Post Draft Grades
We’ve had almost a full week to dissect the NFL Draft. As per usual, there are always teams that surprise, and teams that really move the needle a lot. Here’s the reality though - we won’t know who “won” or “lost” this draft until about 2027. But no one wants to hear that! They want to know now. How did my team do? Will this draft make us compete this year? Did we draft a superstar? We did our best to answer that.
We’ve had almost a full week to dissect the NFL Draft. As per usual, there are always teams that surprise, and teams that really move the needle a lot. Here’s the reality though - we won’t know who “won” or “lost” this draft until about 2027. But no one wants to hear that! They want to know now. How did my team do? Will this draft make us compete this year? Did we draft a superstar? We did our best to answer that. Our draft grades were broken down into four parts:
256 Grade - Players that were drafted that were on consensus big boards mixed with our big board as well.
Top 100 Players - The amount of Top 100 players drafted by each team per big boards.
Top 200 Players - The amount of Top 200 players drafted by each team per big boards.
Value - Players selected past their expected draft value.
These metrics gave us the opportunity to properly pinpoint what teams really had full drafts. Not one pick. Not two picks. All three days. From the first pick to the last pick. Some grades may surprise you, but I think if you look deep enough, you may agree. We will not be listing every pick of every team (you can find that literally anywhere on the internet) but yet we will give one player for every team who we like to make a long term impact. Let’s get to it.
A Grades
Kansas City Chiefs (A+) - seems impossible right? How can the rich get richer. By being a smart front office. When you look at their complete draft, it really is something to behold. The mid-round picks they made were elite. Jared Wiley has an opportunity to be very good in this league learning from Travis Kelce. But the guy I’m looking at here is Jaden Hicks. A new quarterback for this secondary. After the Chiefs lose Sneed, they replace him with Hicks. Yes, he is a safety. But Spags will use him anywhere he wants. Right now, the Chiefs organization is the best in professional sports. From top to bottom.
2. Philadelphia Eagles (A+) - I heard what Nick Wright said. And I don’t think he was completely wrong. However, when you get, in my opinion, the two best corners in the draft on Day 1 and Day 2, that’s a huge win. The Eagles re-made their secondary without spending significant money in Free Agency. They addressed the offensive skill players in the mid-rounds (I like Will Shipley in Philly) but I think the pick of Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is the one to watch. Guy was a baller at Clemson. And he should be a baller in the NFL. He comes from a good bloodline. He just reeks of a Day 3 picks who will do great things.
3. Detroit Lions (A) - See the theme yet? So far all the playoff teams from last year are at the top of this thing. The Lions didn’t have a ton of picks, but they made the most of them. Between last year and this year, the Lions have taken Brian Branch, Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw to makeshift the worst part of their team - secondary. I love the Day 3 picks of Mekhi Wingo and Christian Mahogany, and I think those guys can make long term impacts here, but I am really intrigued by the first round pick here of Arnold. This kid could be a star.
4. Chicago Bears (A) - When you get Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze in the first round, you will get an A. To get value on Day 3 though with Austin Booker out of Kansas is a true win. I’ll never understand picking a punter before Round 6/7, but what do I know? Here is what I do know. Caleb Williams walks into a situation where he will be expected to throw for over 4,000 yards and bring the Bears to the playoffs. A lot of pressure for the kid before he even throws a pass.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers (A) - Might be overall the best two days of any team in the entire draft. To get Fautanu, Frazier, Roman and Payton Wilson is nothing short of masterful. I remember when Myles Jack didn’t go on Day 1 because of his injury issues. The same thing happened to Payton Wilson. Wilson is an elite talent. And for Tomlin to get his hands on him - my god. The reason for the 5th slot is because I didn’t really like the Day 3 picks, but days 1 & 2 were strong enough to make it in the Top 5.
6. Washington Commanders (A-) - The strong offseason for the Commanders continues. It’s not the Jayden Daniels pick. That was expected. But to get Johnny Newton in Round 2. That pick might legitimately be the best value pick of the entire draft when we go back and look at it. Between him and Luke McCaffrey, who I think will be an excellent addition to that team and this league, the Commanders did well here. McLaurin, Dotson and McCaffrey is a nice trio. Ben Sinnott can make catches. Don’t sleep on Javonte Jean-Baptiste either.
7. Denver Broncos (A-) - If the Broncos didn’t take Bo Nix at 12, they may be in the top 3 here. I hate that pick. And I think it holds their franchise back. The other picks though? Money. I love the Jonah Elliss pick, ditto for Troy Franklin. And the Audric Estime pick late has a chance to be a major steal. The Broncos did get better. Significantly better. If Nix can prove literally everyone wrong, the Broncos are in good shape. This is where Sean Payton has to earn his money.
B Grades
8. Seattle Seahawks (B+) - According to our metrics, the Seahawks had the best “value” draft of any team in the league. Byron Murphy is a star in the making. Christian Haynes is a nice, nice piece to add in Round 2. The one pick I didn’t love was Tyrice Knight in Round 3. I like the player, but I think they could’ve gotten him way later on Day 3. The pick I love here though is DJ James out of Auburn. A real good man to man corner who can do it all, putting him across from Devon Witherspoon and in the slot with Riq Woolen on the other end. I like that A LOT.
9. Dallas Cowboys (B+) - No, the Dallas Cowboys didn’t draft a running back. That’s why they didn’t get an “A”. The best Day 2 of any team goes to Dallas. Marshawn Kneeland is a sleeping giant that needs some development, but could turn into a force. The fact that he doesn’t have to step in right away and can learn from Parsons/Lawrence is great. And Cooper Beebe - probably the best guard in the draft, immediately boosts the Cowboys offensive line, which was a liability for the first time in over a decade. That’s all without mentioning Tyler Guyton, who is the heir apparent to Tyron Smith. The Cowboys went trench shopping in this draft, and that’s never a bad idea.
10. New England Patriots (B+) - These are the new Patriots! The offense got a serious jolt in this draft with Maye, Polk and Baker all coming to New England. I don’t really understand the Joe Milton pick, but it’s nice to have insurance I guess. In Jerod Mayo’s first draft, he decided to get younger and more athletic on offense. Mission accomplished.
11. Miami Dolphins (B+) - I really like the middle rounds for fins here. I think they reached slightly on Chop. Probably could’ve moved back like 5-6 spots and still got him, but who cares. Jaylen Wright was undervalued this entire process, and Mo Kamara out of Colorado State is a behemoth. I think Kamara could be a major player for this team. Watch out for him.
12. Buffalo Bills (B) - The Bills traded out of the first round twice last Thursday, and with their first pick took Keon Coleman out of Florida State. I still don’t love that pick considering who was there when they were up on Thursday, but they got a receiver. It’s what the Bills did afterwards that really impressed me. Specifically DeWayne Carter out of Duke, Ray Davis out of Kentucky and Sedrick Van Pran out of Georgia (who replaces Mitch Morse). Running the ball against the Bills will be hard with Carter and Oliver in the middle.
13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (B) - It was an up and down draft for Tampa Bay. It wasn’t sexy, but they did what they had to. They addressed the offensive line with Graham Barton. And then drafted Chris Braswell as he was dropping. Do not overlook the Jalen McMillan pick AND the Bucky Irving pick. Those two guys could be very effective for this team. Irving has the ability to be a home run hitter in this league.
14. Baltimore Ravens (B) - The Ravens do what the Ravens do. Wiggins aside, Adisa Isaac, Tez Walker and TJ Tampa are good selections for where they were. I really like the Tampa pick. I was higher on him than most. This is a full class for Baltimore and from what I can tell, this class may have the most starters out of it when its all set and done.
15. Green Bay Packers (B) - I loved what the Packers did during this draft. I think their first round pick was their worst one. Edgerrin Cooper is a dog. He will be unbelievable in this league. Marshawn Lloyd, my lord. This guy - I’ll tell you this. he will overtake Josh Jacobs as RB1 within two seasons. He’s that good. Even the Hopper pick I like. The Packers really did well here. Can’t wait to see how it turns out.
16. Arizona Cardinals (B-) - The Cardinals made the right picks almost every time they were up for selection. I don’t think they went above and beyond, but I'm really excited to watch MHJ. Don’t sleep on Darius Robinson and Max Melton either. The Cardinals revamped their secondary in this draft while also getting a generational playmaker.
17. Los Angeles Chargers (B-) - The Chargers had a great start to this draft taking Joe Alt at 5 and then Ladd McConkey in Round 2. Even Junior Colton was another really good pick. However, after that, I wasn't a fan of one pick they made. Maybe the Cam Hart selection? But I’m really interested to see what Jim Harbaugh is building here. I do think the combo of Slater and Alt will be the best tackle combo in the league for years to come, so that’s a start. McConkey’s NFL future will depend on his health.
18. Las Vegas Raiders (B-) When you look on paper and see that the Raiders got Brock Bowers and Jackson Powers-Johnson with their first two picks, you may fall out of your chair. But the Bowers pick makes no sense. They drafted Mayer in Round 2 last year. And it’s not like the Raiders have the personnel to run a two TE system, being they have no QB to do so (sorry Gardner). I’m a big fan of JPJ and love that pick, and this grade is mostly based off those two selections. Tommy Eichenberg is a Day 3 guy with some intrigue. Its fitting Antonio Pierce is his head coach.
19. New York Giants (B-) - I’m not going to lie. Not crazy about this draft haul for New York. The Nabers pick is obvious, but it’s extremely unsettling to see how unenthused he is to be there. The only pick I do like here is the Tyler Nubin pick. He will be there to replace McKinney, and that may happen in time, but I don’t know if it happens right away. Coming away from this draft, the Giants will roll with Daniel Jones and/or Drew Lock. And I’m sorry, there is nothing to be excited about it with that.
C Grades
20. San Francisco 49ers (C+) - It really seemed like San Francisco reached a lot in this draft. Pearsall at 30 was a choice. I just don’t think a lot of the guys they picked moved the needle at all. The one guy I’m keeping my eye on here though is Malik Mustapha. I think this kid has the makeup to be a stud. Mustpaha and Hufanga incorporated - has a ring to it.
21. Carolina Panthers (C+) - The one thing I will say about the Panthers in this draft. They got Bryce Young some weapons. Xavier Legette is a nice receiver. Jonathan Brooks will be RB1 in Carolina for sure. I also love the Ja’Tavion Sanders pick. They got some guys to make moves. I just don’t trust Carolina at all right now.
22. Los Angeles Rams (C+) - This draft started off HOT. And then took a huge nosedive. Jared Verse was a phenomenal selection. Braden Fiske - phenomenal selection. After that, I’m not sure. Blake Corum is a nice complimentary back to Kyren Williams, but there were a ton of backs on the board they could’ve gotten on Day 3. Out of all the drafts though, I probably hate what the Rams did on Day 3 though the most of any team.
23. Minnesota Vikings (C+) - I didn’t love this draft at all for Minnesota. I wasn’t crazy about JJ McCarthy to begin with, and trading up for him doesn’t sit well with me either. Turner at 17 was a good pick. I love Khyree Jackson, and that was a needed selection, so I think that was a home run. But when you’re in a transition of you only like 1.5 of the picks you made, its not great.
24. Cleveland Browns (C) - Didn’t like this draft that much for Cleveland. No first round selection and their first pick was a DT. I didn’t have any of their Day 3 picks outside of Jamari Thrash inside my Top 200. The Browns didn’t get better in this draft.
25. New Orleans Saints (C) - The definition of “meh” in this draft goes to New Orleans. I think they reached on Fuaga. McKinstry was a no brainer pick. Every pick after that I wouldn’t read into too much. Yawn. Next.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars (C) - This is the first team in the AFC South to be spoken about. The AFC South had the worst drafts of any division, by FAR. The Jaguars draft philosophy was clearly potential. There is clearly potential in their top three selections with Brian Thomas Jr, Maason Smith and Jarrion Jones. It’s truly a question mark though if these guys will work out. There are no “sure things” here. Deantre Prince is an interesting pick and could work out the depth issue. The Myles Cole 7th round selection is one to watch as well.
27. Tennessee Titans (C) - Read the Rams above. Latham at 7, solid. Sweat in Round 2, great value. After that, my lord was it terrible. Again, I don’t think they found one starter from the third round one. People will point to Cedric Gray, but what I found on tape from him wasn’t something that blew me away.
28. New York Jets (C-) - The Jets had something they needed to decide on at 10. Did they want immediate or long term value. They decided on long term value, which I agree with. Fashanu will be there for 10+ years and learning from Tyron Smith is an added bonus. But again, as the theme with this group of teams, I don’t know if they found a true starter the rest of the draft. Malachi Corley is an intriguing prospect. He absolutely has a chance to be a viable option at receiver. The Jets brass loved him. They nailed the Garrett Wilson pick, so maybe I should trust them on this one.
29. Cincinnati Bengals (C-) - One of my main themes this off-season is that the Bengals Super Bowl window may be closing faster than we think. They lost a lot of talent his off-season, two players knowingly want out, and this draft class is something to be desired. I don’t know how you lose your starting cornerback and don’t address it in the draft until Day 3. Drafting Jermaine Burton was a luxury pick that wasn’t needed. I don’t know what Cincy is doing.
30. Indianapolis Colts (C-) - The Latu pick was a great selection. One of the best of the round. I don’t love anything else they did. I know Chris Ballard defended AD Mitchell, but Mitchell screams MVS to me. Deep burner with ok hands who will score long touchdowns to keep him relevant.
D Grades
31. Atlanta Falcons (D) - One of the worst first round picks in recent memory. I truly don’t understand the logic. You can tell me until you're blue in the face. If you wanted Penix, DONT SIGN COUSINS TO A FOUR YEAR CONTRACT. I don’t care if you can get out of it after 2. If he’s playing really well you are going to cut him? No. The answer is no. If this was Joe Milton or Michael Pratt on Day 3 I’d be praising this pick. But Penix at EIGHT when you have so many other needs? Despicable. Disgusting. Disservice to the kid and his family. You just held this kid hostage for the first 3 years of his NFL career, not to mention he will be in his age 28 season by the time he throws meaningful passes barring any injury. This is a pick where the Falcons DONT WANT TO USE THEIR FIRST ROUND PICK UNTIL 2028. Let that sink in.
F Grades
32. Houston Texans (F) - This is eerily similar to what Jacksonville did in their draft an after they won the division. They didn’t get a single guy to move the needle. The different between the two teams is that Houston did a ton in Free Agency, but the draft was clearly for depth. Kamari Lassiter may have a spot in this secondary to start, but outside of that I think this draft was abysmal. The Texans last five picks had guys all out of my Top 200.
NFL Draft 2024 Top 200 Big Board
It’s here. It’s finally here. Draft Day. 2024. The official beginning of new hope in all NFL circles: players, coaches, owners and fans alike. When the clock strikes eight, it’s important to have an understanding of who the players are, and what positions they play so you can follow along with your team over the course of the three days. For the second year in a row, the boys at PSP have worked hard to come up with their own Top 200 Big Board.
It’s here. It’s finally here. Draft Day. 2024. The official beginning of new hope in all NFL circles: players, coaches, owners and fans alike. When the clock strikes eight, it’s important to have an understanding of who the players are, and what positions they play so you can follow along with your team over the course of the three days. For the second year in a row, the boys at PSP have worked hard to come up with their own Top 200 Big Board. The list is compromised from all three of us watching film and dissecting certain traits and characteristics about players that we like. The seven schools that have the most players on our board are the following:
Michigan (11), Florida State (10), Penn State (9), Georgia (8), Washington (7), Texas (7) and LSU (7).
We also have players on this list from schools like Holy Cross, Air Force and Yale - so we really went all over. These rankings do not justify where the players will be taken, but simply what grades we give them on what we’ve seen. Enjoy it, follow it, hate it. Whatever you do, just know the PSP guys were on it first.
TOP 200 BIG BOARD
1st Round Grades
Caleb Williams, QB - USC (98.6)
Joe Alt, OT - Notre Dame (97.9)
Marvin Harrison Jr., WR - Ohio State (93.4)
Olu Fashanu, OT - Penn State (92.8)
Brock Bowers, TE - Georgia (92.5)
Jared Verse, EDGE - Florida State (89.6)
Rome Odunze, WR - Washington (89.3)
Malik Nabers, WR - LSU (88.8)
Cooper Dejean, CB - Iowa (88.0)
Drake Maye, QB - North Carolina (87,5)
Laiatu Latu, EDGE - UCLA (87.3)
Quinyon Mitchell, CB - Toledo (87.1)
JC Latham, OT - Alabama (86.9)
Byron Murphy, DT - Texas (86.7)
Jackson Powers-Johnson, C - Oregon (86.7)
Jayden Daniels, QB - LSU (86.4)
Terrion Arnold, CB - Alabama (86.3)
Chop Robinson, EDGE - Penn State (86.1)
Troy Fautanu, OT - Washington (85.9)
Ladd McConkey, WR - Georgia (85.8)
Johnny Newton, DT - Illinois (85.7)
Dallas Turner, EDGE - Alabama (85.5)
Graham Barton, OT/OG - Duke (85.4)
Cooper Beebe, OG - Kanasa State (85.2)
T’Vondre Sweat, DT - Texas (85.0)
Nate Wiggins, CB - Clemson (84.8)
Marshawn Lloyd, RB - USC (84.6)
Michael Penix, Jr., Washington (84.5)
Troy Franklin, WR - Oregon (84.3)
Darius Robinson, EDGE - Missouri (84.1)
Taliese Fuaga, OT/OG - Oregon State (84.0)
Second Round Grades
32. Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB - Alabama (83.8)
33. Edgerrin Cooper, LB - Texas A&M (83.7)
34. Armarius Mims, OT - Georgia (83.6)
35. Brian Thomas Jr., WR - LSU (83.5)
36. Ruke Orhorhoro, DT - Illinois (83.3)
37. Junior Colson, LB - Michigan (83.2)
38. Braden Fiske, DT - Florida State (83.1)
39. TJ Tampa, CB - Iowa State (82.9)
40. Tyler Guyton, OT - Oklahoma (82.9)
41. Xavier Legette, WR - South Carolina (82.8)
42. Sedrick Van Pran, C - Georgia (82.7)
43. Kris Jenkins, DT - Michigan (82.6)
44. Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE - Western Michigan (82.5)
45. Kamar Lassiter, CB - Georgia (82.4)
46. Khyree Jackson, CB - Oregon (82.3)
47. JJ McCarthy, QB - Michigan (82.0)
48. Adonai Mitchell, WR - Texas (81.8)
49. Christian Haynes, OG - UConn (81.7)
50. Chris Braswell, EDGE - Alabama (81.4)
51. Jeremiah Trotter Jr., LB - Clemson (81.3)
52. Jaden Hicks, S - Washington State (81.1)
53. Payton Wilson, LB - Utah (81.0)
54. Keon Coleman, WR - Florida State (80.9)
55. Jaylen Wright, RB - Tennessee (80.8)
56. Tyler Nubin, S - Minnesota (80.7)
57. Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE - Texas (80.6)
58. Javon Baker, WR - UCF (80.4)
59. Zak Zinter, OG - Michigan (80.3)
60. Ricky Pearsall, WR - Florida (80.3)
61. Ja’Lynn Polk, WR - Washington (80.3)
62. Ray Davis, RB - Kentucky (80.2)
63. Jonathan Brooks, RB - Texas (80.2)
64. Dominic Puni, OT - Kansas (80.1)
65. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB - Missouri (80.0)
66. Xavier Worthy, WR - Texas (80.0)
67. Roman Wilson, WR - Michigan (80.0)
68. Christian Mahogany, OG - Boston College (80.0)
Third Round Grades
69. Kingsley Suamataia, OT - BYU (79.9)
70. Beau Brade, S - Maryland (79.9)
71. Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, S - Texas Tech (79.8)
72. Maason Smith, DT - LSU (79.7)
73. Gabriel Murphy, EDGE - UCLA (79.7)
74. Bo Nix, QB - Oregon (79.5)
75. Jordan Morgan, OT - Arizona (79.4)
76. DJ James, CB - Auburn (79.2)
77. Blake Fisher, OT - Notre Dame (79.0)
78. Max Melton, CB - Rutgers (78.8)
79. Zach Frazier, C - West Virginia (78.7)
80. Jalen Coker, WR - Holy Cross (78.6)
81. Ben Sinnott, TE - Kansas State (78.5)
82. Malachi Corley, WR - Western Kentucky (78.3)
83. Bucky Irving, RB - Oregon (78.2)
84. Adisa Isaac, EDGE - Penn State (78.0)
85. Javon Bullard, S - Georgia (77.9)
86. Cam Hart, CB - Notre Dame (77.8)
87. Jonah Ellis, EDGE - Utah (77.8)
88. Hunter Nourzad, C - Penn State (77.6)
89. Cole Bishop, S - Utah (77.4)
90. Blake Corum, RB - Michigan (77.3)
91. Kam Kitchens, S - Miami (77.0)
92. Tez Walker, WR - North Carolina (76.9)
93. Kiran Amegadije, OT - Yale (76.8)
94. Patrick Paul, OT - Houston (76.7)
95. Jamari Thrash, WR - Louisville (76.6)
96. Trevor Keegan, OG - Michigan (76.5)
97. Michael Hall Jr., DT - Ohio State (76.4)
98. Audric Estime, RB - Notre Dame (76.3)
99. Mike Sainristil, CB - Michigan (76.0)
Fourth Round Grades
100. DeWayne Carter, DT - Duke (75.9)
101. Marist Liufau, LB - Notre Dame (75.8)
102. Javon Solomon, EDGE - Troy (75.6)
103. Trey Benson, RB - Florida State (75.2)
104. Xavier Thomas, EDGE - Clemson (75.1)
105. Johnny Wilson, WR - Florida State (74.9)
106. Leonard Taylor III, DT - Miami (74.8)
107. Kris Abrams-Draine, CB - Missouri (74.6)
108. Javion Cohen, OG - Michigan (74.6)
109. Renardo Green, S - Florida State (74.5)
110. Austin Booker, EDGE - Kansas (74.5)
111. Luke McCaffrey, WR - Rice (74.4)
112. Dallin Hooker, TE - Colorado State (74.3)
113. Spencer Rattler, QB - South Carolina (74.2)
114. Malik Mustapha, S - Wake Forest (74.1)
115. Mason McCormick, OT - South Dakota State (74.0)
116. Jarrion Jones, CB - Florida State (73.8)
117. Isaac Guerendo, RB - Louisville (73.6)
118. Mohamed Kamara, EDGE - Colorado State (73.5)
119. Roger Rosengarten, OT - Washington (73.4)
120. Brandon Corlus, DE - Oregon (73.3)
121. Nehemiah Pritchett, CB - Auburn (73.2)
122. Calen Bullock, S - USC (73.1)
123. Jared Wiley, TE - TCU (73.0)
124. Malik Washington, WR - Virginia (72.8)
125. Mehki Wingo, DT - LSU (72.7)
126. Titan Oladapo, S - Oregon State (72.7)
127. Javon Foster, OT - Missouri (72.5)
128. Jermaine Burton, WR - Alabama (72.4)
129. Andru Phillips, CB - Kentucky (72.3)
130. Bralen Trice, EDGE - Washington (71.9)
131. Jalen McMillan, WR - Washington (71.7)
132. Matt Goncalves, OT - Pittsburgh (71.4)
133. Braelon Allen, RB - Wisconsin (71.3)
134. Caedan Wallace, OT - Penn State (71.2)
135. Tyron Tracy, Jr., RB - Purdue (71.1)
136. Will Shipley, RB - Clemson (71.1)
Fifth Round Grades
137. Myles Cole, EDGE - Texas Tech (70.9)
138. Cade Stover, TE - Ohio State (70.7)
139. Dominique Hampton, S - Washington (70.6)
140. Elijah Jones, CB - Boston College (70.4)
141. Fabian Lovett, DT - Florida State (70.3)
142. Isaiah Adams, OT - Illinois (70.2)
143. Tyler Owens, S - Texas Tech (70.1)
144. Michael Pratt, QB - Tulane (70.1)
145. Ty’Ron Hopper, LB - Missouri (70.0)
146. Garrett Greenfield, OT - South Dakota State (69.8)
147. Gabe Hall, DT - Baylor (69.7)
148. Charles Turner III, C - LSU (69.6)
149. Tommy Eichenberg, LB - Ohio State (69.5)
150. Brenden Rice, WR - USC (69.4)
151. Dylan Laube, RB - New Hampshire (69.1)
152. Caelon Carson, CB - Wake Forest (68.9)
153. Daijuan Edwards, RB - Georgia (68.8)
154. Nelson Ceasar, EDGE - Houston (68.7)
155. Brennan Jackson, EDGE - Washington State (68.5)
156. Layden Robinson, OG - Texas A&M (68.3)
157. Christian Jones, OT - Texas (68.2)
158. Joe Milton, QB - Tennessee (68.1)
159. Trente Jones, OT - Michigan (67.9)
160. Tanor Bortolini, C - Wisconsin (67.7)
161. Jordan Magee, LB - Temple (67.7)
162. Josh Newton, CB - TCU (67.7)
163. Jaylin Simpson, CB - Auburn (67.6)
164. Jaheim Bell, TE - Florida State (67.4)
165. Anthony Gould, WR - Oregon State (67.3)
166. James Williams, LB - Miami (67.2)
167. Sataoa Laumea, OT - Utah (67.1)
168. Walter Rouse, OG - Oklahoma (67.1)
169. Tykee Smith, S - Georgia (67.0)
Sixth Round Grades
170. Theo Johnson, TE - Penn State (66.9)
171. Chau Smith-Wade, CB - Washington State (66.8)
172. Ainias Smith, WR - Texas A&M (66.8)
173. Julian Pearl, OT - Illinois (66.7)
174. Jordan Jefferson, DT - LSU (66.6)
175. Jalyx Hunt, EDGE - UConn (66.4)
176. Cedric Gray, LB - North Carolina (66.1)
177. Johnny Davis, CB - Penn State (65.9)
178. Trey Taylor, S - Air Force (65.8)
179. Sioke Vaki, S - Utah (65.7)
180. Jordan Travis, QB - Florida State (65.5)
181. Dwight McGlothern, CB - Arkansas (65.4)
182. Nathan Thomas, OT - Louisiana (65.1)
183. Kalen King, CB - Penn State (65.0)
184. Javonte Jean-Baptiste, EDGE - Notre Dame (65.0)
185. Tyson Grable, OT - UCF (64.8)
186. Frank Gore, Jr., RB - Southern Miss (64.7)
187. Curtis Jacobs, LB - Penn State (64.5)
188. Daijahn Anthony, CB - Ole Miss (64.4)
189. Bub Means, WR - Pittsburgh (64.4)
190. McKinley Jackson, DT - Texas A&M (64.3)
191. Kamal Hadden, CB - Tennessee (64.2)
192. Jaden Crumedy, DT - Mississippi State (64.2)
193. Braiden McGregor, EDGE - Michigan (63.8)
194. Beaux Limmer, C - Arkansas (63.6)
195. Donovan Jennings, OT - UAB (63.3)
196. Cody Schrader, RB - Missouri (63.3)
197. Jacob Cowing, WR - Arizona (63.1)
198. Rasheed Ali, RB - Marshall (63.0)
Seventh Round Grades
199. Tyrice Knight, LB - UTEP (62.8)
200. MJ Devonshire, CB - Pittsburgh (62.7)
Day Three Deep Sleepers
If you’ve been listening to our draft coverage this year, you’ve been hearing a term over the course of our episodes:
“PSP Stamp of Approval”
This is a something that started back in 2021, when I successfully chose Amon-Ra St. Brown to be the player from the draft who was gonna surprise out of everyone. In 2022, it was Isaiah Pacheco. Last year, it was Antonio Johnson. Now, the jury is still out on Johnson, but he will stepping into a starting safety role this year for Jacksonville after the departure of Rayshawn Jenkins. Pacheco has been integral in the Chiefs back to back championship titles while St. Brown has brought the Lions on the cusp of a Super Bowl.
If you’ve been listening to our draft coverage this year, you’ve been hearing a term over the course of our episodes:
“PSP Stamp of Approval”
This is a something that started back in 2021, when I successfully chose Amon-Ra St. Brown to be the player from the draft who was gonna surprise out of everyone. In 2022, it was Isaiah Pacheco. Last year, it was Antonio Johnson. Now, the jury is still out on Johnson, but he will stepping into a starting safety role this year for Jacksonville after the departure of Rayshawn Jenkins. Pacheco has been integral in the Chiefs back to back championship titles while St. Brown has brought the Lions on the cusp of a Super Bowl. Point is, we kinda know what we are doing here! So this year, we developed an actual terms for this. The “PSP Stamp of Approval”. Now you’ve already heard a couple of names. Ladd McConkey, Marshawn Lloyd - just to name a couple. But below I will give you five names that I think can/will be drafted on day three and can be as impactful as the names above. When you’re watching the draft on Sunday and your buddies ask who the hell they just drafted - if they’re on this list, you will be the smartest person in the room.
This list is in no particular order.
Maason Smith (Defensive Tackle) - LSU
Smith is an athletic freak. If you watch tape of him at LSU, he jumps right off the page. With 35’ arms and an 84 3/8 wingspan (!!!) he can be a nightmare for offensive lineman. He is quick from side to side, enticing teams that he can play both nose tackle or defensive end at the next level. His name has been brought up to be taken on the back end of Day two, but he can slip into the beginning of Day three. If your team drafts Smith, you should be very excited. His potential is through the roof.
Gabriel Murphy (EDGE) - UCLA
Everyone is talking about Laiatu Latu (as they should) but don’t forget about Gabriel Murphy. The “other” edge rusher at UCLA is no slouch. The first thing that stands out is his relentlessness to never give up on a play. A lot of his sacks came from constant pursuit on the quarterback. Murphy’s swim move is also very very good. At the next level, he comes in as a 3rd down pass specialist (think Arden Key). His work will come in improvement in the run game and being able to produce more strength to get through your seasoned, elite offensive lineman.
Beau Brade (Safety) - Maryland
I’m giddy about Brade. This is a guy with exceptional football IQ, and is ready to step on an NFL field today. He has versatility as a slot corner and nickel safety and can be a “quarterback” of the secondary at the next level. So why is he projected to be taken on Day three? His athleticism isn’t the best. Brade will never be the fastest, strongest guy on the field, but his fundamentals are better than most. He’s a willing tackler, and has good enough ball skills to make an impact right away. With the right coaching, this guy can be a star in the making.
Charle Turner III (Center) - LSU
My second guy from LSU, Turner “turned” my head as I was watching tape on other players. This is a guy who legitimately might not even get drafted, but can make waves as a UDFA. He is a polished blocker in the run game, who consistently got to the second level. He also had very good measurable for his position, ranking in the 99th percentile in wingspan and 93rd percentile in his 40 time. Turner is good, not great in the pass blocking game. His lack of size will shy teams away, but there have been plenty of smaller centers in the league who did well for themselves. If given an opportunity, this is a guy who can surprise.
Jalen Coker (Wide Receiver) - Holy Cross
I love this kid. If he was coming out of Ohio State, Michigan or Alabama, he would be a day two pick. But because he’s coming out of Holy Cross, there are questions about his competition level and whether or not his athleticism can convert to the NFL. Here’s what I know: the kid has excellent hands - his tape shows that he’s able to get balls at almost any angle: high low, back, front…whatever you want. He’s a fantastic deep route receiver, but also does well side to side. He’s also a strong runner for his size. I know this will sound silly, but I really think that Coker could have the same impact as Puka Nacua last year. This kid is the real deal. My fantasy lovers - I promise you, when everyone is asleep at the wheel in Round 16 and just wants to go home - pick Jalen Coker. Especially if you're in a keeper/dynasty league.
*HONORABLE MENTION*
Luke McCaffrey (Wide Receiver) - Rice
Tommy Eichenberg (Linebacker) - Ohio State
Javonte Jean-Baptiste (EDGE) - Notre Dame
The Quarterback Class: 2024
It is officially Draft Week. This is a great time of year for sports. The NBA and NHL playoffs are underway. Baseball is getting its footing. And the next wave of NFL superstars are about to find out where they will start their anxious NFL careers. One position, as you all know, is in a class of its own. So it’s only right that the Quarterback position gets its own article. While this QB class may not be as talented as a whole as some other classes in the past, this may be the most intriguing class in a very, very long time. We have one guy at the top who people have literally compared to Patrick Mahomes. We have two guys who can be all-pros or pure backups in five years time.
It is officially Draft Week. This is a great time of year for sports. The NBA and NHL playoffs are underway. Baseball is getting its footing. And the next wave of NFL superstars are about to find out where they will start their anxious NFL careers. One position, as you all know, is in a class of its own. So it’s only right that the Quarterback position gets its own article. While this QB class may not be as talented as a whole as some other classes in the past, this may be the most intriguing class in a very, very long time. We have one guy at the top who people have literally compared to Patrick Mahomes. We have two guys who can be all-pros or pure backups in five years time. We have a couple of players that are older and need to be in certain situations to thrive. And then the back end QBs, who won’t be expected to start, but are guys that need to be watched closely. I am confident that all the Quarterbacks on this list will get drafted. Hell, they all may actually get playing time during their careers as well.
Caleb Williams - USC
What is there to say about Caleb Williams that isn’t already said? I can say with confidence that he’s the best Quarterback prospect that I’ve seen in all the years that I’ve been watching film on prospects, He’s got a quick twitch and mobility that is seen in maybe 1% of the league right now, He comes with years of experience between two programs, and he just has a knack for always getting his guys open. He’s coming into an already made position in Chicago (one that Justin Fields never got) that most QBs who are drafted don’t usually have, The one red flag is the Josh Allen hero-ball concept. Caleb will always look to make a play, and sometimes that backfires. More times than most thought, athleticism and skill will win out. This kid is an athlete. He’s smart and has all the intangibles to be successful. There will a lot riding on his shoulders as the franchise QB the Bears have never had. That’s a lot of pressure to put on a rookie. Will he be able to handle it?
NFL Comp - Aaron Rodgers
2. Drake Maye - UNC
My love for Drake Maye actually started one day when I was watching Tez Walker tape. Tez was making play after play, but the more I watched the less and less I was actually watching Walker. Maye not only prototypical size at 6"4 230, but his arm talent alone puts him up there right behind Williams. Maye is not perfect though, and that is why there is some discrepancy on where he might get drafted. Bonehead decision making and the amount of sacks he takes needs to be adjusted at the next level. Going through progressions properly and making the right throw will be a crucial adjustment, assuming he lands with a team that can help those mistakes be corrected. He’s definitely still a very moldable prospect in the right system.
NFL Comp - Josh Allen
3. Jayden Daniels - LSU
This debate will wage on probably for the next 5 years. Maye, Daniels or McCarthy. Part of the debate that makes it so intriguing is that all three signal callers are so unique to one another. The Arizona State transfer made a name for himself in his first year at Baton Rouge, winning the Heisman and being the best dual threat Quarterback in college football. It was inevitable before Daniels got the comparisons to Lamar Jackson. Except those comparisons are a little bit off. Daniels comes into the league as a way more polished passer; he throws a more than serviceable deep ball with great accuracy and touch. His read of defense (pre and post snap) is leagues better then it was at ASU. He goes through his progressions well without having that quick hesitiation to want to run, but instead uses it when its most needed to his advantage; not as a crutch. The knock I have on Daniels is simple -his short to intermediate passing needs work. Sometimes he doesn’t throw with as much velocity as he should and has more of a touch throw. He also needs to put on some more bulk as his thin, lean frame opens him up to injury with the way he plays.
NFL Comp - Lamar Jackson
4. Michael Penix Jr. - Washington
Washington had some run last year all the way to the national title game. That was lead by Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Penix may be one of the more polished products of his class - A pure pocket passer at Washington, he had all the tools on display. Very good field vision, excellent footwork and a powerful arm. He can make every single throw at the next level. He has a knack for avoiding sacks as he has was sacked just 31 times over 1,759 career dropbacks per PFF. The obvious issue is the injury history. Penix had multiple season ending injuries in college, and he’s one of the oldest quarterbacks in the class, making him a situational selection for a team that is looking for a guy willing to start immediately.
NFL Comp - Geno Smith
5. Spencer Rattler - South Carolina
When I watched Rattler’s tape I was pleasantly surprised. I saw a guy who is poised and wasn’t afraid to stand in the pocket and complete a throw. This is important because his offensive line at SC was absolutely dreadful, so having that escapability and being avoid to navigate in traffic is quarterbacking 101 in the NFL. South Carolina was ranked outside the top 50 in any meaningful offensive statistic, yet Rattler was the bright spot. He can make every single throw at the next level and I have a clear comp for him - Baker Mayfield. At the next level, while he does go through his progressions better then most of his class, he does need to tighten them up a bit and use his athleticism more. Rattler ran a 4.95 forty at the combine/pro day, and with the sneak speed, he can be a viable pick late day 2/early day 3.
NFL Comp - Baker Mayfield
6. JJ McCarthy - Michigan
We’ve arrived at the prospect causing the most commotion in this draft. In the beginning, I understood it and I was on board with McCarthy’s winning ways. However, after watching the film, you kind of start to question where all the hype is coming from? Is McCarthy a winner.. Absolutely. It’s also true that Michigan will probably have the most players drafted in this year’s draft. Michigan went undefeated, and it’s fair to say the team lifted up everyone individually. He’s a below average prospect with barley enough tape last year to even form a full opinion. Can he make some splashy throws - yes. Can he move the sticks with his legs - yes. But is he going to set the world on fire and throw for 400 yards in a game? Probably not. He lacks size and arm strength to make throws at the next level. And if you say well he’s accurate, that's padded by easy throws behind the line of scrimmage. Don't believe me? Do yourself the favor and watch the tape; you'll be out on the hype too.
NFL Comp - Zack Wilson
7. Michael Pratt - Tulane
Here is a guy that will drafted on Day 3 that will impress in training. camp. I loved Pratt’s tape from beginning to end; and the entire time I’m wondering why he isn’t he being considered with some of the best talent in this class? Pratt is an excellent pocket passer for the most part, but doesn’t always feel backside pressure. H’es got a fantastic arm, and he comes with some of the most experience in his class as a four year starter and three year team captain. He does need to work on his anticipation against zone looks and needs to be quicker to find his checkdowns when going through his progressions, but with even that being said, Pratt will be a reliable quarterback in the league and I wouldn’t be remotely surprised if you see him starting for a bad team and sparks some interest.
NFL Comp - Gardner Minshew
8. Bo Nix - Oregon
A FIVE year starter and transfer from Oregon, Bo Nix (on the surface) has all you'd need to be a successful NFL Quarterback. But when you look a lot deeper, you find a guy who had almost the most optimal situation of anyone in his class. The Washington Pac 12 title game stood out to me. I saw a guy who struggled badly when moved off his spot and blitzed. I saw a guy who during the season, 30% of his competitions were check downs. He didn’t even have the ability to do that when the play broke down. With a clean pocket, he’s surgical, but unfortunately that doesn’t exist at the NFL level.
NFL Comp - Paxton Lynch
9. Joe Milton - Tennessee
ABSOLUTE CANNON ARM. That’s the first thing I saw when I started watching Milton tape. I also saw a guy who can be compared to last years 4th overall pick Anthony Richardson, And to my surprise, Milton is way farther along as a passer, but not by much. Milton has the same issues as far as accuracy. He completed just 38.6 percent of his throws beyond 10 yards (per Pro Football Focus) in 2023. He needs to work on his anticipation and timing. He’s athletic as hell and can make defenders miss in the pocket buying himself more time. So why was Richardson picked fourth overall and why will Milton likely go in Round 6? Richardson is a unicorn, and if he pans out he can become the most versatile quarterback in NFL history. However, we had Anthony Richardson as a 2nd round grade. Not our fault if Indy jumped the gun. I can see Milton getting some run in the league, he just may need to sit for a while.
Comp - Anthony Richardson
2024 NFL Draft Mock 1.0
The NFL Draft is a mere weeks away. And this more than most, the talent is all over the place. Teams have been positioning themselves to move up and down and get the players that they feel can take them over the top. In our first mock this year, the PSP boys have five quarterbacks going in round 1, the first defensive player not being taken until pick 8, and the three trades within the top 10. Is it likely? No. But who cares. The amount of things that will change from now to April 25th will be overwhelming, and it could look different in a couple of weeks. But people always say first impressions are everything…
The NFL Draft is a mere weeks away. And this more than most, the talent is all over the place. Teams have been positioning themselves to move up and down and get the players that they feel can take them over the top. In our first mock this year, the PSP boys have five quarterbacks going in round 1, the first defensive player not being taken until pick 8, and the three trades within the top 10. Is it likely? No. But who cares. The amount of things that will change from now to April 25th will be overwhelming, and it could look different in a couple of weeks. But people always say first impressions are everything…
NFL Mock Round 1
Chicago Bears - Caleb Williams: USC, QB - Obvious.
Washington Commanders - Jayden Daniels: QB, LSU - Brian Kelly ruined it.
New England Patriots - Drake Maye: QB, UNC - Highest ceiling, lowest floor of any round one QB.
Arizona Cardinals - Marvin Harrison Jr: WR, Ohio State - will run to make this selection.
Los Angeles Chargers - Joe Alt: OT, Notre Dame - Listen to the coach speak.
Minnesota Vikings (trade w/ NYG) - JJ McCarthy: QB, Michigan - the tea is there. Follow the tea.
New York Giants (trade w/ TEN) - Malik Nabers: WR, LSU - Giants use trade ammo from MIN trade to move up four spots and grab future number one.
Atlanta Falcons - Dallas Turner: EDGE, Alabama - first defender off the board,
Jacksonville Jaguars (trade w/ CHI) - Rome Odunze: WR, Washington - After losing Ridley, offense needs to be better. JAX has met with Odunze.
New York Jets - Olumuyiwa Fashanu: OT, Penn State - Kid will be a stud. There are worse things than sitting behind Tyron Smith for a year.
Tennessee Titans (trade w/ NYG via Vikings) - JC Latham: OT, Alabama - After drafting Skoronski last year, Titans double dip on o-line.
Denver Broncos - Brock Bowers: TE, Georgia - Sean Payton can’t pass up the opportunity to use Bowers all over the field.
Las Vegas Raiders - Terrion Arnold: CB, Alabama - LV has a lot of needs, but Arnold will help the revamped defensive line in Vegas.
New Orleans Saints - Jared Verse: EDGE, Florida State - Saints need to think of life after Cam Jordan.
Indianapolis Colts - Quinyon Mitchell: CB, Toledo - Colts were torched in pass game last year. Mitchell is long and sticky.
Seattle Seahawks - Chop Robinson: EDGE, Penn State - Coolest name of any guy who will be drafted day 1.
Chicago Bears (trade w/ JAX) - Laiatu Late: DE, UCLA - someone to go opposite Sweat. Bears have a lot of options with their second pick.
Cincinnati Bengals - Nate Wiggins: CB, Clemson - Lou Anarumo needs another corner after the defensive backs got routinely shredded last year.
Los Angeles Rams - Byron Murphy: DT, Clemson - heir apparent to Aaron Donald.
Pittsburgh Steelers - Brian Thomas: WR, LSU - After trading Johnson, there is a hole. Thomas can fill it nicely and give Russ another target.
Miami Dolphins - Jackson Powers-Johnson: C, Oregon - Even after signing a center, this pick makes sense for Miami. Need to keep Tua upright.
Philadelphia Eagles - Taliese Fuaga: OT, Oregon State - With their offensive line getting up in age and Jason Kelce gone, the Eagles start to rebuild the offensive line.
New York Giants (trade w/ MIN) - Michael Penix: QB, Washington - With Minnesota’s second pick, the Giants take the QB of the future. Daniel Jones won’t be on the roster come June.
Dallas Cowboys - Troy Fautanu: OT, Washington - Needed for a team who is starting to get decimated on the offensive line.
Green Bay Packers - Cooper Dejean: CB, Iowa - this guy just oozes Packers.
Tennessee Titans (trade w/ TB) - Darius Robinson: EGDE, Missouri - Titans get back into the first and get a nice pass rusher to try and disrupt the young group of QBs in the South.
Arizona Cardinals - Armarius Mims: OT, Georgia - Paris Johnson and Armarius Mims to protect Kyler with MHJ running on the outside. Not too shabby.
Buffalo Bills - AD Mitchell: WR, Texas - If the Bills don’t go receiver after trading Diggs then I have no idea.
Detroit Lions - Kool-Aid McKinstry: CB, Alabama - The Lions only signed Amik Robertson for one year, and getting McKinstry could lock up a secondary of him, Brian Branch and Carlton Davis for a while.
Baltimore Ravens - Edgerrin Copper: LB, Texas A&M - The guy to replace Patrick Queen and become the next great Ravens defender, cause that’s what they breed,
San Francisco 49ers - T’Vondre Sweat: DT, Texas - After losing Arik Armstead, the Niners draft Sweat and dare anyone to run through him and Hargrave.
Kansas City Chiefs - Cooper Beebe: OG, Kansas State - Chiefs can go a litany of places, but upgrading the offensive line is not sexy, but smart.
NFL Draft 2023 BIG BOARD
The NFL Draft is tomorrow! Kansas City is going to be rocking; fresh off of a Super Bowl victory, and now hosting the 2023 NFL Draft. The schedule for the event is as follows:
Thursday, 4/27 - Round 1
Friday, 4/28 - Rounds 2-3
Saturday, 4/29 - Rounds 4-7
In April, everyone is a scout, expert and knows exactly what is going to happen. Every expert’s mock draft is the right one, and everyone is looking for that diamond in the rough. After a month of tape watching and assessing, we too, have become experts in the field! (Sarcasm for those who don’t have that radar). However, in our never ending quest to talk football all the time as our careers, the Perfect Spiral Top 200 Big Board is below. This list was compiled after watching tape, highlights and using various resources on all the players. These are our rankings and think these are the best players. This list does not indicate where we think these players will be drafted - check back later for that doozy. So without further a due….our 2023 NFL Draft Top 200 Big Board.
The NFL Draft is tomorrow! Kansas City is going to be rocking; fresh off of a Super Bowl victory, and now hosting the 2023 NFL Draft. The schedule for the event is as follows:
Thursday, 4/27 - Round 1
Friday, 4/28 - Rounds 2-3
Saturday, 4/29 - Rounds 4-7
In April, everyone is a scout, expert and knows exactly what is going to happen. Every expert’s mock draft is the right one, and everyone is looking for that diamond in the rough. After a month of tape watching and assessing, we too, have become experts in the field! (Sarcasm for those who don’t have that radar). However, in our never ending quest to talk football all the time as our careers, the Perfect Spiral Top 200 Big Board is below. This list was compiled after watching tape, highlights and using various resources on all the players. These are our rankings and think these are the best players. This list does not indicate where we think these players will be drafted - check back later for that doozy. So without further a due….our 2023 NFL Draft Top 200 Big Board.
First Round Grades:
Will Anderson Jr. - EDGE, Alabama
Bijan Robinson - RB, Texas
Pete Skoronski - OT, Northwestern
Bryce Young - QB, Alabama
CJ Stroud - QB, Ohio State
Devon Witherspoon - CB, Illinois
Jalin Hyatt - WR, Tennessee
O’Cyrus Torrence - OG, Florida
Myles Murphy - EDGE, Clemson
Nolan Smith - LB, Georgia
Jaxon Smith-Ngijba - WR, Ohio State
Jalen Carter - DT, Georgia
Michael Mayer - TE, Notre Dame
Zay Flowers - WR, Boston College
Joey Porter Jr. - CB, Penn State
John Michael Schmitz - C, Minnesota
Paris Johnson Jr. - OT, Ohio State
Jahmyr Gibbs - RB, Alabama
Tyree Wilson - EDGE, Texas Tech
Lukas Van Ness - EDGE, Iowa
Brian Branch - S, Alabama
Dawand Jones - OT, Ohio State
Calijah Kancey - DT, Pittsburgh
Broderick Jones - OT, Georgia
Deonte Banks - CB, Maryland
Jordan Addison - WR, USC
Second Round Grades:
27. Jack Campbell - LB, Iowa
28. Joe Tippmann - C, Wisconsin
29. Antonio Johnson - S, Texas A&M
30. Jordan Battle - S, Alabama
31. Christian Gonzalez - CB, Oregon
32. Will McDonald IV - EDGE, Iowa State
33. Anthony Richardson - QB, Florida
34. Devon Achane - RB, Texas A&M
35. Hendon Hooker - QB, Tennessee
36. Dalton Kincaid - TE, Utah
37. Trenton Simpson - LB, Clemson
38. Keanu Benton - DT, Wisconsin
39. Blake Freeland - OT, BYU
40. Emmanuel Forbes - CB, Miss. State
41. Quentin Johnston - WR, TCU
42. Cedric Tillman - WR, Tennessee
43. Sydney Brown - S, Illinois
44. Rashee Rice - WR, SMU
45. Cam Smith - CB, South Carolina
46. Kayshon Bouttee - WR, LSU
47. Drew Sanders - LB, Arkansas
48. Anton Harrison - OT, Oklahoma
49. Will Levis - QB, Kentucky
50. Josh Downs - WR, North Carolina
51. Jonathan Mingo - WR, Ole Miss
52. Darnell Washington - TE, Georgia
53. Julius Brents - CB, Kansas State
54. Bryan Breesee - DT, Clemson
55. Steve Avila - C, USC
56. Kendre Miller - RB, TCU
57. Chandler Zavala - OG, NC State
58. Tank Dell - WR, Houston
59. Darnell Wright - OT, Tennessee
60. Kelee Ringo - CB, Georgia
61. Luke Musgrave - TE, Oregon State
Third Round Grades:
62. Mazi Smith - DT, Michigan
63. Zach Charbonett - RB, UCLA
64. BJ Ojulari - EDGE, LSU
65. Tyjae Spears - RB, Tulane
66. Luke Wypler - C, Ohio State
67. Jammie Robinson - S, Florida State
68. Marvin Mims Jr. - WR, Oklahoma
69. Daikon Henley - LB, Washington State
70. Keaton Mitchell - RB, East Carolina
71. Eli Ricks - CB, Alabama
72. Karl Brooks - EDGE, Bowling Green
73. Jaren Hall - QB, BYU
74. Jayden Reed - WR, Michigan State
75. Israel Abanikanda - RB, Pittsburgh
76. Michael Wilson - WR, Stanford
77. JL Skinner - S, Boise State
78. Andrew Voorhees - OG, USC
79. Noah Sewell - LB, Oregon
80. Tyrique Stevenson - CB, Miami
81. Tank Bigsby - RB, Auburn
82. Dorian Williams - LB, Tulane
83. Ivan Pace Jr. - LB, Cincinnati
84. DJ Turner - CB, Michigan
85. Matthew Bergeron - OT, Syracuse
86. Tyler Scott - WR, Cincinnati
87. Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson - CB, TCU
88. Jaxson Kirkland - OG, Washington
89. Clark Phillips III - CB, Utah
90. Darius Rush - CB, South Carolina
Fourth Round Grades:
91. Adetomiwa Adebawora - DT, Northwestern
92. Felix Anudike-Uzamoh - EDGE, Kansas State
93. Jalen Moreno-Cropper - WR, Fresno State
94. Charlie Jones - WR, Purdue
95. Sean Tucker - RB, Syracuse
96. Henry To’oTo’o - LB, Alabama
97. Sam LaPorta - TE, Iowa
98. Roschon Johnson - RB, Texas
99. Mekhi Garner - CB, LSU
100. Tuli Tuipulotu - EDGE, USC
101. Parker Washington - WR, Penn State
102. Kenny McIntosh - RB, Georgia
103. Cody Mauch - OT, NDSU
104. Ji’Ayir Brown - S, Penn State
105. Wanya Morris - OT, Oklahoma
106. Jake Haener - QB, Fresno State
107. Mohamed Ibrahim - RB, Minnesota
108. Stetson Bennett - QB, Georgia
109. Garrett Williams - CB, Syracuse
110. Dermarrvion Overshown - LB, Texas
111. Ricky Stromberg - C, Arkansas
112. Jaelyn Duncan - OT, Maryland
113. Riley Moss - CB, Iowa
114. Jaylon Jones - CB, Texas A&M
115. Anthony Johnson Jr. - S, Iowa State
116. Tucker Kraft - TE, South Dakota State
117. Cameron Mitchell - CB, Northwestern
Fifth Round Grades:
118. Owen Pappoe - LB, Auburn
119. Derick Hall - EDGE, Auburn
120. Ronnie Hickman - S, Ohio State
121. Kobie Turner - DT, Wake Forest
122. Deuce Vaughn - RB, Kansas State
123. Christopher Smith - S, Georgia
124. Ronnie Bell, - WR, Michigan
125. Keion White - EDGE, Georgia Tech
126. Brandon Joseph - S, Notre Dame
127. Malik Cunningham - QB, Louisville
128. Ventral Miller - LB, Florida
129. Payne Durham - TE, Purdue
130. Xavier Hutchinson - WR, Iowa State
131. Bryce Ford-Wheaton - WR, West Virginia
132. Olusegun Olwatimi - C, Michigan
133. DeWayne McBride - RB, UAB
134. Dee Winters - LB, TCU
135. Siaki Ika - DT, Baylor
136. Kyu Blu Kelly - CB, Stanford
137. Zach Evans - RB, Ole Miss
138. Ryan Hayes - OT, Michigan
139. Xazavian Valladay - RB, Arizona State
140. Mekhi Blackmon - CB, USC
141. Tyler Steen - OT, Alabama
142. Cam Jones - LB, Indiana
143. Andrei Iosivas - WR, Princeton
144. Jakorian Bennett - CB, Maryland
145. Clayton Tune - QB, Houston
146. Emil Ekiyor Jr. - OG, Alabama
147. Eric Gray - RB, Oklahoma
148. Jason Taylor II - S, Oklahoma State
149. Nick Broeker - OG, Ole Miss
150. Jeremy Banks - LB, Tennessee
151. Marte Mapu - S, Sacramento State
Sixth Round Grades:
152. Chase Brown - RB, Illinois
153. Zach Kuntz - TE, Old Dominion
154. Tavion Thomas - RB, Utah
155. Isaiah Foksey - EDGE, Notre Dame
156. Cameron Brown - CB, Ohio State
157. Trey Palmer - WR, Nerbraska
158. Daniel Scott - S, California
159. Myles Brooks - CB, Louisiana Tech
160. Max Duggan - QB, TCU
161. Brenton Strange - TE, Penn State
162. Chris Rodriguez - RB, Kentucky
163. SirVocea Dennis - LB, Pittsburgh
164. Rakim Jarrett - WR, Maryland
165. Carter Warren - OT, Pittsburgh
166. Chamarri Conner - S, Virginia Tech
167. DeMarco Hellams - S, Alabama
168. Elijah Higgins - WR, Stanford
169. Noah Daniels - CB, TCU
170. Jarrett Patterson - C, Notre Dame
171. Yasir Abdullah - LB, Louisville
172. Leonard Taylor - TE, Cincinnati
173. Travis Dye - RB, USC
174. Tanner McKee - QB, Stanford
175. Quindell Johnson - S, Memphis
176. Isaiah Moore - LB, NC State
Seventh Round/UDFA Grades:
177. Luke Schoonmaker - TE, Michigan
178. Trey Dean III - S, Florida
179. Mahamoud Diabete - LB, Utah
180. Roshod Torrence II - S, Florida
181. Tivon Evans - RB, Louisville
182. Donate Demos Jr. - WR, Maryland
183. Puka Nacua - WR, BYU
184. Evan Hull - RB, Northwestern
185. Josh Whyle - TE, Cincinnati
186. Connor Galvin - OT, Baylor
187. Shaka Heyward - LB, Duke
188. Hunter Luepke - RB, NDSU
189. Dontavion Wicks - WR, Virginia
190. Carlton Martial - LB, Troy
191. Daniel Barker - TE, Michigan State
192. Mitchell Tinsley - WR, Penn State
193. Kei-Trel Clark - CB, Louisville
194. Sean Clifford - QB, Penn State
195. Brandon Hill - S, Pittsburgh
196. Starling Thomas V - CB, UAB
197. Cameron Latu - TE, Alabama
198. Lew Nicholas III - RB, Colgate
199. Charlie Thomas - S, Georgia Tech
200. Brayden Willis - TE, Oklahoma
2023 NFL Draft - QB Rankings
Quarterbacks. They always get all the attention. No matter what type of “class” is coming in, they are always hyped up. 2023 is no different - as we have up to four quarterbacks who look like they may go in the first round in Kansas City a little less than a month away. They all offer different things too. One is very accurate, but he is too small; one is uber athletic, but can’t complete a five yard pass. A couple are too old, one comes from a long time failing system. Every quarterback is different, and every NFL situation is different.
The Carolina Panthers traded up for the first overall pick in a deal with the Chicago Bears in order to select their QB of the future. Frank Reich is now running the show in Carolina and the Panthers have been busy this off-season with skill players. Guys such as Miles Sanders, Adam Thielen and DJ Clark amongst others have joined the ranks; all in an effort to make whoever is under center come September…comfortable. The last time Reich was a head coach, he had Andrew Luck, who ultimately retired, but Reich did have success with a “generational” player such as luck. David Tipper and the Panthers are hoping to re-create that magic with Reich. But Carolina isn’t the only team looking for a quarterback in this year’s draft. The Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions are just a few teams who may grab a signal caller on April 27th. So we, the collective football fan, analyze these players before they ever put on a uniform. We try to see what their tendencies are and who they will fit with and why they will/won’t succeed at the NFL level.
If you look around the country, baseball if officially back, the NBA and NHL seasons are just about to enter their postseason, and the Masters is happening this weekend. And yet, football remains king. The Quarterback remains king. Let’s dive in to my QB rankings for the 2023 NFL Draft and where we think they will end a few weeks from now.
Quarterbacks. They always get all the attention. No matter what type of “class” is coming in, they are always hyped up. 2023 is no different - as we have up to four quarterbacks who look like they may go in the first round in Kansas City a little less than a month away. They all offer different things too. One is very accurate, but he is too small; one is uber athletic, but can’t complete a five yard pass. A couple are too old, one comes from a long time failing system. Every quarterback is different, and every NFL situation is different.
The Carolina Panthers traded up for the first overall pick in a deal with the Chicago Bears in order to select their QB of the future. Frank Reich is now running the show in Carolina and the Panthers have been busy this off-season with skill players. Guys such as Miles Sanders, Adam Thielen and DJ Clark amongst others have joined the ranks; all in an effort to make whoever is under center come September…comfortable. The last time Reich was a head coach, he had Andrew Luck, who ultimately retired, but Reich did have success with a “generational” player such as luck. David Tipper and the Panthers are hoping to re-create that magic with Reich. But Carolina isn’t the only team looking for a quarterback in this year’s draft. The Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions are just a few teams who may grab a signal caller on April 27th. So we, the collective football fan, analyze these players before they ever put on a uniform. We try to see what their tendencies are and who they will fit with and why they will/won’t succeed at the NFL level.
If you look around the country, baseball if officially back, the NBA and NHL seasons are just about to enter their postseason, and the Masters is happening this weekend. And yet, football remains king. The Quarterback remains king. Let’s dive in to my QB rankings for the 2023 NFL Draft and where we think they will end a few weeks from now.
Bryce Young - Alabama (Grade - Round 1)
Young is the most consistent quarterback in this class. The latest from the Nick Saban tree, Young prides himself on his accuracy and his football acumen. His numbers in college are through the roof (80 TDs, 12 INTs, 8,356 Yds, 65.8 Com %) and the Crimson Tide didn’t really skip a beat while he was there. There was a time, as little as a few months ago, where the SEC star was the undisputed number one pick. However, questions about his size have grown since the end of the college season and with some legitimate reason. He got sized up at the combine, and came in with almost the same exact measurables as Kyler Murray. Murray did end up going first overall to the Arizona Cardinals and has had some success with one contract extension (so far). But Murray’s bug-a-boo these last two years has been something people are worried about with Young - injuries. Some pundits feel Young is too small to be successful and maintain the longevity of success that great NFL QB’s possess.
I am disputing that theory. Young is not like Kyler Murray in any way, shape or form. Let’s get one thing straight about Kyler - he is a runner through and through. He has a strong arm, yes, but he will always be associated with his legs. Young will not be. He is always looking to extend plays, has a great deep ball, and has a knack to put the ball right where the receiver needs to be. His football IQ is very high, which in turn would translate to letting his receivers make plays instead of him using his legs and have the potential of getting hurt. And his height? No matter. He can move; he is mobile. So he can move out of the pocket and throw on the run. He can plant and fire. He can throw from the shotgun. We live in an age in Quarterbacks where height has not mattered as much as it used too. Young has all the talent to be successful in this league and then some.
No player is with their faults though. In the tape I watched, I don’t think I saw Young take one play under center. That is one thing he will need to get adjusted to (as most college QB’s do) but it may take him some time. A few times he will escape the pocket a touch early, and almost prefers the broken play at times. But I am nitpicking. Young is a stud, has a boatload of talent, and should be solid for years to come. Any team that drafts him will be happy. I wouldn't expect immediate results with him (or any of this class), but a few years from now, when we look back, we will say Young was the best of the bunch.
Team Projection: Carolina Panthers (1st Overall)
CJ Stroud - Ohio State (Grade - Round 1)
Ah, CJ Stroud. Talk about a specimen. He has the prototypical NFL build. He has the arm strength. He has arm accuracy. He is very, very good. Let’s discuss the things that make Stroud a number one pick candidate before we dissect why I think he’s a hair behind Young.
Great Touch
Excellent Escapability
Mobile
Deadly Seam Thrower
Stroud is probably the most accurate passer in this class. When he makes a good throw, you notice. He is the modern day QB that everyone should want. Ohio State put up numbers while he was the quarterback - 490 yards of offense per game, 5.5 touchdowns per game; and Stroud himself threw for 41 TDs to 6 INTs last year. For all the math deficient people, that is an inch short of an 8:1 touchdown to interception ratio. Absurd. He doesn’t run much, but he really doesn’t need to. He is great at extending plays while keeping his eyes downfield and he has great accuracy when he is throwing the ball deep. He reminds me of a modern day Ben Reothlisberger with how he plays the game. So why is behind Young?
CJ Stroud went to Ohio State, and the Ohio State offense is known for not preparing their quarterback prospects for the NFL. One thing that I noticed while watching the tape was that Stroud stuck on to his first read way. too. long. Many instances that first read was open, so it didn’t matter. But in the event that option was taken away, Stroud struggled. I highly encourage you to go and watch tape of the Northwestern game, which was Stroud’s worst game of the season by far. Northwestern’s gameplan was to take away Marvin Harrison Jr. (which they did for the most part) and let Stroud try to find other options. He struggled. A lot. When the first option is closed off and Stroud has to play on the run, it’s not pretty. I call it a drop-off from a “structured play to a broken play”. This will get better with time. Good coaching will get rid of this . For now though? I can see him struggling as a rookie in year one while he figures it out. Just look at Justin Fields passing stats through two years (not trying to waken the Fields mob). But that also brings me to my second and final point - the skill players. Stroud’s receivers the last two years included Chris Olave, Garrett Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr. Those three just happen to be the following: ROTY runner up, ROTY and the next great wide receiver who is stuck in college for one more season. Not saying that he won’t succeed, but if Stroud gets drafted to Houston, then it would be wise to pass on him in fantasy to say the least.
Let’s not miss the point though. Stroud will be a good QB. The question will be how good. He arguably has more intangibles than Young, and has the better NFL build. Would I be surprised if he goes number one? No. But what Carolina has done is telling me they want to make their move this year, and that leans me towards Young than anyone else. Stroud will probably start Day 1, and that’s a good decision. After the growing pains, watch out.
Team Projection: Houston Texans
Anthony Richardson - Florida (Grade - Round 2)
And we have come to the conundrum of our rankings. The hype man himself. I am convinced Anthony Richardson was created in a lab and is made completely of vibranium. The man has every physical tool checked off: Size, speed, arm strength, mobility, etc. He has it all. He ran a 4.43 at the NFL combine. A four…four…three. Let that sink in. His vertical jump was 40.5 inches. His broad jump was 10.9 inches. I mean c’mon man! What can’t this guy do! Well…I do have Richardson as a Round 2 grade, and I think for good reason. He is the definition of a project. He absolutely, unequivocally, should not start on day 1. He will be taken in the Top 10 because of the sheer potential alone, but if that franchise who selects him chooses to have him start right away, he will fail.
Richardson is excellent with making progressions, he is an elite runner, and has elite arm strength. He could step on the field today and throw it with the best of them. The problem is not there. And I do think that with some good coaching and sitting for a year, maybe two - he would be my bet to to come out the best of this bunch. But so much rides on where he gets picked. so much. More than any other quarterback coming out of this draft class. He was most likely told to come out this year cause he was guaranteed to get picked in round one and make a boat load of money, and that’s probably a smart move on his part; don’t want to test fate - but I believe he came out a year too early. One more year at Florida would have done him wonders I think, and he could have rivaled Caleb Williams going first overall in the 2024 draft assuming he would’ve stayed healthy. But here we are. Richardson will go in the top 10 and should sit. His biggest issue currently is his accuracy. He struggles with 10 yard outs occasionally and when you look at his statistics from this past year, they don’t blow the doors off like Young and Stroud do. His completion percentage was similar to that of Josh Allen when he was at Wyoming. And I think Josh Allen is a solid comparison in terms of what he can become. Allen, at times, still struggles with accuracy and turnovers, but he largely has overcome that. But if we look back at Allen’s first two years, people were calling him a bust because of his accuracy and turnover issues. It wasn’t until Year 3 that he started to blossom - and I don’t think it's by accident that’s the same year Buffalo acquired Stefon Diggs.
“A-Rod” is the spawn of Cam Newton’s running ability and Josh Allen’s passing ability. If he truly can learn the position and improve his passing game, this guy can become something special.
Team Projection: Seattle Seahawks
Hendon Hooker - Tennessee (Grade - Round 2)
This is the part of the rankings where I think you can find a gem. Think about the following Quarterbacks - Russell Wilson, Kirk Cousins, Dak Prescott; what do they all have in common? They were all drafted in Rounds three or four. Hendon Hooker has the possibility to do the same. He was on his way to the Heisman trophy in 2023 before he tore his ACL during the season. He had risen Tennessee from the depths of college football to become relevant again. He is as polished as they come in terms of this class. He has some really good pocket presence, has a strong arm and is an accurate passer. Hooker had thrown 27 TDs to 2 INTs before his injury while completion nearly 70% of his passes.
While he was shooting up boards during the season, he promptly plummeted after the injury. But as time has drawn closer to the draft, Hooker has re-appeared in first round mock drafts. If healthy, I believe Hooker would be able to start tomorrow for an NFL team. I think he can help certain teams right now. But let’s discuss Hooker the prospect, and why he isn’t a slam dunk for being selected on Thursday. First and foremost, he is already 25 years old. It would be a real shot in the gut for him to get selected by a team to sit for 1-2 years before he starts. That would mean he wouldn’t be starting until he’s 27. For reference, the following QBs are younger than Hooker right now: Lawrence, Hurts, Herbert, Tua - and Burrow/Jackson/Allen are only one year older. It’s a tough spot for a kid this old coming into the draft. Hooker has an elongated motion, a small hitch, and struggles with a feel for the blitz. These are all things that can get corrected, but with him being 25 already, my biggest fear is that if he gets his chance to start right away and doesn’t correct these things, he may never get another shot. For prospects this old, it is usually one shot and done. However, as mentioned before with Wilson, Cousins and Prescott - they all got their shot, and ran with it.
Team Projection: Washington Commanders
Will Levis - Kentucky (Grade - End of Round 2)
This takes us to the human cyborg, Will Levis. Levis was in the news recently for having pictures of him severely bulked up and showing some serious muscle to his physique. In recent days, it has been rumored that the Indianapolis Colts are enamored with him, and as of today, we learned he held a private workout with the Colts and everyone from the Colts brass was there - so there is some serious interest in that. Levis is an interesting prospect - he has a couple of good traits, some bad - but you know when you just have a feel for a guy? Well, I have that feel for Levis, and it’s not a good one. Let’s discuss the things that I actually like about Levis first.
He has elite arm strength - probably second in the class behind Richardson, and he has a quick, quick trigger with the football. When watching the tape, that’s the one thing that stood out. He can get it to his receivers quick which puts them in great position to be in space. Think Derek Carr in terms of getting the ball out of his hands. He can sling it very very well. He transferred from Penn State to Kentucky after his sophomore season and started for Kentucky for two seasons. While he was there, Levis threw for 43 Touchdowns and 23 Interceptions while 66% of his passes. And that’s where Levis loses me. He wasn’t “dominant” in college. He has extremely poor pocket presence, which causes erratic and almost dumbfounding throws, and despite the 66% completion rate, he has poor accuracy. After watching him at the combine, I wasn’t impressed. And now it’s being reported that his interviews are going poorly, so apparently his attitude isn’t great. But I don’t know how much stock I put in that.
What I do know is that Levis will get an opportunity, and it will likely come in the first round. I think starting him Day 1 would be a colossal mistake, but I have a feeling he will be, and we will see the result in time. We don’t wish him to fail, I just think the traits he has set him up for failure in the current NFL landscape. If he can get drafted by a team with a crafty veteran and sit for a couple of years, he may have some success.
Team Projection: Indianapolis Colts
Jaren Hall - BYU (Grade - Round 3)
This is the guy. This is my dark horse pick for the NFL Draft at the QB position. Go watch the tape of Jaren Hall and tell me he isn’t electric? And yes, this is the same school that Zach Wilson went to. But if you watch Wilson college tape and then Jaren Hall tape - tell me who is better. Over the final two years Hall started at BYU, he accounted for 51 TDs and 11 INTs. He also ran for 800 yards over those two years so he is mobile as well. He can navigate the field well, he can extend plays and has a knack for making the big play. If you want to put a name to it, think Jordan Love, but with mobility.
Hall suffers the same fate as Hendon Hooker - being a 25 year old prospect with an injury history. Hall did not play every game as a starter for the past two seasons. He was relatively healthy this year, but that injury bug will wear on him like a badge of honor come draft time. He really isn’t a threat to go on day one, but I can see him going late in day two. There may be a team out there that doesn’t need a QB, but wants to draft one because they aren’t happy with where they are at the position. I can see Hall stepping in the preseason and impressing to a point where he may start Week 1. If you want to see my concerns with his age, please take a look at my Hendon Hooker analysis.
Team Projection: New England Patriots
Jake Haener - Fresno State (Grade - 4th Round)
This is where my list of Day three quarterbacks start. A couple of these guys I think can end up starting one day and be a lightning in a bottle, but don’t expect any of these guys to get real legit opportunities unless an injury happens to the team they are drafted to. Haener is the epitome of the mascot of the school he went to - the Fresno State Bulldogs. What he lacks in size (6’1, 200 lbs.) he doesn’t lack in spirit. Looking back at Haener’s tape, he runs all over the field and just makes plays. He has above average football IQ, and it shows on the field. He can get the ball out quickly and get his receivers in space.
His football IQ and the fact that he stayed through his senior season has allowed him to read defenses well and detect blitz packages, so he is ahead of the game in that regard. Where Haener struggles is the lack of “traits” in his game that translate to the NFL stage. His size and velocity are a real concern - and there is a thought that he can only succeed in a spread offense. I hate to think of this, but my mind immediately goes to Johnny Manziel. However, if Manziel was drafted in the 4th or 5th round and had zero expectations, he might still be in the league. Haener will get drafted, it’s just a matter of when and where. In the right spot, he can be a serviceable backup and get a chance to get a couple of starts.
Team Projection: Cleveland Browns
Stetson Bennett - Georgia (Grade - Round 4)
What else can we say about a back to back National Championship winning quarterback? A lot, apparently. All we have heard is how Bennett wouldn’t even be considered to be drafted if it wasn’t for Georgia’s defense. He wouldn’t have won anything and may not have even gone pro. Well, there is a reason for everything. Let me make this very, very clear: Stetson Bennett can play. Plain and simple. This is a guy that led his team to back to back titles. They hung what, 56 points in the natty against TCU? Oh, and beat Alabama the year before? Georgia doesn’t win without Stetson Bennett, and vice versa.
Bennett has an underrated arm and underrated speed. He is good outside of the pocket and can create something out of nothing. He is a good decision maker (on the field) as his results speak for themselves (27 TDs to 7 INTs, 68% completion). The stigma on Bennett is his age (25) and his apparent lack of awareness off the field - after winning two national titles, he appeared to do a TV interview drunk and then got arrested the following year after winning. Maybe the guy just parties too hard? I don’t know, but it is clearly going to make some teams take him off their board completely. He should get an opportunity to get drafted, and he probably will, but I can see it being on Day 3 in Round 5 or 6. I have a 4th round grade on him because I think his ability is much better than all the other Day 3 candidates. In my mind, I toy between two teams that would draft him, but one makes more sense than the other.
Team Projection: Detroit Lions
Malik Cunningham - Louisville (Grade - 5th Round)
Cunningham is your Lamar Jackson/Justin Fields of this years QB class.Last year, Cunningham ran for over 1,000 yards on the ground and threw for 19 touchdown passes. This year, in only 10 games, he ran for 500 yards, but only threw for 8. He clearly took a step back this year, but the athleticism is undeniable. He is not a big guy (6’1, 195), but his athleticism and speed are nothing to sniff at. As far his arm goes, he is not wildly accurate (62% in college) and under throws a lot of balls. He doesn’t have a strong arm, and after his read has a tendency to tuck and run. My immediate thought in terms of comp is Tyler Huntley, but maybe not as good of a thrower?
He is the all time leader at Louisville for touchdowns, surpassing Lamar Jackson last year. He also ran a 4.53 at the NFL combine, just scratching the surface of his athleticism. In today’s NFL, it would be almost criminal if Cunningham doesn’t get drafted. The reason that he is graded so low is because of his arm - it’s just not NFL ready. It may never even get there. But Cunningham absolutely has the ability to be a Taysom Hill lite in the league today. Some NFL offensive mastermind will draft and want to use him on certain downs for the threat of the run of the pass. A few teams come to mind when thinking of Cunningham and the services he provides, but as a full time starter - I’m unsure if he will ever get there.
Team Projection: Los Angeles Rams
Clayton Tune - Houston (Grade - Round 6)
We are getting to the nitty gritty here. The rest of the guys here I think he can get drafted but can easily go undrafted and sign as UDFAs. My analysis on these guys won’t be as large as the other ones.
Tune played at Houston where the competition was average, but not great. He has a large frame (6’2.5, 220 lbs) and some mobility (ran a 4.64), but he has a “stiff body” in the pocket and doens’t have a very strong arm. His accuracy is very different as opposed to this short game vs. anything of over 30+ yards. He always finished seasons strong, as was the case this year with him winning MVP in the Independence Bowl in the teams win over Louisiana. Tune has the makeup of a backup quarterback in the NFL.
Team Projection: Minnesota Vikings
Max Duggan - TCU (Grade - Late 6th)
The season that the Horned Frogs had absolutely catapulted Duggan in every sense of the word. Coming in as a backup in the opening game of 2022, Duggan was under a spell and took TCU all the way to National Championship game while garnering Heisman finalist honors. It was a great story that ended abruptly when Duggan and the Frogs got stomped by Georgia, but that game alone should tell you all you need to know about Duggan’s NFL potential.
Sure, Duggan is athletic, mobile, and even can create on certain occasions, but he looked like a deer in headlights most of that game. He throws off his back foot a ton, has trouble pre and post snap with his reads, and in inconsistent with his accuracy. I think the notoriety alone from last season will get him drafted, but it may be a struggle for him to stick on an NFL roster.
Team Projection: Dallas Cowboys
Tanner McKee - Stanford (Grade - 7th Round)
McKee comes from the Stanford offense, which is known for their “pro style offense” and gives prospects a leg up on the NFL. The only issue here is that McKee is not very athletic. He would have been a good prospect 25 years ago, but now, I’m not so sure. He does have a big body and has good ball placement, but with that he is slow, flat footed, and has a very long motion. He also isn’t great at extending plays.
McKee would get blasted by the EDGE rushers in today’s NFL. His lack of mobility reminds me of Eli Manning - but he doesn’t nearly have the arm that Manning had. Again, McKee may get drafted because of the school he went too, but don’t be shocked if he gets cut in the pre-season.
Team Projection: Denver Broncos
Sean Clifford - Penn State (Grade - 7th Round/UDFA)
Watching Clifford certain times at Penn State was painful. The Nittany Lions were good despite their non-athletic QB, whose strongest asset was his short passing game accuracy. He has the “death by a thousand cuts” mentality, but that was really the only thing going for him. He has a very long motion, is not great at extending plays, and I can’t tell you the amount of times I saw a ball flutter in the air. The XFL may be calling his name soon enough.
Team Projection: UDFA
Tyson Bagent - Shepherd (Grade - 7th Round/UDFA)
The only D-II QB to make his way into the NFL draft this year, Tyson Bagent was a star at Shepherd. Unfortunately, that will be the last place he may be a star. Bagent comes in as a small QB, doens’t have great arm strength, and has a ton of mechanical issues. He exudes confidence, which is great when you are coming in as underdog, but I would truly be surprised if he gets drafted. He may sign on as a UDFA and end up on a practice squad, but I don’t expect him to be on an NFL roster come Week 1.
Team Projection: UDFA