2023 Comprehensive Draft Thread

[seantaylor=god]

18 minutes ago, Skinsinparadise said:

 

Yeah that sounds about right from my recollection.  I listen to all of Keim's podcasts.  I haven't heard him yet overrule Porter and I've actually sort of wanted him to do it  -- its not that I don't like Porter but he's not one of my top wants in the first.  And I do prefer Banks.   But yeah some including Logan Paulsen don't like Porter's fit to this team.

Yup, I’m definitely reading in between the lines a bit. I like Porter but the lack of demonstrated ball skills and scheme flex make me concerned. 
 

Question for the group-

If you had to choose between Banks and Brian Branch at 16, who do you pick?

 

I get the positional value argument for taking Banks since he has CB1 upside but I don’t think he reaches that level for a few seasons (and he also has more bust potential IMO). 

 

I just think Branch is a great scheme fit and could immediately take on our nickel and run with it. Fantastic instincts, football character, and position flex too, I think he could start at at least 2 safety positions and slot CB.

 

I also think he’s the best safety in the class and there’s a chance of grabbing a nice CB later on.

 

I don’t think Brian Branch would be a guy we would be looking back on and thinking we reached for him. 

 

https://www.si.com/college/alabama/bamanfl/2023-nfl-draft-profile-alabama-safety-brian-branch#gid=ci02bc914d10002453&pid=bamacentral-analysis

 

 

Edited April 24, 2023 by seantaylor=god

[JamesMadisonSkins]

16: Brian Branch, S Alabama

47: John Michael Schmitz, C Minnesota

97: Wanya Morris, OT Oklahoma 

118: Mekhi Garner, CB LSU

150: Demarion Overshown, LB Texas 

 

Tried to do a no trades mock with Branch to see how the rest of the needs (I.e OL) were filled out. Kinda like it. I really like Garner’s size and upside and Overshown is a converter safety at Texas. So some flexibility injected into the back 7 plus 2 OL added 

[Skinsinparadise]

40 minutes ago, seantaylor=god said:

Yup, I’m definitely reading in between the lines a bit. I like Porter but the lack of demonstrated ball skills and scheme flex make me concerned. 
 

Question for the group-

If you had to choose between Banks and Brian Branch at 16, who do you pick?

 

I get the positional value argument for taking Banks since he has CB1 upside but I don’t think he reaches that level for a few seasons (and he also has more bust potential IMO). 

 

I just think Branch is a great scheme fit and could immediately take on our nickel and run with it. Fantastic instincts, football character, and position flex too, I think he could start at at least 2 safety positions and slot CB.

 

I also think he’s the best safety in the class and there’s a chance of grabbing a nice CB later on.

 

I don’t think Brian Branch would be a guy we would be looking back on and thinking we reached for him. 

 

https://www.si.com/college/alabama/bamanfl/2023-nfl-draft-profile-alabama-safety-brian-branch#gid=ci02bc914d10002453&pid=bamacentral-analysis

 

 

 

For me.  I like both players but would hate both picks if they could trade down and pass that opportunity to take either player.

 

But if I had no choice but take one, i'd take Branch.  Branch is the better player but Banks has better upside IMO.   i was a big Minkah Fitzpatrick fan back in the day and Branch coming from the same school -- and almost as good as a player would be fun.   it would allow us to lose Curl next year if need be. 

 

Judging by mocks, (granted they aren't gospel) Branch could be had in the late first.  Makes sense to me considering his combine didn't do him favors.   

 

I think Banks likely goes somewhere around our pick -- 16-20 range.  Been pushing Banks.  But still i'd hate taking Banks at 16 if they could trade down as much as i like the player because it would be sqandering the opportunity to add a good player or two in a draft that's likely perfectly tailored to their needs. 

 

For example if all they did is add a 3rd and 4th trade down like last year, they could add a couple of really good players.

 

Here's Matt Miller's late first round players and third round picks.    Using that as an example, if i can trade down, no way I'd take either player at 16.    But if I were forced to I'd take Branch.

 

https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2023/insider/story/_/id/36253479/2023-nfl-mock-draft-seven-round-predictions-259-picks-12-quarterbacks-matt-miller

 

20. Seattle Seahawks

Myles Murphy, DE, Clemson

A source with knowledge of the Seahawks' draft plans told me this week that the floor for Murphy is No. 20 -- if the team doesn't select a defensive end at No. 5. Murphy, who blazed a 4.51-second 40-yard dash while weighing 270 pounds at his pro day, would give Seattle's defense the juice it needs coming off the edge. In a base 3-4 scheme, Murphy's ability in space would be a welcome addition, but it's his long-arm pass-rush move and power in the run game that would be the most immediate boost to the team. With Dre'Mont Jones signed in free agency and Jalen Carter projected at No. 5 overall, Seattle can remake the defensive line as it did with the offensive line in 2022.

---

21. Los Angeles Chargers

Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

Finding a landing spot for my No. 3 overall player is tough. Which team will value talent over positional value? A general manager I spoke with said, "The Eagles [at No. 10] make sense, but I could see him sliding to the early 20s." I projected the latter, with Robinson's wait ending with the Chargers landing a potential replacement for Austin Ekeler, who recently requested a trade. Robinson is a three-down, do-it-all back who can very quickly be the best in the NFL.

"He's the best [running back] prospect I can remember evaluating," said one NFC scout with over 20 years on the job. Robinson's contact-balance, vision and speed are top tier. He rushed for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2022 with an FBS-leading 91 forced missed tackles.

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22. Baltimore Ravens

Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

Even after signing Odell Beckham Jr., there is still a need in Baltimore for pass-catchers. Flowers' stock has been soaring of late, with multiple scouts predicting he would be selected in the top 20 on Thursday night. His burst and ability to line up both in the slot and split out wide have won him many fans in the NFL scouting community despite a 5-9, 183-pound frame. Flowers' improvement over the past four seasons at BC has been widely praised by evaluators, too. "He went from having bad hands in '20 to some of the best hands in football last year," said one longtime AFC scout.

23. Minnesota Vikings

Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

One of the most popular texts I've gotten from evaluators throughout the past 10 days has been some form of "Watch the Vikings for Hendon Hooker." That could be NFL scouts connecting dots, but the Round 1 talk for Hooker has been red hot since the combine and the Vikings do make sense for the dynamic passer. With Kirk Cousins set to hit free agency following the 2023 season at age 35, finding his replacement should be a priority.

Hooker will need to adjust to the spacing of the NFL after playing in the tempo spread at Tennessee, but he's accurate and mobile, and he throws a beauty of a deep ball. As for Hooker's ceiling, one NFL quarterbacks coach I spoke to said he believes he can be a top-15 starter. "Look at [Jared] Goff, Geno Smith, Cousins ... he has better all-around tools than those guys. The right system will help, but from a talent perspective, he can be a top-half-of-the-league guy."

---

24. Jacksonville Jaguars

Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

Two years after selecting Tyson Campbell in the first round, the Jaguars are back on the board with another big, long, fast cornerback prospect. Banks was one of the biggest in-season risers with a 6-2 frame, 4.35 speed and 10 pass breakups in the '22 season. "He can be a really good CB2 or a CB1 in a zone scheme," said one NFC scout. "He got beat up in man coverage last year because teams threw at him a lot, but better coaching with his athletic gifts will unlock that ability." The Jaguars are in a position to add talent for future needs and Banks' upside is worth developing.

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25. New York Giants

Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State

Two numbers come up often when discussing Forbes with NFL scouts: 14 and 6. The first number, 14, is how many interceptions he accumulated in the past three years at Mississippi State. The second, 6, is how many of those interceptions he returned for touchdowns. At 6 feet and 166 pounds, there are concerns about Forbes' lean frame, but his play doesn't reflect that.

"I didn't see any lack of strength in his actual tape," said one AFC area scout. "He's lean, but so was Sauce Gardner." The Giants are rumored to be looking at wide receiver and cornerback in Round 1 and Forbes being available should make this an easy decision given the Day 2 depth at receiver.

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26. Dallas Cowboys

Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

"There is no way in hell Jerry Jones passes up a Jason Witten clone if he's on the board." That's how one rival scout with over 20 years in the business described this projection. Mayer would be a safety valve in the middle of the field for Dak Prescott; he caught 180 passes for 2,099 yards and 18 touchdowns over three seasons in South Bend. Mayer is a great run-blocker but also might have the best hands of any pass-catcher in this class.

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27. Buffalo Bills

Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

In conversations with people around the league this past week, the Bills were mentioned as a team likely to trade out of the first round. "They have six picks and a lot more needs than that," said one rival area scout. Multiple sources also pointed to the fact that GM Brandon Beane has to start finding inexpensive starters, since superstars like Josh Allen, Von Miller and Stefon Diggs take up a large part of the salary cap. If Buffalo doesn't trade, though, this is a great spot for a WR2 to complement Diggs. Gabe Davis enters a contract year and will likely price himself out of the team's long-term plans. Johnston, a 6-3 target with downfield speed and the hands to excel in 50-50 situations, could give Allen another vertical target.

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28. Cincinnati Bengals

DJ Turner, CB, Michigan

If you're looking for one position that needs an upgrade to get the Bengals back to the Super Bowl, it's cornerback. And Turner -- who ran a combine-best 4.26 seconds in the 40-yard-dash -- has the tools to be great. He dominates at the line of scrimmage in press coverage and has the speed to run in-phase with the best receivers in the AFC.

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29. New Orleans Saints (from SF/MIA/DEN)

Adetomiwa Adebawore, DT, Northwestern

Adebawore is one of the most intriguing players in the class. His combine testing was legendary -- a 4.49-second 40-yard dash at 6-2 and 282 pounds turned plenty of heads -- but he produced just 12.5 sacks in four seasons of play. "Doesn't matter where you grade him, he's going first round," said one AFC area scout. Many other evaluators echoed that, saying their teams had Round 2-3 grades on Adebawore but his potential would push him into the first. With rare speed, quickness and the positional versatility to play end or tackle, Adebawore has legitimate upside. The Saints are still trying to replace Trey Hendrickson's pass-rush production, so that upside is too good to pass on.

---

30. Philadelphia Eagles

Brian Branch, S, Alabama

Branch is the lone safety in this class with a first-round grade, which means teams that need a safety can either draft one early or miss out on starter-level prospects. Branch was a one-year starter at Bama and has experience playing slot cornerback, nickel safety, strong safety and single-high. He's a true do-it-all prospect with fantastic instincts and quickness. The Eagles could make a lot of sense. They are looking to replace C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Branch has the same skill set (and a higher ceiling).

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31. Kansas City Chiefs

Jordan Addison, WR, USC

 

"There's no way K.C. uses all [its] picks this year. They'll either trade up or trade out," said one rival GM. But a surprising drop down the board for the receivers allows the Chiefs to select a potential WR1 without moving up. Addison is primarily a slot receiver but has 219 catches and 29 touchdowns over the past three years (two at Pitt). The Chiefs are rumored to be happy with the core group of receivers on the roster, but a sure-handed, savvy route runner like Addison is something the team lacks.

 

 

 

ROUND 3

64. Chicago Bears

Luke Wypler, C, Ohio State

The Bears continue to build up the offensive line, now with a center prospect who can start from Day 1. Wypler has really high upside.

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65. Houston Texans

Jaren Hall, QB, BYU

The Texans passed on quarterbacks in the first two rounds, but they can take a flier on a developmental prospect who fits Bobby Slowik's scheme. Hall is an older prospect (25) but has good arm strength, mobility and processing speed.

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66. Arizona Cardinals

Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA

The Cardinals have James Conner but need an RB2 with the tools to eventually become a starter. That's Charbonnet, who shows excellent patience and vision. And much like Conner, Charbonnet is a powerful runner with good enough speed to rip off chunk plays.

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67. Denver Broncos (from IND)

Zach Harrison, DE, Ohio State

Here are the first of two selections for the Broncos, and this one brings some edge help to replace Bradley Chubb. Harrison is a former five-star recruit who turned in 3.5 sacks and three forced fumbles in 2022.

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68. Denver Broncos

Chandler Zavala, G, NC State

A 6-3, 322-pound powerhouse, Zavala gives the Broncos youth on the interior offensive line. He started 12 games at left guard in 2022 and earned first-team All-ACC honors. And he can push veteran Ben Powers for starting snaps.

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69. Los Angeles Rams

Matthew Bergeron, OT, Syracuse

The loss of Andrew Whitworth to retirement was felt in 2022, and the Rams' attempts to find a solid left tackle were not successful. Bergeron is a masterful run-blocker with the quickness and balance in space to execute in the Rams' offensive scheme.

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70. Las Vegas Raiders

Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina

Cornerback has long been a weakness for the Raiders, and it's high time the team got it right in the draft. At 6-1 and 180 pounds, Smith shows excellent quickness and a feistiness to his game. He has to learn to be less grabby in coverage, but his six career interceptions (and 19 pass breakups) prove his ball skills.

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71. New Orleans Saints

Marvin Mims, WR, Oklahoma

The Saints hope to have Michael Thomas opposite Chris Olave in 2023. But even if Thomas is back healthy for the first time since early in the 2020 season, adding a slot receiver who can stretch the field from the inside is a wise Round 3 move. Mims had 123 catches and 20 touchdowns over three seasons at OU.

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72. Tennessee Titans

Byron Young, DE, Tennessee

There's no denying the Titans need another pass-rusher, and the speedy Young could be a great fit opposite Harold Landry III. The 250-pound Young ran an eye-opening 4.43-second 40-yard dash and jumped 11 feet in the broad -- both among the best ever for a defensive end.

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73. Houston Texans (from CLE)

Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah

The Texans drafted Derek Stingley Jr. and Jalen Pitre last year, but adding a certified menace at slot corner is a must for DeMeco Ryans' scheme. Phillips had six interceptions last season.

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74. Cleveland Browns (from NYJ)

Zacch Pickens, DT, South Carolina

The Browns' first selection in the draft addresses the interior defensive line. The 6-4, 291-pound Pickens was a star at the Senior Bowl, and he posted 6.5 sacks over the past two years from inside.

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75. Atlanta Falcons

Trey Palmer, WR, Nebraska

One of the best deep threats in the draft lands in Atlanta, where he can realistically become the No. 2 wide receiver in a hurry. Palmer has 4.33 speed and is an explosive route runner, as evidenced by his nine touchdowns last year. He is the dream fit alongside possession-style wideout Drake London and dynamic tight end Kyle Pitts.

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76. New England Patriots (from CAR)

Jaquelin Roy, DT, LSU

This would be a classic Bill Belichick pick. Roy is a gap-plugging defensive tackle with pass-rush traits waiting to be unlocked. The Patriots have needs at numerous positions, but Roy has starter potential.

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77. Los Angeles Rams (from NE/MIA)

Daiyan Henley, ILB, Washington State

The Rams are looking to grab as many starters as possible in this draft, and Henley can be just that. The 6-1, 225-pounder has great chase-and-tackle skills, and he ran a 4.54-second 40 at the combine. Henley was also the most impressive linebacker during Senior Bowl week.

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78. Green Bay Packers

Sydney Brown, S, Illinois

The Packers land one of my favorite players in the entire draft class. Brown is a versatile safety with closing speed and hitting power but also the coverage skills to lock down tight ends and backs. His Senior Bowl week pushed him way up my draft board -- he is my No. 2 safety -- and he could be a steal for Green Bay.

 

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0:34

Sydney Brown's NFL draft profile

Check out the best highlights that contributed to a stellar college career for Illinois' Sydney Brown.

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79. Indianapolis Colts (from WSH)

Darius Rush, CB, South Carolina

Two South Carolina cornerbacks come off the board in Round 3, and Rush has legitimate skills as a man coverage specialist. He is 6-2 with 4.36 speed too. The Colts have yet to find consistent starters at cornerback, and it should be a priority in the top 100.

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80. Pittsburgh Steelers

Rashee Rice, WR, SMU

Even after the trade to acquire Allen Robinson II from the Rams, the Steelers should be looking at pass-catchers in this draft. Rice was a heavily productive possession receiver in the pass-happy SMU offense, catching 96 passes for 1,355 yards and 10 touchdowns in his breakout 2022 campaign.

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81. Detroit Lions

Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State

After trading T.J. Hockenson last year, there was a debate about the importance of tight ends in the Lions' offense. With a former tight end as the head coach, Detroit could add some help there. Kraft has starter-level traits (hands, awareness) but doesn't have top-tier speed. He is still reliable enough as a pass-catcher and a blocker to factor into the rotation early before eventually taking the starting job.

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82. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

YaYa Diaby, DE, Louisville

The theme of the 2023 draft for Tampa Bay is to get younger at premium positions after stacking an aging roster to win a Super Bowl. Diaby is a quick pass-rusher with the burst to play in either a stand-up or hand-down situation.

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83. Seattle Seahawks

Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami-FL

The Seahawks struck gold with Tariq Woolen in Round 5 last year, and they nab another talented, traits-rich cornerback here. The 6-foot, 198-pound Stevenson had the best Senior Bowl week of any cornerback, and he is a physical and menacing press-coverage man.

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84. Miami Dolphins

Devon Achane, RB, Texas A&M

Even after re-signing the entire running back room in free agency this year, the Dolphins should look for an upgrade. Achane has the speed to create huge plays in Mike McDaniels' offense, as evidenced by a 4.32-second run in the 40-yard dash. He is undersized at 5-9 and 188 pounds, but he is the draft's best chunk-play threat at running back.

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85. Los Angeles Chargers

Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor

The middle of the Chargers' defense is a yearly need, and it finally gets addressed with a starter-level talent in the early rounds. Ika is 6-3 and 335 pounds and has flashed Vita Vea-like upside.

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86. Baltimore Ravens

Riley Moss, CB, Iowa

The Ravens' secondary will have a younger look in 2023, and depth is needed at cornerback. Moss had 11 interceptions and 23 pass breakups over five years at Iowa and is NFL-ready.

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87. Minnesota Vikings

Cameron Mitchell, CB, Northwestern

The Vikings have swung and missed at cornerback in previous draft, but they could take another cut here with a rising talent. Mitchell had nine pass breakups last season, and he can immediately play in the slot for Minnesota.

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88. Jacksonville Jaguars

Gervon Dexter, DT, Florida

Jacksonville has taken a veteran approach on offense but goes defense-heavy in the draft. Dexter is an ideal nose tackle prospect who can push DaVon Hamilton for reps in training camp and has the power and length to be a two-down run-stuffer.

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89. New York Giants

Nathaniel Dell, WR, Houston

There might not be a better receiver for the Brian Daboll-Mike Kafka offense than the explosive "Tank" Dell. At just 5-9 and 165 pounds, he is quite undersized, but his start-stop quickness, route running and big-play ability are perfect for a scheme that can get players in space.

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90. Dallas Cowboys

Roschon Johnson, RB, Texas

Could Jerry Jones resist adding a Longhorns running back, even though he missed out on Bijan Robinson in Round 1? Johnson was the No. 3 dual-threat quarterback in the 2019 recruiting class but moved to running back at Texas due to injuries. He stayed there for four seasons, amassing 25 touchdowns while working primarily as a backup to Robinson. The 219-pound power back has the patience, vision and receiving skills of a starter and would be a fine complement to the speedy Tony Pollard.

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91. Buffalo Bills

Nick Saldiveri, G, Old Dominion

There has been plenty of discussion about the Bills drafting a running back, but the interior offensive line matters even more. Saldiveri played tackle with the Monarchs, but he has the power, quickness and nastiness to play guard in the NFL.

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92. Cincinnati Bengals

Tyjae Spears, RB, Tulane

With Joe Mixon's future uncertain in Cincinnati, the Bengals can grab a speedy back with the second gear to take it to the house on outside plays. Spears is a hard-charging runner who gets to full speed in a hurry. Even as a third-rounder, he could get starter reps in the near future.

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93. Carolina Panthers (from SF)

Nick Herbig, ILB, Wisconsin

As the Panthers continue to add talent for Ejiro Evero's defense, linebacker is a strong need in the middle rounds. Herbig is a 6-2, 240-pounder who has experience as a 3-4 outside linebacker, but multiple scouts think he has better traits to play inside with added pass-rush value on third down. That's perfect for Carolina.

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94. Philadelphia Eagles

Tyler Steen, OT, Alabama

Lane Johnson is entering his age-33 season, so this pick is for the future and depth right now. Steen played right tackle in 2019 before starting for three years on the left side (he played 2018-21 at Vanderbilt). And he has the quick feet and toughness to be a very good NFL right tackle.

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95. Kansas City Chiefs

Isaiah McGuire, DE, Missouri

With free agent Charles Omenihu likely to play inside next to Chris Jones, the Chiefs might want to draft a pass-rusher to flank him. McGuire has impressive burst off the ball at 268 pounds and fits the Chiefs' standard for size and length at the position.

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96. Arizona Cardinals*

Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M

With Budda Baker requesting a trade, the Cardinals could very quickly lose the best defender on the roster. Johnson could lighten that loss by playing a similarly versatile role. He had 132 tackles over the past two years.

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97. Washington Commanders*

Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland

The signing of Andrew Wylie gives Washington a solid player at right tackle, but the team has to be looking to the future at left tackle. Duncan is a work in progress who must add power to his game, but he has the agility and length to succeed as a starter in Year 2.

 

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98. Cleveland Browns**

Jayden Reed, WR, Michigan State

The addition of Elijah Moore will help the Browns' receiver room, but more speed at the position can't be ignored when there's value on the board. Reed is a home-run hitter (26 TDs over four years) who can create in space with 4.4 speed. His versatility and punt return ability are bonus traits.

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99. San Francisco 49ers**

Ji'Ayir Brown, S, Penn State

With the team's first pick of the 2023 draft (and first of three at the end of Round 3), the 49ers can look to replace the departed Jimmie Ward by adding a versatile 5-11 safety. Brown collected 10 interceptions in the past two seasons and could play over the slot immediately.

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100. Las Vegas Raiders (from KC/NYG)**

Anthony Bradford, G, LSU

Bradford is a mauler at 6-4 and 332 pounds, and he would push for rookie snaps at right guard, where his upper-level mobility could really boost the run game.

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101. San Francisco 49ers**

Carter Warren, OT, Pittsburgh

Right tackle is a position of need heading into the draft, and Warren has been a hot name among scouts at that spot despite playing primarily on the left side in college. The 6-5, 311-pound redshirt senior started the past four years at Pitt but missed the final eight games of 2022 with an injury. With excellent size and length, Warren has shown the mobility needed to excel in the 49ers' zone run scheme.

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102. San Francisco 49ers**

Brenton Strange, TE, Penn State

 

Tight end might be a surprise target, but the 49ers did more work on that position than any team I spoke with in this pre-draft process and are clearly thinking about adding a potential future replacement for George Kittle. Strange doesn't wow you with speed but is versatile tight end and has toughness both as a blocker and middle-of-the-field receiver.

Edited April 24, 2023 by Skinsinparadise

[NoVaSkins21]

I'd like to see this team go CB in the 1st round to so they they have a sound tandem to with St. Juste at the other CB position.  OL would be nice route to go in the 2nd round.  

[RWJ]

2 hours ago, Skinsinparadise said:

Both would be really good picks IMO

 

 

Agreed! 

 

[Skinsinparadise]

Listened to Keim's podcast.  He basically teased at the start that he will have some draft tid bits in his Wednesday podcast before the draft -- referenced in that point that he knows some of what they are thinking.  Later on he doubled down that he doesn't know as much as he typically does because he's been spending a lot of time on the ownership story instead.

 

In this podcast, not much new.

 

Mentioned Myles Murphy again and Luke Van Ness was thrown at him (Bram threw the name at him, too on his radio show) and he didn't push back.  i get the sense listening to him is they prefer OT and then Cb but if the board doesn't fall their way on that front, edge is under consideration especially if Murphy is a surprise faller. 

 

He threw Luke Musgrave's name again.  It's now been multiple times his name, Laporta and Kincaid.  And he rarely throws names around for no reason. 

 

I didn't realize until I saw that that tweet below that he is Bill Musgrave's nephew.  He was a QB coach here eons ago among other things.

 

I like Musgrave, he's not IMO as consistent as Kincaid-Laporta or even Kraft but his upside is tremendous.  He is more of a vertical threat than the typical TE in this class -- had the best depth of target number in this group and one of the best YPC numbers.  When i watched him most of those plays were 2nd level in between the numbers -- seam routes, etc.

 

I wish he was more physical as to YAC, blocking and contested catches but at his size maybe that comes in time.  I see him as a dude who is a menace on the 2nd level of the field, up the middle, which is usually the sweet spot for some QBs since those throws present themselves right in front of the QB's vision.

 

Among the names Keim has been mentioning at TE, I definitely like Kincaid and Laporta better.  But Musgrave would be intriguing, too for me.

 

 

 

Edited April 24, 2023 by Skinsinparadise

[DWinzit]

Murphy mentioned again, huh plus Van Ness. There is serious Edge consideration at 16 or a short fall from there.

 

Besides Bijan and maybe Gibbs, do you recall any RB names being brought up?

 

Can't wait for the tidbits coming!

[seantaylor=god]

1 hour ago, Skinsinparadise said:

 

For me.  I like both players but would hate both picks if they could trade down and pass that opportunity to take either player.

 

But if I had no choice but take one, i'd take Branch.  Branch is the better player but Banks has better upside IMO.   i was a big Minkah Fitzpatrick fan back in the day and Branch coming from the same school -- and almost as good as a player would be fun.   it would allow us to lose Curl next year if need be. 

 

Judging by mocks, (granted they aren't gospel) Branch could be had in the late first.  Makes sense to me considering his combine didn't do him favors.   

 

I think Banks likely goes somewhere around our pick -- 16-20 range.  Been pushing Banks.  But still i'd hate taking Banks at 16 if they could trade down as much as i like the player because it would be sqandering the opportunity to add a good player or two in a draft that's likely perfectly tailored to their needs. 

 

For example if all they did is add a 3rd and 4th trade down like last year, they could add a couple of really good players.

Great post and I’m in complete agreement that trading down from 16 should be priority 1 (unless a blue chip guy slips inexplicably, like when Jon Allen fell to us).

 

Picking up additional mid rounders would help us address a lot of roster needs.

 

Hopefully a QB slides (Anthony Richardson?) and a team like Baltimore is interesting in trading with us to take him.

 

[seantaylor=god]

48 minutes ago, DWinzit said:

Murphy mentioned again, huh plus Van Ness. There is serious Edge consideration at 16 or a short fall from there.

 

Besides Bijan and maybe Gibbs, do you recall any RB names being brought up?

 

Can't wait for the tidbits coming!

I don’t recall any RB names from Keim or Logan Paulson.

 

I do know that Rivera has mentioned in a positive light,  a few times, that EB has been really passionate and forceful when communicating with them all about the kinds of guys he wants (and I’m assuming this is WRs and RBs, based on his background as a RB coach, and not about offensive linemen).

 

Assuming he wants to implement something similar to KC, and since we have our bellcow/short yardage back, I would hypothesize the traits he is hammering home to Rivera are: SPEED, shiftiness/quickness, open field instincts, and contact balance.

 

Potential RB Player fits:

 

Jahmyr Gibbs, RB

Kenny McIntosh, RB

Devon Archane, RB

Deuce Vaughn, RB

 

 

Edited April 24, 2023 by seantaylor=god

[e16bball]

One of the things that continues to stick out like a sore thumb when looking at all the media projections is that we have two picks (#16 and #97) that seem to fall outside of the sweet spot(s) for us in this draft based on the talent available. 

 

At 16, it looks we’re a bit late for the top OLs and CBs (and QBs, for that matter). Assuming that Paris/Skoronski and Gonzalez/Witherspoon are off the board, we’re sitting at the top of the perceived second tier at both positions. We’d likely have our choice of any of the TE/RB options — but the value there is iffy, at best. It seems almost self-evident that moving down ten picks or so would position us better. That much is borderline consensus, it appears.

 

Less discussed, as far as I can tell, is that 97 is looking like it could be a real dead zone for our most prominent needs (specifically OL, CB, EDGE, TE, LB). The OL depth is not impressive, and it will likely be picked thin by that point. You’re clearly out of range for the top 5 TEs and the top 2 LBs there. And CB and EDGE are deeper, but you’re still probably looking at the 4th tier of guys at each of those positions.

 

As important as I think it is to trade down from 16, I think it’s similarly critical to find a way up from 97 into that late 2nd/early 3rd range. The best value for us in this draft looks to be between about pick 25 and pick 70. If we can maneuver our picks into that range, I think there’s a very good chance we come out with 3 great bets in the first two days. 

Edited April 24, 2023 by e16bball

[Skinsinparadise]

7 hours ago, DWinzit said:

Murphy mentioned again, huh plus Van Ness. There is serious Edge consideration at 16 or a short fall from there.

 

Besides Bijan and maybe Gibbs, do you recall any RB names being brought up?

 

Can't wait for the tidbits coming!

 

I get the vibe that not at 16.  But if they trade down it opens two possibilities.

 

A.  Extra picks and more freedom to pick outside of O line and CB

 

B.  If they trade down and see ridiculous value for a player they like they will take them

 

Keim has said he doesn't expect them to go edge in the first but later but he can't rule it out

[markmills67]

Reading a lot of posts saying we could go edge in the 1st round,  could we not be looking to trade Sweat before the draft?.

[Skinsinparadise]

4 hours ago, e16bball said:

One of the things that continues to stick out like a sore thumb when looking at all the media projections is that we have two picks (#16 and #97) that seem to fall outside of the sweet spot(s) for us in this draft based on the talent available. 

 

At 16, it looks we’re a bit late for the top OLs and CBs (and QBs, for that matter). Assuming that Paris/Skoronski and Gonzalez/Witherspoon are off the board, we’re sitting at the top of the perceived second tier at both positions. We’d likely have our choice of any of the TE/RB options — but the value there is iffy, at best. It seems almost self-evident that moving down ten picks or so would position us better. That much is borderline consensus, it appears.

 

Less discussed, as far as I can tell, is that 97 is looking like it could be a real dead zone for our most prominent needs (specifically OL, CB, EDGE, TE, LB). The OL depth is not impressive, and it will likely be picked thin by that point. You’re clearly out of range for the top 5 TEs and the top 2 LBs there. And CB and EDGE are deeper, but you’re still probably looking at the 4th tier of guys at each of those positions.

 

As important as I think it is to trade down from 16, I think it’s similarly critical to find a way up from 97 into that late 2nd/early 3rd range. The best value for us in this draft looks to be between about pick 25 and pick 70. If we can maneuver our picks into that range, I think there’s a very good chance we come out with 3 great bets in the first two days. 

 

Good post.  I somewhat agree.   I think though they likely end up on the cusp of a tier at both O line and CB, but agree not the top 2.  And as for the third round, the top half looks really good.  I am with you, i'd love to have a higher 3rd.  But I disagree about trading up.  but I do agree from the standpoint of in a trade down, get a higher up 3rd or lower end 2nd if possible, its a really good spot.  And better spot than the late third. 

 

As to perception, plenty seem to think (including McGinn's scouts) that Darnell Wright and Broderick Jones are in that first tier of O lineman.   Some of is here don't but who knows if they are thinking like us.   As for CB, seems like that next tier likely starts around 16.  And as Witherspoon and Gonalzez are in a tier of their own.  Some believe so are Banks and Porter and then there is another drop off. 

 

I get the sense that this team likes Banks and Wright based on different reports.  But I also get the sense they really really want to add picks and are willing to forgo taking either one.   And in that trade down it will free them to go a bit more BPA than force a pick at O line or CB if the board falls that way.

 

I've mentioned too the late third round pick sucks as far as taking advantage of the pickings in the third round.  So I agree. But, I seriously doubt they'd trade up though from it.  But I think they really want to add a 2nd or third or both to give them opportunities to pick more players considering some of the deeper spots in this draft meet their needs especially in that range. 

 

A late third and 4th IMO is still good though not as good, I agree.   I just don't get the vibe they want to give up picks.  They seem to think they killed it in the trade downs last year which began with trading for a 3rd and 4th. 

 

Using Miller's mock as a guide.  Speaking for myself in the late 3rd-4th.  While I hate Duncan as our pick, there is a long list of players I would dig.  Heck looking at that list, I hope in their trade down like last year they get another 4th.

 

McGuire

Kendre Miller

Antonio Johnson

J Brown

B. Strange

Shoonmaker

Bigsby

Stromberg

C. Trice

J. Battle

C. Smith

C. Jones

D. McBride

G. Williams

 

https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/draft2023/insider/story/_/id/36253479/2023-nfl-mock-draft-seven-round-predictions-259-picks-12-quarterbacks-matt-miller

95. Kansas City Chiefs

Isaiah McGuire, DE, Missouri

With free agent Charles Omenihu likely to play inside next to Chris Jones, the Chiefs might want to draft a pass-rusher to flank him. McGuire has impressive burst off the ball at 268 pounds and fits the Chiefs' standard for size and length at the position.

---

96. Arizona Cardinals*

Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M

With Budda Baker requesting a trade, the Cardinals could very quickly lose the best defender on the roster. Johnson could lighten that loss by playing a similarly versatile role. He had 132 tackles over the past two years.

---

 

97. Washington Commanders*

Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland

The signing of Andrew Wylie gives Washington a solid player at right tackle, but the team has to be looking to the future at left tackle. Duncan is a work in progress who must add power to his game, but he has the agility and length to succeed as a starter in Year 2.

 

play

98. Cleveland Browns**

Jayden Reed, WR, Michigan State

The addition of Elijah Moore will help the Browns' receiver room, but more speed at the position can't be ignored when there's value on the board. Reed is a home-run hitter (26 TDs over four years) who can create in space with 4.4 speed. His versatility and punt return ability are bonus traits.

---

99. San Francisco 49ers**

Ji'Ayir Brown, S, Penn State

With the team's first pick of the 2023 draft (and first of three at the end of Round 3), the 49ers can look to replace the departed Jimmie Ward by adding a versatile 5-11 safety. Brown collected 10 interceptions in the past two seasons and could play over the slot immediately.

---

100. Las Vegas Raiders (from KC/NYG)**

Anthony Bradford, G, LSU

Bradford is a mauler at 6-4 and 332 pounds, and he would push for rookie snaps at right guard, where his upper-level mobility could really boost the run game.

---

101. San Francisco 49ers**

Carter Warren, OT, Pittsburgh

Right tackle is a position of need heading into the draft, and Warren has been a hot name among scouts at that spot despite playing primarily on the left side in college. The 6-5, 311-pound redshirt senior started the past four years at Pitt but missed the final eight games of 2022 with an injury. With excellent size and length, Warren has shown the mobility needed to excel in the 49ers' zone run scheme.

---

102. San Francisco 49ers**

Brenton Strange, TE, Penn State

 

Tight end might be a surprise target, but the 49ers did more work on that position than any team I spoke with in this pre-draft process and are clearly thinking about adding a potential future replacement for George Kittle. Strange doesn't wow you with speed but is versatile tight end and has toughness both as a blocker and middle-of-the-field receiver.

ROUND 4

103. Chicago Bears: Kendre Miller, RB, TCU
104. Houston Texans: Luke Schoonmaker, TE, Michigan
105. Arizona Cardinals: Eli Ricks, CB, Alabama
106. Indianapolis Colts: Emil Ekiyor Jr., G, Alabama
107. New England Patriots (from LAR): Nick Hampton, OLB, Appalachian State
108. Denver Broncos: Tank Bigsby, RB, Auburn
109. Las Vegas Raiders: Davis Allen, TE, Clemson
110. Atlanta Falcons (from TEN): Colby Wooden, DT, Auburn
111. Cleveland Browns: Henry To'oTo'o, ILB, Alabama
112. New York Jets: Marte Mapu, ILB/S, Sacramento State
113. Atlanta Falcons: Cory Trice, CB, Purdue
114. Carolina Panthers: Dylan Horton, DE, TCU
115. New Orleans Saints: Terell Smith, CB, Minnesota
116. Green Bay Packers: Byron Young, DT, Alabama
117. New England Patriots: Ricky Stromberg, C, Arkansas
118. Washington Commanders: Israel Abanikanda, RB, Pittsburgh
119. Minnesota Vikings (from DET): Xavier Hutchinson, WR, Iowa State
120. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dorian Williams, ILB, Tulane
121. Jacksonville Jaguars (from TB): Andre Carter II, DE, Army
122. Kansas City Chiefs (from MIA): Blake Freeland, OT, BYU
123. Seattle Seahawks: Dorian Thompson-Robinson, QB, UCLA
124. Baltimore Ravens: DeWayne McBride, RB, UAB
125. Los Angeles Chargers: Charlie Jones, WR, Purdue
126. Cleveland Browns (from MIN): Zach Evans, RB, Ole Miss
127. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dontayvion Wicks, WR, Virginia
128. New York Giants: Keondre Coburn, DT, Texas
129. Dallas Cowboys: Jake Moody, K, Michigan
130. Buffalo Bills: Jordan Battle, S, Alabama
131. Cincinnati Bengals: Christopher Smith, S, Georgia
132. Carolina Panthers (from SF): Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse
133. Chicago Bears (from PHI): Kei'Trel Clark, CB, Louisville
134. Kansas City Chiefs: Karl Brooks, DT, Bowling Green
135. New England Patriots*: A.T. Perry, WR, Wake Forest

 

Edited April 24, 2023 by Skinsinparadise

[Skinsinparadise]

7 hours ago, seantaylor=god said:

I don’t recall any RB names from Keim or Logan Paulson.

 

I do know that Rivera has mentioned in a positive light,  a few times, that EB has been really passionate and forceful when communicating with them all about the kinds of guys he wants (and I’m assuming this is WRs and RBs, based on his background as a RB coach, and not about offensive linemen).

 

Assuming he wants to implement something similar to KC, and since we have our bellcow/short yardage back, I would hypothesize the traits he is hammering home to Rivera are: SPEED, shiftiness/quickness, open field instincts, and contact balance.

 

Potential RB Player fits:

 

Jahmyr Gibbs, RB

Kenny McIntosh, RB

Devon Archane, RB

Deuce Vaughn, RB

 

 

 

It's a great draft IMO to add a back.

 

Rivera has mentioned and we talked about it here that Bieniemy wants speed.  Keim has mentioned them fishing for RBs but without giving names that's true.

 

As far as who they met with

 

Abanikanda (who is fast)

Eric Gray (not that fast)

Zach Evans (average speed)

Ronnie Brown (fast -- late rounder)

Chase Brown (fast)

Tyjae Spears (fast enough)

 

As for pure speed, a dude I've mentioned Keaton Mitchell who could be had later.  Gibbs and Achane who you mentioned are clear blazers.  I doubt we can get Gibbs with pick 47 but on the off chance we could I'd do it in a heartbeat.  47 is a little rich for me for Achane.  But I do like him, i took in the board's mock draft. 

 

Evan Hull is a poor mans albiet faster version of Kenny McIntosh.   6th-7th roundish. 

 

Vaughn isn't uber fast but explosive.  I'd add two RBs who IMO are better than Vaughn but didn't run the 40 foir various reasons and are also explosive Kendre Miller, McBride.  Miller and McBride I am guessing 4th roundish judging by mocks.  Vaughn 5th roundish?

 

 

 

8 hours ago, DWinzit said:

Murphy mentioned again, huh plus Van Ness. There is serious Edge consideration at 16 or a short fall from there.

 

Besides Bijan and maybe Gibbs, do you recall any RB names being brought up?

 

Can't wait for the tidbits coming!

 

No specifics

Edited April 24, 2023 by Skinsinparadise

[Skinsinparadise]

48 minutes ago, markmills67 said:

Reading a lot of posts saying we could go edge in the 1st round,  could we not be looking to trade Sweat before the draft?.

 

I don't get the impression that they'd trade one.  Seems like at the moment they are more sold on Sweat and Chase is the wildcard but want to see how the

season plays out.

 

 

 

 

 

Edited April 24, 2023 by Skinsinparadise

[DWinzit]

8 hours ago, seantaylor=god said:

I don’t recall any RB names from Keim or Logan Paulson.

 

I do know that Rivera has mentioned in a positive light,  a few times, that EB has been really passionate and forceful when communicating with them all about the kinds of guys he wants (and I’m assuming this is WRs and RBs, based on his background as a RB coach, and not about offensive linemen).

 

Assuming he wants to implement something similar to KC, and since we have our bellcow/short yardage back, I would hypothesize the traits he is hammering home to Rivera are: SPEED, shiftiness/quickness, open field instincts, and contact balance.

 

Potential RB Player fits:

 

Jahmyr Gibbs, RB

Kenny McIntosh, RB

Devon Archane, RB

Deuce Vaughn, RB

 

 

Thanks. Your list makes prefect sense and would add Spears and Chase Brown to it. Unless there is a shocker of a drop early, like Gibbs still on the board early in the 2nd, it feels like the RB isn't on their mind until at least the 3rd round.

 

I am hoping EB uses Gibson in more the reason we thought he was drafted for!

 

Regarding the OL, I do think EB has said he wanted to add a toughness, grit , attitude to the group. It leads my more in the direction of players that immediately come to mind fitting that in the early rounds like JPP, Torrence, JMS, Stromberg types.

 

If they could add real YAC players in the backfield, the return game, a mobile QB not afraid to move and the OL gaining atititude, sign me up to watch the fun!

 

Plus no game shots of Danny in his box!!!!!!

[DWinzit]

1 hour ago, Skinsinparadise said:

Using Miller's mock as a guide.  Speaking for myself in the late 3rd-4th.  While I hate Duncan as our pick, there is a long list of players I would dig.  Heck looking at that list, I hope in their trade down like last year they get another 4th.

 

McGuire

Kendre Miller

Antonio Johnson

J Brown

B. Strange

Shoonmaker

Bigsby

Stromberg

C. Trice

J. Battle

C. Smith

C. Jones

D. McBride

G. Williams

 

 

There are so many good players right through the 4th round especially if they play the board knowing the positions that have strength later

 

I find the wave of T's in the late 3rd, 4th and 5th cruddy. C's, TE's, RB's DB's and LB and even Edge in this area are strong. Shows why Keim pushes T early, especially with some of the questions appearing to two to the top T's Darnell and Dawand. 

[Skinsinparadise]

2023 NFL draft buzz: McShay on top prospects, QBs, early picks

What else I'm hearing

• I've gotten a lot of different answers on this class' WR2 behind Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba (who is getting just about all of the love as WR1). I like Boston College's Zay Flowers and have him ranked No. 21 overall, and he's Mel Kiper Jr.'s second-best receiver, too. But just because we agree on something for once doesn't mean it's consensus. I've heard three names: Flowers, USC's Jordan Addison and TCU's Quentin Johnston. Based on my intel, all three could end up going in the Nos. 20-31 range, but there are only so many teams that need a receiver. Johnston might go higher than expected because this wide receiver class is on the smaller side, and he's a big-bodied pass-catcher at 6-foot-3, 208 pounds.

• Ole Miss receiver Jonathan Mingo is a hot name right now, and he's looking like a top-50 pick. I'd stop short of saying he's heading toward the first round, but I don't expect him to wait long Friday to hear his name.

• I keep hearing Hooker will get picked in the top 20. If Tennessee moves back -- maybe to No. 17 in a swap with the OL-needy Steelers -- that could be a team to watch. But Tampa Bay and Minnesota have been linked to him, as well.

 

• Speaking of Tampa Bay, everyone is trying to figure out its plan. The Buccaneers have been very quiet. There's some mystery around their approach, but some people have wondered if they'd be in on a quarterback if one drops.

• Scouts, coaches and execs have a lot to say about this tight end class. The deepest in a decade. The deepest in recent memory. In some cases, even the deepest ever. Everyone is amazed by not only the overall talent but also the variety. I have eight of them in my top 100, and while only two -- Utah's Dalton Kincaid and Notre Dame's Michael Mayer -- are likely to go in Round 1, I'd be pretty surprised if all eight aren't off the board by the end of Day 2.

• One big riser is TCU interior lineman Steve Avila. He could go late Round 1. At worst, he's probably off the board in the first 10 picks on Day 2. Teams love his versatility. He's a solid player.

• OK, want some Day 2 names getting buzz? Wisconsin defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, South Carolina defensive tackle Zacch Pickens, Texas A&M running back Devon Achane, NC State guard Chandler Zavala, Auburn running back Tank Bigsby and Texas linebacker DeMarvion Overshown were all mentioned to me. Penn State receiver Parker Washington could also go earlier than expected, and some teams might treat him as a third-down back in the pros thanks for his compact running style and ability with the ball in his hands.

• Three cornerbacks popped up in a lot in conversations as potential Day 2 values: Kansas State's Julius Brents (who could go in the late parts of Round 1), Minnesota's Terell Smith and Purdue's Cory Trice. They are all traits-heavy prospects with length, speed and press-coverage ability, and teams are always looking for those types of defensive backs.

13. New York Jets

Offensive tackle is the biggest need here, and since Skoronski isn't expected to still be on the board, the Jets would likely pivot to Jones or Johnson. But if the top three offensive tackles are gone? I wouldn't rule out a trade back. New York could lose one of its two second-rounders in the much-anticipated Aaron Rodgers deal, and it doesn't have a third-rounder, so picking up more picks might be beneficial.

---

 

17. Pittsburgh Steelers

I've heard Pittsburgh has contacted multiple teams, including the Bears (No. 9) and Titans (No. 11), about trading up for an offensive tackle. The Steelers need a long-term answer as protection for Kenny Pickett, and there are three potential cornerstone left tackles in this class who will be available in that range. It wasn't that long ago that Pittsburgh moved up in Round 1 and took linebacker Devin Bush, and we could see a similar move this year, albeit for a different position.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2023/insider/story/_/id/36272525/2023-nfl-draft-buzz-latest-todd-mcshay-top-prospects-qbs-early-picks-rumors

Edited April 24, 2023 by Skinsinparadise

[Koolblue13]

Overshown and Mingo are two of my top day 3 guys. Oh well.

 

Musgrave I was really high on, despite his injuries last year. I love a pedigree, but there was a report that he was lazy.

[Koolblue13]

 Tyson Bagent from Shepard U is a QB that we may take a flyer on or as an UDFA. Perfect size and great stats. Didn't transfer to a better program because of his grandfather. My friends son plays with him. They hang out together, said we've been talking to him. Jets have followed him for a couple years.

[Warhead36]

My ideal realistic trade down partner would be the Bills for their late 1st, 2nd, and 4th(would settle for 5th). I could see them moving up for Robinson or a TE to get Allen another weapon. We should still be able to get a decent OL with a late 1st and the extra 2nd and 4th could net us quality CB/TE/LB/C.

[Koolblue13]

2 minutes ago, Warhead36 said:

My ideal realistic trade down partner would be the Bills for their late 1st, 2nd, and 4th(would settle for 5th). I could see them moving up for Robinson or a TE to get Allen another weapon. We should still be able to get a decent OL with a late 1st and the extra 2nd and 4th could net us quality CB/TE/LB/C.

I'd be surprised if they didn't grab Gibbs. 

[Warhead36]

Just now, Koolblue13 said:

I'd be surprised if they didn't grab Gibbs. 

I think they'd consider trading up for Robinson for sure, and if he gets taken they could consider Gibbs. 

 

The fact that our people have talked so much about trading down means there are definitely options on the table depending on how things play out.

[DWinzit]

3 minutes ago, Koolblue13 said:

 Tyson Bagent from Shepard U is a QB that we may take a flyer on or as an UDFA. Perfect size and great stats. Didn't transfer to a better program because of his grandfather. My friends son plays with him. They hang out together, said we've been talking to him. Jets have followed him for a couple years.

I have Bagent as our 7th rounder for QB3, especially if they end out with multiple 7th rounders which has been common during the trade back years. I believe Jets are one of a few teams eyeing him as a UDFA.   

 

The guy on the potential day 3 list that strikes most in Tice. The other guys have all been mentioned a lot ove the past month...Overshown, Achane, and Zavala would be nice here.

 

I hate seeing Brents talk at the end of the 1st.... Makes think more the possibilities of guys that don't fit the tall part so may drop but incredible players and value in Phillips and Hodges-Tomlinson. 

 

 

[CommanderInTheRye]

Comprehensive draft projections/analysis from The Athletic by Standig...

 

The Washington Commanders planned their free-agency moves this offseason on two fronts: Tackle specific needs, even with a light investment, to avoid feeling ravenous for the next round of significant personnel activity. That buffet, known as the NFL Draft, starts Thursday. Soon we’ll see which part of the feast Washington’s decision-makers dig into first.

 

“That is a process that we always talk about in the personnel department,” general manager Martin Mayhew said Thursday during a pre-draft media availability alongside head coach Ron Rivera. “It is important to address those needs and to have key players at spots that are valued spots, but you have to have a balanced team. … We did some things in free agency that we feel are very beneficial going into our draft. I feel like we have the ability to go anywhere in this draft.”

 

Washington

 

Washington has few holes in its 22-player starting lineup, which is not the same as suggesting the offense and defense are set. The defense that plays almost exclusively with five defensive backs is light one DB. The Commanders could deploy a credible offensive line after adding two free agents, but the unit still lacks significant upside.

 

Tight end is on the needs list, even if Rivera repeatedly says otherwise. Linebacker, running back and pass-rushing depth are needed. Some of these positions are possible first-round targets. The good news is Washington’s eight picks are spread over seven rounds, meaning it can select potential help anywhere in this draft.

 

Day 1

Before mentioning individuals, let’s talk about a group, which Rivera vaguely referenced during his tight-lipped media availability Thursday. He was asked if holding a pick smack in the middle of Round 1 perhaps provides Washington with too many options. His responses cited no names but a numbered clue.

 

“What happens in front of us all the way up to the 11th pick?” he said. “What we want to do is put a group of guys up there and say these are the five guys that we see coming to us. What is going to happen in the next five picks? We are going to have to react to what happens. Is it easy? It could be, depending on what happens in front (of 16).”

 

 

Here’s my attempt at guessing those five names. (Notes: Prospects are sorted using Dane Brugler’s rankings. Players who took top-30 visits with Washington are starred.*)

 

Five targets at 16

Lukas Van Ness, DE, Iowa (10)

 

Washington has not announced whether it will exercise Chase Young’s fifth-year option. There’s an actual decision, and merit exists in either direction. Let’s see what happens if “Hercules” Van Ness is available.

 

go-deeper

GO DEEPER

 

Chase Young, Montez Sweat and Washington's D-line dilemma: Why a DE is in play in Round 1

 

Broderick Jones, OT Georgia (15)

 

Washington believes it solidified its OT options by signing free agent Andrew Wylie. New offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy desired a reunion with Kansas City’s former starting right tackle. But Wylie also played guard with the Chiefs. Would the coaches be willing to move Wylie inside if one of these tackles proves irresistible?

 

Mayhew didn’t close the door on such lineup shifts. Drafting a future left tackle like Jones, at a minimum, would put Charles Leno on notice for 2024.

 

*Brian Branch, S/CB Alabama (17)

 

Branch, a natural safety with strong instincts, is here because of his slot cover capabilities. What the first-team All-American lacks in measurables he makes up for with versatility and production. Brugler maintains a high ranking on Branch despite a slow 4.58 time at the combine. Other evaluators have been less forgiving.

 

Darnell Wright, OT Tennessee (24)

 

Some scouts prefer Wright to Jones after a wildly impressive season, but the first-team All-SEC selection is best at right tackle. If available, don’t be surprised if Washington prefers this power-packed prospect above all others.

 

 

Brugler: “Wright will get himself into trouble when he sacrifices technique for his nasty demeanor, but he naturally defaults to his raw power and body control to consistently win in both the run and passing game. He is a plug-and-play right tackle, and some teams have him on their draft board as a starting guard.”

 

Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State (35)

Three numbers stick out when evaluating this three-year starter: 14, as in Forbes’ number of interceptions since 2020, the most in college football; six, as in the number of those picks returned for touchdowns, an FBS career record; and 166, as in how much the slight but lengthy cornerback weighed at the combine. As Brugler notes, teams willing to overlook Forbes’s slightness will find a thrilling playmaker.

 

Less likely options at 16

This grouping includes prospects often mocked to Washington who likely will be available at 16 but whom I don’t see the Commanders selecting. Still, these players warrant consideration.

 

Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas (6)

 

Washington’s RB room of Brian Robinson and Antonio Gibson offers significant playmaking, yet there’s a chance to upgrade with this elusive dual threat. This Robinson could be tempting for a team with a run-first mindset and new offensive coordinator with an RB background, but bigger needs lie elsewhere.

 

*Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State (16)

 

Porter’s press-man skills might not be ideal for defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio’s system.

 

Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame (19)

Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah (20)

 

The coaches claim they feel comfortable with the tight ends because of their three diamond-in-the-rough prospects (Cole Turner, Armani Rogers, Curtis Hodges).

 

*Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland (27)

 

The Commanders’ ideal scenario might be diving into the top cornerback tier at 16, knowing they like O-line candidates around 47. That need is about the depth behind or alongside 2024 free agent Kendall Fuller and Benjamin St-Juste. Banks would also put a thrilling athlete with 4.35 40-yard time in the secondary.

 

Potential trade-up targets

Peter Skoronski, OL, Northwestern (7)

 

Skoronski is broadly rated as the best offensive lineman in this class, and there’s a strong chance the unanimous All-American is the first of the big men off the board. And yet, some teams see a prospect whose arm length is better suited to play guard. That assessment might vault others ahead of Skoronski. If that means a drop to or near 16, Washington — with a significant hole at left guard and minimal upside across the line — could get aggressive.

 

*Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois (9)

 

Brugler sees Witherspoon’s “fiery play personality” as a tone-setting positive. The versatile corner sliding outside the top 10 could turn Washington’s front office aggressive.

 

Will Levis, QB, Kentucky (14)

 

While Day 1 action from the Commanders for a quarterback is unlikely, the search for a starter doesn’t end until one is found.

 

Day 2

Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State (29)

 

Only Mayer outranks the 6-foot-4 target with desired speed and strength as an all-around threat.

 

Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia (36)

 

Ringo’s shine diminished some after a rock star beginning with the Bulldogs, but 6-foot-2 corners with 4.36 speed are hardly common.

 

*O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida (37)

 

The mauling Torrence could be a first-round, trade-down target assuming another team doesn’t pounce on the guard who did not allow a sack during four seasons, including three at Louisiana.

 

*Steve Avila, G/C, TCU (40)

 

Washington probably bought time at center by signing Nick Gates and retaining Tyler Larsen. That might be the combo if Chase Roullier is released after two significant injuries. But snagging Avila would put a long-term candidate on the roster.

 

*DJ Turner, CB, Michigan (42)

 

Turner ran the fastest 40-yard time of any player at the combine (4.26). Washington would rush him into the slot corner mix from the jump.

 

Cody Mauch, OL, North Dakota State (45)

 

For Rivera’s coveted position flexibility, Mauch can play all five positions with a competitive streak.

 

*Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee (49)

 

Hooker moved into the first-round discussion over the past month despite tearing his ACL last year and advanced age (25) for a rookie. The Commanders brought the dual threat in for a pre-draft visit. They might hope Sam Howell turns into their long-term starter, but the play is to take swings somewhere in the draft until they do.

 

Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa (52)

 

Washington aids its defensive weakness by drafting this old-school linebacker. Brugler sees Campbell’s “athleticism, intangibles and instincts” keeping him “in the NFL for a long time.”

 

Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State (62)

 

The real fun with the offensive linemen here is the 6-foot-8, 374-pound, Jones. Some mocks project the hulking tackle in the 28-38 range, so a trade-up or down might be required. Jones is a project, but the presence of Leno and Wylie also means no rush.

 

Tyjae Spears, RB, Tulane (73)

Zach Harrison, DE, Ohio State (74)

Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State (78)

*Quan Martin, S, Illinois (81)

Nick Saldiveri, OT, Old Dominion (96)

A.T. Perry, WR, Wake Forest (98)

*Dorian Williams, LB, Tulane (103)

 

Day 3

*Ricky Stromberg, C, Arkansas (110)

Jakorian Bennett, CB, Maryland (117)

*Demarvion Overshown, LB, Texas (121)

Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland (148)

Kenny McIntosh, RB, Georgia (160)

Deuce Vaughn, RB, Kansas State (163)

Andrei Iosivas, WR, Princeton (164)

Payne Durham, TE, Purdue (204)

Stetson Bennett, QB, Georgia (234)

Dorian Thompson-Robinson, QB, UCLA (236)

*Atonio Mafi, G, UCLA (242)

 

Fill-in-the-blanks time here depends on what transpired over the first two rounds. Likely menu items include a third-string/future primary backup quarterback, a change-of-pace running back and special teams help.

 

 

 

 

 

Edited April 24, 2023 by CommanderInTheRye