Building an NFL draft board is a work in progress throughout the offseason. The NFL combine is always a significant step towards completing the process, and as players work through their pro days, the final touches can be put on the board.
Here’s how my top 50 prospects look right now. These rankings are based on my personal estimation of each player’s value, based on the assumption each prospect lands in an offensive/defensive scheme suited to his skill set.
Ryan McCrystal has the third-best big board over the last five years according to The Huddle Report.
Rank | Five Year Average Leaders | Average Correct |
---|---|---|
1 | Bob McGinn | 86 |
2 | NFL Rough Draft | 86 |
3 | Ryan McCrystal | 85.2 |
4 | Xavier Cromartie | 85 |
5 | Robby Esch | 84.8 |
6 | Bill Dow | 84.8 |
7 | Mark Niemi | 84.6 |
8 | Todd McShay | 84.4 |
9 | Walt Deptula | 84.2 |
10 | Douglas Martz | 84 |
11 | Lance Zierlein | 83.4 |
12 | Shawn Baptist | 82.8 |
13 | Jeff Legwold | 82.2 |
14 | Matthew Jones | 82 |
15 | Mel Kiper Jr. | 82 |
16 | Drafttek | 81.2 |
17 | Brian Hitterman | 80.8 |
18 | Rob Rang | 80.8 |
19 | Pigskin Paul | 80.4 |
20 | Dane Brugler | 80.2 |
1. Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Anderson wins with an elite burst off the edge. His athleticism is a challenge for any offensive tackle to match, and his quickness regularly forces them into mistakes in an effort to keep up. The smooth transition he made from high school to the SEC bodes well for his jump to the pros, and he should be expected to make an immediate impact.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
When college pass rushers consistently win with speed, sometimes there’s a learning curve in the NFL as they need to refine their pass-rush repertoire. As a result, the few tackles who can match Anderson’s athleticism may cause him problems as he learns how to win in other ways.
Good team fits: Texans, Cardinals, Colts, Lions
2. Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Wilson is built like an offensive tackle, but with a burst of athleticism relatively few tackles can match. He has a well-rounded game, which should allow him to step into a role as a three-down defender as a rookie.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Where was this production prior to 2022? Wilson was almost unblockable last fall but had never consistently maintained that level of production in years prior. He’ll also need to prove he can win with more than just pure power.
Good team fits: Texans, Cardinals, Colts, Falcons, Bears
3. C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Stroud’s accuracy and processing ability should allow for a reasonably smooth transition to the NFL. He also throws a beautiful deep ball, which should immediately be featured in his new offense.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
At times, Stroud can be risk averse, which limits his production under pressure. He doesn't make many costly mistakes, but he’ll need to get more comfortable making decisions under pressure and taking calculated risks.
Good team fits: Panthers, Texans, Colts, Seahawks, Lions, Raiders
4. Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Gonzalez possesses a special blend of length and athleticism that gives him an impressive ability to make plays on the ball. He’ll start immediately and has the traits to develop into a top-tier lockdown corner.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Gonzalez is more dangerous in man coverage, where his raw athleticism takes over. In zone, he plays more passive and will need to gain the confidence to be more aggressive in that scheme.
Good team fits: Colts, Seahawks, Raiders, Falcons, Lions
5. Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Van Ness’s versatility and ability to win from multiple spots on the defensive line elevates his value. Per Sports Info Solutions, he ranked third in the Big Ten in pressure rate generated on the edge and also ranked third on the interior. Expect him to primarily play on the edge, but his interior production could allow him to shift inside on passing downs.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Does he have enough speed to consistently win on the edge? His versatility sets a high floor, but to reach his ceiling Van Ness will need to also be an explosive threat on the edge.
Good team fits: Lions, Bears, Eagles, Texans, Patriots
6. Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Smith is an explosive weapon off the edge who should make an immediate impact as a pass-rusher. He has a similar physical profile to Micah Parsons and could be developed into a similar hybrid edge/linebacker.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Does he have the strength to hold up as a three-down edge defender? If Smith plays strictly on the edge, his physical profile will be an outlier. He’s light and lacks prototypical length for the position.
Good team fits: Falcons, Bears, Eagles, Texans, Packers, Chargers
7. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Smith-Njigba can win from the slot or the outside with precise routes and great hands. There’s a Keenan Allen-like quality to his game, in the sense that he’s greater than the sum of his parts. He just knows how to get open.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
He’s not going to create separation with pure speed, which gives experienced cornerbacks a chance to stick with him. Essentially missed the entire 2022 season with a hamstring injury 一 teams will want to know more about why a seemingly minor injury lingered for so long.
Good team fits: Falcons, Bears, Texans, Patriots, Packers, Steelers
8. Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Few players can create disruption from the interior like Kancey, who should immediately make his presence felt on passing downs. He fits best in the three-tech role, but could potentially play defensive end in three-man fronts.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
There are plenty of examples of undersized interior linemen having success, but even among those Kancey’s short arms make him an outlier. Some teams will question his ability as a three-down defender and may view him strictly as a pass-rusher.
Good team fits: Raiders, Bears, Eagles, Texans, Bengals, Saints
9. Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Anyone in need of a blitzing linebacker will love what Sanders has to offer. He’s on the Micah Parsons spectrum, as someone with off-ball linebacker traits who can get after the quarterback like a pure edge rusher.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
He’s a converted edge rusher who spent just one year at linebacker, so his open-field tackling and coverage skills are understandably raw. He can’t be trusted as a three-down linebacker until the tackling improves.
Good team fits: Falcons, Bears, Patriots, Packers, Lions, Rams, Browns
10. Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Young will be an immediate starter and should have some success right off the bat due to his processing ability. He’ll fit best in an offense built around the short, quick passing game.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
It’s been well documented that Young is an outlier in terms of his size, both height and build. That’s less of a concern in terms of his production 一 his vision helps make up for it 一 but it is a factor in terms of projecting his health. A larger concern is his lack of top-tier arm strength 一 a good offensive staff can work around it, but in the wrong system, he’ll struggle.
Good team fits: Texans, Colts, Lions
11. Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Johnson has starting experience at guard and tackle, but his athleticism points to a long-term role at left tackle. His pass protection skills should quickly translate to success in the NFL.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
There’s not a lot of power to his game. Johnson doesn’t turn 22 until July, so there’s reason to believe it can be developed with time, but it could be a short-term issue. Anyone with a run-heavy offense looking for immediate production may have concerns.
Good team fits: Bears, Jets, Commanders, Steelers, Raiders
12. Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Johnson is a three-down running back who should immediately be among the top 10-15 most talented ball carriers in the league. He wins with a blend of power and agility and is capable of contributing in the passing game.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Any criticism of Robinson sounds like nitpicking. That said, he could benefit from being more decisive as a runner 一 he gets caught dancing in the backfield a little too often.
Good team fits: Texans, Patriots, Lions, Commanders, Chargers, Bills, Bengals, Saints, Eagles
13. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Carter is a three-down defensive tackle with the size and strength to be a force against the run, and the athleticism to be disruptive as an interior pass-rusher. He’ll fit best at the three-tech position but has the well-rounded skill set to shift along the line.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Can you trust him off the field? Carter has given teams every reason to question his decision-making away from the football field and it’s hard to invest a high pick in someone you can’t trust. He’s a top-five talent in this class, but this ranking reflects the added volatility of his off-field concerns.
Good team fits: Seahawks, Eagles, Patriots, Bills, Ravens, Bengals
14. Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Smith has the tools to start as an outside corner in any coverage scheme and wins with exceptional ball skills.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Although he doesn’t have any red flags in his testing numbers, he also doesn’t have elite length or speed. Those modest traits could potentially limit his ceiling.
Good team fits: Lions, Patriots, Steelers, Ravens, Bengals, Saints
15. Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Simpson is an exceptional athlete with the traits to excel in all phases of the game as an off-ball linebacker. He’ll fit best with a coaching staff that wants to take advantage of his athleticism on blitzes.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
As a pass-rusher, Simpson relies heavily on pure speed and will need to develop his repertoire of moves. In coverage, he’s too reactionary and needs more experience to develop his anticipation skills.
Good team fits: Lions, Vikings, Bills, Browns, Rams
16. Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Jones looks like a prototypical NFL tackle with the length, strength, and athleticism to excel in any scheme.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Can he make a smooth transition to a more traditional pass-heavy offense? Jones was not regularly asked to hold up on an island in a lot of traditional pass sets. Although he fared well in pass protection due to his raw skills, his inexperience showed in certain matchups, as he’d lose battles to some more polished edge-rushers with lesser talent.
Good team fits: Bears, Jets, Commanders, Steelers
17. Peter Skoronski, OL, Northwestern
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Skoronski was a three-year starter at left tackle who could potentially stay at tackle but also fits the physical profile of a top-tier interior lineman. He can fit into any blocking scheme, though potentially at different positions depending on the team.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Does he have the length and athleticism to hold up in pass protection at left tackle? Northwestern adjusted its passing attack significantly against top-tier competition like Ohio State and Michigan to put less stress on the offensive line. As a result, Skoronski doesn’t have a ton of reps in pass protection against NFL talent, and his measurables don’t quite stack up to the league’s top talent at the position.
Good team fits: Bears, Eagles, Jets, Commanders, Buccaneers, Jaguars
18. Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Jones is a behemoth of a right tackle, who wins with his length and power. He can play in any scheme, but it’s worth noting he excelled in a zone-heavy scheme at Ohio State.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Can he handle speed rushers at the next level? His length makes him a tough matchup for anyone, but quick, bendy edge-rushers may be able to exploit Jones’s lack of quickness. He also must cut down on his penalties.
Good team fits: Commanders, Steelers, Chargers, Ravens, Bills, Bengals, Chiefs
19. Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Forbes is an experienced, athletic outside corner with top-tier ball skills. He’s capable of starting as a rookie and is best suited for a zone scheme.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Can he bulk up and, if not, how much will his size hold him back? Forbes is built like a pencil at 6-foot-1 and 166 pounds. It never created problems at Mississippi State, but there could be some long-term durability concerns if he can’t add bulk.
Good team fits: Commanders, Chargers, Ravens, Bills, Bengals, Chiefs
20. Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Witherspoon excelled as an outside corner in a man-heavy coverage scheme last fall at Illinois, displaying excellent ball skills. Few players enter the league with his level of experience in man coverage.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Considering the massive improvement by every Illinois defensive back in 2022, you have to wonder if they were all a product of a great scheme run by defensive coordinator Ryan Walters, who joined the team in 2021. Witherspoon saw significant action throughout his four years with the Illini but had never previously been a threat in the secondary.
Good team fits: Lions, Patriots, Steelers, Raiders, Saints
21. Bryan Bresee, DL, Clemson
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Bresee has all the traits to develop into a disruptive force and a three-down interior lineman. He excels when lined up as a three-tech, but can also play end in three-man fronts.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Bresee has struggled to stay on the field, most notably due to a torn ACL in 2021. As a pass-rusher, he tends to play without a plan, leaning too heavily on his athleticism. He may need time to develop his technique before he’s ready to start.
Good team fits: Packers, Eagles, Steelers, Rams, Bengals
22. Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Porter is a physical, aggressive corner with strong ball skills who could excel in a press-man scheme.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Can he handle the transition to the NFL and maintain his production from 2022? Prior to his breakout year last fall, Porter was consistently a liability in the Penn State secondary. He played an out-of-control style that allowed for too many big plays and penalties. He may need to be eased into the NFL so he doesn’t revert back to his undisciplined ways.
Good team fits: Lions, Patriots, Steelers, Saints
23. B.J. Ojulari, EDGE, LSU
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Ojulari is a weapon on the edge, operating at his best from a two-point stance. His pass-rush repertoire is extremely well-polished for a guy who turns 21 just weeks before the draft.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Despite elite length and good all-around size, there’s not much power to his game 一 though it's easy to speculate that will improve as his body continues to mature. He may not be an early-down defender early in his career, especially for a team operating primarily in four-man fronts.
Good team fits: Seahawks, Vikings, Falcons, Patriots, Buccaneers, Chargers
24. Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Murphy was a five-star recruit and the traits are exciting. He excels against the run and has the tools to become a three-down lineman in the future. He’s best suited to play on the edge in four-man fronts.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
The pass-rush productivity never matched the traits, which is especially concerning given all the talent around him. He tends to lean on his speed rush, but that won’t translate to the NFL 一 he’ll need to develop his counter moves to have success getting to the quarterback.
Good team fits: Bengals, Lions, Chiefs, Colts, Browns, Raiders
25. O’Cyrus Torrence, IOL, Florida
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Torrence is a plug-and-play guard. He’ll fit any scheme but is especially well suited for a team hoping to lean on the power run game.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
He’s not a great athlete and struggles in space. He’s going to lose some reps against more athletic interior pass-rushers and you’ll just have to live with that.
Good team fits: Commanders, Steelers, Eagles, Bengals, Giants
26. Brian Branch, S, Alabama
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Branch is a plug-and-play strong safety who excels against the run and has plenty of experience in coverage in the slot. His football IQ is his strength, and he should be expected to quickly emerge as an on-field leader.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
The measurables are unimpressive, both in terms of size and athleticism. His anticipation skills more than covered up those weaknesses in college, but they could become more noticeable in the NFL.
Good team fits: Packers, Bengals, Lions, Patriots, Rams
27. Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Kincaid is a pass-catching tight end with a nice blend of athleticism and size. He can stretch the field from the seam and will likely emerge as a useful red zone weapon.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Although he has the size for it, Kincaid is not consistently effective as a blocker and it could keep him off the field on early downs. It’s also worth noting that, although he’s a good athlete, he is not in an elite tier 一 typically tight ends who can’t block are tolerated due to special athletic traits. Certain teams just won’t see enough value in his combination of attributes.
Good team fits: Commanders, Bengals, Buccaneers, Raiders, Patriots
28. Tuli Tuipulotu, EDGE, USC
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Tuipulotu’s pass rush production on the interior and the edge indicates he’ll make his presence felt wherever he lines up. At his current weight (266 at the combine) it looks like he’s best suited for a role on the edge, but his potential versatility adds to his value.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Does he have the length and athleticism to stay on the edge? Does he have the size to shift back inside? Certain teams will see more value in his ‘tweener traits than others. Regardless of his role, he needs to add some functional strength to hold up against the run and might begin his career as a pass-rush specialist.
Good team fits: Cowboys, Chargers, Chiefs, Browns, Seahawks
29. Steve Avila, IOL, TCU
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Avila is a wide-bodied interior lineman with impressive length for the position. He wins with power and leverage and has the tools to start immediately at guard. His position versatility (he’s also started at right tackle and center) gives a boost to his value.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Quicker interior pass-rushers can cause problems 一 Avila lacks the light, quick feet to recover. He’ll also need to prove he can transition out of the Air Raid offense, into a scheme that requires more of him in pass protection.
Good team fits: Steelers, Bills, Cowboys, Giants, Raiders, Titans
30. Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Ringo is a physical, athletic outside corner. He has the traits and the aggressive approach to develop into a lockdown corner who could excel in a press-man scheme.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Ringo needs to learn to anticipate 一 he survived in college based on having the athletic tools to react and recover. The interview process will be important for him. If teams are comfortable with his developing football IQ, they’ll see a high ceiling once he becomes less reactionary and more proactive in coverage.
Good team fits: Vikings, Ravens, Steelers, Colts, Falcons, Saints
31. Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Harrison is a developmental left tackle prospect, who has already shown flashes of dominance in pass protection.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
He played in two gimmicky schemes at Oklahoma under Lincoln Riley and then Jeff Lebby, which didn’t put much stress on the offensive line in pass protection. As a result, his NFL readiness in pass protection is a bit of an unknown. He also must cut down on the mental mistakes which led to 14 penalties over the last two seasons.
Good team fits: Chiefs, Steelers, Cardinals, Rams, Titans
32. Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Mayer is a throwback in-line tight end, who provides as much value with his blocking as receiving skills. He’s a three-down tight end, who should start immediately.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
If you’re looking for a dynamic weapon, Mayer isn’t your guy. In the passing game, he won’t be the focal point of the offense. He’s more of a security blanket for the quarterback 一 think of former Steelers tight end Heath Miller.
Good team fits: Lions, Cowboys, Bengals, Packers, Commanders, Chargers, Jaguars, Dolphins
33. Ji'Ayir Brown, S, Penn State
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Brown is a ball hawk in the deep secondary but has experience lining up in the box and the slot as well.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Despite playing in the box at times, Brown was not a great wrap-up tackler, which might limit his position versatility. He also did not test as well as expected at the combine.
Good team fits: Eagles, Bengals, Rams, Vikings, Chargers
34. Darius Rush, CB, South Carolina
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Rush is an outside cornerback who excels at making plays on the ball and might fit best in a press-man scheme.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Rush flashes a high ceiling due to his athleticism and size, but efficient route runners got the better of him at times. There will be concerns about him giving up too many big plays downfield if he doesn't adjust.
Good team fits: Commanders, Eagles, Giants, Ravens, Broncos
35. Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Johnston is a developmental prospect with the physical tools of a prototypical number-one outside receiver in the NFL. At TCU, he did most of his damage after the catch and should make an immediate impact in the short passing game.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
To reach his potential Johnston needs to learn how to use his size to create separation downfield and make plays in contested situations.
Good team fits: Chiefs, Giants, Cowboys, Vikings, Chargers, Bills, Texans, Cardinals
36. Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Banks has extensive experience as an outside corner and has the explosive traits which set a high ceiling for his potential. He has experience in a variety of schemes, having played for three different defensive coordinators.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
With modest production during his career, Banks is mostly a traits-based projection and may not be ready for a significant role in 2023. His lack of production on the ball is a concern, and he must cut down on penalties.
Good team fits: Ravens, Steelers, Raiders, Saints, Falcons, Lions, Jets
37. Darnell Wright, OL, Tennessee
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Wright is built like a boulder and excels in the run game. He primarily played tackle at Tennessee, but has some experience at guard and some teams will view him as an interior lineman.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Can he handle NFL edge rushers? Tennessee’s quick passing game didn’t put a ton of pressure on the offensive line to hold up during extended dropbacks, so we haven’t really seen Wright continuously tested in pass protection. His athleticism is average at best for a tackle, and he may be forced inside.
Good team fits: Jets, Titans, Commanders, Chargers, Bills, Giants, Buccaneers, Jaguars
38. Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Charbonnet is a physical downhill runner with the vision and patience to excel in any scheme. He’s also a reliable pass-catcher and a quality check-down option in the passing game. He’ll fit best as an early-down back, who is capable of playing on passing downs.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
If you’re looking for an explosive weapon, Charbonnet probably isn’t your guy. He lacks breakaway speed and doesn’t provide big-play ability in the passing game.
Good team fits: Chargers, Commanders, Panthers, Eagles, Bills, Cowboys
39. Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Levis is built like a prototypical pocket passer but also has mobility and the physical running style to be a threat with his legs. He wins with a strong arm and the fearlessness to attempt any throw.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Decision making and accuracy are Levis’ two greatest weaknesses 一 which, in combination, is often a fatal flaw. As a two-year starter with five years of experience in college, the decision-making issues are particularly concerning. He often gets tunnel vision and fails to see defenders. He also must speed up his processing from the pocket, as he tends to take unnecessary sacks. He’s a developmental prospect but, given his experience, should probably be thrown into the fire to work through his issues on the field.
Good team fits: Texans, Titans, Colts, Buccaneers, Vikings
40. Jordan Addison, WR, USC
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Addison is a pure slot receiver who can create quick separation in the short passing game.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Physical cornerbacks can give Addison problems, and there will be certain matchups in which he’s taken away. His hands aren’t necessarily an issue, but they’ve never been a strength 一 if he’s going to be a high-volume receiver from the slot, ideally you’d like him to be more consistent.
Good team fits: Vikings, Seahawks, Steelers, Cardinals, Rams
41. Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami FL
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Stevenson is a polished outside cornerback who wins with his physical style and an ability to locate and play the ball. He’s a scheme-versatile player, with the physicality to handle press-man coverage but also the anticipation skills to excel in zone.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
His athletic traits are modest and he may lack the speed to play on an island against some of the game’s top receivers. For the same reasons, he may lack the versatility to shift inside against smaller, quicker slot receivers.
Good team fits: Rams, Seahawks, Vikings, Ravens, Steelers, Cardinals, Jets, Giants
42. Matthew Bergeron, OT, Syracuse
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Bergeron is a quality run blocker, who wins with his physical strength. He elevated his stock in 2022 by proving he could handle pass protection in a more aggressive passing attack under offensive coordinator Robert Anae. He has extensive experience at left and right tackle and has the length for the position, though he could also be an asset at guard.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Does he have the quickness and footwork to stay at tackle? He tends to struggle against more athletic edge rushers, which may necessitate a shift to guard.
Good team fits: Cowboys, Packers, Rams, Patriots, Titans, Commanders
43. Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Downs is a polished slot receiver who wins with precise routes and great hands. His route proficiency indicates he could likely transition to a larger role on the outside as well.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
At 5’9”, he lacks the ideal size to play on the outside and also lacks the game-changing speed to make up for it. After the catch, he’s not a dynamic playmaker. Though he could be a reliable high-volume target in the slot, he may lack the traits to ascend to the number-one weapon in an offense.
Good team fits: Colts, Panthers, Titans, Bills, Ravens, Falcons, Saints
44. Cedric Tillman, WR, Tennessee
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Tillman has the physical tools of a traditional number-one receiver on the outside, with enough speed to stretch the field and the size to win in contested situations.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
This offensive scheme 一 an off-shoot of Art Briles’s Baylor offense 一 has failed to produce quality NFL receivers. The system excels at creating easy opportunities, which doesn’t allow for receivers to develop their route tree. Since Tillman lacks elite athletic traits, this is especially concerning, as he’ll need to create separation with efficient routes. He should be treated as a high-upside developmental prospect who will need time to adjust to a pro offense.
Good team fits: Chiefs, Bills, Giants, Titans, Colts, Broncos, Cardinals, Panthers
45. Joe Tippman, IOL, Wisconsin
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Tippman is a plug-and-play center who has the athleticism/strength combination to be a scheme-versatile player.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Is he too tall? There aren't many 6'6″ centers out there and some teams will view him as a better fit at guard or tackle, where he has limited experience.
Good team fits: Giants, Seahawks, Bills, Cardinals, Browns
46. Sam LaPorta, TE, Iowa
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
LaPorta is an athletic tight end who can stretch the field down the seam. He primarily played an in-line role at Iowa but has the tools to produce from the slot.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Can his blocking be further developed? Coming from a program like Iowa, which values blocking in its tight ends, you would expect LaPorta to be more effective in this area. It's possible they pushed him as far as he'll go in that area.
Good team fits: Bengals, Saints, Packers, Lions
47. Marvin Mims Jr., WR, Oklahoma
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Mims is an explosive slot receiver with reliable hands and after-catch ability. He'll fit best in the slot but has the explosive tools to stretch the field from the outside as well.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Like all Oklahoma receivers in recent years, Mims ran a limited route tree, even after Lincoln Riley left for USC. He might be viewed as a slot-only option for some teams.
Good team fits: Ravens, Panthers, Seahawks, Giants, Cardinals, Packers
48. Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Campbell is a physical downhill defender who excels against the run but has enough pass-game skills to deserve a shot as a three-down defender. His testing numbers are encouraging for further development.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
Where did those testing numbers come from? On the field, he does not play like a linebacker with top-tier explosive athleticism. He tends to be more reactionary than anticipatory in his play, especially in coverage.
Good team fits: Raiders, Buccaneers, Steelers, Patriots, Chargers, Bills, Browns, Dolphins
49. Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Richardson is an incredible athlete who puts stress on the defense with his mobility and arm strength 一 you have to defend the entire field against him at all times.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
If Richardson can’t improve his accuracy it will be his fatal flaw. He consistently ruins well-executed plays with balls that are either uncatchable or off-target to such a degree it hinders the after-catch ability of his receivers. At this stage of his career, he’s incapable of processing in a collapsing pocket 一 though this isn’t shocking given his lack of experience. If you draft him, be prepared to keep him on the bench in 2023, suffer through some lumps in 2024, and hopefully he’s ready by 2025. Drafting Richardson will require full buy-in from ownership 一 any offensive coaching changes during this developmental time will further set him back.
Good team fits: Raiders, Falcons, Lions, Seahawks, Vikings, Ravens
50. JL Skinner, S, Boise State
Where he’ll make an impact in the NFL
Skinner mostly played in the slot or in the box at Boise State but flashed exceptional on-ball production when lining up in the deep secondary. He could potentially start in any safety role but might have the highest ceiling in a centerfielder role.
What are his weaknesses? What concerns do teams have?
At 6'4″ Skinner has the usual concerns for a taller defensive back. Can he cover smaller, quicker receivers in the slot? The height might limit his versatility, or at the very least force you to pay close attention to matchups.
Good team fits: Eagles, Cardinals, Bills, Ravens
51. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama
Explosive athlete who should have an immediate impact in the passing game.
52. Sydney Brown, S, Illinois
Versatile safety prospect with great range against the run and strong on-ball production in coverage.
53. Quan Martin, S, Illinois
Top-tier athlete in the secondary with experience at corner and safety, potentially fitting best in the slot.
54. Tre'Vius Tomlinson, CB, TCU
Undersized corner who probably needs to shift to the slot in the NFL, but plays with a physicality that allows him to handle bigger receivers.
55. Yasir Abdullah, LB, Louisville
Vastly undersized but explosive edge-rusher at Louisville, who also has the movement skills of an off-ball linebacker 一 should be a fun puzzle piece for a creative defensive coordinator to move around.
56. John Michael Schmitz, IOL, Minnesota
A what-you-see-is-what-you-get center, who lacks exciting traits but should immediately solidify the position for a center-needy team.
57. Isaiah McGuire, EDGE, Missouri
Young, ascending prospect who wins with a blend of length and power and probably fits best on the left side in four-man fronts.
58. Blake Freeland, OT, BYU
Purely a project, but has all the traits necessary to succeed at left tackle.
59. Cory Trice Jr., CB, Purdue
Long outside corner with impressive ball skills, but could slide due to concerns over an ACL injury in 2021.
60. Kyu Blu Kelly, CB, Stanford
Lacks elite traits, but generated strong on-ball production and is a great fit on the outside in a zone-heavy scheme.
61. Jakorian Bennett, CB, Maryland
Slightly undersized, but a top-tier athlete with impressive ball skills 一 might be a candidate to shift to the slot.
62. DJ Turner, CB, Michigan
Raw prospect who is slightly undersized but has quick-twitch athleticism to excel in coverage against speed slot receivers.
63. Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
Developmental prospect who ran an extremely limited route tree from the slot, but has the speed to stretch the field from anywhere.
64. Will McDonald IV, EDGE, Iowa State
Coming off a disappointing season, but has explosive traits on the edge and could produce as a pass-rusher in sub-packages.
65. Ade Adebawore, DL, Northwestern
Flashy traits but minimal production 一 could develop into a valuable, movable piece along the defensive line.
66. Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College
Undersized receiver who wins with precise routes and fits best in the slot, but inconsistent hands and modest after-catch production might limit his ceiling.
67. Jammie Robinson, S, Florida State
Productive and versatile with the football IQ to overcome size limitations.
68. Cody Mauch, IOL, North Dakota State
College tackle who probably fits best at guard but may need a year to develop the strength to handle the transition.
69. Kendre Miller, RB, TCU
Size and athleticism of a three-down back, though his projection requires some guesswork as he's transitioning from a spread offense which was extremely friendly to running backs.
70. Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State
Athleticism should allow him to immediately impact the passing game but may need time to refine his blocking skills to earn a starting job.
71. Keeanu Benton, DL, Wisconsin
Nose tackle with enough athleticism to provide some pass-rush production from the position, and have versatility at other roles on the interior.
72. Mazi Smith, DL, Michigan
Pure space-eating nose tackle who will impact the run game and come off the field on passing downs.
73. Nick Herbig, LB, Wisconsin
Edge/linebacker ‘tweener who might fit best as a strong-side linebacker for a defensive staff looking to take advantage of blitzing prowess.
74. Gervon Dexter, DL, Florida
Developmental prospect who has a high ceiling as an interior pass-rusher and could have an immediate in sub-packages.
75. Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M
Strong safety who is at his best against the run but needs to develop his coverage skills to stay on the field.
76. Zacch Pickens, DL, South Carolina
Served as an undersized nose tackle in college but lacks the power for that role 一 could potentially excel as a defensive end in three-man fronts.
77. Rashee Rice, WR, SMU
High ceiling, low floor who wins with top-tier traits but lacks the refined skills to make a smooth transition to the league.
78. Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
An outlier due to his massive frame 一 will immediately produce as a run blocker, but pass game upside is limited due to straight-athleticism.
79. Israel Abanikanda, RB, Pittsburgh
Size/athleticism combination sets a high ceiling, but he'll need to develop an ability to run between the tackles and fight through contact in order to win a three-down role.
80. Tyler Scott, WR, Cincinnati
Ascending prospect who wins with pure speed but might be limited to a slot-only role.
81. Moro Ojomo, DL, Texas
Well-rounded prospect who probably fits best as an end in a three-man front, but has the athleticism to further develop his interior pass-rush skills.
82. Zach Harrison, EDGE, Ohio State
Top-tier edge-rusher in terms of physical traits, but he never quite put it together 一 developmental prospect with a high ceiling and low floor.
83. Andrei Iosivas, WR, Princeton
Size/speed combination sets an exciting ceiling and especially stands out in this class of tiny slot receivers.
84. YaYa Diaby, EDGE, Louisville
Played on the interior at Louisville but has the traits to shift to the edge 一 could also be an early-down edge who plays inside on passing downs.
85. Jonathan Mingo, WR, Ole Miss
Size to play on the outside but fits best as a big slot who produces after the catch due to his physical running style.
86. Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee
Older prospect, coming off an injury and coming from an offense that has little in common with NFL schemes 一 but he's a good athlete with the arm and accuracy to potentially develop into a starter.
87. Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah
Slot corner with impressive on-ball production, but a lack of recovery speed will make certain matchups difficult.
88. Ricky Stromberg, IOL, Arkansas
Potential starter at center but may need to develop functional strength and prove he can hold up in pass protection in a more traditional offense after playing in the Briles scheme.
89. Tyjae Spears, RB, Tulane
Flashy runner with home run speed and could be a weapon on passing downs, but extensive injury history likely pushes him further down most draft boards.
90. Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State
Reliable pass catcher and an effective blocker but lacks any explosive traits to set a high ceiling 一 should be a low-end starter or a valuable number-two tight end.
91. Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State
Off-ball linebacker with good range against the run and the athleticism to stick with running backs and tight ends in coverage.
92. Dorian Williams, LB, Tulane
Developmental off-ball linebacker with elite range and has shown flashes of impressive coverage skills 一 extensive special teams experience helps elevate his floor.
93. Roschon Johnson, RB, Texas
Downhill, between-the-tackles runner who doesn't have much upside in today's NFL but should be a viable early-down back.
94. Luke Wypler, IOL, Ohio State
Ascending prospect who stands out of his young age in an older group of centers 一 not as developed as the others in this class, but may have a higher ceiling.
95. Devon Achane, RB, Texas A&M
An extreme outlier due to his size (188 pounds) but has elite speed in the open field and he'll produce immediately as a return specialist.
96. Derick Hall, EDGE, Auburn
Pass-rusher who wins the speed and length, but might be limited to playing in sub-packages.
97. Charlie Jones, WR, Purdue
Straight-line athlete with disappointing production after the catch 一 but his pure speed will be an asset to stretch the field.
98. Marte Mapu, S, Sacramento State
Older prospect with some injury concerns, but has an exciting blend of safety and linebacker traits and that versatility holds value in the right system.
99. Tyler Steen, IOL, Alabama
College tackle who should probably shift inside to guard 一 he already has the strength and his athleticism to be an asset there.
100. Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State
Traits-based projection who has the length certain teams covet, but it hasn't led to consistent on-ball production yet.