-handed and reliable tight end prospects in years.
The Russell Wilson deal may go down as the worst in NFL history—or the best, if you're the Seattle Seahawks.
Thanks to the franchise dumping its all-time leading passer, the Seahawks miraculously got better with Geno Smith under center yet will benefit from a top-five draft pick from the Denver Broncos.
This particular selection comes down to how the Seahawks feel internally about Smith. The longtime backup-turned-starter hasn't performed as well during the second half of the season, and he's a pending free agent. But he's proved himself more than capable of leading the squad. Maybe a franchise tag will come into play for next season. Or, general manager John Schneider could consider a quarterback in this slot.
Right now, Smith's return, coupled with the addition of an elite defensive talent, seems to be the Seahawks' most likely plan of action. Clemson's Myles Murphy presents the physical skill set and potential worthy of a top-five selection.
"The Seahawks head into the playoffs with 35-year-old Bruce Irvin starting at one of their edge spots and could use someone else who can play multiple positions along their defensive line, as Murphy can," Holder said. "At 275 pounds, Murphy is athletic enough to drop into coverage. The first-team All-ACC defensive end also has the size and strength to hold up as a run defender in the trenches. He'd also be an excellent complementary pass-rusher to Uchenna Nwosu."
Head coach Pete Carroll loves to pound the ball and play stout defense. This pick will signify the organization's back-to-basics approach.
After selecting Clemson's Myles Murphy with the fifth overall draft pick thanks to the Russell Wilson trade, the Seahawks double down on their defensive front.
Baylor's Siaki Ika will provide a massive presence along Seattle's defensive interior. The team needs the addition too, since Poona Ford is on the verge of entering free agency.
Ika, Murphy, Uchenna Nwosu and Darrell Taylor would provide frightening potential for the Seahawks' defensive line rotation.
"Good luck trying to handle the Seahawks' front after this draft, " Holder said. "With Murphy already headed to the Emerald City and Nwosu under contract through next season, Ika's inclusion gives Seattle added interior push to pair with a secondary that features up-and-comers Tariq Woolen and Coby Bryant.
"The Baylor product is a physical force and hard to move against the run while also being a pretty good athlete for his size. If Ika can keep his weight down to around 340 pounds, he has excellent quickness that he can use as a pass-rusher.
"Of those five players already mentioned, Nwosu is the oldest at 26."
Such a massive infusion of talent in this year's first round should help Seattle make a significant leap in 2023 after finishing in the bottom 10 in total defense. The group may never replicate the Legion of Boom, but all the pieces will be in place for Pete Carroll's unit to once again be counted among the better ones in the league.
Seattle had an outstanding draft haul in 2022 (landing running back Kenneth Walker, cornerback Tariq Woolen and bookend offensive tackles among others). They look to continue that this year by adding the 6-foot-6, 275-pound Wilson, a versatile edge rusher who put up a combined 14 sacks and 27.5 tackles for a loss during the past two seasons.
Murphy is the most impressive athlete in this defensive line class. What he can do physically at 6-foot-5 and 275 pounds is comparable to last year's No. 1 pick, Travon Walker. The Seahawks have been desperate for an impact edge rusher for years now, and Murphy can be that player in time.
Ringo is a Pete Carroll cornerback if I've ever seen one. He's an enormous 6-foot-2, 210-pounder who should run in the low 4.3s. Stick him at the line of scrimmage and let him beat up opposing receivers all day across from Tariq Woolen. For his college career, Ringo allowed a catch on only 47.8% of targets into his coverage.
The Panthers need a franchise quarterback in the worst way, and they'll fall in love with Will Levis' traits. Despite a frustrating season due to a porous offensive line, lackluster skill players and him being banged up, Levis has the skill set to to become a really good NFL quarterback.
An attempt to trade for Deshaun Watson failed. Recycling Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield failed too so the Panthers will once again be in the market for a signal-caller, but the board doesn't fall their way here. Cornerback was such an issue, Carolina signed Josh Norman near the end of the season. The son of former All-Pro linebacker Joey Porter checks the size (6-2, 198) and physicality boxes. Plus, Junior's athleticism and talent pops when you watch him, but he'll need to refine his technique and develop more consistency to pay off his potential — his aggressive nature is a gift and a curse, but he'd pair nicely with Jaycee Horn.
Wilson is the type of irritatingly effective edge rusher that opposing teams hate battling while also being the kind of versatile athlete emblematic of Carolina's defensive style of play. Wilson can either set the edge or maneuver beyond it, causing disruption and chaotic uncertainty in offensive backfields. Playing the opposite end from Carolina's best edge rusher, Brian Burns, Wilson could significantly contribute to formulating a formidable one-two pass rushing tandem for the Panthers.
The Panthers could take a dice roll at quarterback here with Anthony Richardson. Instead they take the top cornerback off the board in Ringo. He and Jaycee Horn would give the Panthers a top cornerback duo to grow with over the next few years.
The Panthers need a franchise quarterback. I'm sure they'll attempt to move up for Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud, but if they can't, they could settle for the third or fourth option in this class.
Will Levis has a big arm and could be chosen in the top 10.
The Panthers need to look to the draft for their next quarterback. Richardson can sit for a little behind Sam Darnold before eventually taking over. He's a monstrous talent.
A trade into the top five might be necessary for owner David Tepper to land the franchise quarterback he's so sorely sought during his tenure. In this scenario, however, the Panthers still grab one of the draft's most intriguing passers. NFL teams don't overlook anyone who blends a 6-3, 232-pound frame with superlative arm strength and running ability, so Levis' rise is hardly surprising. But his underdevelopment when operating from the pocket leaves significant questions about how he can handle the next step. For the Panthers, however, that's still an offering that's too good to turn down.
Kentucky's Will Levis is the enigma of the 2023 class because the quarterback looked like a future top-10 selection a year ago but failed to capitalize on his momentum during his final season on campus.
Beggars can't be choosers in the case of the Carolina Panthers. The organization has been dead set on acquiring a franchise quarterback since David Tepper became its owner. Yet the Panthers failed to do so at every turn.
Carolina can rationalize this pick based on two factors. First, Levis fits the prototype as a 6'3", 232-pound quarterback prospect with a big arm and good movement skills. Secondly, his downturn in production could stem from losing his top two wide receivers, the Wildcats' best two blockers and their offensive play-caller from the previous season.
"Levis is a roll of the dice to get a player somewhere on the Ryan Tannehill to Matthew Stafford spectrum," Klassen said. "As a 23-year-old prospect with years of experience in a Kyle Shanahan-like system, Levis provides the advantage of walking into the league more prepared than his peers.
Levis' brightest moments comes when he's ripping play-action posts or firing backside dig routes, both of which showcase his arm strength. With that being said, the Kentucky product isn't a complete prospect. His accuracy is subpar for a first-round quarterback, which was true even in 2021. Also, he's not a particularly creative player who can excel off-schedule.
"Thankfully for the player and team, Carolina has a good enough offensive line to keep Levis propped up and tap into his strengths as a thrower."
Christian McCaffery finished the season as Carolina's fourth-leading receiver, and he only played in six games before being traded. The 6-foot-4 Johnston is the most physically talented WR in this class with the ability to turn any play into a big gain. His yards per catch during his three college seasons? 22.1, 19.2 and 18.1.
Beggars can't be choosers with three quarterbacks off the board already. The Panthers are certainly going to be the beneficiaries of a deep quarterback class. Richardson offers the kind of tools that can go No. 1 overall, but he will likely fall to this point because he lacks the polish and experience you see from most first-rounders. He earned an 80.1 overall grade in his first season as a starter.
With James Bradberry set to become a free agent, the Eagles will likely be looking for a younger, cheaper alternative. They find it with Joey Porter Jr., a long cornerback with NFL pedigree.
GM Howie Roseman added former All-Pros Quinn (via trade) and Ndamukong Suh as stop gaps on the defensive line. Wilson was one of nine players in the FBS to produce 60 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and six sacks before suffering a season-ending broken foot against Kansas. He's a physically gifted, ascending pass rusher who is explosive off the ball and powerful enough to make an immediate impact at the next level.
Miles Sanders is set to test free agency and could command a significant investment after his breakthrough 2022 season. There's bell-cow, dual-threat potential with Gibbs. He features electric speed with pass-catching ability and an advanced route tree.
Among the more experienced defensive back prospects in this draft class (1,704 college snaps played), Porter is extremely nuanced in various techniques for covering receivers. He's excellent in diagnosing routes and utilizing measured anticipatory skills that successfully mirror pass catchers. Throughout his career, Porter has amassed 20 passes defended and over 100 total tackles while at Penn State.
Foskey wins with a ceaseless motor and a physicality that overwhelms opponents. His suddenness off the edge makes him a special talent that commands respect from offensive tackles. Foskey's ability to chase down ball carriers for backside stops, plus his improved awareness in thwarting trap runs and screen passes makes him extremely difficult to scheme against.
The Eagles have this pick thanks to the Saints and they can bolster their defense even further. James Bradberry and Darius Slay were incredible in 2022, but they're both older cornerbacks and it can never hurt to have young talent at that position. Enter Cam Smith.
A linebacker to fill out the Eagles' defense even more. Linebacker is the only unit on Philly's defense that isn't strong, so here's an immediate impact starter.
Darius Slay and James Bradberry have been an amazing duo, but both will be 30-plus heading into 2023. The Eagles will need to replace one of them soon. Devon Witherspoon is not quite six feet, but he has incredible speed.
Deferred gratification paid off for Philadelphia, which parlayed last year's multi-pick swap with the Saints into a top-10 pick this April. Quite a reward might be waiting for them in Ringo, a 6-2, 205-pound coverage ace with the unique physical profile to handle modern receivers. Taking him could help ease the blow if another team swoops in on James Bradberry in free agency.
What do you get the team that boasted the NFL's best record and topped the league with 70 sacks? If you're Howie Roseman, maybe still more speed off the edge. Ojulari brings plenty of that with a blistering first step, which should become even more imposing if he can develop a better plan for his rush.
The Philadelphia Eagles own the NFL's best record and deepest overall roster. Yet, the organization finds itself among the top half of the first round thanks to a shrewd draft-day trade this past spring by general manager Howie Roseman.
With the New Orleans Saints providing a quality selection after an underachieving season, the Eagles can address a premium position with one of the class' best in coverage.
"South Carolina's Cam Smith is another long cornerback who does his best work in man coverage," Giddings said. "He is a bit raw in his technique but presents great upside.
"The Eagles have aging cornerbacks and a strong front seven. The addition of a top cornerback prospect in this draft would only help solidify an already very good defense. Smith could earn a starting spot on the outside or over the slot. Maybe he just adds quality depth in his first year."
Darius Slay turned 32 at the start of the new year, and his salary-cap figure balloons to $26.1 million for the 2023 campaign, according to Spotrac. Opposite Slay, James Bradberry isn't under contract after this season. Furthermore, both Avonte Maddox and C.J. Gardner-Johnson both experienced stints on injured reserve.
A team can never have too many good corners, and Philadelphia should abide by the cliché.
Governmental oversight worked in Andre Carter II's favor. Last month, Congress reversed a ruling where the Army cadet would immediately honor his service commitment upon his graduation from West Point.
Now, Carter can play in the NFL before he returns for active duty. The 6'7", 260-pound edge-defender provides plenty of length and athleticism to a pass rush. The Philadelphia Eagles, meanwhile, definitely need an injection of youth into their defensive front.
"The pairing for Carter and the Eagles is perfect because Philadelphia loves drafting pass-rushers and it gives the defensive lineman some time to bulk up and get better against the run," Holder said. "Carter is an excellent pass rusher who can win with speed around the edge and has a nice inside stick move to keep offensive tackles off-balance.
"But Carter's run defense is ugly. He has plenty of room for growth on his frame and getting into an NFL training program should help correct that issue."
Philadelphia is staring down the possibility of losing Brandon Graham, Robert Quinn, Fletcher Cox, Javon Hargrave, Linval Joseph and Ndamukong Suh this offseason. Jordan Davis, Josh Sweat and Milton Williams will remain. Maybe the best outcome is the Eagles bringing back one or two of those long-time veterans while Carter gets a chance to learn as part of the defensive line rotation.
Knowing the Eagles, they are going to prioritize corner and edge rusher in this draft. Ringo is going to get downgraded for his hip stiffness, but he is a big (6-foot-2), fast, disciplined player who can upgrade their defense. The junior totaled 41 tackles and two interceptions this season.
The Eagles continue to prioritize and build a stable of edge rushers and corners. Ojulari, who has 25.5 tackles for a loss and 16.5 sacks in three seasons, is the next best edge rusher on our board.
Branch is the kind of defensive back that is gaining value around the NFL. He can play the slot position at an elite level against both run and pass. He earned a 90.7 run-defense grade and an 86.4 coverage grade for Alabama this past fall. That would fit in perfectly in Jonathan Gannon's defense — especially if C.J. Gardner-Johnson departs in free agency.
Smith-Njigba is a plug-and-play slot wide receiver. His reliability from that alignment would give the Eagles three sure-fire route winners. Smith-Njigba went for 1,595 and nine scores as a sophomore in 2021 before hamstring issues derailed his 2022 season.
