2023 NFL Draft: Final Grades For Every Team
Analysis 5/1/23
We need to wait two to three years to accurately judge the success or lack thereof of an NFL team’s draft. Sometimes, it takes even longer as in the case of the Green Bay Packers’ 2020 draft when just-anointed starter Jordan Love was picked in the first round. He now enters his fourth season.
That also was the case with his predecessor Aaron Rodgers, who was picked in the 2005 first round and did not replace Brett Favre until his fourth season. But usually, we know if it was a good or bad draft within a couple of years.
It may not pan out, but it's still an interesting exercise to grade team drafts after Mr. Irrelevant is identified. I highly doubt defensive end Desjuan Johnson of Toledo — picked by the Los Angeles Rams in that spot — can produce anywhere close to what Brock Purdy did for the San Francisco 49ers last season. So here we go:
Grades by Team
Click on the links below to take you directly to the teams in each division.
AFC: East | North | South | West
NFC: East | North | South | West
Buffalo Bills: B+
Round 1, No. 25: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah
Round 2, No. 59: O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida
Round 3, No. 91: Dorian Williams, LB, Tulane
Round 5, No. 150: Justin Shorter, WR, Florida
Round 7, No. 230: Nick Broeker, G, Ole Miss
Round 7, No. 252: Alex Austin, CB, Oregon State
>> READ: Buffalo Bills Pick-by-Pick Grades
Kincaid brings a first-round playmaker and red zone target for Josh Allen after 16 receiving touchdowns at Utah during the past two seasons. The Buffalo Bills probably preferred a wide receiver at No. 25, but they valued Kincaid as a better option than the remaining wideouts because of his route running and good hands.
Torrence is a first-round talent at guard who is an excellent pick at No. 59. He was one of the best run blockers in the draft and will help the Bills' run game. Williams fills a need at linebacker with Tremaine Edmunds gone in free agency. Shorter is a big receiver at 6-foot-4, 232 pounds who will add depth and be a deep threat.
Miami Dolphins: C-
Round 2, No. 51: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
Round 3, No. 84: Devon Achane, RB, Texas A&M
Round 6, No. 197: Elijah Higgins, WR, Stanford
Round 7, No. 238: Ryan Hayes, OT, Michigan
>> READ: Miami Dolphins Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Miami Dolphins were knocked out of the first round due to a tampering penalty and had only four picks. They selected a good corner who runs well but needs to become more consistent in second-rounder Smith. He can play slot corner initially and could eventually start outside when Jalen Ramsey or Xavien Howard move on.
I think the Minnesota Vikings tried to trade Dalvin Cook to Miami, but that went by the wayside with speedy (4.32-second 40) dual-threat Achane’s astute selection. He’s also a fine kick returner and brings great value in the third round. Higgins is a project at tight end but he runs well for a big man.
New England Patriots: B+
Round 1, No. 17: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
Round 2, No. 46: Keion White, Edge, Georgia Tech
Round 3, No. 76: Marte Mapu, LB, Sacramento State
Round 4, No. 107: Jake Andrews, C, Troy
Round 4, No. 112: Chad Ryland, K, Maryland
Round 4, No. 117: Sidy Sow, G, Eastern Michigan
Round 5, No. 144: Antonio Mafi, G, UCLA
Round 6, No. 187: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
Round 6, No. 192: Bryce Baringer, P, Michigan State
Round 6, No. 210: Demario Douglas, WR, Liberty
Round 6, No. 214: Ameer Speed, DB, Michigan State
Round 7, No. 245: Isaiah Bolden, CB, Jackson State
>> READ: New England Patriots Pick-by-Pick Grades
Gonzalez was expected to go higher than No. 17, and Bill Belichick is happy to bring him aboard because he is a big, athletic corner who is a great fit for the man coverage the New England Patriots like to utilize. Gonzalez showed improved ball skills with four interceptions last season.
White is a strong defensive end who can be moved around. Mapu was picked earlier than expected but should be a good fit with the Patriots. Giving up a sixth-round pick to move up eight spots in the fourth round to take a kicker, who likely would’ve been available at No. 120, is questionable. Drafting a kicker and then a punter in the same draft is highly unusual. Ryland better be the next coming of Adam Vinatieri. Sow is a strong, versatile guard. Boutte was up and down at LSU.
New York Jets: C+
Round 1, No. 15: Will McDonald IV, Edge, Iowa State
Round 2, No. 43: Joe Tippmann, C, Wisconsin
Round 4, No. 120: Carter Warren, OT, Pittsburgh
Round 5, No. 143: Israel Abanikanda, RB, Pittsburgh
Round 6, No. 184: Zaire Barnes, LB, Western Michigan
Round 6, No. 204: Jarrick Bernard-Converse, CB, LSU
Round 7, No. 220: Zack Kuntz, TE Old Dominion
>> READ: New York Jets Pick-by-Pick Grades
The New York Jets wanted a top tackle, but the best three were gone after the Pittsburgh Steelers traded up to grab Broderick Jones just ahead of them. Swapping No. 15 for No. 13 in the Aaron Rodgers trade bit the Jets here. McDonald’s 10 career forced fumbles are impressive, and he brings speed as a pass rusher but needs to increase his strength to set the edge against the run.
Tippmann has good feet and power and should be Rodgers’ starting center or can play guard. Warren has size and length and can be developed at tackle. Abanikanda is a good back with speed but will have trouble getting play time in his rookie year behind Breece Hall, Michael Carter and Zonovan Knight. Kuntz is an interesting seventh-round prospect at tight end.
Baltimore Ravens: A-
Round 1, No. 22: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College
Round 3, No. 86: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
Round 4, No. 124: Tavius Robinson, Edge, Ole Miss
Round 5, No. 157: Kyu Blu-Kelly, CB, Stanford
Round 6, No. 199: Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, OT, Oregon
Round 7, No. 229: Andrew Vorhees, OL, USC
>> READ: Baltimore Ravens Pick-by-Pick Grades
Flowers adds a top receiver with speed and quickness who was a good value at No. 22, and he gives Lamar Jackson another weapon to go with Odell Beckham, Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews. Simpson is a fast and versatile linebacker who should contribute early as an inside or outside backer.
Robinson is tough and smart with a lot of ability but needs to be developed. Kelly is a good fifth-round value at cornerback. Vorhees impressed at the combine by doing 38 bench press reps after tearing his ACL in drills and will be in the mix on the Baltimore Ravens' offensive line after his recovery. He’s the kind of player who is a great pick in the seventh round.
Cincinnati Bengals: A-
Round 1, No. 28: Myles Murphy, Edge, Clemson
Round 2, No. 60: DJ Turner, CB, Michigan
Round 3, No. 95: Jordan Battle, SAF, Alabama
Round 4, No. 131: Charlie Jones, WR, Purdue
Round 5, No. 163: Chase Brown, RB, Illinois
Round 6, No. 206: Andrei Iosivas, WR, Princeton
Round 6, No. 217: Brad Robbins, P, Michigan
Round 7, No. 246: D.J. Ivey, CB, Miami (FL)
>> READ: Cincinnati Bengals Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Cincinnati Bengals emphasized defense with their early-round picks. Murphy needs to improve as a pass rusher — he had only 6.5 sacks last season — but he has the tools with power and speed (4.5 in 40). Look for Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo to maximize Murphy’s impact.
Turner and Battle will add talent in the secondary. Turner is a solid corner with quickness and was a good pick in the late second round. Battle was a solid safety at Alabama. Jones adds quickness as a slot receiver and kick-return ability. Brown averaged an impressive 137 rushing yards per game last season and adds quality depth at running back after the Bengals lost Samaje Perine in free agency. Robbins was one of the top punters in this draft.
Cleveland Browns: B-
Round 3, No. 74: Cedric Tillman, WR, Tennessee
Round 3, No. 98: Siaki Ika, DL, Baylor
Round 4, No. 111: Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State
Round 4, No. 126: Isaiah McGuire, Edge, Missouri
Round 5, No. 140: Dorian Thompson-Robinson, QB, UCLA
Round 5, No. 142: Cameron Mitchell, CB, Northwestern
Round 6, No. 190: Luke Wypler, C, Ohio State
>> READ: Cleveland Browns Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Deshaun Watson and Elijah Moore trades cost the Cleveland Browns their first- and second-rounders. Their two third-rounders — Tillman and Ika — were solid picks if Tillman can stay healthy after missing seven games in 2022 with an ankle injury.
Jones was a talented right tackle for the Buckeyes and is a good fourth-round pick. McGuire has talent and should be an effective rotational player at defensive end while Wypler is an excellent value pick in the sixth round, who can be a good backup lineman initially.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A
Round 1, No. 17: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
Round 2, No. 32: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
Round 2, No. 49: Keeanu Benton, DL, Wisconsin
Round 3, No. 93: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
Round 4, No. 132: Nick Herbig, LB, Wisconsin
Round 7, No. 241: Cory Trice Jr., CB, Purdue
Round 7, No. 251: Spencer Anderson, G, Maryland
>> READ: Pittsburgh Steelers Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Pittsburgh Steelers scored big-time on their top two picks, especially with the astute trade-up to pick an athletic and powerful player in Jones, who should be an immediate starter at left tackle. Porter brings length as a first-round-rated corner.
Benton is a strong addition to the defensive line. Washington is a great pick in the third round because his size (6-8, 272 pounds) makes him an excellent blocker, and he can move well as a receiving target for Kenny Pickett. Herbig is an aggressive, versatile defender, and Trice is a big corner who Mike Tomlin will use effectively.
Houston Texans: A-
Round 1, No. 2: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
Round 1, No. 3: Will Anderson Jr., Edge, Alabama
Round 2, No. 62: Juice Scruggs, C, Penn State
Round 3, No. 69: Tank Dell, WR, Houston
Round 4, No. 104: Dylan Horton, DL, TCU
Round 5, No. 167: Henry To’oTo’o, LB, Alabama
Round 6, No. 201: Jarrett Patterson, C, Notre Dame
Round 6, No. 205: Xavier Hutchison, WR, Iowa State
Round 7, No. 248: Brandon Hill, SAF, Pittsburgh
>> READ: Houston Texans Pick-by-Pick Grades
Despite their smokescreen on passing up a quarterback with the second pick, the Houston Texans made the right move in taking Stroud, who threw for 8,122 yards and 85 TDs with only 12 interceptions in his two years as the Buckeyes' starter. He was terrific against Georgia in the national semifinal with 348 yards passing and four touchdowns (no interceptions).
Anderson is talented with his speed and power off the edge and was highly productive at Alabama (34.5 career sacks). He needs to play at a Pro Bowl level to justify the price tag of trading up to No. 3 (for first, second and third-round picks). He also has to adjust to a 4-3 defense after playing in a 3-4 in college.
Scruggs is a versatile value player in the late second round who can be a starter at center or guard. Dell is a solid receiver and returner, making him a good target for Stroud. New coach DeMeco Ryans will like Horton as a physical player in his front seven. To’oTo’o also will help as a solid linebacker.
Indianapolis Colts: B+
Round 1, No. 4: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
Round 2, No. 44: Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State
Round 3, No. 79: Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
Round 4, No. 106: Blake Freeland, OT, BYU
Round 4, No. 110: Adetomiwa Adebawore, Edge, Northwestern
Round 5, No. 138: Darius Rush, CB, South Carolina
Round 5, No. 158: Daniel Scott, SAF, California
Round 5, No. 162: Will Mallory, TE, Miami (FL)
Round 5, No. 176: Evan Hull, RB, Northwestern
Round 6, No. 211: Titus Leo, Edge, Wagner
Round 7, No. 221: Jaylon Jones, CB, Texas A&M
Round 7, No. 236: Jake Witt, OT, Northern Michigan
>> READ: Indianapolis Colts Pick-by-Pick Grades
Richardson is a supremely talented prospect with only 13 starts at Florida and had accuracy issues, so he’s a boom-or-bust type of quarterback. He’ll likely back up Gardner Minshew in Year 1 while he is developed by new Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen, who hopes to recreate what Jalen Hurts brought for Steichen as the Eagles' offensive coordinator.
Brents is a big corner but needs to play more consistently. Downs had 195 catches during the past two seasons and should be productive as a slot receiver. Freeland is an excellent prospect at offensive tackle with a chance to start soon. Adebawore has 4.9 speed and brings talent to be developed. Rush is an excellent athlete and will be in the mix at cornerback. Hull adds backfield depth.
Jacksonville Jaguars: B
Round 1, No. 27: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
Round 2, No. 61: Brenton Strange, TE, Penn State
Round 3, No. 88: Tank Bigsby, RB, Auburn
Round 4, No. 121: Ventrell Miller, LB, Florida
Round 4, No. 130: Tyler Lacy, Edge, Oklahoma State
Round 5, No. 136: Yasir Abdullah, LB, Louisville
Round 5, No. 160: Antonio Johnson, SAF, Texas A&M
Round 6, No. 185: Parker Washington, WR, Penn State
Round 6, No. 202: Christian Braswell, CB, Rutgers
Round 6, No. 208: Erick Hallett, CB, Pittsburgh
Round 7, No. 226: Cooper Hodges, OT, Appalachian State
Round 7, No. 240: Derek Parish, Edge, Houston
>> READ: Jacksonville Jaguars Pick-by-Pick Grades
Cam Robinson is facing a PED suspension, so the pick of a fine tackle in Harrison, who allowed only one sack the past two seasons, is smart to protect franchise QB Trevor Lawrence. Harrison can play either left or right tackle. He’s a good athlete who could be more tenacious.
The Jacksonville Jaguars did not get the early-round help they needed for a defense that ranked 26th in sacks, but perhaps the undersized Abdullah can contribute in this area because he had 19.5 sacks during the past two seasons. Lacy should help up front on defense. Miller is an interesting prospect at linebacker. Washington is a good slot receiver with great hands who is built like a running back.
Tennessee Titans: A-
Round 1, No. 11: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
Round 2, No. 33: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
Round 3, No. 81: Tyjae Spears, RB Tulane
Round 5, No. 147: Josh Whyle, TE, Cincinnati
Round 6, No. 186: Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland
Round 7, No. 228: Colton Dowell, WR, Tennessee-Martin
>> READ: Tennessee Titans Pick-by-Pick Grades
Skoronski is athletic with quick feet and can play guard or tackle despite having shorter arms. He’s a needed addition to a team that allowed 49 sacks.
The Tennessee Titans traded up in the second round to end the painful slide of Levis, who has first-round talent. He’s now the heir apparent with Ryan Tannehill scheduled to be a free agent in 2024. Levis brings size and a big arm and will have a major chip on his shoulder after his first-round snub.
Spears is a productive back who brings great value in the third round and will be a good, change-of-pace complement to Derrick Henry. Whyle adds a quality tight end, and the athletic Duncan can be developed on the offensive line.
Denver Broncos: B
Round 2, No. 63: Marvin Mims, WR, Oklahoma
Round 3, No. 67: Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas
Round 3, No. 83: Riley Moss, CB, Iowa
Round 6, No. 183: JL Skinner, SAF, Boise State
Round 7, No. 257: Alex Forsyth, C, Oregon
>> READ: Denver Broncos Pick-by-Pick Grades
It had to be a frustrating draft for the Denver Broncos after relinquishing their top picks in the Russell Wilson and Sean Payton deals. Mims is a playmaker who averaged 20 yards per reception and is a fine punt returner.
Sanders brings great value in the third round as an athletic, versatile linebacker, and Moss is a solid defensive back. Forsyth will add depth on the offensive line and is a potential future starter after a solid career at Oregon and a 2022 season in which he allowed no sacks.
Kansas City Chiefs: B
Round 1, No. 31: Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Edge, Kansas State
Round 2, No. 55: Rashee Rice, WR, SMU
Round 3, No. 92: Wanya Morris, OT, Oklahoma
Round 4, No. 119: Chamarri Conner, CB, Virginia Tech
Round 5, No. 166: B.J. Thompson, Edge, Stephen F. Austin State
Round 6, No. 194: Keondre Coburn, DL, Texas
Round 7, No. 250: Nic Jones, CB, Ball State
>> READ: Kansas City Chiefs Pick-by-Pick Grades
Picking last in the first round, the Kansas City Chiefs picked a good pass rusher to replace Frank Clark in Anudike-Uzomah (19.5 sacks over the last two seasons), but he needs to improve against the run. Rice had a terrific 2022 season with 96 catches for 1,355 yards and 10 TDs. He runs well after the catch and will be an effective target for Patrick Mahomes.
Morris has an injury history but is an important addition if he develops for a team that lost both starting tackles in free agency. Conner is a solid safety/nickel back. Thompson also brings potential as an edge player who runs well.
Las Vegas Raiders: B
Round 1, No. 7: Tyree Wilson, Edge, Texas Tech
Round 2, No. 35: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
Round 3, No. 70: Byron Young, DL, Alabama
Round 3, No. 100: Tre Tucker, WR, Cincinnati
Round 4, No. 104: Jakorian Bennett, CB, Maryland
Round 4, No. 135: Aidan O’Connell, QB, Purdue
Round 5, No. 170: Christopher Smith II, SAF, Georgia
Round 6, No. 203: Amari Burney, LB, Florida
Round 7, No. 231: Nesta Jade Silvera, DT, Arizona State
>> READ: Las Vegas Raiders Pick-by-Pick Grades
Wilson looks the part of a premier pass rusher but didn’t always produce at a high level with only seven sacks last season. He has talent but needs to be coached up. He’ll have two good pass rushers to learn from and emulate in Maxx Crosby and Chandler Jones.
Mayer is a highly regarded tight end with fine receiving and blocking skills. Young needs to get quicker, but he’ll be in the rotation, and Tucker is a good slot receiver. Bennett adds speed at corner, and Smith is an effective safety.
Los Angeles Chargers: B-
Round 1, No. 21: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
Round 2, No. 54: Tuli Tuipulotu, Edge, USC
Round 3, No. 85: Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State
Round 4, No. 125: Derius Davis, WR, TCU
Round 5, No. 156: Jordan McFadden, G, Clemson
Round 6, No. 200: Scott Matlock, DT, Boise State
Round 7, No. 239: Max Duggan, QB, TCU
>> READ: Los Angeles Chargers Pick-by-Pick Grades
Johnston is a nice addition for Justin Herbert and a Los Angeles Chargers offense that has two older and injury-prone starting receivers in Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Johnston brings great size and speed and will be a run-after-catch threat, but he must catch more with his hands as opposed to his body and improve his route running.
Tuipulotu plays hard and was extremely productive as the Pac 12 Defensive Player of the Year with 13.5 sacks and 22.5 tackles for loss this past season. He’ll be a good rotational piece on the Chargers' defense. Henley will aid the special teams as he works into an inside linebacker role. Davis is a dangerous receiver and returner with 4.36 speed who needs to develop as a route runner. McFadden adds depth to the offensive line.
Dallas Cowboys: B-
Round 1, No. 26: Mazi Smith, DL, Michigan
Round 2, No. 58: Luke Schoonmaker, TE, Michigan
Round 3, No. 90: DeMarvion Overshown, DL, Texas
Round 4, No. 129: Viliami Fehoko Jr., Edge, San Jose State
Round 5, No. 169: Asim Richards, OG, North Carolina
Round 6, No. 178: Eric Scott Jr., CB, Southern Mississippi
Round 6, No. 212: Deuce Vaughn, RB, Kansas State
Round 7, No. 244: Jalen Brooks, WR, South Carolina
>> READ: Dallas Cowboys Pick-by-Pick Grades
Smith adds interior help for the Dallas Cowboys’ 22nd-ranked run defense. Smith has elite physical ability but needs to produce on a more consistent basis and must improve as an inside pass rusher (only a half-sack last season). Schoonmaker was a need pick to replace Dalton Schultz, and he went a bit earlier than many expected at No. 58.
Overshown (242 career tackles) and Fehoko are edge players/outside backers who bring great value where they were picked. Richards adds quality depth needed at offensive tackle, and Scott brings size and athleticism at cornerback.
New York Giants: A
Round 1, No. 24: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland
Round 2, No. 57: John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota
Round 3, No. 73: Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
Round 3, No. 172: Eric Gray, RB, Oklahoma
Round 6, No. 209: Tre Hawkins III, CB, Old Dominion
Round 7, No. 243: Jordon Riley, DL, Oregon
Round 7, No. 254: Gervarrius Owens, SAF, Houston
>> READ: New York Giants Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Giants made a good move to trade up and take Banks, who has size and speed and did not allow a catch longer than 30 yards last season. He’s a good fit for Wink Martindale’s defense that had only six interceptions in 2022, although Banks needs to be more of a ball hawk after only two interceptions in college.
Schmitz will be a great addition at center and could have gone in the first round. Hyatt brings big-play ability as an explosive deep threat who had five touchdown catches against Alabama last season. Gray is a good cut-back runner and fine receiving back with excellent acceleration who will be able to spell Saquon Barkley when needed. Hawkins and Owens bring quality depth to the secondary and will help on special teams.
Philadelphia Eagles: A-
Round 1, No. 9: Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia
Round 1, No. 30: Nolan Smith, LB, Georgia
Round 3, No. 65: Tyler Steen, OT, Alabama
Round 3, No. 66: Sydney Brown, SAF, Illinois
Round 4, No. 105: Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
Round 7, No. 188: Tanner McKee, QB, Stanford
Round 7, No. 249: Moro Ojomo, DL, Texas
>> READ: Philadelphia Eagles Pick-by-Pick Grades
The rich get richer with the Philadelphia Eagles’ selection of Georgia star defenders Carter and Smith, along with several other potential hits. Carter is a good fit in Philadelphia — for a problematic player with a lot of ability — because he comes to a team with veteran defensive linemen in Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham, who can be mentors.
He has to keep his weight in check and mature quickly. Smith is a Haason Reddick clone with amazing speed and a great pick late in the first round, despite weighing only 238 pounds.
Steen can start at guard and also can play tackle. Brown is a productive defensive back, and Ringo was an excellent trade-up by GM Howie Roseman in the early fourth round for another Georgia with the size and speed to add to the secondary.
Picking up D’Andre Swift from the Lions for a fourth-round pick adds a quality running back at a cheap cost, assuming Swift can stay healthy. McKee will compete for the backup quarterback spot. Ojomo could become a seventh-round steal as a rotational defensive tackle.
Washington Commanders: B-
Round 1, No. 16: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State
Round 2, No. 47: Jartavius Martin, SAF, Illinois
Round 3, No. 97: Ricky Stromberg, C, Arkansas
Round 4, No. 118: Braeden Daniels, G, Utah
Round 5, No. 137: KJ Henry, Edge, Clemson
Round 6, No. 193: Chris Rodriguez, RB, Kentucky
Round 7, No. 233: Andre Jones Jr., Edge, Louisiana-Lafayette
>> READ: Washington Commanders Pick-by-Pick Grades
Forbes is a small corner at 166 pounds but was a big-time playmaker with 14 career interceptions (including six pick-6s). He should be a huge addition to a top-five defense that had only nine interceptions last season (fifth fewest in the league).
The Washington Commanders continued to build up the secondary with an athletic safety/nickel back in Martin. Stromberg is a quality center who was a bit of a reach in the third round. Daniels can play guard or tackle effectively, and Henry is a good fifth-round edge rusher. Rodriguez is an interesting prospect as a power back. Quarterback was not addressed in this draft and likely will continue to be a questionable spot that could be a target in the 2024 draft or free agency.
Chicago Bears: B+
Round 1, No. 10: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee
Round 2, No. 53: Gervon Dexter Sr., DL, Florida
Round 2, No. 56: Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami (FL)
Round 3, No. 64: Zacch Pickens, DL, South Carolina
Round 4, No. 115: Roschon Johnson, RB, Texas
Round 4, No. 133: Tyler Scott, WR, Cincinnati
Round 5, No. 148: Noah Sewell, LB, Oregon
Round 5, No. 165: Terell Smith, CB, Minnesota
Round 7, No. 218: Travis Bell, DT, Kennesaw State
Round 7, No. 258: Kendall Williamson, CB, Stanford
>> READ: Chicago Bears Pick-by-Pick Grades
Wright is a big, physical offensive lineman capable of playing right or left tackle and guard. He fills a major need after Justin Fields was sacked a league-high 55 times last season. Dexter is an athletic defensive tackle who needs to be more consistent. Pickens also brings talent to the Chicago Bears' defensive line, but he — like Dexter— needs to be coached up. Stevenson is an aggressive corner who could start as a rookie. These three defenders should help Chicago’s 29th-ranked defense that ranked next to last against the run.
Johnson is a big back who averaged 6.0 yards per carry with limited attempts last season, as he shared the Longhorns' backfield with Bijan Robinson. Scott and Sewell are quality players, who look like bargains where they were selected, and Smith is a good cornerback prospect. But the Bears didn’t add significant help in this draft for their league-worst pass rush from last season (only 20 sacks).
Detroit Lions: C+
Round 1, No. 12: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama
Round 1, No. 18: Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa
Round 2, No. 34: Sam Laporta, TE, Iowa
Round 2, No. 45: Brian Branch, DB, Alabama
Round 3, No. 68: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee
Round 3, No. 96: Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky
Round 5, No. 152: Colby Sorsdal, OT, William & Mary
Round 7, No. 219: Antoine Green, WR, North Carolina
>> READ: Detroit Lions Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Detroit Lions’ first-round picks of Gibbs and Campbell were surprising at their spots, but they’re both good football players. The Gibbs pick made more sense after the Lions traded the often-injured Swift to Philadelphia. If Gibbs turns into the next Alvin Kamara, it will play out well for the Lions, who had bigger needs on their last-ranked defense.
Campbell will help at linebacker (265 tackles during the past two seasons), but there were several top corners available at both of the Lions’ first-round slots, and picking one in the first round would have been more impactful for a team on the rise.
LaPorta fills a need at tight end, but he’s no T.J. Hockenson, and it was surprising to see him picked before Mayer. Branch is not fast but still covers well enough and is a hitter in the secondary. Hooker was a good developmental pick in the third round as a potential future starting quarterback. We’ll see if trading multiple picks to move up for a promising defensive tackle in Martin is worth it. Sorsdal could turn into a sleeper pick as a guard/tackle.
Green Bay Packers: B
Round 1, No. 13: Lukas Van Ness, Edge, Iowa
Round 2, No. 42: Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State
Round 2, No. 50: Jayden Reed, WR, Michigan State
Round 3, No. 78: Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State
Round 4, No. 116: Colby Wooden, Edge, Auburn
Round 5, No. 149: Sean Clifford, QB, Penn State
Round 5, No. 159: Dontayvion Wicks, WR, Virginia
Round 6, No. 179: Karl Brooks, LB, Bowling Green
Round 6, No. 207: Anders Carlson, K, Auburn
Round 7, No. 232: Carrington Valentine, CB, Kentucky
Round 7, No. 235: Lew Nichols III, RB, Central Michigan
Round 7, No. 242: Anthony Johnson Jr., SAF, Iowa State
Round 7, No. 256: Grant Dubose, WR, Charlotte
>> READ: Green Bay Packers Pick-by-Pick Grades
As usual, the Green Bay Packers went defense and not wide receiver in the first round by taking Van Ness, who had only 6.5 sacks last season. He was not a regular starter but has upside as an edge player. Then, the Packers added three talented players to help Jordan Love in the passing game. Musgrave fills a need at tight end and can play out wide, but he missed 11 games in 2022 because of a knee injury, and Kraft is a second-round talent to help shore up the tight end spot.
Reed is a playmaker with 15 touchdown receptions during his past two seasons, but he had only 636 receiving yards last season and went a bit sooner than expected. Wooden and Brooks add quality depth to the defensive line. Clifford needs to improve his accuracy to become Love’s backup. Carlson brings a big leg but needs to be more consistent in order to earn the kicking job.
Minnesota Vikings: B+
Round 1, No. 23: Jordan Addison, WR, USC
Round 3, No. 102: Mekhi Blackmon, CB, USC
Round 4, No. 134: Jay Ward, SAF, LSU
Round 5, No. 141: Jaquelin Roy, DL, LSU
Round 5, No. 164: Jaren Hall, QB, BYU
Round 7, No. 222: DeWayne McBride, RB, UAB
>> READ: Minnesota Vikings Pick-by-Pick Grades
Addison is a top receiver and was the Biletnikoff Award winner at Pittsburgh in 2021 before transferring to USC. He had 25 touchdown receptions during the past two seasons. He is an elite route runner with great hands who can play in the slot or outside. He will take some pressure off Justin Jefferson as another option for coach Kevin O’Connell and QB Kirk Cousins in the team’s three-receiver base offense after the departure of Adam Thielen. Addison is not a burner, but neither were Hall of Fame receivers Jerry Rice and Cris Carter, among others.
The Minnesota Vikings' corner situation is a concern for last year’s 31st-ranked pass defense, and there were several departures in free agency. Blackmon is a good third-round value at cornerback due to his movement and ball skills plus instinctive play.
Ward is a tough hitter who can play nickel or safety and has kick-blocking ability. It was a good trade-up to the fifth round to get Roy, who is an ascending interior defensive lineman and fills a need. Hall will be developed as a potential dual-threat quarterback, and McBride is a talented seventh-round back.
Atlanta Falcons: B
Round 1, No. 8: Bijan Robinon, RB, Texas
Round 2, No. 38: Matthew Bergeron, OT, Syracuse
Round 3, No. 75: Zach Harrison, Edge, Ohio State
Round 4, No. 113: Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah
Round 7, No. 224: DeMarcco Hellams, SAF, Alabama
Round 7, No. 225: Jovaughn Gwyn, G, South Carolina
>> READ: Atlanta Falcons Pick-by-Pick Grades
Robinson is an elite dual-purpose back who will make a strong area — the Atlanta Falcons were the NFL's third-ranked rushing team last season — even better with his speed, body control and great moves. Even with the devaluing of running backs in the NFL, Robinson is a game-changing player.
The Falcons did not address their wide receiver need in this draft; they had the league’s 31st-ranked passing attack in 2022, and they also further committed to Desmond Ridder by not picking a quarterback. That might not be the case in next year’s draft depending on how Ridder performs.
Atlanta traded up for Bergeron, who can play guard or tackle at a high level. The pass rush was a problem last season (31st in sacks), and the Falcons added Harrison, who is strong and athletic but was inconsistent at Ohio State (only 5.5 sacks over his past two seasons). Phillips is undersized, but he’s aggressive and made six interceptions last season. He should contribute early as a slot corner.
Carolina Panthers: B
Round 1, No. 1: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
Round 2, No. 39: Jonathan Mingo, WR, Ole Miss
Round 3, No. 80: DJ Johnson, Edge, Oregon
Round 4, No. 114: Chandler Zavala, G, NC State
Round 5, No. 145: Jammie Robinson, SAF, Florida State
>> READ: Carolina Panthers Pick-by-Pick Grades
Young was the right pick as the best quarterback prospect. He's poised, confident and smart with great field vision. His smaller size was highly discussed, and staying healthy will be key for his development as a franchise quarterback after the Carolina Panthers gave up a lot to move up to the top spot in the draft.
Mingo was an up-and-down player at Mississippi and never had 1,000 yards receiving in a season, but he’s a solid second-round pick. Johnson has the athletic ability (with 4.49 speed in the 40 at 260 pounds) to develop as an edge rusher. Zavala is a powerful player who could develop into a starting guard, and Robinson brings talent to the secondary.
New Orleans Saints: B-
Round 1, No. 29: Bryan Bresee, DL, Clemson
Round 2, No. 40: Isaiah Foskey, Edge, Notre Dame
Round 3, No. 71: Kendre Miller, RB, TCU
Round 4, No. 103: Nick Saldiveri, G, Old Dominion
Round 4, No. 127: Jake Haener, QB, Fresno State
Round 5, No. 146: Jordan Howden, SAF, Minnesota
Round 6, No. 195: A.T. Perry, WR, Wake Forest
>> READ: New Orleans Saints Pick-by-Pick Grades
Bresee fills a top need on the New Orleans Saints' defense after they ranked 24th against the run last season. Bresee moves well for a big man and brings good value late in the first round if he can stay healthy; he played in only 14 games the past two seasons.
Foskey was a productive defensive end with 26.5 career sacks, including 11 in 2022. Miller is a solid runner with speed. Saldiveri is a good pick in the fourth round who could start soon at guard. Haener was a fine quarterback in college and will compete for the backup job. Howden will add depth in the secondary and could eventually start at safety. Perry is an intriguing prospect as a potential downfield threat.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: B+
Round 1, No. 19: Calijah Kancey, DL, Pittsburgh
Round 2, No. 48: Cody Mauch, OT, North Dakota State
Round 3, No. 82: YaYa Diaby, DL, Louisville
Round 5, No. 153: SirVocea Dennis, LB, Pittsburgh
Round 5, No. 171: Payne Durham, TE, Purdue
Round 6, No. 181: Josh Hayes, CB, Kansas State
Round 6, No. 191: Trey Palmer, WR, Nebraska
Round 6, No. 196: Jose Ramirez, Edge, Eastern Michigan
>> READ: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pick-by-Pick Grades
Kancey is a quick and athletic defensive tackle who brings needed youth and talent to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defensive line. He can rush the passer and had 14.5 sacks during the past two seasons, but he will need to become a more consistent run defender.
The Buccaneers made a good move in trading up for Mauch, who fills a need at guard and also can play tackle. Diaby is an athletic edge player. Dennis is a good fifth-round pick as an aggressive linebacker, and Durham will contribute as a solid receiving tight end who needs to improve his blocking. Palmer adds great speed to the receiving corps (4.33 in the 40 at the combine) but needs to improve his hands.
Arizona Cardinals: A-
Round 1, No. 6: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
Round 2, No. 41: B.J. Ojulari, Edge, LSU
Round 3, No. 72: Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse
Round 3, No. 94: Michael Wilson, WR, Stanford
Round 4, No. 122: Jon Gaines II, G, UCLA
Round 5, No. 139: Clayton Tune, QB, Houston
Round 5, No. 168: Owen Pappoe, LB, Auburn
Round 6, No. 180: Kei’Trel Clark, CB, Louisville
Round 6, No. 213: Dante Stills, DL, West Virginia
>> READ: Arizona Cardinals Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Arizona Cardinals were aggressive in draft trades by dropping from No. 3 to No. 12 for first, second and third-round picks, and then traded a second-rounder to move back up to No. 6 where they made a wise and needed selection in Johnson. He is a premier left tackle to protect franchise QB Kyler Murray. Johnson has good feet, is athletic, smart and can play guard.
Ojulari brings speed off the edge for a defense that ranked 24th in sacks, but he needs to finish better. He had only 5.5 sacks last season. Williams is a quality corner, and Wilson adds talent at receiver, but both players missed time with injuries. Gaines can help out at guard. Tune will compete for the backup quarterback job. Pappoe is a fast linebacker (4.38 in the 40), and Clark at slot corner brings great value at his draft spots.
Los Angeles Rams: B
Round 2, No. 36: Steve Avila, G, TCU
Round 3, No. 77: Byron Young, Edge, Tennessee
Round 3, No. 89: Kobie Turner, DL, Wake Forest
Round 4, No. 128: Stetson Bennett, QB, Georgia
Round 5, No. 161: Nick Hampton, Edge, Appalachian State
Round 5, No. 174: Warren McClendon Jr., OT, Georgia
Round 5, No. 175: Davis Allen, TE, Clemson
Round 5, No. 177: Puka Nacua, WR, BYU
Round 6, No. 182: Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB, TCU
Round 6, No. 189: Ochaun Mathis, Edge, Nebraska
Round 7, No. 215: Zach Evans, RB, Ole Miss
Round 7, No. 223: Ethan Evans, P, Wingate
Round 7, No. 234: Jason Taylor II, SAF, Oklahoma State
Round 7, No. 259: Desjuan Johnson, Edge, Toledo
>> READ: Los Angeles Rams Pick-by-Pick Grades
Avila is strong, tough and can play multiple positions, but he likely will be a starting guard to help protect Matthew Stafford after the Los Angeles Rams offensive line allowed 59 sacks last season. It’s a good sign Avila played well against the stout Georgia defensive line in the national title game. Young is a great athlete who runs 4.41 and will help as an edge rusher. Turner is a productive defensive tackle to help a Rams defense that declined last season.
The team accumulated 11 Day 3 picks to try and restock its depth. Bennett has confidence as a two-time national champ and enough ability to be a potential starter down the road or certainly a viable No. 2 quarterback.
Hampton and Mathis have the talent to contribute on defense. McClendon, Allen and Nacua should add quality depth to their positions. Tomlinson was more highly rated than where he was taken in the sixth round, and he’s a potential starting slot corner even with his 5-foot-8 height. Johnson — as Mr. Irrelevant — has a good chance to make the team with his skills.
San Francisco 49ers: C-
Round 3, No. 87: Ji’Ayir Brown, SAF, Penn State
Round 3, No. 99: Jake Moody, K, Michigan
Round 3, No. 101: Cameron Latu, TE, Alabama
Round 5, No. 155: Darrell Luter Jr., CB, South Alabama
Round 5, No. 173: Robert Beal Jr., Edge, Georgia
Round 6, No. 216: Dee Winters, LB, TCU
Round 7, No. 247: Brayden Willis, TE, Oklahoma
Round 7, No. 253: Ronnie Bell, WR, Michigan
Round 7, No. 255: Jalen Graham, LB, Purdue
>> READ: San Francisco 49ers Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Trey Lance and Christian McCaffrey trades prevented the San Francisco 49ers from picking in the first two rounds. They traded up in the third round to select a talented playmaker at safety in Brown, who had 10 college interceptions. San Francisco made a surprising choice in the late third round with Moody as its presumed new kicker. He’s talented but likely could’ve been taken later.
Latu is a quality tight end with good size who somewhat underperformed last season. Their Day 3 picks include a talented, competitive corner in Luter and a potential backup defensive end in Beal. Winters has ability but needs to be more consistent at linebacker. He should be a good special teams player.
Seattle Seahawks: A
Round 1, No. 5: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
Round 1, No. 20: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
Round 2, No. 37: Derick Hall, Edge, Auburn
Round 2, No. 52: Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA
Round 4, No. 108: Anthony Bradford, G, LSU
Round 4, No. 123: Cameron Young, DL, Mississippi State
Round 5, No. 151: Mike Morris, Edge, Michigan
Round 5, No. 154: Olu Oluwatimi, C, Michigan
Round 6, No. 198: Jerrick Reed II, SAF, New Mexico
Round 7, No. 237: Kenny McIntosh, RB, Georgia
>> READ: Seattle Seahawks Pick-by-Pick Grades
The Russell Wilson trade delivered an excellent cornerback in Witherspoon, who is not big but is a hitter and a top-press corner. Smith-Njigba is not a speedster, but he has great quickness and can play in the slot or outside. He’ll give Geno Smith another terrific option to go with DK Metcalf and the aging (now 31) Tyler Lockett in the Seattle Seahawks offense.
Most impressive is Smith-Njigba had 95 receptions for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns in 2021 as the leading receiver on a Buckeyes offense that included 2022 first-rounders Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave. Then, he only played in three games, as he battled a hamstring injury last season.
Hall is a good edge rusher (19.5 career sacks) who will play the run (24 tackles for loss during the last two seasons). Charbonnet is a complete back with a good all-around skill set. Bradford is athletic and tough with upside at guard, and Young will be a strong nose tackle to aid in improving Seattle’s No. 30 ranked run defense. Michigan teammates Morris and Oluwatimi also will help improve the Seahawks up front on both sides of the ball.
Jeff Diamond is a former Minnesota Vikings general manager and Titans team president. He was selected NFL Executive of the Year after the Vikings’ 15-1 season in 1998. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffdiamondnfl.
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