It has been nearly two weeks since 259 names were called in the 2023 NFL draft, and rookie minicamps are kicking off around the league. But how do the individual picks stack up when compared against one another? With the benefit of some team situation and depth chart context, we ranked the best 100 selections across all seven rounds.
This isn't just a list of the best prospects -- we did that before the draft. Instead, we are incorporating a bit more into the equation than just what each prospect put on tape. To create our list of the best 100 picks, we factored in value (where a player was drafted vs. where he was ranked pre-draft), scheme fit, how the selection addressed a need and whether additional assets were gained or lost in draft-day trades to acquire the prospect.
So which picks stand out? Which selections crack the top 10? And which Day 3 moves make the list? Let's rank the best 100 picks of the 2023 draft. Who is No. 1?
Note: When each player was selected is listed by Round-Pick in parentheses.
Jump to the best pick in each round:
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7
1. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Seattle Seahawks (Pick 1-20)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 5
The Seahawks grabbed my No. 5 overall player and WR1 at pick No. 20, one of the best values of the first round. On top of that, JSN is an ideal fit in the slot -- where he dominated at Ohio State -- and can complement DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett in what could be a very good offense this season. I also think Smith-Njigba will seamlessly slide into the WR2 role down the road, once Lockett is no longer there.
2. C.J. Stroud, QB, Houston Texans (Pick 1-2)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 4
Despite all the pre-draft talk that Houston wouldn't draft a quarterback, it landed a good one at No. 2 overall. Stroud is an immediate plug-and-play QB with pinpoint accuracy from the pocket and will be protected by a very good offensive line. This pick gets high praise because the Texans stayed true to the board and had the courage to go all-in on Stroud to address a position of need.
3. Jalen Carter, DT, Philadelphia Eagles (Pick 1-9)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 6
I looked at value, scheme fit and need when ranking these picks. The Carter selection hits all three components. Philadelphia was the ultimate best-case scenario for Carter to realize his immense football potential. In the Eagles' culture -- and alongside former teammates Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean -- he has the tools to become the league's best interior defender within his rookie contract. Philly landed arguably the most talented player in the class at ninth overall.
4. Joey Porter Jr., CB, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 2-32)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 15
Porter is the first non-Round 1 selection on the board here, and it isn't just about the heartwarming story of a player being drafted by his father's former team. JPJ was my No. 15 overall player and ended up getting drafted 17 selections later, speaking to the value of the pick. As for scheme fit, he'll be the team's CB1 as a rookie thanks to his toughness at the line of scrimmage and when attacking the ball in the air.
5. Devon Witherspoon, CB, Seattle Seahawks (Pick 1-5)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 7
Sometimes a great draft pick isn't based on need but rather value and team fit. Cornerback wasn't the Seahawks' biggest weakness, but Witherspoon's grade as a player and what he brings to Seattle stand out. With Witherspoon (and Tariq Woolen), the Seahawks are on their way to building yet another elite secondary. He is a silky-smooth cover man with good ball skills (three interceptions in 2022) and toughness.
6. Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons (Pick 1-8)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 3
Some will argue with the value of drafting a running back in the first round, but Robinson will be a three-down offensive playmaker in Atlanta while immediately taking pressure off second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder. The Falcons have built an offensive line and group of skill players that can compete with any team in the NFL. Now it's on Ridder to prove he's worthy of leading the offense.
7. Bryce Young, QB, Carolina Panthers (Pick 1-1)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 2
Young was the wire-to-wire best quarterback in the 2023 draft class, and though the Panthers paid a hefty price when trading up from No. 9 to No. 1 overall, this is a great spot for him. The Panthers' coaching staff, offensive line and veteran pass-catchers will help Young acclimate to the NFL early. He's a legitimate franchise quarterback prospect who would have been seen as a Joe Burrow-like talent if he was two inches and 20 pounds bigger.
8. Will Anderson Jr., DE, Houston Texans (Pick 1-3)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 1
Yes, the trade up to No. 3 overall cost the Texans dearly, but it was worth it to lock in the top overall player (Anderson) and a top-tier quarterback (Stroud). Anderson can be an edge-setting, dynamic pass-rusher -- as well as a defensive leader and tone-setter -- in DeMeco Ryans' defense. For a team in a complete rebuild, he is the perfect addition to the roster.
9. Anthony Richardson, QB, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 1-4)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 16
Richardson has the physical traits to end up the best overall player from the 2023 draft class and a legitimate top-five quarterback. If I were to evaluate his talent now that we know his NFL system, I'd have Richardson ranked much higher on my board. Colts coach Shane Steichen will devise a scheme that's perfect for Richardson's dual-threat ability, and the big-armed QB could develop into an MVP candidate.
10. John Michael Schmitz, C, New York Giants (Pick 2-57)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 38
It's hard to imagine a center in the top 10 best picks, but Schmitz will start from Day 1 and give the Giants a much-needed anchor in the middle of the line -- both in pass protection and as an interior boost to the run game. It also helps that Schmitz's mobility and toughness are perfect for Brian Daboll's offense.
11. Hendon Hooker, QB, Detroit Lions (Pick 3-68)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 27
Hooker has NFL starting-caliber movement ability and arm talent, but he needed a place to get healthy from his November ACL tear and learn the speed and spacing of the pro game after being drafted out of Tennessee's spread scheme. In Detroit, he'll get to do just that behind Jared Goff while learning from a fantastic coach in offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.
12. Devon Achane, RB, Miami Dolphins (Pick 3-84)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 90
There might not be a better pure scheme fit on offense than Achane to the Mike McDaniels offense in Miami, where his speed and agility will make him a game-changing running back. The Dolphins still have offensive line questions, but Achane will be a dangerous player in space and has the second gear to consistently rip off chunk plays in the run and screen games.
13. Broderick Jones, OT, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 1-14)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 12
The Jones pick was awesome for several reasons but primarily because the Steelers played the board well and jumped the tackle-needy Jets. The need for a plug-and-play left tackle had been kept quiet in Pittsburgh, and Jones fits there. He is raw as a prospect, but his power and agility on the move will make him an immediate star in the run game with developmental ability in passing situations.
14. Christian Gonzalez, CB, New England Patriots (Pick 1-17)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 10
If you give Bill Belichick a big, long, fast, physical cornerback, there's a chance he'll turn him into a star. Gonzalez has all the physical traits to become a special talent in the NFL with continued development and coaching -- both of which he'll get in New England.
15. Jalin Hyatt, WR, New York Giants (Pick 3-73)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 26
The Giants' offensive system is a mixture of Buffalo and Kansas City, and both Daboll and offensive coordinator Mike Kafka have had success with smaller, speedy receivers. Hyatt can become the Giants' go-to target early in his career with his vertical stretch ability and the tools to become a much better route runner once exposed to more concepts and coaching. And New York got great value here.
16. Darnell Wright, OT, Chicago Bears (Pick 1-10)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 20
The Bears can roll with Braxton Jones at left tackle -- a favorite of mine from the 2022 draft -- after trading down twice and grabbing the best right tackle in the draft at No. 10 overall. Wright will be a foundational piece of the offensive line, but I'm also looking at the extra selections the Bears picked up to continue building.
17. Peter Skoronski, OT, Tennessee Titans (Pick 1-11)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 9
The Titans have learned that no amount of skill players can cover up a bad offensive line. Skoronski, who could play at tackle or guard for Tennessee, was one of the surest prospects in the entire 2023 class. His positional flexibility, technique and toughness are a perfect fit for a team led by Mike Vrabel.
18. Nolan Smith, OLB, Philadelphia Eagles (Pick 1-30)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 14
Smith was rumored to be on the Eagles' wish list at No. 10 overall -- and they got him at No. 30. Smith is a mirror image of current Philly outside linebacker Haason Reddick and will be worked into the team's edge-rush rotation while learning from established veterans who can add to his toolkit of pass-rushing moves.
19. Will Levis, QB, Tennessee Titans (Pick 2-33)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 25
Instead of panicking and reaching for Levis at No. 11 overall, the Titans played the board and landed him at No. 33. Levis has undeniable arm talent, toughness and mobility that will benefit him in the pros. And sitting behind Ryan Tannehill for the final year of the vet's contract, Levis has a chance to learn coming off a rough 2022 season.
20. Kelee Ringo, CB, Philadelphia Eagles (Pick 4-105)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 56
The Eagles are featured heavily here thanks to great value and need-based selections like this one. Ringo was considered by many as a second-round pick but slid in part because of poor play against top talent in the College Football Playoff. In Philly, he'll get time to learn better technique behind Darius Slay and James Bradberry before potentially earning a starting position.
21. Brian Branch, S, Detroit Lions (Pick 2-45)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 28
Here's another great value pick for the Lions, and at a position of need. I expect Branch will be thrust into a nickel defender role immediately with Detroit, and he could start as a rookie. A one-time first-round candidate, Branch slipped after running a 4.58-second 40-yard dash at the combine, but his football instincts were lauded by scouts and coaches in the pre-draft process.
22. Drew Sanders, ILB, Denver Broncos (Pick 3-67)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 39
Sanders brings a versatile skill set that helped him to 9.5 sacks last year while playing middle linebacker. The Broncos will get him on the field early given his three-down skills, his length at 6-foot-5 and what he does as a pass-rusher coming off the edge. There isn't another linebacker with this diverse skill set in the draft, and Denver stole him at No. 67 overall.
23. Trenton Simpson, ILB, Baltimore Ravens (Pick 3-86)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 37
My pre-draft player comparison for Simpson was Patrick Queen. Simpson will now be tasked with likely replacing Queen, who hits free agency after the 2023 season. Simpson was at his best playing weakside linebacker in 2021 and can excel in that role next to Roquan Smith in Baltimore.
24. Ji'Ayir Brown, S, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 3-87)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 75
The 49ers lost Jimmie Ward to the Texans in free agency and found his replacement late in the third round. Brown has the quickness and ball skills to step right into the nickel role that Ward locked down in San Francisco. He'll be a rookie starter.
25. Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Arizona Cardinals (Pick 1-6)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 13
The Cardinals have one of the worst rosters in the NFL. Beginning the roster rebuild with the best left tackle in the class is a pretty smart way to do it -- especially after trading down (and then back up) to acquire more picks in future drafts. The Cards now have two first-rounders and three third-rounders in the '24 draft. And Johnson was a good value at No. 6 overall and filled a huge need.
26. Darnell Washington, TE, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 3-93)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 30
This was not a need pick in any way -- Pittsburgh has Pat Freiermuth -- but I still love it because the Steelers stole some value. Washington had knee injuries that caused him to drop to No. 93 overall, but there aren't many 6-foot-7, 270-pound tight ends running 4.64-second 40-yard dashes. It's a worthwhile risk at that point in the draft to invest in rare traits.
27. Tyler Scott, WR, Chicago Bears (Pick 4-133)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 57
The selection of Scott at No. 133 was one of the best value picks when graded against my pre-draft rankings, where I had him No. 57 overall. Scott's speed and vertical ability will work well in a wide receiver room that offers diverse skill sets, and his ability as a return man will also boost the Chicago special teams unit.
28. Cedric Tillman, WR, Cleveland Browns (Pick 3-74)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 41
All of a sudden the Browns have one of the best receiver rooms in the NFL. Tillman is a big-bodied possession receiver who dominates on slant routes and comebacks. Lining up opposite Amari Cooper with Elijah Moore in the slot, he'll have plenty of opportunities.
29. Josh Downs, WR, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 3-79)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 51
Get ready for the connection between Anthony Richardson and Downs to pop off as one of the best in the AFC South. Downs is an explosive slot receiver with excellent start-stop quickness and after-the-catch burst. Working between Alec Pierce and Michael Pittman Jr. will give him a ton of targets over the middle of the field.
30. Keion White, DE, New England Patriots (Pick 2-46)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 34
One goal of the 2023 draft for New England was to get younger and faster on defense. White is 284 pounds with first-step quickness to play on the edge but the power to line up on the inside. He has a great opportunity to be the next Deatrich Wise Jr. in the Pats' defensive front.
31. Ricky Stromberg, C, Washington Commanders (Pick 3-97)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 116
The Commanders might not slide Stromberg into the starting spot immediately, but he'll get a chance to compete with Nick Gates for the job. His physical style of blocking and agility in the run game will be hard to keep off the field. Given the run on interior linemen leading up to this selection, getting Stromberg when they did was a great move for the Commanders.
32. Julius Brents, CB, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 2-44)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 44
It's the perfect range for Brents -- he was ranked No. 44 and drafted at No. 44 -- and a fantastic scheme fit in Gus Bradley's system defensively. Outside of quarterback, this was the Colts' biggest need heading into the draft. Brents is in line to be CB1 in Indianapolis.
33. Jordan Addison, WR, Minnesota Vikings (Pick 1-23)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 24
When Adam Thielen wasn't brought back for the 2023 season, we knew the Vikings' WR2 role needed to be filled in the draft. And with only six selections when the draft began, it had to be early. Addison was my WR3 but top-ranked slot receiver. He'll step right in and contribute as a rookie.
34. Michael Mayer, TE, Las Vegas Raiders (Pick 2-35)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 18
Mayer is a classic Y-tight end who can play as an in-line blocker while also being a great short-yardage receiving target. Neither Austin Hooper nor O.J. Howard have been consistent threats, and Hooper isn't a blocker. That makes Mayer a unique asset in the team's offensive plans. He's also a nearly 20-pick value based on my pre-draft rankings.
35. Steve Avila, G, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 2-36)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 48
The Rams skipped their early-round selections for many years, trading them away. But keeping No. 36 overall to bolster the offensive line was a nice change of direction. Avila can play guard or center, and the Rams need him to hit the starting lineup as a rookie. This checks off a massive need and achieves good value, forming a great beginning to the Rams' draft.
36. Charlie Jones, WR, Cincinnati Bengals (Pick 4-131)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 92
This pick got me excited when it happened. The Bengals are loaded at wide receiver, but Jones has an opportunity to be the team's primary returner in 2023 while easing into a role with the wideouts. The salary cap dictates a decision will eventually have to be made about Tyler Boyd, and Jones could be the answer there.
37. Cory Trice, CB, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 7-241)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 83
The Steelers got one of the steals (no pun intended) of the draft if Trice can stay healthy. He had a third-round grade on my board thanks to his size and physical style of play. Trice will join fellow rookie Joey Porter Jr. to potentially form the team's future at cornerback.
38. Luke Musgrave, TE, Green Bay Packers (Pick 2-42)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 45
The Packers received this pick as part of the trade to send Aaron Rodgers to the Jets, and they ended up drafting a player the future Hall of Famer needed when he was still in town -- a go-to target at tight end. Musgrave has to remain healthy after being banged up at Oregon State, but his potential as a seam-stretching pass-catcher is very high. And with Green Bay starting a new quarterback, Musgrave projects as a solid safety valve over the middle.
39. O'Cyrus Torrence, G, Buffalo Bills (Pick 2-59)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 47
We've seen the Bills get close to winning the AFC only to fade in the playoffs. Boosting the run game with a physical, mauling guard can help the team win those postseason battles. Torrence was my top-ranked guard in the class, and the Bills got him at a 12-pick value based on my pre-draft rankings. Any time a playoff team can add a legitimate rookie starter at pick No. 59 overall, it's a good move.
40. Sydney Brown, S, Philadelphia Eagles (Pick 3-66)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 65
An almost direct hit on value, Brown to Philadelphia has the makings of another midround steal for the Birds. My No. 2-ranked safety, Brown steps into a roster that lost two starters at the position in free agency. A third-rounder pushing for a starting job on a Super Bowl contender might surprise some people, but Brown has that level of talent, and the Eagles have legitimate needs there.
41. K.J. Henry, DE, Washington Commanders (Pick 5-137)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 132
The Commanders have decisions to make on pass-rusher Chase Young after not picking up his fifth-year option. Fellow edge rusher Montez Sweat is also set to hit free agency following the 2023 season, meaning Washington could need two new bookends on defense. For that reason alone, Henry was a smart pick. The Clemson standout has the first-step quickness and pass-rush tools to work his way into competition for one of those jobs in 2024.
42. Clark Phillips III, CB, Atlanta Falcons (Pick 4-113)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 74
Phillips takes care of a huge need in Atlanta and comes at great value. Even after trading for Jeff Okudah, the Falcons are seeking more able bodies in the secondary. Phillips, who most likely projects to the slot in the NFL, has the type of physical, sticky coverage on underneath routes that will fit defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen's scheme.
43. Antonio Johnson, S, Jacksonville Jaguars (Pick 5-160)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 68
Here's a fifth-round pick who has the chance to start early. Johnson is a versatile safety prospect who can live in the box or the slot and has three-down tools. The Jaguars have solid but unspectacular options atop the depth chart at the safety position now, and Johnson's potential ranks higher than any of those options on the depth chart at the moment.
44. Terell Smith, CB, Chicago Bears (Pick 5-165)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 77
Smith came at an almost 90-spot value when he was drafted in the fifth round. His speed at cornerback is easy to spot on film, and he has huge developmental upside. Jaylon Johnson is set to be a free agent after this season, and Smith could be his replacement.
45. Karl Brooks, DT, Green Bay Packers (Pick 6-179)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 147
I thought I had Brooks ranked too low at No. 147 before the draft. Turns out, the Packers got a huge steal in Round 6 with the fast interior pass-rusher. Brooks doesn't fill an immediate need, but at this stage of the draft, he represents a great value pick at a premium position.
46. Roschon Johnson, RB, Chicago Bears (Pick 4-115)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 86
A do-it-all running back with awesome special teams ability and leadership skills, Johnson could be this year's Dameon Pierce as a third-day back who ends up a lead ball carrier. The Bears have D'Onta Foreman and Khalil Herbert, but a team source told me after the draft that the former Texas backup has the upside to end up Chicago's featured back.
47. Jayden Reed, WR, Green Bay Packers (Pick 2-50)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 96
Hats off to Green Bay for investing in pass-catchers for new quarterback Jordan Love. Reed was a bit of a reach on my board, but the receiver run was in full effect when the pick was turned in. He also gives the Packers a solid slot target with the post-catch burst to turn short passes into huge gains -- something that 2022 second-rounder Christian Watson also does well.
48. Sam LaPorta, TE, Detroit Lions (Pick 2-34)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 46
As part of the first-round trade that allowed Detroit to move back from No. 6 to No. 12 overall, the Lions were able to select an immediate starter at tight end in the early parts of Day 2. The team just traded T.J. Hockenson last year, and LaPorta was a good value at this spot. His player comparison is very similar to Hockenson, and he's much cheaper on a second-round rookie contract.
49. Kendre Miller, RB, New Orleans Saints (Pick 3-71)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 119
Alvin Kamara turns 28 this year and has an injury history, and the Saints have an out in his contract after the 2023 season. All that is to say that third-rounder Miller could very quickly become RB1 in New Orleans. The TCU standout has power, patience and excellent one-cut agility. On value, this was a reach. But on fit and potential need, it's a very good pick.
50. Tyjae Spears, RB, Tennessee Titans (Pick 3-81)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 108
The value on this selection is skewed, but a run on backs in the third round meant the Titans needed to grab one before they were all drafted. With Derrick Henry set to turn 30 next year -- a dreaded number for running backs -- Spears is both a complementary back and perhaps the future at the position in Nashville.
51. Riley Moss, CB, Denver Broncos (Pick 3-83)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 76
The Broncos have a deep roster of cornerbacks, but only Pat Surtain II is a surefire starter. Moss will have every chance to break into the opening day lineup with his quickness and instincts on the outside. He's also a valuable special teams player who will make a mark there as a rookie.
52. Daiyan Henley, ILB, Los Angeles Chargers (Pick 3-85)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 80
The Chargers declined to pick up the fifth-year option on linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. shortly after the draft, likely signaling that 2023 will be his final year in Los Angeles. Drafting Henley -- a talented middle linebacker with the pass coverage range Murray hasn't shown consistently -- also points in that direction. Getting a starter with a third-round salary versus relying on one playing on a second contract is how good teams build in today's game.
53. Blake Freeland, OT, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 4-106)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 94
For all the Colts' problems at quarterback since Andrew Luck retired, we can't forget that the offensive line was downright awful over that same span. Freeland was a need and a value pick in the fourth round and has the positional versatility to play either guard or tackle in the pros. The Colts should start him out at right guard and try to solidify the line for rookie QB Anthony Richardson.
54. Dylan Horton, DE, Houston Texans (Pick 4-109)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 91
New coach DeMeco Ryans worked magic with versatile pass-rushers in San Francisco and now has one of his own in Horton. The 6-foot-4, 257-pound Horton can crash the edge and wreck backfields -- he had four sacks against Michigan last season -- but also brings developmental upside. Ryans got exceptional value in a potential starting outside linebacker opposite Will Anderson Jr.
55. Christopher Smith, S, Las Vegas Raiders (Pick 5-170)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 98
Smith is undersized and didn't run well at the combine, but he's just a solid football player who excelled in the Georgia secondary. The Raiders have had chronic issues at safety and compete in a division with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert and Russell Wilson under center. Adding an experienced, instinctive safety who was a third-rounder on my board in the fifth round is fantastic.
56. Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Tennessee Titans (Pick 6-186)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 99
The Titans landed one of the best value picks in the draft by grabbing Duncan in Round 6 with the goal of developing his play strength and rounding out his game. Duncan's movement traits and agility had some scouts flagging him as a potential first-rounder during the season. If the Titans can build up his power, they'll have a certified steal.
57. Luke Wypler, C, Cleveland Browns (Pick 6-190)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 71
Wypler, a junior who left Ohio State early, had a shocking fall in the draft, but the Browns are happy with the 119-spot value he represents. If Wypler can challenge Ethan Pocic and Nick Harris for the starting job, he could very well be the biggest steal of the 2023 draft class.
58. Trey Palmer, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Pick 6-191)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 72
Mike Evans and Chris Godwin can't play forever, and the Buccaneers have to get younger and cheaper at wide receiver. Palmer, who has 4.33 speed but did show drop issues in college, is a legitimate field-stretching vertical threat the team badly covets. If he can clean up his focus drops, Palmer has starting-level traits.
59. A.T. Perry, WR, New Orleans Saints (Pick 6-195)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 95
A 100-point value pick, Perry has fantastic size and the ability to come down with 50-50 balls as a 6-foot-4 receiver. That's something the Saints haven't had with Michael Thomas experiencing season-ending injuries the past two years. Chris Olave is the star here, but there's room for Perry to work into the top four of the receiver depth chart.
60. Zach Evans, RB, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 6-215)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 114
Another 100-point value, Evans was the top running back in the 2020 recruiting class and flashed that potential at times in college but struggled to stay on the field. If the Rams can get him locked in and committed, he has more talent than any other running back on the roster. That upside is well worth a sixth-round pick.
61. Aidan O'Connell, QB, Las Vegas Raiders (Pick 4-135)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 194
Jimmy Garoppolo has an injury history, which makes his backup a very valuable member of the team. The Raiders invested in O'Connell in Round 4 knowing he might see the field this year. And like seventh-rounder Brock Purdy last year, O'Connell has the touch and timing as a passer to take hold of a QB1 gig down the road.
62. Dee Winters, ILB, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 6-216)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 122
The 49ers love undersized linebackers who fly all over the field, and that's Winters' game. He might earn reps with Azeez Al-Shaair now in Tennessee. The former safety has the range and awareness in space that fits with the 49ers despite being just 5-foot-11, 227 pounds. Winters could bump Oren Burks and become a top-three linebacker here.
63. Davis Allen, TE, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 5-175)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 144
The value of the Davis pick is very good and represents the Rams' 2023 philosophy of "best player available" to rebuild a very bad roster. Allen won't replace Tyler Higbee this season, but he will push hard for reps in two-tight end sets.
64. Andrew Vorhees, G, Baltimore Ravens (Pick 7-229)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 120
Vorhees, who tore an ACL at the combine, was a likely top-100 pick before the injury. The 2023 season will be a redshirt year for him, but the Ravens understand the value and saw his talent before the injury. Investing a seventh-rounder now for a potential starter in a year is the kind of move that good teams make.
65. DJ Turner, CB, Cincinnati Bengals (Pick 2-60)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 40
Did you watch the Bengals get torn up by the Chiefs' passing game in the playoffs? The addition of a top-tier cornerback was my No. 1 need for Cincinnati this offseason. Turner checks that box with elite speed and great play at the line of scrimmage.
66. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Detroit Lions (Pick 1-12)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 35
The value of this pick wasn't great, and there's no way around that. But the Lions needed an offensive playmaker out of the backfield, and Gibbs is exactly that. He'll take pressure off Jared Goff and keep safeties nervous whether he's in the backfield or lined up in the slot as a receiver. Gibbs should be a favorite in fantasy drafts and Offensive Rookie of the Year conversations.
67. Jack Campbell, ILB, Detroit Lions (Pick 1-18)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 49
Like the Gibbs pick, the value of Campbell at No. 18 overall didn't make much sense. But there's also no doubting he's a very good football player. Middle linebacker also happened to be one of the Lions' top needs, and Campbell should be a seamless addition to the core of the defense.
68. Gervon Dexter Sr., DT, Chicago Bears (Pick 2-53)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 89
The Bears didn't add a starting-caliber defensive tackle in free agency, making it the team's biggest need on defense heading into the draft. Dexter is an upside player who wasn't used to his full potential at Florida. But in Chicago, he'll be tasked with lining up at 3-technique and using his great first-step speed to disrupt the quarterback.
69. Jonathan Mingo, WR, Carolina Panthers (Pick 2-39)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 64
Yes, this was a bit of a reach on value, but I'm still putting the Mingo pick inside my top 70 because of the scheme fit and need. After trading DJ Moore to acquire the No. 1 pick, the Panthers needed a receiver who could consistently beat coverage and be Bryce Young's go-to playmaker. DJ Chark has struggled to stay healthy, and Adam Thielen is no longer a dominant pass-catcher at 32 years old. Mingo's ability to win on underneath routes makes him a perfect complement to Young's quick-strike accuracy.
70. Zay Flowers, WR, Baltimore Ravens (Pick 1-22)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 23
When need and value meet perfectly, you get the Flowers selection. The Ravens needed to give Lamar Jackson a bona fide young star at receiver, and Flowers is an elite deep threat who also runs a complete route tree from multiple alignments. We haven't seen Odell Beckham Jr. play football in almost 18 months, and Rashod Bateman hasn't developed into a consistent playmaker, so Flowers could be WR1 in Baltimore by Thanksgiving.
71. Wanya Morris, OT, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 3-92)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 130
There is plenty of mystery surrounding the offensive tackle spots in Kansas City after the team signed right tackle Jawann Taylor to left tackle money and then picked up veteran left tackle Donovan Smith after the draft, where Morris was a third-round selection. This was still a solid value given the run on tackles early in the draft and Morris' résumé. If Taylor is to be a left tackle and Smith is just insurance against his position move, then Morris has a line on starting at right tackle as soon as this year.
72. Chase Brown, RB, Cincinnati Bengals (Pick 5-163)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 167
Joe Mixon turns 27 this summer and is only under contract for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. (He could potentially be a cap-saving cut at some point, too, though coach Zac Taylor says Cincy is sticking with Mixon.) And outside of him, there's no one on the roster who has stepped up as a runner. Brown will likely enter training camp as the No. 2 running back and have a huge opportunity to supplant Mixon over time. If the Bengals can find a starter in Round 5 with the rest of the offensive roster commanding top-tier salaries, that's a win.
73. Jaren Hall, QB, Minnesota Vikings (Pick 5-164)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 160
Veteran Kirk Cousins is set to hit free agency after the 2023 season. He will be 35 years old at that point, and the Vikings will have to make a decision on how long to invest in him. Hall enters the picture with a chance to beat out Nick Mullens for the QB2 job and prove to the coaching staff that he's a starting-caliber passer.
74. Byron Young, DE, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 3-77)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 100
If you haven't picked up on it by now, the Rams' roster has holes, and they're a real threat to have the No. 1 pick next year. That means even third-rounders like Young can earn starting or high-count rotational reps in 2023. Young's first-step quickness and speed off the edge fit what L.A. has tried to do outside of Aaron Donald.
75. Tre'Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 6-182)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 124
One of the best value picks on Day 3, Hodges-Tomlinson will bring his quickness and confidence to a secondary undergoing a renovation. Projected as a nickel defender in the pros, the sixth-rounder has the talent and ball skills to push 2022 fourth-rounder Cobie Durant for a starting job.
76. Brayden Willis, FB, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 7-247)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 262
Few teams in the NFL still use a fullback, but no team uses one more than the 49ers. Willis joins a roster where he'll be used as a pass-catcher, run-blocker and short-yardage runner. With Kyle Juszczyk recently turning 32, the 49ers might have found their next triple-threat back in the seventh round.
77. Dorian Williams, ILB, Buffalo Bills (Pick 3-91)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 118
When linebacker Tremaine Edmunds left in free agency, it was obvious linebacker would be an early-round need in Buffalo. The team wisely waited until Round 3 and, with a slight reach, picked up a starter-level player in Williams. He proved his ability to lock down the middle of the field at the Senior Bowl. From need and depth chart perspectives, this is a great pickup late on Day 2.
78. Carter Warren, OT, New York Jets (Pick 4-120)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 159
Warren represents a reach based on value, but the fourth-rounder could be in line to start in New York after the team missed out on the top-tier left tackles in the draft class. Left tackle was (and still is) the Jets' biggest need, and Warren was a four-year starter at Pitt. This could go down as one of the best picks of the entire draft if he gets a big opportunity with New York.
79. Keondre Coburn, DT, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 6-194)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 128
There's an opening next to Chris Jones on the interior. The Chiefs lost Khalen Saunders in free agency, and Derrick Nnadi has been unable to lock up the full-time job despite good rotational play. Coburn is a massive nose tackle with ascending pass-rush ability. As an almost 70-point value, don't be surprised if he's the next late-round pick that the Chiefs end up turning into a starter.
80. Jake Haener, QB, New Orleans Saints (Pick 4-127)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 157
Derek Carr was signed this offseason to give the Saints stability at quarterback, but he should keep one eye over his shoulder at Haener. With touch, timing and anticipation being valued over size and arm strength in multiple NFL schemes these days, Haener is a player many scouts believe could become a potential Brock Purdy-like starter in time.
81. Jose Ramirez, DE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Pick 6-196)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 163
Ramirez should see reps early with the Buccaneers. He has the burst and bend as a pass-rusher to fill a role very similar to the one Shaquil Barrett currently holds down. In the Bucs' 3-4 base, Ramirez is a dream scheme fit thanks to his speed rush traits.
82. Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Chicago Bears (Pick 2-56)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 88
The Bears have thrown a lot of draft picks at the secondary, but the outside cornerback spot opposite Jaylon Johnson remains open because Kyler Gordon is at his best on the inside. Stevenson was a slight reach, but he has the press-man coverage skills and toughness at the line of scrimmage to make up for that as a good scheme fit and need-based pick in Chicago.
83. Atonio Mafi, G, New England Patriots (Pick 5-144)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 249
The Patriots saw something in this mauling interior lineman that I didn't on tape, which is why he went more than 100 picks earlier than my ranking projected. But an NFC East scout talked to me about Mafi after the draft and said, "The dude is just tough, and he's only going to get better with coaching. New England has great coaches who can do that." Mafi has a great chance to outplay both my ranking and his draft position. The fit makes sense, which is why this pick makes the list.
84. Mike Morris, DE, Seattle Seahawks (Pick 5-151)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 145
The Seahawks needed speed and power at defensive end in this draft and got it with Derick Hall in Round 2 and Morris in Round 5. At 6-foot-5 and 292 pounds, Morris will be a 5-technique in the team's three-man front but also has experience standing up and rushing over the tackle, too. He is a scheme fit who fills a need while also having developmental upside.
85. Jordan McFadden, G, Los Angeles Chargers (Pick 5-156)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 161
The right guard battle in training camp will be fun to watch for the Chargers after they added McFadden. A tackle in college, he will bump inside in the pros and has the power and leverage to be very effective as a run- and pass-game blocker. And depending on where 2022 surprise standout Jamaree Salyer lands on the depth chart, McFadden could be a Day 3 pick turned starter.
86. Dontayvion Wicks, WR, Green Bay Packers (Pick 5-159)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 191
The selections of Luke Musgrave and Jayden Reed were highlighted above, but let's not sleep on fifth-rounder Wicks as a potential threat in Green Bay. The 6-foot-1, 206-pound Wicks plays big above the rim and is a standout on 50-50 balls. He could complement the run-after-catch styles of Christian Watson and Reed very well.
87. Deuce Vaughn, RB, Dallas Cowboys (Pick 6-212)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 250
Yes, there's the sentimentality of the selection with Vaughn joining his father in Dallas (the assistant director of college scouting for the Cowboys), but it's also about the fit. Vaughn is an electric inside-outside runner with great hands out of the backfield. The Cowboys don't have a proven RB2 behind Tony Pollard, so there's room for the rookie to get real touches.
88. Jordan Battle, S, Cincinnati Bengals (Pick 3-95)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 73
The Bengals lost both starting safeties from the 2022 season and will lean on last year's first-rounder Dax Hill and incoming free agent Nick Scott. But Battle, a high-level producer at Alabama and trusted leader for Nick Saban, could work his way into the top three and play a vital role in nickel and dime packages.
89. Will Mallory, TE, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 5-162)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 182
The Colts made the wise decision to not only draft a slot receiver (Josh Downs) for Anthony Richardson but also add a tight end for him to grow with on the job. Mallory is more of a "move" tight end who has good hands and agility in space. The Colts' offensive scheme is a match for his position-specific traits as a receiver.
90. Henry To'oTo'o, ILB, Houston Texans (Pick 5-167)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 101
To'oTo'o slipped through the cracks all the way to the fifth round but lands in a great situation in Houston, where the Texans have to add more speed to the middle of the defense for new coach DeMeco Ryans' scheme. To'oTo'o has speed, range and quick instincts.
91. Puka Nacua, WR, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 5-177)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 203
The Rams' roster has enough openings that even seventh-rounders could come in and produce early on. Nacua is a talented pass-catcher whose injury history pushed him down in the draft. If he can stay on the field, there are targets to be shared in the Rams' wide receiver room and a very good opportunity to crack the starting lineup given his ability to play on the outside of the formation.
92. Nathaniel Dell, WR, Houston Texans (Pick 3-69)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 105
Dell gives Houston a legitimate home run threat once the ball is in his hands. In a room full of possession-style receivers, Dell's burst after the catch will make him a favorite of both fans and new quarterback C.J. Stroud.
93. Darrell Luter Jr., CB, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 5-155)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 141
Luter became my go-to answer when asked about sleepers in the 2023 class, and he lands in an ideal situation with the 49ers needing depth at cornerback and a potential inside starter. He has the speed, quickness and reaction skills to crack this lineup soon.
94. Ronnie Bell, WR, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 7-253)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 198
A seventh-round pick isn't going to push Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk, but Bell could work well in concert with that duo. He is a crafty route runner on underneath plays and has very good run-after-catch ability. The only question is his ability to stay healthy, but if that happens, Bell has the skills to be a solid WR3.
95. BJ Thompson, DE, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 5-166)
My pre-draft ranking: NR
Thompson didn't make my initial pre-draft ranking list, but his name was red hot among scouts in the lead-up to the draft, so he probably should have been on the list. This is a great example of a prospect being elevated by scheme and coaches while still being allowed to develop. Defensive line coach Joe Cullen will have Thompson ready to roll after a redshirt year in 2023.
96. Xavier Hutchinson, WR, Houston Texans (Pick 6-205)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 180
Hutchinson was a productive, consistent possession receiver at Iowa State and brings a route-running expertise to Houston that will mesh perfectly with the accuracy of new quarterback C.J. Stroud. This is a deep receiver room, but Hutchinson could make an impact.
97. Zack Kuntz, TE, New York Jets (Pick 7-220)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 168
Do not be surprised if Kuntz is the eventual starting tight end in New York. He's a small-school (Old Dominion) standout with eye-popping strength and short-area burst. He just needs time to season his route running and blocking skills. A Jets source I spoke to this week is already excited about his potential.
98. Anthony Bradford, G, Seattle Seahawks (Pick 4-108)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 150
Bradford makes the top 100 because he could be starting very soon in Seattle despite coming off the board on Day 3. He has the mauler mentality in the run game that coach Pete Carroll loves, and he could quickly push Phil Haynes for playing time at right guard.
99. Jake Witt, OT, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 7-236)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 256
The Colts using a late-Round 7 selection on a high-upside left tackle with top-tier movement traits jumps out for me. Witt was a scouting favorite on the pre-draft circuit, and teams believe that a redshirt season to learn could set him up to be a really good pro.
100. Jaylon Jones, CB, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 7-221)
My pre-draft ranking: No. 181
The Colts recognized late in the draft that it was time to invest in traits and potential at premium positions. Jones represents those qualities and will give Indianapolis a potential difference-maker in man coverage and an immediate asset on special teams.