NFL Mock Drafts 2024 - Football Draft Projections - CBSSports.com
# Team Player Pos
1 Caleb Williams
USC, Jr
 
QB
HQ Spotlight: Caleb Williams NFL Draft Prospect Preview

The Bears traded Justin Fields to the Steelers, so all that's left to do is take Caleb Williams here.

Rating: 94.07 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Patrick Mahomes
Summary

Caleb Williams is as close to Patrick Mahomes as we've seen since 2017. His footwork looks cleaner in his drop back, he has a plus arm, throws with great accuracy to all three levels, and consistently wins with his legs -- whether he's in the pocket, flushed from the pocket or on designed runs. Added bonuses: does a good job of avoiding hits near the sideline. Can throw with anticipation on intermediate routes, layers the ball well on intermediate routes and has good deep-ball accuracy. Would like to see him stick with his first read a little longer -- he loves to rely on his mobility and playmaking abilities -- but it's hard to argue with the results. There's a long list of QBs who play well off-platform and out of structure; he may already be one of the best.

About
  • 2022 Heisman Trophy winner (1st from USC since Reggie Bush)
  • Career: Most total yards (8,673) and TD (93) in 2-year span in USC history
Strengths
  • The next Patrick Mahomes isn't hyperbole
  • Can throw from every arm angle and do it with pinpoint accuracy
  • Consistently wins with his legs though he doesn't look to run at the first sign of trouble
Weaknesses
  • Tries to do too much at times
  • Needs to do a better job of playing within the offense
  • Will sometimes pass up easy throws looking for the big play

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
12 3633 68.6 30 5
2 Jayden Daniels
LSU, Sr
 
QB

I like Jayden Daniels more than Drake Maye -- and I'd take him here. But Washington may feel differently; whatever happens, it has to take a QB.

Rating: 92.93 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Tyrod Taylor
Summary

Jayden Daniels is one of the most improved players in college football over the past two years. He is an experienced passer who doubles as an impact runner. His decision-making has improved immensely since his days at Arizona State. Daniels has enough arm strength to push the ball downfield . He showed the ability to uplift and entire offense this past season.

About
  • 2023: Heisman Trophy winner (led FBS in total YPG and total TD/game)
  • Career: 1st ever with 12,000+ pass yds and 3,000+ rush yds in FBS history
Strengths
  • Impact performer as a runner
  • Over 3,000 college football snaps of experience
  • Throws with touch to all three levels
  • Keeps his eyes downfield when pressured
  • Makes good decisions on read options
Weaknesses
  • Thin frame, but has not missed time due to injury
  • Average arm strength
  • Footwork has made strides but remains a work in progress

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
12 3812 72.2 40 4
3 Drake Maye QB

The Patriots were present for both Jayden Daniels' and Drake Maye's pro days, and while there have been reports that they may entertain trade-down offers if they don't find their franchise QB, they won't have a chance to compete in the AFC East.

Rating: 93.03 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Justin Herbert
Summary

Drake Maye is a tall pocket passer with some athletic juice. He has a live arm with a compact release. He drives the football with ease and throws a gorgeous spiral with high regularity. His accuracy to all levels is very good, but there are a few seemingly uncharacteristic misses deep. His misses are typically low/behind. He was utilized in the designed run game in college but it will be somewhat of a stretch to see him succeed doing that in the NFL. Has a flair for making plays on the run and can be a useful, Mahomes-like scrambler. The natural playmaker gene is there, as he rarely gives up on a play. He wants to rip the vertical shot down the seam/numbers. He truly can make every throw, and his arm talent borders on elite. His high-arcing touch is good, not amazing. He can make impressive throws with defenders draped on him. His pocket presence is solid, but sometimes awkward when navigating. He has lots of experience reading the entire field. Overall, he has a great blend of pocket passing, arm talent, accuracy, and athleticism. He's a very impressive QB prospect for the modern-day NFL.

About
  • 2022: ACC Player of the Year (First in UNC since Lawrence Taylor in 1980)
  • Only FBS player with 7,000+ pass yards and 1,000+ rush yards in past two seasons
Strengths
  • Arm strength is fantastic
  • Full-field reader
  • Big frame with plus athleticism to scramble and elude rushers inside the pocket
Weaknesses
  • Occasional miss low/behind his WR
  • At times awkward when attempting to navigate the pocket
  • In some instances will try to do too much when things break down

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
12 3608 63.3 24 9
4 Malik Nabers
LSU, Jr
 
WR

I've had Malik Nabers and Marvin Harrison Jr. closely graded throughout the draft process, but after Nabers' impressive pro-day numbers, I'm giving him the slightest of edges here. Both receivers are special.

Rating: 93.23 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Brandon Aiyuk
Summary

Malik Nabers is a super-explosive WR prospect. He gets to top gear in a flash and can sustain that speed down the field. He’s effortless off the line and has serious acceleration. He’s a bouncy athlete when needing to elevate. He has plus wiggle off the line and can get on top of CBs quickly to stack them on vertical routes. Physicality can get the best of him in press, but he’s not a weak player. He works well fighting back to the football/finding it down the field and in the red zone. Natural mover with the ball in his hands. He has RB vision, plus quickness, and his supercharged burst all indicate him being a YAC weapon in the NFL. He won't be an elite burner, but he’s certainly not slow. While not tall for the position, he has a "my-ball" mentality in traffic. Route-running is good, but he didn't run the full route tree. He has the athletic chops to be a star in that area eventually. In most classes, he'd be the clear WR1. His game is tailor-made for today's NFL.

About
  • 2023: Converted 78.7% of his receptions into either a first down or a touchdown, according to TruMedia (second-highest among players with at least 100 target)
  • 2023: Led FBS with 17 catches of 30-plus yards
Strengths
  • Incredible explosiveness
  • RAC ability is elite
  • Will go up and get ball in traffic
Weaknesses
  • Not a huge frame
  • Didn't run many routes in college
  • Occasionally physical press beats him at the line

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
13 89 1569 17.6 14
5 J.J. McCarthy
Michigan, Jr
MOCK TRADE from LAC
QB
HQ Spotlight: Quarterback Rising Up Boards

Mock Trade from: LAC

The Chargers have to decide between Marvin Harrison Jr. here or trading down, stockpiling a ton of picks and rebuilding the roster. They chose the latter, allowing the Vikings to sell the farm for J.J. McCarthy.

Rating: 91.50 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Joe Burrow
Summary

J.J. McCarthy is an incredibly efficient passer who operated in a predominantly run-heavy offense. He is slight of frame but has the mobility and accuracy to make plays out of structure. McCarthy does not have the strongest arm but throws with touch to all three levels. He is a tough player who has consistently won at every level of his career.

About
  • 2023: CFP national champion (led Michigan to 15-0 record)
  • 27-1 career record as starting QB (3rd-best in FBS history)
Strengths
  • Sixth-highest completion percentage in 2023 (72.3%)
  • Does a good job manipulating the pocket
  • Throws with touch to all three levels
  • Great ball placement
Weaknesses
  • Ball security in tight pockets
  • Late to see some breakers
  • Average arm strength
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.23 seconds
  • 3-cone drill: 6.82 seconds

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
15 2991 72.3 22 4
6 Marvin Harrison Jr.
Ohio State, Jr
 
WR

Best-case scenario for the Giants, who stand pat and have Marvin Harrison Jr. fall in their laps.

Rating: 94.47 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Randy Moss
Summary

Marvin Harrison Jr. is arguably the best player in the entire draft class. Father was an NFL Hall of Famer and Harrison Jr. has a chance to be even better because of his physical gifts -- size, speed, huge catch radius and the ability to win running a variety of routes. When he is locked in he's all but unstoppable.

About
  • Career: 2-time unanimous All-American (1st from OSU since Orlando Pace)
  • 1st player in Big Ten history with 14+ rec TD in multiple seasons
Strengths
  • Incredibly strong at the top of routes; he's able to create separation vs. physical CBs
  • Hands-catcher with an enormous catch radius
  • Can stack CBs off the line of scrimmage and has the shiftiness to create separation on every route
Weaknesses
  • Did have a few focus drops during the 2023 season
  • Showed frustrations at times at the level of QB play in 2023

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
12 67 1211 18.1 14
7 Joe Alt
Notre Dame, Jr
 
OT

The choice here is between Olu Fashanu and Joe Alt, and while Fashanu is my OT1, Alt may be ready to start sooner. In Tennessee, he'll line up next to 2023 first-rounder Peter Skoronski.

Rating: 92.87 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Taylor Decker
Summary

Joe Alt made tremendous strides in his career from 2022 to 2023. He looks like a much more flexible prospect capable of digging out smaller rushers. He can struggle with power players that get under his pad level and does not have ideal shock and power in his initial punch. Alt does a great job of adjusting his hands and feet when engaged.

About
  • 2022-23: 2-time first-team All-American (AP)
  • 2023: Highest overall PFF grade (90.7) by FBS OL
Strengths
  • Does a great job adjusting his hands and feet when engaged
  • A much more fluid player in 2023 than 2022
  • Does a good job with punch placement
  • Moves well to mirror defenders laterally
Weaknesses
  • Average job of engaging and sustaining blocks in space
  • Average shock and power in his hands
  • Power players can get under his pads and walk him back
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.05 seconds
  • Bench press: 27 reps
  • Vertical jump: 28 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.51 seconds
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 4 inches
  • 3-cone drill: 7.31 seconds
8 Jared Verse EDGE

The Falcons now have Rondale Moore and Darnell Mooney on the roster, reducing the likelihood of Rome Odunze. Instead, they beef up the pass rushers with Jared Verse.

Rating: 92.57 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Josh Allen
Summary

Jared Verse is an Albany transfer who was unranked coming out of high school. He would've been a first-round pick after the 2022 season, but he returned to Florida State and will again be a first-round pick in 2024. He plays with heavy hands and is twitchy off the edge. When he is locked in, he is unblockable.

About
  • 2022-23: 2-time first-team All-ACC
  • 2022-23: Most pressures (98), T-most sacks (18.0) in ACC over this span
Strengths
  • Stout at the point of attack
  • Plays with heavy hands and has a quick get-off that consistently beats offensive tackles
Weaknesses
  • Made huge stride in Year 1 at Florida State, but leveled off some in Year 2
  • Very little to not love about his game
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.58 seconds
  • Bench press: 31 reps
  • Vertical jump: 35 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.44 seconds
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 7 inches
  • 3-cone drill: 7.31 seconds

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
13
9 Dallas Turner
Alabama, Jr
 
EDGE

It'll be interesting to see which edge rusher goes off the board first; I lean slightly to Verse but could understand why a team prefers Turner, one of the most explosive players in this class. With Keenan Allen now in Chicago, the Bears -- like the Falcons above -- can focus on defense here. (Alternatively, now with just four picks in the entire draft, they could choose to trade down.)

Rating: 92.93 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Jevon Kearse
Summary

Dallas Turner is a quick edge rusher with good first-step quickness. He could stand to add more mass to take his game to another level but is not deficient in that regard. Turner has great waist bend at the high side of his rush to flatten and become a heat-seeking missile towards quarterbacks. He should quickly become a factor for a team at the next level.

About
  • 2023: Consensus All-American and SEC Co-Defensive POY
  • Career: 22.5 sacks and 32.5 TFL (both 2nd in SEC in span)
Strengths
  • Great waist bend at the high side of his rush
  • Good quickness to shoot gaps and get on the hips of blockers
  • Builds speed quickly
  • Plays to the whistle
  • Works back when getting too deep in his rush
Weaknesses
  • Could stand to add more weight to hold up in run support
  • Needs a runway to create power as a rusher
  • Inconsistent job of getting off blocks
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.46 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 40-5 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 7 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
14
10 Rome Odunze
Washington, Jr
 
WR

Both New York teams get big-time playmakers ... after both New York teams spent the early days of free agency trying to fix the offensive line. Garrett Wilson finally gets some help.

Rating: 92.60 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Muhsin Muhammad
Summary

Washington has attempted to manufacture touches for Rome Odunze for years. He is a good route runner with an ability to elude defenders post-catch. He has great size with the range to go high or low. From 2022 to 2023, he added 15 pounds of good weight to improve his physicality through routes. As he gains more reps carrying that additional weight, he should only improve.

About
  • 2023: Consensus All-American (2-time first-team All-Pac 12)
  • 2023: Led FBS with 1,640 rec yards (Washington record)
Strengths
  • Good hand-eye coordination
  • Elusive post-catch
  • Good range to go high or low
  • Does a great job tracking the ball downfield
  • Fluid athlete with good top-end speed
Weaknesses
  • Physicality through his routes
  • Struggles to consistently get off jams at the line of scrimmage
  • Average burst
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.45 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 39 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.03 seconds
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 4 inches
  • 3-cone drill: 6.88 seconds

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
15 92 1640 17.8 13
11 JC Latham
Alabama, Jr
MOCK TRADE from MIN
OT

Mock Trade from: MIN

The Chargers have jettisoned many of their skill-position players, in part because of the salary cap, and also because Jim Harbaugh will likely lean on the run as he looks to jumpstart this offense. It's why LA felt comfortable trading out of the No. 5 pick in this mock draft. And even with Olu Fashanu still on the board, Latham, who played right tackle at Alabama, is the pick here. He can slide into the starting job on Day 1, and there are no projecting if he can play a new position (which would be the conversation with Fashanu).

Rating: 91.47 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Teven Jenkins
Summary

JC Latham is a big power/anchor-based RT with vice grips for hands. Good quickness. Best in quick-setting scenario where he can get his hands on EDGEs instantly. Just enough athleticism to get back to secondary rushers on stunts or delayed blitzes. Very patient and collected in pass pro. Glides laterally against inside moves/counters. Could play with more of a mean streak. Not highly effective in space/on the move. Has room to improve as a run blocker. Must add more sand in his pants at the NFL level. Anchoring flashes on film that are awesome. Understands his assignments but can be a tick labored/awkward getting there. At times opens the gate too early -- it shouldn't be as easy to soften his edge. Generates plenty of torque. Size, natural power, and some athletic flashes make him a fun OT prospect.

About
  • 2023: Second-team All-American (AP) and first-team All-SEC
  • 3 sacks allowed in 970 career pass-blocking snaps
Strengths
  • Large, naturally strong frame
  • Plenty of experience in the SEC at multiple positions
  • Rarely out of position
Weaknesses
  • Movements can be a bit labored
  • Not as nasty at the point of attack as his size would indicate
  • Must improve as a run blocker
12 Terrion Arnold
Alabama, Soph
 
CB

Denver didn't have the firepower to trade up in this mock draft for QB4, so it stays put and fills big needs on the the defense. Like Jared Verse vs. Dallas Turner, Terrion Arnold vs. Quinyon Mitchell will vary team by team, but both players have a chance to be special. For the Broncos, Arnold has the SEC pedigree, and after the success with Patrick Surtain Jr., going back to the Alabama well was an easy choice.

Rating: 92.53 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Jaycee Horn
Summary

Terrion Arnold is a boundary cornerback with good size. He has average top-end speed but has little difficulty carrying routes up the boundary. Arnold gets a bit loose in routes transitioning across the field and can do a better job of breaking his feet down in space to make a form tackle. He is a high-energy cornerback who will occasionally lose patience and grab the receiver during routes. Over the past two years, Arnold has tremendous ball production. He is not afraid to play downhill in run support and jam at the line of scrimmage.

About
  • 2023: First-team All-American (AP)
  • 2023: 5 INT (T-most in SEC)
Strengths
  • Not afraid to be physical, jam receivers at the line of scrimmage
  • Versatility to play on the boundary or in the slot
  • Willing to play downhill in run support
  • Good size for the position
  • Great ball production over the past two years
Weaknesses
  • Gets a bit loose transitioning across the field
  • 11% missed tackle rate in 2023, per TruMedia
  • Loses patience and grabs in coverage occasionally
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.5 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 37 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 9 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
14 5
13 Michael Penix Jr.
Washington, Sr
 
QB
HQ Spotlight: Michael Penix Jr. NFL Draft Prospect Preview

New head coach Antonio Pierce was in Baton Rouge last week to see Jayden Daniels (and some pretty good WRs), but instead the Raiders stay put and take Michael Penix Jr. here at No. 13.

Rating: 88.30 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Tua Tagovailoa
Summary

NFL decision-makers have a wide array of opinions on Michael Penix Jr.’s abilities; some like him in Round 1, while others think he's a Day 3 target. It's hard to argue that he's the best deep ball thrower in this draft class, and he arrives in the league with a ton of experience.

About
  • 2023: Heisman Trophy runner-up (best finish in Washington history)
  • 2022-23: Most pass yards (9,544) in 2-year span in Pac-12 history
Strengths
  • Best deep-ball thrower in this class
  • Throws with anticipation on intermediate routes
  • Very good at putting the ball in position to maximize YAC
Weaknesses
  • Injury history will be a concern for many NFL teams
  • Can he consistently throw the ball accurately over the middle of the field on intermediate routes?

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
15 4903 65.4 36 11
14 Olumuyiwa Fashanu
Penn State, Jr
 
OT

Somehow Fashanu is still on the board. Trevor Penning hasn't worked out at left tackle, and Fashanu is too good to pass up in the middle of Round 1.

Rating: 93.03 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Trent Williams
Summary

Olu Fashanu has long arms, a good base, great athleticism, is solid at the point of attack and consistently anchors well against power rushers. He's patient in his pass sets and rarely panics. He's only going to get better.

About
  • 2023: Consensus All-American and first-team All-Big Ten
  • Career: 0 sacks allowed on 697 career pass-blocking snaps
Strengths
  • Physical freak in every regard; can manhandle edge rushers but has the athleticism to get to the second level and bury his target
  • Still young and developing; he's only going to get better
Weaknesses
  • Needs to continue to refine his technique because he sometimes relies on this athleticism to win vs. lesser opponents
  • Had a better 2022 season, so he'll need to show he can play with more consistency
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.11 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 32 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 1 inches
15 Quinyon Mitchell
Toledo, Jr
 
CB

WR could be a target here, for sure, and while the Colts like their young CBs, Quinyon Mitchell will be CB1 on many teams' board. So, to get him in the middle of the first round would be a steal.

Rating: 92.73 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Darius Slay
Summary

Quinyon Mitchell checks a lot of boxes for NFL teams. He has great size to be a man coverage cornerback on the boundary. He has a quick click and close to flash downhill in run support. Mitchell has good top-end speed but gets a bit loose in transitions across the field. He is competitive at the catch point and has great ball production over the past two seasons. Mitchell does not have significant exposure against Power 5 competition.

About
  • 2023: Second-team All-American (AP) and first-team All-MAC
  • Most passes defended in FBS (37) over past 2 seasons
Strengths
  • Six interceptions over the past two seasons
  • Great frame to play on the boundary in man coverage
  • Good top-end speed
  • Competitive at the catch point
  • Quick click and close to impact the run game
Weaknesses
  • Gambler by nature, which could lead to big plays
  • Two games against Power 5 competition in his career
  • Gets a bit loose in transitions occasionally
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.33 seconds
  • Bench press: 20 reps
  • Vertical jump: 38 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 2 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
13 1
16 Troy Fautanu
Washington, Jr
 
IOL

Troy Fautanu can play tackle, but he may begin his NFL journey as a guard. And as it turns out, the Seahawks have a huge need at the left guard position.

Rating: 89.77 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Tyler Steen
Summary

Troy Fautanu is a smaller, compact, quickness-based OT prospect with plus awareness and quality feet. He's a quick setter. Clearly he has to get stronger, as anchoring capabilities are not where they need to be. Because of power deficiency, he has to lean into his blocks, which makes it easier for DLs to get off him against the run. He's further ahead as a pass protector right now, which isn't the worst dynamic. Lateral quicks to follow inside moves into the pocket. Not enough sustained juice in his kick slide to get to speedy outside rushers. He may have a future at guard because he doesn't possess a classic NFL OT frame. He's very mobile and gets to the second level in a hurry, though he's not very accurate finding LBs there. Grip strength must improve at the next level. Despite that, he has outstanding hand work; he swats down hands, constantly looking to reset his hands to control defenders. He's very capable picking up stunts. Overall, the physical tools are there for Fautanu, but he has to get stronger and learn to get more depth/speed in his traditional pass-blocking sets.

About
  • 2023: Morris Trophy winner (best OL in Pac-12)
  • 2023: Fifth-best PFF pass-block grade (88.2) among FBS OT
Strengths
  • Plus athlete, light on his feet
  • Awareness is awesome, will get to inside moves, blitzes, and stunts
  • Comfortable in space on screens and combos at the second level
Weaknesses
  • Not quite explosive enough to get to outside speed rushers in traditional pass set
  • Has to get significantly stronger at the NFL level
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.01 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 32.5 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 5 inches
17 Byron Murphy II
Texas, Jr
 
DL

Byron Murphy II is the best defensive linemen in this class, and he could end up going higher than this. The Jags addressed other positional needs early in free agency, and even with the addition of Arik Armstead, Murphy makes a lot of sense here.

Rating: 92.13 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Javon Hargrave
Summary

Byron Murphy II is a long armed, squatty, explosive DT. His first-step quicks are a problem for interior OLs, and he gets his hands into their chest in a flash. He resets the line of scrimmage with speed-to-power conversion and effortlessly works across the frame of blockers to soften their edges. He has a nice rip move and uses an occasional swipe. He’s a very fluid athlete with loose hips who can track the football down the line of scrimmage. He will occasionally drop to one knee to anchor against doubles, but it's not a clear strength. He’s surprisingly powerful at the point of attack given his size. His hands are never complacent, and he works noticeably hard against the run and is rarely on the ground. He’s best in a pure up-the-field pass-rush role. He has good block-shed ability. He doesn't have enough pure strength to counter off the initial rush, but that rush is almost always super explosive.

About
  • 2023 Second-team All-American (AP) and first-team All-Big 12
  • 2023: Highest PFF pass-rush grade (91.5) among FBS DT
Strengths
  • Exudes explosiveness
  • Pass-rush moves he deploys are highly effective
  • 100% effort on every play
Weaknesses
  • Doesn't always have a counter ready if his first move fails
  • Smaller size gets him washed out against the run at times
  • Won't be great against doubles
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.87 seconds
  • Bench press: 28 reps
  • Vertical jump: 33 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 3 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
13
18 Brock Bowers
Georgia, Jr
 
TE

I've said it since the fall: Brock Bowers is a top-10 talent, but because of the position he plays, and needs at other positions, he could slip to the middle of the first round. Even here, the Bengals could target tackles Taliese Fuaga or Amarius Mims.

Rating: 92.47 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: George Kittle
Summary

Brock Bowers is a wiry strong athlete who is willing to contribute as a run blocker. His lack of ideal mass means he is more valuable as a blocker in space than inline. Bowers has soft hands and great range to go high or low. He has a good feel for pressing defenders at the route before making his cut. Bowers is incredibly effective creating yards after the catch.

About
  • Career: Only 2-time John Mackey Award winner (given to nation's best TE)
  • Most career rec yds (2,538) and rec TD (26) by TE in SEC history
Strengths
  • Good top-end speed
  • Does a good job creating separation
  • Builds speed quickly
  • Does not tip off his breaks with his eyes, leans into the defender's body to create spce
  • Great hands and range to make catches outside of his frame
Weaknesses
  • Lacks ideal height
  • Lighter frame makes it more difficult to hold up as an inline blocker

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
10 56 714 12.8 6
19 Johnny Newton
Illinois, Jr
 
DL

Aaron Donald retired, and while it would take 4-5 players to replace his production (and that may be underselling it), Newton is a twitched-up defensive lineman coming off a really good season for Illinois. Cornerback was also a consideration here.

Rating: 89.20 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Kobie Turner
Summary

Jer'Zhan Newton is a polished, hand-work master at DT. He has plus athletic gifts and can threaten either shoulder of a guard or center on any rush; he’s not strictly an upfield rusher. He has a full pass-rush arsenal. He has legitimate counter ability and knows he has to be urgent with those counters. Goes swipe into a bull rush often and he’s effective with it. Rushes a bit higher than what's ideal. Good pop on contact, but not a certified people mover. Not incredibly explosive. Far from a slow plodder. His bull rush flashes were there, too; just not a trademark of his game. He’s a solid block-dispatcher and a quality run defender with good vision/awareness to locate RBs. If his rushes were lower, this would be a squeaky clean DT prospect. But altogether, he's quite the refined specimen on the inside.

About
  • 2023: Consensus All-American and 2023 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year
  • Led FBS defensive tackles with 102 QB pressures over past two seasons (35 more than next-highest)
Strengths
  • Full arsenal of pass-rush moves are locked and loaded
  • Understand how to counter off his initial rush
  • Some pop to his game upon contact
Weaknesses
  • Not a tremendously explosive or fluid athlete
  • Rushes tend to get high and lose steam
  • Final season wasn't as good as 2022

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
12
20 Taliese Fuaga OT

Taliese Fuaga could be long gone by the time the Steelers are on the clock. But if he's here, this would be a layup; he can be the starter at right tackle while last year's first-rounder, Broderick Jones, can move over to the left side, where he played at Georgia.

Rating: 92.43 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Jedrick Wills
Summary

Taliese Fuaga is a large, girthy, mobile people-mover at RT. He has shocking burst and lateral quicks given his gargantuan size; some Penei Sewell-ian vibes when he's on the move. He has frequent mashing reps and is a menace at the second level. He’s an authoritative blocker who tries to get his hands on DLs early. Sometimes quality rushers can throw him off balance, but those reps are few and far between and he works hard to recover. Grip strength could improve and he’s not incredibly accurate at the second level, but he gets out there in a flash. Despite his wide frame and easy power, he could actually add more lower-body strength for setting edge/turning DLs. Kick slide is good, not great. Overall, Fuaga is a mostly ready-to-go classic RT with power and mobility.

About
  • 2023: Second-team All-American (AP) and first-team All-Pac 12
  • 2023: Highest PFF run-blocking grade (90.9) in FBS
Strengths
  • Prototypical NFL OT frame
  • Immense athletic gifts for his size
  • Masher at the point of attack
Weaknesses
  • Aggressive style can get the best of him, balance isn't always stellar
  • Needs to add more lower-body strength
  • Good, not great kick slide at times
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.13 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 32 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 3 inches
21 Jackson Powers-Johnson
Oregon, Jr
 
IOL

Yes, the Dolphins signed C Aaron Brewer in free agency, but Jackson Powers-Johnson is dominant and should be a Day 1 starter in Miami.

Rating: 87.93 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Creed Humphrey
Summary

Jackson Powers-Johnson consistently wins with effort and strength and is one of the best offensive linemen in the class. He is at his best when he is uncovered at the line and can step freely to defensive linemen, or climb to the second level.

About
  • 2023: Unanimous All-American (5th in Oregon history)
  • 2023: Better pass-blocking grade than former top center prospects Tyler Linderbaum and Creed Humphrey
Strengths
  • Uses hands well to shock defensive linemen in pass pro
  • Shows ability to re-anchor vs. nose tackles
  • Good athlete, can combo block and lock up second-level defender quickly to ensure gap integrity in run game
  • Tenacious, consistent in both run and pass-blocking
Weaknesses
  • Can struggle to block defenders and create movement when he is covered
Combine Data
  • Bench press: 30 reps
  • Vertical jump: 32 inches
  • Broad jump: 8 feet, 8 inches
22 Cooper DeJean
Iowa, Jr
 
CB

Cooper DeJean is a big, strong, fast cornerback with return ability, and the Eagles need to bolster the secondary.

Rating: 88.27 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Jaycee Horn
Summary

Cooper DeJean is an extremely physical cornerback at the catch point who has big size and great speed. He can run with any wide receiver and is very smooth when flipping his hips and staying in phase on vertical routes. He also adds something in the return game.

About
  • 2023: Unanimous All-American (2-time first-team All-Big Ten)
  • 2022: 5 INT (including Iowa single-season record 3 pick-sixes)
Strengths
  • Extremely physical at catch point, even if he gets beaten earlier in route; has ability to recover and make play on ball
  • Even from off man, can drive downhill and close separation gap in a hurry on in-breaking routes
  • Has return ability
Weaknesses
  • Is his NFL future at CB or safety?
  • Can get too handsy at times in coverage

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
10 2
23 Brian Thomas Jr.
LSU, Jr
MOCK TRADE from MIN
WR

Mock Trade from: MIN

Brian Thomas Jr. reminds Rick Spielman, my co-host on the "With the First Pick" podcast, of George Pickens. And with Keenan Allen gone, there's a huge void in the WR room, even if new head coach Jim Harbaugh is going to lean heavily into the run game.

Rating: 91.77 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: George Pickens
Summary

Brian Thomas Jr. is a tall, decently sculpted perimeter wideout with plus ball-tracking capabilities. He’s not super explosive, but he can win off the line to the inside or outside or with physicality. Some wiggle to his game, which also pops after the catch. Surprising agility for a taller WR. Deceptive long speed, and his build-up speed surprises DBs. He has some high-point ability and will find the ball over his shoulder/in-traffic with good regularity. He shows flashes dipping past DBs in his route. Nothing about his game stands out more than the rest; he’s just a solid all-around WR prospect with a relatively polished game and fair amount of upside due to his age.

About
  • 2023: Third-team All-American (AP)
  • 2023: Led FBS with 17 rec TD last season (T-5th most in SEC history)
Strengths
  • Complete game, rock-solid in every element of playing WR
  • Tracks the football downfield with ease
  • Plus cutting skills after the catch for a taller WR
Weaknesses
  • Not incredibly explosive
  • Sometimes, physicality disrupts him
  • Not a contact-balance type after the catch
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.33 seconds
  • Bench press: 11 reps
  • Vertical jump: 38.5 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 6 inches

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
13 68 1177 17.3 17
24 Amarius Mims
Georgia, Jr
 
OT

Amarius Mims' size and athleticism are special, even in this top-flight OL draft class. The only issues are that he hasn't played much football, and he struggled to stay healthy last fall. But when he was on the field -- including his very first college start against Ohio State in the college football playoffs back in January 2023 -- he has been dominant. If he had stayed healthy in 2023 (he also tweaked his hamstring at the combine), he would've been an easy top-15 pick.

Rating: 91.80 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Evan Neal
Summary

Amarius Mims has the athleticism and talent to become the best offensive tackle from this draft class. Injuries have limited the right tackle's availability, but his performance against Ohio State in 2022 put him on the national radar. He does a good job adjusting his feet when engaged in pass protection and drives his feet on contact in the run game. Mims can do a better job of adjusting his hands when engaged and would be better served working on his punch placement and being more aggressive at the point of attack.

About
  • 2021-22: 2-Time CFP national champion (starter in 2022)
  • Career: 0 sacks allowed on 377 career pass-blocking snaps
Strengths
  • Absorbs contact well
  • Does a great job adjusting his feet when engaged
  • Drives feet on contact in the run game
  • Great upper body strength
  • Good foot quickness
Weaknesses
  • Limited playing experience due to injuries
  • Can do a better job of adjusting his hands when engaged
  • Punch placement can improve
  • Would like to see him dictate action at the point of attack more often
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.07 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 25.5 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 3 inches
25 Kool-Aid McKinstry
Alabama, Jr
 
CB

The Packers have a history of only drafting defensive players in the first round, so I'm not going to break tradition here; Alabama thinks Kool-Aid McKinstry has legit NFL cover skills -- the only question will be his deep speed -- and he answered those questions at his pro day when he ran a 4.47-second 40-yard dash. Added bonus: he can be an asset in the return game, too.

Rating: 89.10 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Antoine Cason
Summary

Kool-Aid McKinstry has been a key contributor for the Alabama defense since his freshman campaign. He has good top-end speed, but it is not always evident on film. McKinstry is a smart player with good route recognition, but he can do a better job of tracking the ball downfield. He shows good foot quickness to mirror receivers up the boundary and transition across the field.

About
  • 2023: First-team All-American (2-time first-team All-SEC)
  • Career: 0 TD allowed on 1,206 coverage snaps
Strengths
  • Good top-end speed
  • Does a good job transitioning across the field
  • Good foot quickness to mirror receivers
  • Smart cornerback who understands his responsibilities
Weaknesses
  • Can catch him leaning at the stem in man coverage
  • 8.1% missed tackle rate in 2023, per TruMedia
  • Downfield tracking

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
14
26 Graham Barton
Duke, Sr
 
OT

The team has moved on from Matt Feiler and Aaron Stinnie, and while they've signed Ben Bredeson and Sua Opeta, Graham Barton has Day 1-starter potential. He played left tackle at Duke, but his NFL future will be inside.

Rating: 85.53 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Peter Skoronski
Summary

Graham Barton is a short-area quickness, hustle, technique based OT in somewhat of an OG body. Works the angles awesomely. Tends to lean into blocks when getting across the line. Occasionally late with his hands -- and they get outside -- but his sweet feet kept him in position in pass pro. Effortlessly slides against inside moves. Doesn't have enough length or power to anchor around the corner with great consistency. Plus accuracy getting to the second level because he trusts his athleticism. Very aware of stunts, and will get to most of them. Definitely has a nasty demeanor finishing blocks. Probably a guard at the next level but has enough juice to play center, too. Versatility and relatively clean film at OT are his biggest selling points.

About
  • 2023: Second-team All-American
  • 2022-23: 2-time first-team All-ACC
Strengths
  • Light feet when executing all blocks
  • Works the angles/leverages awesomely
  • Plus accuracy finding LBs at second level
Weaknesses
  • Lacks power, doesn't have much anchor
  • Tends to get off balance against bigger rushers
  • Minimal length
27 Laiatu Latu
UCLA, Sr
 
EDGE

The Cards take Malik Nabers at No. 4, and somehow, Laiatu Latu is still on the board at the bottom of Round 1.

Rating: 91.97 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Jaelan Phillips
Summary

Laiatu Latu is a tall, well-built edge rusher. He tends to rush a tick high, but he has a nasty, often-used swim move. He’s fast and effective with it. He’s a highly capable athlete. He dips/leans around the corner and retraces when he's past the QB. Everything about his rush skill set is very natural and smooth. He has never-stopping hands, and there's some power to them. Swipe and rip are there, too. He wins with leverage and using OTs (and OGs) momentum against them when countering. Burst is great but not elite. At times, his higher rushes and desire to use the swim leave his midsection susceptible and his power sapped. He works hard against the run. He has a large tackling radius and can be a menace against OGs inside when they don't get up and under him. Good bend for his size, but it’s not a trademark attribute. Closing speed is impressive. He needs to add a bull rush. Overall, Latu is a three-down edge rusher in the NFL and an All-Pro talent with polish.

About
  • 2023: Unanimous All-American (First from UCLA since Maurice Jones-Drew in 2005)
  • Led FBS with 23.5 sacks in past two seasons
Strengths
  • Towering, lengthy frame
  • Wins with a variety of pass-rush moves
  • Bend/speed around the corner are awesome for his size
Weaknesses
  • Doesn't have a consistent bull rush, lacks some power
  • Rushes can get high
  • At times, leaves his midsection open to blockers
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.64 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 32 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 8 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
12 2
28 Chop Robinson
Penn State, Jr
 
EDGE

The Bills have Greg Rousseau, who has special talents, and they re-upped A.J. Epenesa. But after that, there is a need for some depth, especially now that Von Miller is 35 years old. Robinson may have the highest motor of anyone in this draft class.

Rating: 89.40 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Nik Bonitto
Summary

Chop Robinson plays with as high a motor as you'll see at any level. He will test through the roof, and that testing will match his tape. Plays every snap at an 11 on a 10-point scale, and for as active as he is as a pass-rusher, he's also really good against the run.

About
  • 2023: First-team All-Big Ten (4.0 sacks, 7.5 TFL in 10 games)
  • 2022-23: Led Big Ten with 18.6% pressure rate
Strengths
  • Twitched-up edge rusher who plays much bigger than his size
  • Consistently disruptive in the backfield
  • Uses hands well as a pass-rusher but also solid against the run
Weaknesses
  • Undersized but plays much bigger than his measurements
  • Very little not to love about his game
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.48 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 34.5 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.25 seconds
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 8 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
7
29 Darius Robinson
Missouri, Sr
 
EDGE

Darius Robinson quietly had a dominant season for the Tigers, and followed that up with a not-so-quiet Senior Bowl week, where he showed he can play both as an edge rusher or kick inside. I don't care that he ran a 4.95-second 40-yard dash at the combine; he's 6-foot-5, 285 pounds with 34.5-inch arms and a 35-inch vertical. He's explosive and powerful and feels like a natural fit opposite Aidan Hutchinson in Detroit

Rating: 88.93 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Keion White
Summary

Darius Robinson is a DE/DT hybrid. Jolting and active hands. Great swipe to rip and bull rush is legitimate. Serious, near NFL-caliber power. Length galore. Some flexibility. While not ridiculously explosive, he's a better athlete than most DL/EDGEs his size. Wins with counters off his bull rush. Expansive tackling radius. Mostly rushed as an end in three-man fronts in college. Doesn't deploy pass-rush moves as often as he should. Most of his losses as a pass-rusher come when he rushes too high. Overall, Robinson is a new-age 5-technique with legitimate positional versatility, immense length and power.

About
  • 2023: First-team All-SEC
  • 2023: Led Mizzou DL with 43 total tackles, 8.5 sacks and 14 TFL
Strengths
  • Serious specimen with length and power
  • Legit positional versatility
  • Athleticism and pass-rush moves are impressive
Weaknesses
  • Rushes can get too high
  • Needs to deploy hands more frequently
  • Wins aren't always quick
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.95 seconds
  • Bench press: 21 reps
  • Vertical jump: 35 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 3 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
12
30 Tyler Guyton
Oklahoma, Jr
 
OT

This make sense; Morgan Moses is now with the Jets, and Tyler Guyton, who was dominant at right tackle for the Sooners last season, slides into the starting job.

Rating: 87.30 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Anton Harrison
Summary

Tyler Guyton is a right tackle who moves really well for his size and has good ankle flexion to recover when balance is lost. Most of his balance issues stem from not adjusting his hands when engaged and punch placement. Guyton can use varied timing in his punches to confuse defenders. He has good eyes to handle exchanges and pick up stunts into his gap.

About
  • 2023: All-Big 12 honorable mention
  • 2023: 0 sacks allowed on 335 pass-blocking snaps
Strengths
  • Moves really well for his size
  • Good ankle flexion to recover
  • Good eyes to handle exchanges and stunts into his gap
  • Good first-step quickness
Weaknesses
  • Can do a better job of adjusting his hands when engaged
  • Can do a better job of varying punch pace to confuse defenders
  • Punch placement can improve
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.19 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 34.5 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.71 seconds
  • Broad jump: 8 feet, 11 inches
  • 3-cone drill: 7.5 seconds
31 Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
Missouri, Jr
 
CB

I was tempted to go with AD Mitchell here, just in case the 49ers and Brandon Aiyuk can't agree on a long-term deal. Instead, I went with one of my favorite defensive players in this class. Yes, Rakestraw only weighed 183 pounds at the combine, but his playing style reminds me of Devon Witherspoon ... who weighed 181 pounds at the combine a year ago.

Rating: 87.40 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Kyle Fuller
Summary

Ennis Rakestraw Jr. is a thinner built cornerback who is not afraid to mix it up. He is willing to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage and is competitive at the catch point despite limited ball production. Rakestraw does a good job transitioning across the field and up the boundary but allows too much cushion underneath in zone coverage.

About
  • Career: Allowed 0 TD in 1,017 career coverage snaps
  • Career: 24 passes defended (T-3rd most in SEC since 2020)
Strengths
  • Triggers downhill quickly in run support
  • Fluid hips to transition across the field or carry routes vertically
  • Competitive at the catch point
Weaknesses
  • Limited ball production
  • Gets stuck at the top of his drop occasionally
  • Allows a lot of room underneath in zone coverage
  • Frame on the thin side
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.51 seconds
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 0 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
9
32 Adonai Mitchell
Texas, Jr
 
WR

The Chiefs added Hollywood Brown in free agency, but there's also room for AD Mitchell, whose size, speed and explosiveness make him an obvious upgrade over Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

Rating: 89.10 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Michael Wilson
Summary

Adonai Mitchell is a tall WR prospect with a somewhat sleek frame. His hip sink/lateral quicks are impressive for a WR his height. He flashed sharp route-running ability and sells intricate routes well, particularly double moves down the field. He understands how to set up DBs with head/shoulder fakes and subtle jukes. He did see some press coverage in college and was capable of beating it with quicks, although he's not a release master at this stage. He has forward lean in his routes, which comes from impressive burst off the line and plus sustained speed. He’s got legit long speed, but not a YAC type; he only had a few impressive scampers after the catch in college. The athleticism is there to do it, but he has low-level contact balance. He has reliable, strong hands but wasn't a big contested-catch winner. He hasn't played a ton of football. Overall, Mitchell is a young WR prospect with smooth athleticism and route-salesmanship beyond his years, all of which indicate his best football is in front of him.

About
  • 2023: Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year
  • 2023: Led the Big 12 in receiving TDs (11)
Strengths
  • Large frame with strong hands
  • Forward lean in his routes with smooth athletic gifts and plus speed
  • Despite being larger, is a already a gifted route runner
Weaknesses
  • Minimal YAC capabilities due to lesser contact balance
  • Only flashes of contested-catch wins despite his size
  • Hasn't played a ton of football
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.34 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 39.5 inches
  • Broad jump: 11 feet, 4 inches

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
14 55 845 15.4 11
# Team Player Pos
1 Caleb Williams
USC, Jr
 
QB
HQ Spotlight: Caleb Williams NFL Draft Prospect Preview

This is essentially a no-brainer for Chicago. Caleb Williams has franchise-altering ability.

Rating: 94.07 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Patrick Mahomes
Summary

Caleb Williams is as close to Patrick Mahomes as we've seen since 2017. His footwork looks cleaner in his drop back, he has a plus arm, throws with great accuracy to all three levels, and consistently wins with his legs -- whether he's in the pocket, flushed from the pocket or on designed runs. Added bonuses: does a good job of avoiding hits near the sideline. Can throw with anticipation on intermediate routes, layers the ball well on intermediate routes and has good deep-ball accuracy. Would like to see him stick with his first read a little longer -- he loves to rely on his mobility and playmaking abilities -- but it's hard to argue with the results. There's a long list of QBs who play well off-platform and out of structure; he may already be one of the best.

About
  • 2022 Heisman Trophy winner (1st from USC since Reggie Bush)
  • Career: Most total yards (8,673) and TD (93) in 2-year span in USC history
Strengths
  • The next Patrick Mahomes isn't hyperbole
  • Can throw from every arm angle and do it with pinpoint accuracy
  • Consistently wins with his legs though he doesn't look to run at the first sign of trouble
Weaknesses
  • Tries to do too much at times
  • Needs to do a better job of playing within the offense
  • Will sometimes pass up easy throws looking for the big play

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
12 3633 68.6 30 5
2 Jayden Daniels
LSU, Sr
 
QB

This feels lay-up-ish, doesn't it? Jayden Daniels can be an explosive playmaker orchestrating Kliff Kingsbury's spread offense.

Rating: 92.93 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Tyrod Taylor
Summary

Jayden Daniels is one of the most improved players in college football over the past two years. He is an experienced passer who doubles as an impact runner. His decision-making has improved immensely since his days at Arizona State. Daniels has enough arm strength to push the ball downfield . He showed the ability to uplift and entire offense this past season.

About
  • 2023: Heisman Trophy winner (led FBS in total YPG and total TD/game)
  • Career: 1st ever with 12,000+ pass yds and 3,000+ rush yds in FBS history
Strengths
  • Impact performer as a runner
  • Over 3,000 college football snaps of experience
  • Throws with touch to all three levels
  • Keeps his eyes downfield when pressured
  • Makes good decisions on read options
Weaknesses
  • Thin frame, but has not missed time due to injury
  • Average arm strength
  • Footwork has made strides but remains a work in progress

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
12 3812 72.2 40 4
3 J.J. McCarthy
Michigan, Jr
 
QB
HQ Spotlight: Quarterback Rising Up Boards

At this point we shouldn't be shocked if J.J. McCarthy goes ahead of Drake Maye. The Michigan quarterback needs time to develop, and so does the Patriots team as a whole.

Rating: 91.50 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Joe Burrow
Summary

J.J. McCarthy is an incredibly efficient passer who operated in a predominantly run-heavy offense. He is slight of frame but has the mobility and accuracy to make plays out of structure. McCarthy does not have the strongest arm but throws with touch to all three levels. He is a tough player who has consistently won at every level of his career.

About
  • 2023: CFP national champion (led Michigan to 15-0 record)
  • 27-1 career record as starting QB (3rd-best in FBS history)
Strengths
  • Sixth-highest completion percentage in 2023 (72.3%)
  • Does a good job manipulating the pocket
  • Throws with touch to all three levels
  • Great ball placement
Weaknesses
  • Ball security in tight pockets
  • Late to see some breakers
  • Average arm strength
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.23 seconds
  • 3-cone drill: 6.82 seconds

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
15 2991 72.3 22 4
4 Marvin Harrison Jr.
Ohio State, Jr
 
WR

The Cardinals don't mess around with any trades, instead picking Marvin Harrison Jr. to be their WR1 instantly.

Rating: 94.47 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Randy Moss
Summary

Marvin Harrison Jr. is arguably the best player in the entire draft class. Father was an NFL Hall of Famer and Harrison Jr. has a chance to be even better because of his physical gifts -- size, speed, huge catch radius and the ability to win running a variety of routes. When he is locked in he's all but unstoppable.

About
  • Career: 2-time unanimous All-American (1st from OSU since Orlando Pace)
  • 1st player in Big Ten history with 14+ rec TD in multiple seasons
Strengths
  • Incredibly strong at the top of routes; he's able to create separation vs. physical CBs
  • Hands-catcher with an enormous catch radius
  • Can stack CBs off the line of scrimmage and has the shiftiness to create separation on every route
Weaknesses
  • Did have a few focus drops during the 2023 season
  • Showed frustrations at times at the level of QB play in 2023

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
12 67 1211 18.1 14
5 Drake Maye
North Carolina, Soph
MOCK TRADE from LAC
QB

Mock Trade from: LAC

Rejoice in Viking land, as Minnesota lands an athletic, big-arm passer who exudes aggressiveness.

Rating: 93.03 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Justin Herbert
Summary

Drake Maye is a tall pocket passer with some athletic juice. He has a live arm with a compact release. He drives the football with ease and throws a gorgeous spiral with high regularity. His accuracy to all levels is very good, but there are a few seemingly uncharacteristic misses deep. His misses are typically low/behind. He was utilized in the designed run game in college but it will be somewhat of a stretch to see him succeed doing that in the NFL. Has a flair for making plays on the run and can be a useful, Mahomes-like scrambler. The natural playmaker gene is there, as he rarely gives up on a play. He wants to rip the vertical shot down the seam/numbers. He truly can make every throw, and his arm talent borders on elite. His high-arcing touch is good, not amazing. He can make impressive throws with defenders draped on him. His pocket presence is solid, but sometimes awkward when navigating. He has lots of experience reading the entire field. Overall, he has a great blend of pocket passing, arm talent, accuracy, and athleticism. He's a very impressive QB prospect for the modern-day NFL.

About
  • 2022: ACC Player of the Year (First in UNC since Lawrence Taylor in 1980)
  • Only FBS player with 7,000+ pass yards and 1,000+ rush yards in past two seasons
Strengths
  • Arm strength is fantastic
  • Full-field reader
  • Big frame with plus athleticism to scramble and elude rushers inside the pocket
Weaknesses
  • Occasional miss low/behind his WR
  • At times awkward when attempting to navigate the pocket
  • In some instances will try to do too much when things break down

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
12 3608 63.3 24 9
6 Malik Nabers
LSU, Jr
 
WR

The Giants don't get a quarterback, but instead land an electric WR to aid their in-house quarterback, Daniel Jones. Malik Nabers is a special talent.

Rating: 93.23 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Brandon Aiyuk
Summary

Malik Nabers is a super-explosive WR prospect. He gets to top gear in a flash and can sustain that speed down the field. He’s effortless off the line and has serious acceleration. He’s a bouncy athlete when needing to elevate. He has plus wiggle off the line and can get on top of CBs quickly to stack them on vertical routes. Physicality can get the best of him in press, but he’s not a weak player. He works well fighting back to the football/finding it down the field and in the red zone. Natural mover with the ball in his hands. He has RB vision, plus quickness, and his supercharged burst all indicate him being a YAC weapon in the NFL. He won't be an elite burner, but he’s certainly not slow. While not tall for the position, he has a "my-ball" mentality in traffic. Route-running is good, but he didn't run the full route tree. He has the athletic chops to be a star in that area eventually. In most classes, he'd be the clear WR1. His game is tailor-made for today's NFL.

About
  • 2023: Converted 78.7% of his receptions into either a first down or a touchdown, according to TruMedia (second-highest among players with at least 100 target)
  • 2023: Led FBS with 17 catches of 30-plus yards
Strengths
  • Incredible explosiveness
  • RAC ability is elite
  • Will go up and get ball in traffic
Weaknesses
  • Not a huge frame
  • Didn't run many routes in college
  • Occasionally physical press beats him at the line

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
13 89 1569 17.6 14
7 Joe Alt
Notre Dame, Jr
 
OT

The Titans go with a Notre Dame blocker to protect Will Levis next to 2023 first-round pick Peter Skoronski at guard.

Rating: 92.87 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Taylor Decker
Summary

Joe Alt made tremendous strides in his career from 2022 to 2023. He looks like a much more flexible prospect capable of digging out smaller rushers. He can struggle with power players that get under his pad level and does not have ideal shock and power in his initial punch. Alt does a great job of adjusting his hands and feet when engaged.

About
  • 2022-23: 2-time first-team All-American (AP)
  • 2023: Highest overall PFF grade (90.7) by FBS OL
Strengths
  • Does a great job adjusting his hands and feet when engaged
  • A much more fluid player in 2023 than 2022
  • Does a good job with punch placement
  • Moves well to mirror defenders laterally
Weaknesses
  • Average job of engaging and sustaining blocks in space
  • Average shock and power in his hands
  • Power players can get under his pads and walk him back
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.05 seconds
  • Bench press: 27 reps
  • Vertical jump: 28 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.51 seconds
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 4 inches
  • 3-cone drill: 7.31 seconds
8 Dallas Turner
Alabama, Jr
 
EDGE

Dallas Turner may not be a double-digit sack rusher in Year 1, but with his length and insane explosiveness, he could be that type for a long time in the NFL after he gets a bit stronger.

Rating: 92.93 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Jevon Kearse
Summary

Dallas Turner is a quick edge rusher with good first-step quickness. He could stand to add more mass to take his game to another level but is not deficient in that regard. Turner has great waist bend at the high side of his rush to flatten and become a heat-seeking missile towards quarterbacks. He should quickly become a factor for a team at the next level.

About
  • 2023: Consensus All-American and SEC Co-Defensive POY
  • Career: 22.5 sacks and 32.5 TFL (both 2nd in SEC in span)
Strengths
  • Great waist bend at the high side of his rush
  • Good quickness to shoot gaps and get on the hips of blockers
  • Builds speed quickly
  • Plays to the whistle
  • Works back when getting too deep in his rush
Weaknesses
  • Could stand to add more weight to hold up in run support
  • Needs a runway to create power as a rusher
  • Inconsistent job of getting off blocks
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.46 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 40-5 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 7 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
14
9 Rome Odunze
Washington, Jr
 
WR

The Bears are doing everything possible to make the landing spot cushy for Caleb Williams. Rome Odunze at No. 9 will signal that even more than the Keenan Allen trade a few weeks ago.

Rating: 92.60 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Muhsin Muhammad
Summary

Washington has attempted to manufacture touches for Rome Odunze for years. He is a good route runner with an ability to elude defenders post-catch. He has great size with the range to go high or low. From 2022 to 2023, he added 15 pounds of good weight to improve his physicality through routes. As he gains more reps carrying that additional weight, he should only improve.

About
  • 2023: Consensus All-American (2-time first-team All-Pac 12)
  • 2023: Led FBS with 1,640 rec yards (Washington record)
Strengths
  • Good hand-eye coordination
  • Elusive post-catch
  • Good range to go high or low
  • Does a great job tracking the ball downfield
  • Fluid athlete with good top-end speed
Weaknesses
  • Physicality through his routes
  • Struggles to consistently get off jams at the line of scrimmage
  • Average burst
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.45 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 39 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.03 seconds
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 4 inches
  • 3-cone drill: 6.88 seconds

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
15 92 1640 17.8 13
10 Brian Thomas Jr.
LSU, Jr
 
WR

This is an Aaron Rodgers pick, as he finally gets his first-round receiver. With this selection, his wideout trio is Garrett Wilson, Mike Williams and Thomas. Damn good.

Rating: 91.77 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: George Pickens
Summary

Brian Thomas Jr. is a tall, decently sculpted perimeter wideout with plus ball-tracking capabilities. He’s not super explosive, but he can win off the line to the inside or outside or with physicality. Some wiggle to his game, which also pops after the catch. Surprising agility for a taller WR. Deceptive long speed, and his build-up speed surprises DBs. He has some high-point ability and will find the ball over his shoulder/in-traffic with good regularity. He shows flashes dipping past DBs in his route. Nothing about his game stands out more than the rest; he’s just a solid all-around WR prospect with a relatively polished game and fair amount of upside due to his age.

About
  • 2023: Third-team All-American (AP)
  • 2023: Led FBS with 17 rec TD last season (T-5th most in SEC history)
Strengths
  • Complete game, rock-solid in every element of playing WR
  • Tracks the football downfield with ease
  • Plus cutting skills after the catch for a taller WR
Weaknesses
  • Not incredibly explosive
  • Sometimes, physicality disrupts him
  • Not a contact-balance type after the catch
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.33 seconds
  • Bench press: 11 reps
  • Vertical jump: 38.5 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 6 inches

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
13 68 1177 17.3 17
11 Taliese Fuaga
Oregon State, Jr
MOCK TRADE from MIN
OT

Mock Trade from: MIN

This is my favorite trade pairing in Round 1 because it works wonderfully for both teams. Taliese Fuaga has a high floor because of his size and strength but also possesses serious potential because of how impeccable of a mover he is.

Rating: 92.43 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Jedrick Wills
Summary

Taliese Fuaga is a large, girthy, mobile people-mover at RT. He has shocking burst and lateral quicks given his gargantuan size; some Penei Sewell-ian vibes when he's on the move. He has frequent mashing reps and is a menace at the second level. He’s an authoritative blocker who tries to get his hands on DLs early. Sometimes quality rushers can throw him off balance, but those reps are few and far between and he works hard to recover. Grip strength could improve and he’s not incredibly accurate at the second level, but he gets out there in a flash. Despite his wide frame and easy power, he could actually add more lower-body strength for setting edge/turning DLs. Kick slide is good, not great. Overall, Fuaga is a mostly ready-to-go classic RT with power and mobility.

About
  • 2023: Second-team All-American (AP) and first-team All-Pac 12
  • 2023: Highest PFF run-blocking grade (90.9) in FBS
Strengths
  • Prototypical NFL OT frame
  • Immense athletic gifts for his size
  • Masher at the point of attack
Weaknesses
  • Aggressive style can get the best of him, balance isn't always stellar
  • Needs to add more lower-body strength
  • Good, not great kick slide at times
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.13 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 32 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 3 inches
12 Troy Fautanu
Washington, Jr
 
IOL

Sean Payton has his eyes on another quarterback later in the draft and instead looks to tighten up the blocking unit with the selection of Troy Fautanu.

Rating: 89.77 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Tyler Steen
Summary

Troy Fautanu is a smaller, compact, quickness-based OT prospect with plus awareness and quality feet. He's a quick setter. Clearly he has to get stronger, as anchoring capabilities are not where they need to be. Because of power deficiency, he has to lean into his blocks, which makes it easier for DLs to get off him against the run. He's further ahead as a pass protector right now, which isn't the worst dynamic. Lateral quicks to follow inside moves into the pocket. Not enough sustained juice in his kick slide to get to speedy outside rushers. He may have a future at guard because he doesn't possess a classic NFL OT frame. He's very mobile and gets to the second level in a hurry, though he's not very accurate finding LBs there. Grip strength must improve at the next level. Despite that, he has outstanding hand work; he swats down hands, constantly looking to reset his hands to control defenders. He's very capable picking up stunts. Overall, the physical tools are there for Fautanu, but he has to get stronger and learn to get more depth/speed in his traditional pass-blocking sets.

About
  • 2023: Morris Trophy winner (best OL in Pac-12)
  • 2023: Fifth-best PFF pass-block grade (88.2) among FBS OT
Strengths
  • Plus athlete, light on his feet
  • Awareness is awesome, will get to inside moves, blitzes, and stunts
  • Comfortable in space on screens and combos at the second level
Weaknesses
  • Not quite explosive enough to get to outside speed rushers in traditional pass set
  • Has to get significantly stronger at the NFL level
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.01 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 32.5 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 5 inches
13 Michael Penix Jr.
Washington, Sr
 
QB
HQ Spotlight: Michael Penix Jr. NFL Draft Prospect Preview

The Raiders are closer to being in win-now mode than we probably expect, and Michael Penix Jr. can help elevate their offense to new heights.

Rating: 88.30 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Tua Tagovailoa
Summary

NFL decision-makers have a wide array of opinions on Michael Penix Jr.’s abilities; some like him in Round 1, while others think he's a Day 3 target. It's hard to argue that he's the best deep ball thrower in this draft class, and he arrives in the league with a ton of experience.

About
  • 2023: Heisman Trophy runner-up (best finish in Washington history)
  • 2022-23: Most pass yards (9,544) in 2-year span in Pac-12 history
Strengths
  • Best deep-ball thrower in this class
  • Throws with anticipation on intermediate routes
  • Very good at putting the ball in position to maximize YAC
Weaknesses
  • Injury history will be a concern for many NFL teams
  • Can he consistently throw the ball accurately over the middle of the field on intermediate routes?

2023 College Stats

GP PYDS PCT TDS INT
15 4903 65.4 36 11
14 Amarius Mims
Georgia, Jr
 
OT

The Saints have a desperate need at offensive tackle. Amarius Mims is a plug-and-play starter with freaky size, power and balance.

Rating: 91.80 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Evan Neal
Summary

Amarius Mims has the athleticism and talent to become the best offensive tackle from this draft class. Injuries have limited the right tackle's availability, but his performance against Ohio State in 2022 put him on the national radar. He does a good job adjusting his feet when engaged in pass protection and drives his feet on contact in the run game. Mims can do a better job of adjusting his hands when engaged and would be better served working on his punch placement and being more aggressive at the point of attack.

About
  • 2021-22: 2-Time CFP national champion (starter in 2022)
  • Career: 0 sacks allowed on 377 career pass-blocking snaps
Strengths
  • Absorbs contact well
  • Does a great job adjusting his feet when engaged
  • Drives feet on contact in the run game
  • Great upper body strength
  • Good foot quickness
Weaknesses
  • Limited playing experience due to injuries
  • Can do a better job of adjusting his hands when engaged
  • Punch placement can improve
  • Would like to see him dictate action at the point of attack more often
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.07 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 25.5 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 3 inches
15 Olumuyiwa Fashanu
Penn State, Jr
MOCK TRADE from IND
OT

Mock Trade from: IND

The Dolphins see Olu Fashanu falling and make an aggressive ascension to land a young offensive tackle with All-Pro upside. In this deal, they send No. 22 and No. 55 to the Colts for this selection and a fourth-round pick in return (No. 117).

Rating: 93.03 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Trent Williams
Summary

Olu Fashanu has long arms, a good base, great athleticism, is solid at the point of attack and consistently anchors well against power rushers. He's patient in his pass sets and rarely panics. He's only going to get better.

About
  • 2023: Consensus All-American and first-team All-Big Ten
  • Career: 0 sacks allowed on 697 career pass-blocking snaps
Strengths
  • Physical freak in every regard; can manhandle edge rushers but has the athleticism to get to the second level and bury his target
  • Still young and developing; he's only going to get better
Weaknesses
  • Needs to continue to refine his technique because he sometimes relies on this athleticism to win vs. lesser opponents
  • Had a better 2022 season, so he'll need to show he can play with more consistency
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 5.11 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 32 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 1 inches
16 Brock Bowers
Georgia, Jr
 
TE

Brock Bowers to the Seahawks would be a lot of fun, giving Geno Smith more early-round weapons.

Rating: 92.47 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: George Kittle
Summary

Brock Bowers is a wiry strong athlete who is willing to contribute as a run blocker. His lack of ideal mass means he is more valuable as a blocker in space than inline. Bowers has soft hands and great range to go high or low. He has a good feel for pressing defenders at the route before making his cut. Bowers is incredibly effective creating yards after the catch.

About
  • Career: Only 2-time John Mackey Award winner (given to nation's best TE)
  • Most career rec yds (2,538) and rec TD (26) by TE in SEC history
Strengths
  • Good top-end speed
  • Does a good job creating separation
  • Builds speed quickly
  • Does not tip off his breaks with his eyes, leans into the defender's body to create spce
  • Great hands and range to make catches outside of his frame
Weaknesses
  • Lacks ideal height
  • Lighter frame makes it more difficult to hold up as an inline blocker

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
10 56 714 12.8 6
17 Quinyon Mitchell
Toledo, Jr
 
CB

Quinyon Mitchell has 4.33 speed, legitimate NFL boundary cornerback size, and defended 45 passes the past three seasons. What's not to like?

Rating: 92.73 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Darius Slay
Summary

Quinyon Mitchell checks a lot of boxes for NFL teams. He has great size to be a man coverage cornerback on the boundary. He has a quick click and close to flash downhill in run support. Mitchell has good top-end speed but gets a bit loose in transitions across the field. He is competitive at the catch point and has great ball production over the past two seasons. Mitchell does not have significant exposure against Power 5 competition.

About
  • 2023: Second-team All-American (AP) and first-team All-MAC
  • Most passes defended in FBS (37) over past 2 seasons
Strengths
  • Six interceptions over the past two seasons
  • Great frame to play on the boundary in man coverage
  • Good top-end speed
  • Competitive at the catch point
  • Quick click and close to impact the run game
Weaknesses
  • Gambler by nature, which could lead to big plays
  • Two games against Power 5 competition in his career
  • Gets a bit loose in transitions occasionally
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.33 seconds
  • Bench press: 20 reps
  • Vertical jump: 38 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 2 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
13 1
18 Johnny Newton
Illinois, Jr
 
DL

The Bengals have to get reinforcements at defensive tackle, and Johnny Newton is strong, polished, and explosive.

Rating: 89.20 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Kobie Turner
Summary

Jer'Zhan Newton is a polished, hand-work master at DT. He has plus athletic gifts and can threaten either shoulder of a guard or center on any rush; he’s not strictly an upfield rusher. He has a full pass-rush arsenal. He has legitimate counter ability and knows he has to be urgent with those counters. Goes swipe into a bull rush often and he’s effective with it. Rushes a bit higher than what's ideal. Good pop on contact, but not a certified people mover. Not incredibly explosive. Far from a slow plodder. His bull rush flashes were there, too; just not a trademark of his game. He’s a solid block-dispatcher and a quality run defender with good vision/awareness to locate RBs. If his rushes were lower, this would be a squeaky clean DT prospect. But altogether, he's quite the refined specimen on the inside.

About
  • 2023: Consensus All-American and 2023 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year
  • Led FBS defensive tackles with 102 QB pressures over past two seasons (35 more than next-highest)
Strengths
  • Full arsenal of pass-rush moves are locked and loaded
  • Understand how to counter off his initial rush
  • Some pop to his game upon contact
Weaknesses
  • Not a tremendously explosive or fluid athlete
  • Rushes tend to get high and lose steam
  • Final season wasn't as good as 2022

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
12
19 Jared Verse EDGE

Jared Verse is a high-floor, ready-to-go rusher who'll formulate a fun outside pass-rushing duo with Byron Young in Los Angeles.

Rating: 92.57 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Josh Allen
Summary

Jared Verse is an Albany transfer who was unranked coming out of high school. He would've been a first-round pick after the 2022 season, but he returned to Florida State and will again be a first-round pick in 2024. He plays with heavy hands and is twitchy off the edge. When he is locked in, he is unblockable.

About
  • 2022-23: 2-time first-team All-ACC
  • 2022-23: Most pressures (98), T-most sacks (18.0) in ACC over this span
Strengths
  • Stout at the point of attack
  • Plays with heavy hands and has a quick get-off that consistently beats offensive tackles
Weaknesses
  • Made huge stride in Year 1 at Florida State, but leveled off some in Year 2
  • Very little to not love about his game
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.58 seconds
  • Bench press: 31 reps
  • Vertical jump: 35 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.44 seconds
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 7 inches
  • 3-cone drill: 7.31 seconds

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
13
20 Terrion Arnold
Alabama, Soph
 
CB

Terrion Arnold to the Steelers would be tremendous. He feels like a Steelers defender: he does everything well and plays with authority as a tackler.

Rating: 92.53 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Jaycee Horn
Summary

Terrion Arnold is a boundary cornerback with good size. He has average top-end speed but has little difficulty carrying routes up the boundary. Arnold gets a bit loose in routes transitioning across the field and can do a better job of breaking his feet down in space to make a form tackle. He is a high-energy cornerback who will occasionally lose patience and grab the receiver during routes. Over the past two years, Arnold has tremendous ball production. He is not afraid to play downhill in run support and jam at the line of scrimmage.

About
  • 2023: First-team All-American (AP)
  • 2023: 5 INT (T-most in SEC)
Strengths
  • Not afraid to be physical, jam receivers at the line of scrimmage
  • Versatility to play on the boundary or in the slot
  • Willing to play downhill in run support
  • Good size for the position
  • Great ball production over the past two years
Weaknesses
  • Gets a bit loose transitioning across the field
  • 11% missed tackle rate in 2023, per TruMedia
  • Loses patience and grabs in coverage occasionally
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.5 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 37 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 9 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
14 5
21 Nate Wiggins
Clemson, Jr
MOCK TRADE from MIA
CB

Mock Trade from: MIA

The Colts are still able to snag a super-speed boundary cornerback in Nate Wiggins after moving out of No. 15 overall.

Rating: 88.80 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Kaiir Elam
Summary

Nate Wiggins is arguably the best cover cornerback in this draft class. Wiggins has a slight frame, so he will need to add weight, but he was much improved against the run in 2023 compared to the previous season. He can run with anybody and is consistently making plays at the catch point.

About
  • 2023: First-team All-ACC
  • 2 career INT return TD (including 98-yard pick-6 vs Drake Maye)
Strengths
  • Smooth in transition from man to covering vertical routes
  • Uses hands well to control wideout through the route, stays in phase
  • Might be best coverage corner in class
Weaknesses
  • Did improve in run support but needs to continue to get better
  • Slight frame; will need to add weight at the next level
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.28 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 36 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 7 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
10 2
22 Chop Robinson
Penn State, Jr
 
EDGE

Howie Roseman can't resist picking defensive linemen early in the draft, and Chop Robinson could very well give him some serious Haason Reddick vibes.

Rating: 89.40 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Nik Bonitto
Summary

Chop Robinson plays with as high a motor as you'll see at any level. He will test through the roof, and that testing will match his tape. Plays every snap at an 11 on a 10-point scale, and for as active as he is as a pass-rusher, he's also really good against the run.

About
  • 2023: First-team All-Big Ten (4.0 sacks, 7.5 TFL in 10 games)
  • 2022-23: Led Big Ten with 18.6% pressure rate
Strengths
  • Twitched-up edge rusher who plays much bigger than his size
  • Consistently disruptive in the backfield
  • Uses hands well as a pass-rusher but also solid against the run
Weaknesses
  • Undersized but plays much bigger than his measurements
  • Very little not to love about his game
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.48 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 34.5 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.25 seconds
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 8 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
7
23 Adonai Mitchell
Texas, Jr
MOCK TRADE from MIN
WR

Mock Trade from: MIN

So it's offensive tackle and receiver for the Chargers after their trade-back. Perfection. Adonai Mitchell has sky-high upside given his frame and fluidity on the field.

Rating: 89.10 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Michael Wilson
Summary

Adonai Mitchell is a tall WR prospect with a somewhat sleek frame. His hip sink/lateral quicks are impressive for a WR his height. He flashed sharp route-running ability and sells intricate routes well, particularly double moves down the field. He understands how to set up DBs with head/shoulder fakes and subtle jukes. He did see some press coverage in college and was capable of beating it with quicks, although he's not a release master at this stage. He has forward lean in his routes, which comes from impressive burst off the line and plus sustained speed. He’s got legit long speed, but not a YAC type; he only had a few impressive scampers after the catch in college. The athleticism is there to do it, but he has low-level contact balance. He has reliable, strong hands but wasn't a big contested-catch winner. He hasn't played a ton of football. Overall, Mitchell is a young WR prospect with smooth athleticism and route-salesmanship beyond his years, all of which indicate his best football is in front of him.

About
  • 2023: Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year
  • 2023: Led the Big 12 in receiving TDs (11)
Strengths
  • Large frame with strong hands
  • Forward lean in his routes with smooth athletic gifts and plus speed
  • Despite being larger, is a already a gifted route runner
Weaknesses
  • Minimal YAC capabilities due to lesser contact balance
  • Only flashes of contested-catch wins despite his size
  • Hasn't played a ton of football
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.34 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 39.5 inches
  • Broad jump: 11 feet, 4 inches

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
14 55 845 15.4 11
24 Jackson Powers-Johnson
Oregon, Jr
 
IOL

The Cowboys go best player available, and JPJ will move people in the run game and anchor in pass pro with the best of them.

Rating: 87.93 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Creed Humphrey
Summary

Jackson Powers-Johnson consistently wins with effort and strength and is one of the best offensive linemen in the class. He is at his best when he is uncovered at the line and can step freely to defensive linemen, or climb to the second level.

About
  • 2023: Unanimous All-American (5th in Oregon history)
  • 2023: Better pass-blocking grade than former top center prospects Tyler Linderbaum and Creed Humphrey
Strengths
  • Uses hands well to shock defensive linemen in pass pro
  • Shows ability to re-anchor vs. nose tackles
  • Good athlete, can combo block and lock up second-level defender quickly to ensure gap integrity in run game
  • Tenacious, consistent in both run and pass-blocking
Weaknesses
  • Can struggle to block defenders and create movement when he is covered
Combine Data
  • Bench press: 30 reps
  • Vertical jump: 32 inches
  • Broad jump: 8 feet, 8 inches
25 JC Latham
Alabama, Jr
 
OT

The Packers have done a great job sustaining the offensive line over the years with mid-to-late round picks who have developed. This selection would be more of a statement after moving on from David Bakhtiari.

Rating: 91.47 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Teven Jenkins
Summary

JC Latham is a big power/anchor-based RT with vice grips for hands. Good quickness. Best in quick-setting scenario where he can get his hands on EDGEs instantly. Just enough athleticism to get back to secondary rushers on stunts or delayed blitzes. Very patient and collected in pass pro. Glides laterally against inside moves/counters. Could play with more of a mean streak. Not highly effective in space/on the move. Has room to improve as a run blocker. Must add more sand in his pants at the NFL level. Anchoring flashes on film that are awesome. Understands his assignments but can be a tick labored/awkward getting there. At times opens the gate too early -- it shouldn't be as easy to soften his edge. Generates plenty of torque. Size, natural power, and some athletic flashes make him a fun OT prospect.

About
  • 2023: Second-team All-American (AP) and first-team All-SEC
  • 3 sacks allowed in 970 career pass-blocking snaps
Strengths
  • Large, naturally strong frame
  • Plenty of experience in the SEC at multiple positions
  • Rarely out of position
Weaknesses
  • Movements can be a bit labored
  • Not as nasty at the point of attack as his size would indicate
  • Must improve as a run blocker
26 Laiatu Latu
UCLA, Sr
 
EDGE

Laiatu Latu is older and has some injury history, but on the field he's a nasty pass-rush move specialist who'd instantly boost Tampa Bay's pass rush.

Rating: 91.97 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Jaelan Phillips
Summary

Laiatu Latu is a tall, well-built edge rusher. He tends to rush a tick high, but he has a nasty, often-used swim move. He’s fast and effective with it. He’s a highly capable athlete. He dips/leans around the corner and retraces when he's past the QB. Everything about his rush skill set is very natural and smooth. He has never-stopping hands, and there's some power to them. Swipe and rip are there, too. He wins with leverage and using OTs (and OGs) momentum against them when countering. Burst is great but not elite. At times, his higher rushes and desire to use the swim leave his midsection susceptible and his power sapped. He works hard against the run. He has a large tackling radius and can be a menace against OGs inside when they don't get up and under him. Good bend for his size, but it’s not a trademark attribute. Closing speed is impressive. He needs to add a bull rush. Overall, Latu is a three-down edge rusher in the NFL and an All-Pro talent with polish.

About
  • 2023: Unanimous All-American (First from UCLA since Maurice Jones-Drew in 2005)
  • Led FBS with 23.5 sacks in past two seasons
Strengths
  • Towering, lengthy frame
  • Wins with a variety of pass-rush moves
  • Bend/speed around the corner are awesome for his size
Weaknesses
  • Doesn't have a consistent bull rush, lacks some power
  • Rushes can get high
  • At times, leaves his midsection open to blockers
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.64 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 32 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 8 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
12 2
27 Byron Murphy II
Texas, Jr
 
DL

This is a steal for the Cardinals, landing Byron Murphy II this late. He's a super-disruptive interior pass rusher who holds up well against the run, too.

Rating: 92.13 (All-Pro)
Pro Comparison: Javon Hargrave
Summary

Byron Murphy II is a long armed, squatty, explosive DT. His first-step quicks are a problem for interior OLs, and he gets his hands into their chest in a flash. He resets the line of scrimmage with speed-to-power conversion and effortlessly works across the frame of blockers to soften their edges. He has a nice rip move and uses an occasional swipe. He’s a very fluid athlete with loose hips who can track the football down the line of scrimmage. He will occasionally drop to one knee to anchor against doubles, but it's not a clear strength. He’s surprisingly powerful at the point of attack given his size. His hands are never complacent, and he works noticeably hard against the run and is rarely on the ground. He’s best in a pure up-the-field pass-rush role. He has good block-shed ability. He doesn't have enough pure strength to counter off the initial rush, but that rush is almost always super explosive.

About
  • 2023 Second-team All-American (AP) and first-team All-Big 12
  • 2023: Highest PFF pass-rush grade (91.5) among FBS DT
Strengths
  • Exudes explosiveness
  • Pass-rush moves he deploys are highly effective
  • 100% effort on every play
Weaknesses
  • Doesn't always have a counter ready if his first move fails
  • Smaller size gets him washed out against the run at times
  • Won't be great against doubles
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.87 seconds
  • Bench press: 28 reps
  • Vertical jump: 33 inches
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 3 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
13
28 Xavier Worthy
Texas, Jr
MOCK TRADE from BUF
WR

Mock Trade from: BUF

The Panthers can't resist adding someone with Xavier Worthy's speed to the offense. They send No. 33 overall and No. 101 to Buffalo for this selection and a seventh-round pick (No. 248).

Rating: 88.17 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: DeVonta Smith
Summary

Xavier Worthy is a thin-framed wide receiver who shows great quickness to set up route breaks and sinks his hips to flatten his routes. He lacks the mass to make much of an impact as a blocker and could struggle getting off jams at the next level. Worthy has great top-end speed to separate on vertical routes.

About
  • 2-time first-team All-Big 12 (2021, 2023)
  • Career: Led Big 12 in rec yards (2,755) and rec TD (26)
Strengths
  • Great top-end speed
  • Shows urgency at the route stem to get out of his breaks
  • Shows hands late as to not tip off the defender
  • Sinks his hips into breaks and flattens routes
Weaknesses
  • Thin frame
  • Lacks of mass makes it difficult to get off jams at the line of scrimmage
  • Offers little as a blocker
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.21 seconds
  • Vertical jump: 41 inches
  • Broad jump: 10 feet, 11 inches

2023 College Stats

GP REC YDS AVG TDS
14 75 1014 13.5 5
29 Kool-Aid McKinstry
Alabama, Jr
 
CB

Kool-Aid McKinstry is one of the cleanest prospects in the class, and this fills an immediate need for the Lions.

Rating: 89.10 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Antoine Cason
Summary

Kool-Aid McKinstry has been a key contributor for the Alabama defense since his freshman campaign. He has good top-end speed, but it is not always evident on film. McKinstry is a smart player with good route recognition, but he can do a better job of tracking the ball downfield. He shows good foot quickness to mirror receivers up the boundary and transition across the field.

About
  • 2023: First-team All-American (2-time first-team All-SEC)
  • Career: 0 TD allowed on 1,206 coverage snaps
Strengths
  • Good top-end speed
  • Does a good job transitioning across the field
  • Good foot quickness to mirror receivers
  • Smart cornerback who understands his responsibilities
Weaknesses
  • Can catch him leaning at the stem in man coverage
  • 8.1% missed tackle rate in 2023, per TruMedia
  • Downfield tracking

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
14
30 Braden Fiske DL

Braden Fiske is simply too athletic and was too productive in the ACC for the Ravens to pass on him here.

Rating: 87.87 (High-level starter)
Pro Comparison: Matthew Ioannidis
Summary

Braden Fiske is a MAC transfer who excelled in his first season at Florida State. He is a team player who plays to the whistle. Fiske has good first-step quickness and good strength to win at the point of contact, but needs to develop more counter moves to get off blocks. He has a thick lower body build, which allows him to control the line of scrimmage in the run game. He does a good job of breaking his feet down in space and containing the edge.

About
  • 2023: Third-team All-American (AP)
  • 2023: All 6 sacks and 8.5 of his 9 TFL came in final 5 games
Strengths
  • Plays to the whistle
  • Team player who will do whatever is necessary for the team
  • Good first-step quickness
  • Holds his ground in the run game
  • Great play strength
Weaknesses
  • Short wingspan
  • Needs to develop more pass-rush moves
  • Opponents with longer arms are able to dictate the line of scrimmage
Combine Data
  • 40-yard dash: 4.78 seconds
  • Bench press: 26 reps
  • Vertical jump: 33.5 inches
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 4.37 seconds
  • Broad jump: 9 feet, 9 inches

2023 College Stats

GP TKL SACKS INT
13
31