This was bound to happen. I’ve revised my final mock draft hours before the actual draft starts. The reason being is that I’ve gotten strong indications that Tennessee will move up to #3 if Houston passes on CJ Stroud, which I strongly believe will happen.
This will be the mock i grade myself upon. Here we go:
***FINAL EDITION ***
This is version 4 of the final edition. I’m publishing now hoping nothing happens in the next 3 days.
I want to make a couple points before getting into the mock.
QUARTERBACKS
WILDCARDS
Mocking the NFL Draft isn’t an exact science. It’s all about making an educated guess. NFL front offices always have differing opinions on some players than professional analysts, pundits and amateurs like myself.
Players will go higher and lower than anybody could predict. It’s always a wild ride and one I thoroughly enjoy.
Anyway, here’s my best guess:
#1
BRYCE YOUNG, QB, ALABAMA
Size concerns aside, Young is the most polished QB in this class.
#2
WILL ANDERSON, EDGE, ALABAMA
Anderson is, arguably, the best overall prospect in the draft.
#3
TYREE WILSON, EDGE, TEXAS TECH
Wilson has ideal size, length and bend for an NFL edge rusher.
#4
WILL LEVIS, QB, KENTUCKY
Levis has prototypical measurables for an NFL QB, and a cannon for a right arm.
#5
JALEN CARTER, IDL, GEORGIA
Red flags aside, Carter has too much talent to fall very far.
#6
CHRISTIAN GONZALEZ, CB, OREGON
Gonzalez has ideal size, speed and athleticism to be a top corner in the NFL.
#7
DEVON WITHERSPOON, CB, ILLINOIS
Witherspoon and Gonzalez are interchangeable as the top corner in the draft.
#8
NOLAN SMITH, EDGE, GEORGIA
Smith is the most athletic edge rusher in this class.
#9
Projected trade with Chicago
PARIS JOHNSON JR, OT, OHIO STATE
Johnson is the best pure tackle in the draft.
#10
Projected trade with Philadelphia
ANTHONY RICHARDSON, QB, FLORIDA
Richardson is raw, but has the most upside of any QB in this class.
#11
CJ STROUD, QB, OHIO STATE
Something that we can’t see on tape is driving Stroud down the board.
#12
JAXON SMITH-NJIGBA, WR, OHIO STATE
Despite an injury marred 2022 season, Smith-Njigba is the best receiver in this class.
#13
LUKAS VAN NESS, EDGE, IOWA
Van Ness is a bit raw, but a physical specimen with major upside.
#14
JOEY PORTER JR, CB, PENN STATE
Porter is a tough, physical corner with an excellent pedigree.
#15
PETER SKORONSKI, OT, NORTHWESTERN
Skoronski may end up kicking inside to guard, but he’s the most polished offensive lineman in the draft.
#16
Projected trade with Washington
BIJAN ROBINSON, RB, TEXAS
Robinson is the best RB prospect since Saquon Barkley, and a top five talent in this draft.
#17
Projected trade with Pittsburgh
BRODERICK JONES, OT, GEORGIA
Jones is a bit raw, but has tremendous upside as an offensive tackle.
#18
MYLES MURPHY, EDGE, CLEMSON
Murphy is an extremely talented edge rusher who may be more scheme dependent than those that went before him.
#19
Projected trade with Tampa Bay
JORDAN ADDISON, WR, USC
Addison is a well rounded, highly productive wide receiver.
#20
Projected trade with Seattle
CALIJAH KANCEY, IDL, PITTSBURGH
Kancey is undersized for a defensive tackle, but he’s very quick and tenacious, much like another Pittsburgh alum, Aaron Donald.
#21
Projected trade with LA Chargers
DEONTE BANKS, CB, MARYLAND
Banks is a smart, fast and fearless cornerback.
#22
ZAY FLOWERS, WR, BOSTON COLLEGE
Flowers is a small, but explosive WR with tremendous RAC ability.
#23
Projected trade with Minnesota
DARNELL WRIGHT, OT, TENNESSEE
Wright is the best pure right tackle in the draft. Will Anderson called him his toughest collegiate opponent.
#24
BRIAN BRANCH, S, ALABAMA
Branch is easily the top safety in the draft. Has the versatility to play nickel.
#25
O’CYRUS TORRENCE, IOL, FLORIDA
Torrence is, arguably, the top interior offensive lineman in the draft.
#26
MICHAEL MAYER, TE, NOTRE DAME
Mayer is an excellent pass catching TE with great size.
#27
QUENTIN JOHNSTON, WR, TCU
One of the bigger receivers in the class, Johnston has great contested catch ability.
#28
DARNELL WASHINGTON, TE, GEORGIA
For my money, Washington is the most electric TE in the draft.
#29
BRYAN BRESEE, IDL, CLEMSON
Bresee has the size and speed to be a very good defensive lineman in the NFL. His troubling injury history pushes him down the board.
#30
Projected trade with Philadelphia
HENDON HOOKER, QB, TENNESSEE
Hooker is older, and recovering from a torn ACL, but the talent is obvious. Some team will move up to get that extra year of team control.
#31
JALIN HYATT, WR, TENNESSEE
Hyatt has blazing speed, should contribute right away with room to grow into a more complete receiver.
All seven rounds. Every pick, 1-259. No trades.
ROUND ONE
ROUND TWO
ROUND THREE
ROUND FOUR
ROUND FIVE
ROUND SIX
ROUND SEVEN
Less than two weeks away from the NFL Draft, I decided to publish one last Bears seven round mock.
I mocked a couple trades here. The big one is the first round trade with the Steelers. It’s been rumored that the two teams have touched base on a potential deal, I would love if the parameters look like they do here.
Let’s begin:
ROUND ONE
*TRADE*
Right tackle is arguably the Bears biggest need. Ohio State’s Paris Johnson Jr, Georgia’s Broderick Jones and Northwestern’s Peter Skoronski are all rated higher on most big boards, but Johnson & Jones are primarily left tackles and Skoronski may end up being a guard in the NFL.
Tennessee OT Darnell Wright is a true right tackle and his grade isn’t that far behind the other three. He’s a sure fire day one starter for the Bears with Pro Bowl potential.
Alabama edge rusher, Will Anderson, who many consider the top overall player in the draft calls Wright his toughest collegiate match up. High praise, indeed.
If 2 of Johnson, Jones and Skoronski are off the board at 9, I may hesitate to trade back, but that #32 pick is mighty enticing.
ROUND TWO
This is the reason I wanted that #32 pick. I want Adebawore on the Bears. He’s a freakish athlete, he ran the fastest 40 for a player his size in the history of the NFL Combine. THE FASTEST EVER FOR A GUY HIS SIZE!!!
Adebawore’s best football is ahead of him. He played out of position as an edge rusher at Northwestern, which accounts for his lack of elite production. The Bears will use him as a 3 Tech and he could dominate.
In all honesty, it’s highly likely that Adetomiwa Adebawore doesn’t make it out of the first round. If he doesn’t, I’d consider Michigan defensive lineman Mazi Smith, Minnesota center John Michael- Schmitz or a cornerback in this spot. If he’s there, though, Poles has to pounce.
*TRADE*
Well, my gamble on DJ Turner didn’t work out, he went #50 to Tampa Bay. I considered Kansas State cornerback Julius Brents, but opted to go with a pure edge rusher here.
Isaiah Foskey is another freak athlete. He’s long, fast and explosive with the college production to match. Most draft boards have him in the second tier of edge rushers and a borderline first round pick. Having him available at #53 feels like a steal.
I could have waited on a center, this is a pretty deep class, but I really like Joe Tippman. There have been some mocks that have him as a late first rounder, I think that’s too high. I have a third round grade on him, but I traded the Bears only third rounder to Pittsburgh.
Tippman has high football intelligence and great athleticism for the position. He’s not as polished as Minnesota’s John Michael-Schmitz, but he’s got long term starting potential.
With the addition of Tippman and Darnell Wright, the Bears offensive line is suddenly looking formidable.
FOURTH ROUND
I missed out on corners in the second round, but luckily Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson was still on the board when the fourth round started.
Hodges-Tomlinson is an explosive, physical corner despite his smaller stature. He profiles as a nickel corner in the NFL, but the Bears happen to have a need there.
I picked up this pick in the earlier trade with the Chargers.
Andrew Vorhees is a purely value pick. If he hadn’t torn his ACL at the combine, he was a lock as a day 2 pick. The fact that he still participated in the bench press and did 38 reps, speaks to his competitiveness.
Though they’ll get nothing from him in ‘23, Vorhees offers starting potential for years to come.
This is the fourth rounder I picked up from the Giants earlier.
Even with the addition of DJ Moore, I’d like the Bears to add another receiver in the middle rounds. Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool are both in the final year of their deals and neither is a lock for an extension.
Two mid round targets I really liked, Michigan State’s Jayden Reed and Mississippi’s Jonathan Mingo, went in the third round.
I have Michael Wilson slightly behind those two, and this pick felt like the time to pounce. He shined at the Senior Bowl and offers solid depth with adequate upside.
Bears spent big on linebackers in free agency, so there really isn’t a need, but DeMarvion Overshown is one of my favorite players in the draft.
A converted safety, Overshown has incredible athleticism and has made strides as a linebacker. He could stand to add functional strength to become an every down linebacker in the NFL, but he offers intriguing potential in sub packages and at the very least as a core special teamer.
FIFTH ROUND
I wanted to add another body to the Bears running back room. Some of my favorites went in the third round. In the fourth, I missed on Mississippi’s Zach Evans who went at #123 to Seattle. I passed on Texas’ Roschon Johnson in favor of Michael Wilson at #128.
Israel Abanikanda has top end speed and terrific cutting ability. While he offers little as a third down back, he could compete for carries with Travis Homer and perhaps take over the back up role if the Bears don’t bring back D’onta Foreman in ‘24.
I had Wisconsin’s Keeanu Benton on my radar in the late second round, but opted to go in a different direction. The Steelers actually picked him at #61, a pick they acquired from the Bears.
South Carolina’s Zacch Pickens was on my fourth round radar, but I opted for a corner at #103 and he was off the board by the time I picked at #125. He went #106 to Indianapolis.
Byron Young is a prolific run stuffer that needs to improve as a pass rusher, but he should be able to carve out a role as a rotational piece on the Bears defensive front.
He tested fair to middling at the combine which should push him into the fifth or later rounds.
SEVENTH ROUND
I had planned on using a seventh round pick on a developmental QB, but all the ones I had my eye on went earlier. I decided to add some depth to the secondary.
Jay Ward offers positional versatility as a safety or nickel back. He is fearless in run support despite his thin frame. A well respected leader on the LSU football team, Ward will, at least, add great special teams value.
My big regret in this mock is not landing a tight end in one of the better classes at that position in recent memory. This pick was my last chance to grab one with some upside. Ward offers valuable depth and special teams value, but I wonder if I should have used this pick on Clemson tight end Davis Allen.
Myles Brooks has the frame of an NFL boundary corner, and the ball skills. Where he’s lacking is top end speed and athleticism.
He profiles as strictly a reserve corner and special teamer, but his ball production warrants a flyer with the next to last pick in the draft.
RECAP
My first four picks for the Bears completely transform their offensive and defensive lines. Wright is a day one starter at right tackle and Tippman could earn the starting center job as a rookie.
Adebawore may have some growing pains adjusting to the NFL, but his athleticism and traits point to him being a very good 3 Tech. Foskey will find himself with a heavy workload as a pass rusher early in his rookie season.
These four, alone, would be cause for celebration, but I think I found some quality pieces with starting potential in the fourth round as well.
If Ryan Poles adds 4 to 6 starters and some quality depth, this will be a successful draft for the Chicago Bears.
My regrets with this mock are not grabbing a TE, as I mentioned and not landing a developmental QB, but this is a mild regret.
I waited too long to grab a RB, but it wasn’t a pressing need.
Perhaps, I should’ve have added a corner earlier. The Bears do need a nickel and, personally, I think they might need a replacement for Jaylon Johnson, because I wouldn’t be surprised if the Bears let him walk after this season.
I’m excited to see how the draft actually unfolds.
We’re in the home stretch towards the NFL Draft, one of my favorite weeks of the year. Hope springs eternal for all 32 NFL fan bases. For this mock, I’m analyzing the options for each pick. There are no trades, but I do speculate on possible moves.
Barring any major shake ups, this will be my final first round mock until draft week. Here we go:
1. CAROLINA PANTHERS- This is going to be a QB, no question, the only question is which one. In my opinion, I think it’s between CJ Stroud & Bryce Young, but for the sake of this exercise there’s also a non-zero chance it could be Anthony Richardson.
Panthers paid a premium to move up to this spot, they cannot afford to miss. Young has tested off the charts & he’s the most accomplished of the QBs, but his slight stature is a risk. Richardson has tremendous upside, but he’s raw. That’s why I think the pick will be:
2. HOUSTON TEXANS- The choice here is between the two QBs Carolina passed over, in this case Bryce Young & Anthony Richardson and the best player in the draft, Alabama edge rusher, Will Anderson.
I toyed with the idea of Houston passing on a QB here and waiting for their pick at #12, but I don’t think they can afford that risk. So, the pick comes down to the QBs. I think it’ll be:
3. ARIZONA CARDINALS- For Arizona, the question comes down to the two best defensive players or trading back for more draft capital.
Unless a team in the top ten comes calling, trying to jump ahead of Indianapolis, I think the Cardinals will stay put. I don’t think they’ll be willing to move too far down the board.
The choice then becomes Will Anderson or Jalen Carter. Carter is immensely talented, but questions about his work ethic and his off field issues make this pick easy.
4. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS- The general consensus is that Indy will pick a QB, but they haven’t been very aggressive in securing one. They allowed Carolina to leap frog them and are now relegated to the third QB off the board. With Arizona directly in front of them, there’s a chance they get jumped again. Would they be satisfied with the fourth QB off the board?
To me, it depends on the QB. If it’s Anthony Richardson, I think they’ll take him. He fits the athletic profile that new head coach, Shane Steichen, had with Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia.
If Will Levis is the one left, I’m not so sure the Colts don’t just roll with Gardner Minshew this season with an eye to next year’s draft when the QBs are more elite.
So, I think Indy’s choice is between Richardson, Levis and the top OT in the draft, Paris Johnson Jr, in my opinion. As the board has fallen, thus far, the pick is easy:
5. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS- Seattle is a bit of a wildcard early in this draft. If one of Stroud, Young or Richardson slips past Indy, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Seahawks pounce.
If Arizona trades out of #3 and QBs go 1-4, then Will Anderson would be a no brainer.
Neither of those scenarios happens in this mock, so Seattle chooses between Jalen Carter & Tyree Wilson. The questions surrounding Carter cause him to slip further:
6. DETROIT LIONS- Detroit might consider Richardson if he’s still on the board. I actually think this would be a perfect landing spot for him, Jared Goff could hold down the fort, even lead a playoff drive, while Richardson acclimates to the NFL.
I think edge rusher could be a possibility, if Anderson or Wilson are still available, but they’re not in this mock.
So, it comes down to Jalen Carter and the top CB, Christian Gonzalez. Carter would be a beast for the Lions and totally transform their defense, but those questions about his character linger. I don’t see Dan Campbell wanting anyone with a questionable work ethic. The pick:
7. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS- Vegas could sniff around a QB, but I don’t think they’ll move up for one. Will Levis is the only one I think will slip past the top 5.
Conversely, I think the Raiders are sitting in the sweet spot for a team to move up for that fourth QB.
Corner could be an option, Gonzalez, if he’s there, or Devon Witherspoon. Or, the Raiders could take the top OT in the draft, Paris Johnson Jr.
With Gonzalez off the board, I think the pick will be:
8. ATLANTA FALCONS- I just don’t get the sense that Atlanta is considering a QB here, I suppose things could change depending on the board, but I don’t see it.
Tyree Wilson would be the pick if he’s available, but he’s not in this mock. Same for Christian Gonzalez.
For me, the pick comes down to Jalen Carter & Devon Witherspoon. The slide stops in his home state:
9. CHICAGO BEARS- Chicago traded down from #1 already, but they might not be done. With Levis still on the board, they’re open for business.
If Tyree Wilson is somehow still on the board, I think he’s easily the pick. He’s not in this case.
Jalen Carter would warrant some consideration if he’s there. He’s not, so it’s not a consideration at all.
I don’t think the Bears will take a skill position player here, so I think their choice will come down to top edge rusher, Myles Murphy, top CB, Devon Witherspoon or top OT, Paris Johnson Jr or Broderick Jones.
I think the pick will be:
10. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES- Philly is apparently the team that told Jalen Carter they’d take him if he’s there, but he’s not so let’s shift our focus elsewhere.
With Howie Roseman at the wheel, you can never count out the Eagles trading back, but there’s no trades in this mock.
I think the Eagles choice comes down to edge rusher, cornerback and Texas RB Bijan Robinson.
I wouldn’t be surprised by Robinson, he’s definitely a top ten talent, but RB isn’t a premium position and Philly doesn’t draft them in the first round.
Either Myles Murphy or Lukas Van Ness would fit on the Eagles defense, but I think the best player available is:
11. TENNESSEE TITANS- The word is Tennessee aggressively pursued the #1 pick, so with Will Levis still on the board, there’s a possibility they could go QB.
I think they’ll also consider Northwestern OT, Peter Skoronski, who may end up kicking inside to guard, or the top WR on their board.
The Titans drafted Malik Willis last year, while he’s not ready to be the starter yet he still possesses intriguing potential. I don’t think Tennessee will see Levis as an upgrade, so I think they’ll go:
12. HOUSTON TEXANS– After taking their franchise QB earlier, Houston could switch to defense and take either Myles Murphy or Lukas Van Ness, or they could give their new QB a true number one WR, Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
If Carolina opts for either Bryce Young or Anthony Richardson, and Houston gets CJ Stroud, I’d say JSN is a slam dunk pick. Even without Stroud, I like the pick:
13. NEW YORK JETS- Reports are stating that Green Bay is backing off their insistence on this pick being part of the package for Aaron Rodgers, but until a deal gets done, I’m not completely dismissing the idea.
If the Jets keep this pick, I think their choices come down to the top offensive lineman left, the top edge rusher left or the top safety in the entire draft, Brian Branch.
I think #13 is too high for Branch. Edge rushers, Lukas Van Ness & Myles Murphy are intriguing, but ultimately I think the Jets bigger needs lie elsewhere. With Paris Johnson, Broderick Jones & Peter Skoronski off the board, Darnell Wright is the next OT on the board.
Most draft analysts have him as a late first, early second round guy, but he’s been climbing draft boards lately, so:
14. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS- I think New England will decide between cornerback, edge rusher & wide receiver.
Ultimately, I don’t see Belichick drafting a receiver early. CB is possible, but this guy’s name just screams Patriots’ defense:
15. GREEN BAY PACKERS- Green Bay’s first post-Aaron Rodgers draft (maybe?) could start with giving Jordan Love more weapons or fixing an aging defense.
Notre Dame TE, Michael Mayer, has been a popular mock draft target for the Packers, but I’m not on board. I think they’ll draft a TE, but not in the first round.
Alabama safety, Brian Branch, would fill a need, but I think it’s still a bit early for him.
In the end, I think Green Bay goes with a pass rusher:
16. WASHINGTON COMMANDERS- Washington is a candidate to move up for a QB. With Will Levis still on the board, I think it’s a consideration.
Minnesota IOL, John Michael Schmitz, is the best center in the draft. It wouldn’t surprise me to see him go in the first round, but #16 seems really high.
I think the Commanders are going to give Sam Howell a real chance to take hold of the QB spot, so they’ll take the top CB here:
17. PITTSBURGH STEELERS- I think Pittsburgh’s choices come down to defensive line, secondary or offensive line. I’m not sure the value is there for an offensive lineman, leaving DL & DB.
In both cases, the Steelers have a close connection. DL will be between Bryan Bresee and Pittsburgh’s Calijah Kancey. DB comes down to Deonte Banks or son of a Steelers’ legend, Joey Porter Jr.
Porter is off the board, so I think Pittsburgh stays close to home and takes the fast rising IDL:
18. DETROIT LIONS- Detroit passed over Will Levis with their first pick, but they have to consider him here.
I think TE is possible, but it’s still early and the TE class is pretty deep.
I think the Lions will bolster their defensive line, with either Clemson’s Bryan Bresee or Georgia’s Nolan Smith. The pick is:
19. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS- Tampa is another potential landing spot for Will Levis, either by trading up or staying put.
I also think they’ll consider Georgia edge, Nolan Smith and Maryland corner, Deonte Banks.
I think they’ll opt for the freak athleticism of:
20. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS- Seattle will pass, again, on a second chance at Levis. I don’t think he represents the upgrade over Geno Smith and Drew Lock that warrants a first round pick.
The Seahawks will look closely at Minnesota center, John Michael Schmitz and Alabama safety, Brian Branch, but ultimately they’ll take the best WR on their board:
21. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS- I feel like the Chargers will take an offensive weapon here. Either USC WR, Jordan Addison, Texas RB, Bijan Robinson or Notre Dame TE, Michael Mayer.
If LA trades Austin Ekeler, I think Robinson will be the choice. They could still take him, regardless.
They don’t really have a great TE on the roster, so they may go there.
Ultimately, though, I think they go with an eventual replacement for Keenan Allen:
22. BALTIMORE RAVENS- With the Lamar Jackson situation unresolved, Baltimore has to consider Will Levis here. Perhaps they trade Jackson and move further up the board (Indy?).
I do think Jackson plays in Baltimore this season, so they’ll pass on Levis.
They’ve needed a receiver forever, so they’ll look, but the mini run on them will make them pivot to the secondary:
23. MINNESOTA VIKINGS- Minnesota’s Achilles heel was their defense last season, so they should look on that side. There are corners and edge rushers available that are worthy of this spot.
The thing is, Kirk Cousins is 34 years old and he can become a free agent after this season. The Vikings won’t move up for a QB, but if one falls in their lap:
24. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS- Jacksonville is one of the toughest teams to pick for. There’s so many directions I think the Jaguars could go.
Positional value, overall value and team needs lead me to believe this pick will either be in the secondary or Ohio State offensive tackle, Dawand Jones, who would fill the void left by Jawaan Taylor.
I think Jacksonville takes the best safety in the class:
25. NEW YORK GIANTS- I think the Giants will weigh the options between wide receiver, offensive line and defensive back.
I think Florida IOL, O’Cyrus Torrence, is a real possibility, but the Giants receiving corps was really bad last season and the addition of Darren Waller still leaves it wanting.
Zay Flowers or Jalin Hyatt?
26. DALLAS COWBOYS- I think Dallas will add an offensive skill position with this pick. It could be a TE to replace Dalton Schultz, Michael Mayer or Dalton Kincaid. It could be a speedy running mate for Cee Dee Lamb, Jalin Hyatt.
In all honesty, if this guy is still on the board, it’s a slam dunk. I wouldn’t rule out the Cowboys trading up for him:
27. BUFFALO BILLS- Buffalo would seriously consider Robinson if he made it past Dallas, he won’t. They may consider Alabama RB, Jahmyr Gibbs, though.
Offensive line is the other consideration. Oklahoma’s Anton Harrison or Ohio State’s Dawand Jones merit consideration.
I think the Bills go guard, though:
28. CINCINNATI BENGALS- Dawand Jones makes a lot of sense, if Cincy moves on from Jonah Williams.
It never hurts to have more DBs, so there’s a chance the Bengals go secondary, but I think adding the top TE in a deep class to an already dangerous offense would make them damn near unstoppable:
29. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS- New Orleans could look at Notre Dame TE, Michael Mayer, but Dennis Allen is a defensive coach, so I think they’ll go that route.
The Saints haven’t had the best track record with first round edge rushers, so I think they’ll take a DL that can play inside or outside. One of my favorite players in the draft:
30. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES- Philly went corner earlier, so I don’t see them going back to the secondary. RB could be an option if either Robinson or Gibbs are on the board, they’re not.
As I stated earlier, you can never rule out a Philly trade back. I can really see a team moving up for that extra year of control on Tennessee QB, Hendon Hooker.
Staying put, I think the Eagles add a pass rusher:
31. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS- KC could add a pass rusher to replace Frank Clark. They could add another OT or address the secondary.
Instead, I think they’ll add the speed threat to their receiving corps they haven’t had since Tyreek Hill departed. This addition will make the Chiefs offense even scarier:
This is my final 8 team, 7 round mock draft of 2023. I tried to keep the first round picks the same as version 3.3. Without further ado:
NEW YORK GIANTS
I had the Giants trade up in 3.3 for Quentin Johnston. There were no trades in this mock and Johnston was gone by pick #25, so they pivoted to Zay Flowers.
Even after acquiring Darren Waller, drafting Cameron Latu in the fifth is a good move.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Myles Murphy adds to Philly’s collection of pass rushers. Brian Branch steps into the void left by Chauncey Gardner-Johnson’s departure.
Tyjae Spears could be very dynamic in this offense.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Steelers stay close to home with their first rounder for the second straight year. Calijah Kancey has drawn comparisons with Aaron Donald.
Jack Campbell could become the next great Steeler linebacker named Jack.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
San Fran has quite a few picks, but they don’t make their first until the end of the third round.
Jammie Robinson & Eli Ricks add depth and starting potential to the secondary.
Niners let Robbie Gould walk, so taking kicker Chad Ryland at the end of the seventh makes sense.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
I’ve been locked in on Seattle taking Tyree Wilson with their first pick, but I think they could be in play for a QB or Jalen Carter at 5.
Speaking of Carter, I had the Seahawks grabbing him at 20 in 3.3, but I’m starting to believe he doesn’t make it out of the top ten now. He doesn’t in this mock, so I have them pivoting to Jordan Addison.
I do have Seattle taking a QB in the fourth round, Tanner McKee.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
I think this is a strong draft for Tampa in their first year of a rebuild.
Adetomiwa Adebawore is one of my favorite players in this draft.
Their top 7 picks should all make contributions as rookies, while Clayton Tune is a nice developmental QB.
TENNESSEE TITANS
Paris Johnson Jr is the top OT in the draft. John Michael Schmitz is the top center. This is how you rebuild an offensive line.
Small draft class for Tennessee, but I like it. Jake Haener is a good developmental QB.
WASHINGTON COMMANDERS
Corner has been a consistent target I’ve had for Washington in the first round, right now I’ve got Cam Smith.
I doubled up on LBs with Drew Sanders & Henry To’o To’o, but the value was too good to pass up.
Another eight team, seven round mock draft. This time, I tried to keep each team’s first pick the same as it was in version 3.3. There were trades in 3.3, but not here, though I did attempt to give teams the same player. That being said, here we go:
LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
I feel like this is a strong draft for the Raiders. They could look for a QB to groom behind Jimmy G earlier than the seventh round, but I think they’re better served addressing the offensive line early.
The Ohio State teammates, Paris Johnson Jr & Luke Wypler will transform the Vegas offensive line.
Their first 5 picks are all potential starters, the next 5 all are potentially key contributors.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Strong draft for the Chargers. Jordan Addison will help a receiving corps that was decimated by injuries last season.
Tyjae Spears is an explosive, multi-purpose running back that could replace Austin Ekeler, if his trade request is granted.
DeMarcco Hellams has starter potential as a seventh rounder.
LOS ANGELES RAMS
I had the Rams trading into the back end of the first round to select Hendon Hooker in Mock Draft 3.3, they take him at #36 here. Honestly, I think the best move is trading up. It would give them a fifth year of control and the 2023 season is basically a wash for Hooker, who is recovering from a torn ACL.
Ricky Stromberg has starting potential in the sixth round. Keaton Mitchell is a dynamic home run threat as a ball carrier, could be a seventh round steal.
MIAMI DOLPHINS
Miami has spent a bunch of draft capital adding veteran talent, so don’t expect much.
Steve Avila could start immediately. Tucker Kraft replaces the departed Mike Gesicki.
MINNESOTA VIKINGS
I expect Minnesota to focus on defense with their limited picks. Isaiah Foskey is a bit of a reach in the first round, but DeMarvion Overshown could be a dynamic playmaker at LB.
Tyler Scott has plenty of speed and will make a nice compliment to Justin Jefferson.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Lukas Van Ness just has Patriots sounding name.
Josh Downs should help Mac Jones take a step forward.
New England lands four potential contributors and possible eventual starters in the secondary in tgis draft.
Olusegun Oluwatimi should become an eventual starting center.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
The Saints take another first round crack at a pass rusher in BJ Ojulari, hopefully he works out better than their previous picks.
I don’t expect Darnell Washington to last until pick #40, but if he does, he’s too good to pass up.
Gervon Dexter & Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson should both be significant contributors on defense, while their last four picks all have the potential to contribute on the offensive side.
A pretty solid draft for New Orleans.
NEW YORK JETS
In 3.3, I have the Jets trading picks #13 & 42 to Green Bay to acquire Aaron Rodgers. Reports are that NY is reluctant to include that first rounder, as they should be, but I think they’ll have to if Green Bay insists.
Without those first two picks, this draft would be middling, at best. Payne Durham, however, has sleeper potential.
I’ve done a 3 round mock draft this time, with trades in the first round only. A couple of the trades are absolute blockbusters. A quick recap:
* Lamar Jackson to Indianapolis for a bevy of picks, including the #4 pick in this draft.
If, and granted, it’s a big IF, Baltimore were to trade Jackson, I think this trade makes the most sense. Baltimore would put themselves in position to draft a successor at QB. Meanwhile, Indy would make the splash at QB that owner Jim Irsay has been demanding.
* Aaron Rodgers to the Jets for a package that includes picks #13 & 42 (at least).
If I’m the Jets, I wouldn’t trade a first round pick for a 39 year old QB who may be only a one year rental, but Green Bay has the leverage here, and they know it. New York put all their eggs in the Rodgers basket, it’ll cost them.
* The Giants jump from #25 to #19 in a trade with Tampa Bay.
* Dallas moves up 2 spots from #26 to #24 in a trade with Jacksonville.
* The Rams move into the first round in a trade with Philadelphia, acquiring pick #30 for a package including pick #36.
Now, on to the mock:
ROUND ONE
1. CAROLINA PANTHERS- CJ Stroud, QB, Ohio State
2. HOUSTON TEXANS- Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
Basically, these two picks are interchangeable. Stroud & Young will be the first 2 names called, only the order is to be determined. It depends on Carolina. I think they’ll go Stroud, leaving Young for Houston.
3. ARIZONA CARDINALS- Will Anderson, EDGE, Alabama: Anderson being the third name called is locked. Unless Arizona trades the pick, Anderson will be a Cardinal.
4. BALTIMORE RAVENS (from Indy)- Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida: Baltimore moves on from Lamar Jackson with a younger, bigger, stronger version. Not the runner Jackson is (who is?), but maybe a stronger passer. Richardson’s ceiling may be higher than both Stroud & Young.
5. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS– Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech: I’ve played around with Seattle taking a QB here, but that was with Richardson on the board. With him gone, I think the Seahawks may consider Jalen Carter, but ultimately go with the long & bendy Wilson.
6. DETROIT LIONS– Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon: Lions taking the top corner with this pick feels like a safe bet, right now I think that’s Gonzalez.
7. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS- Paris Johnson Jr, OT, Ohio State: Vegas could consider a QB here, but I think they’ll opt to give Jimmy G the best tackle in the draft.
8. ATLANTA FALCONS- Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois: I think the Falcons might strongly consider Jalen Carter here, but ultimately pass in favor of cornerback 1A, Witherspoon.
9. CHICAGO BEARS- Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia: Jones isn’t far behind Paris Johnson on the OT list, and his ceiling may be higher.
10. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES- Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson: Philly doesn’t have many holes, going with the top edge rusher on the board in Murphy, makes sense.
11. TENNESSEE TITANS- Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern: Tennessee might consider Will Levis here, but I think they’ll pass. Skoronski is probably the top offensive lineman in the draft, but he’s probably going to have to kick inside to guard in the NFL. This works for the Titans, who have needs all along their line.
12. HOUSTON TEXANS- Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State: No matter which QB Houston ends up with, pairing him with the best WR in the class is a home run.
13. GREEN BAY PACKERS (from Jets)- Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia: Part of the package Green Bay gets for Rodgers. Smith is a freak athlete on the edge, quickly rising up draft boards.
14. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS- Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa: I just know that Belichick will go defense here, pairing Van Ness (the name just sounds like a Patriot) with Matthew Judon will terrorize AFC East QBs.
15. GREEN BAY PACKERS- Joey Porter Jr, CB, Penn State: Packers stay on the defensive side with their original first round pick.
16. WASHINGTON COMMANDERS- Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina: Washington might consider Will Levis, but ultimately goes with cornerback Smith.
17. PITTSBURGH STEELERS- Calijah Kancey, IDL, Pittsburgh: Steelers stay close to home for the second straight year and grab a DT many have compared to Aaron Donald.
18. DETROIT LIONS- Will Levis, QB, Kentucky: After passing on him with their first pick, Detroit stops Levis’ slide as the eventual successor to Jared Goff.
19. NEW YORK GIANTS (from TB)- Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU: Giants see some WR needy teams in front of them and swing a deal to move up from 25.
20. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS- Jalen Carter, IDL, Georgia: Seattle passed on Carter with their first pick. His off field issues & questionable work ethic cause him to fall to 20, where the Seahawks decide he’s worth the gamble.
21. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS- Jordan Addison, WR, USC: Injuries decimated the Chargers receiving corps last season, drafting another weapon for Justin Herbert seems essential.
22. BALTIMORE RAVENS- Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland: Ravens opt for secondary help over a receiver for their new QB.
23. MINNESOTA VIKINGS- Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame: Fairly confident Minnesota will go defense with this pick, here it’s an edge rusher.
24. DALLAS COWBOYS (from Jax)- Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas: Jerry Jones can’t help himself, he sees a franchise RB within his grasp and trades up to get him.
25. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (from NYG)- Adetomiwa Adebawore, EDGE, Northwestern: Tampa moves down six spots and plucks one of my favorite players in this draft.
26. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (from Dallas)- Brian Branch, S, Alabama: Jacksonville adds a little draft capital to move back 2 spots and still get the guy they probably would have taken at 24. Branch is easily the best safety in the class.
27. BUFFALO BILLS– O’Cyrus Torrence, IOL, Florida: Buffalo picking Torrence has been my most consistent pick outside the top ten.
28. CINCINNATI BENGALS- Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah: Adding a truly great pass catching TE to Joe Burrow’s collection of weapons makes this a truly scary offense.
29. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS- BJ Ojulari, EDGE, LSU: Saints take another first round shot at an edge rusher, hopefully with better results.
30. LOS ANGELES RAMS (from Philly)- Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee: Rams move into the back of the first round to secure a fifth year option on a QB, who would have been a first round lock had he not gotten injured.
31. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS- Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee: Super Bowl champs add a speed threat they’ve lacked without Tyreek Hill.
ROUND TWO
ROUND THREE
(c) denotes compensatory pick
Another week, another 8 team seven round mock. Like 3.18, I tried to keep the first round selections the same as 3.0. I did these 8 teams so there’s no overlapping between them, but there will probably be some overlapping with teams in 3.18.
DALLAS COWBOYS
I had Dallas take Dalton Kincaid in 3.0, he’s off the board here so I chose Michael Mayer as the replacement for Dalton Schultz.
Devon Achane should be a nice replacement for Zeke and a good complement to Tony Pollard.
Took a seventh round flyer on developmental QB Clayton Tune.
DENVER BRONCOS
Denver doesn’t make their first selection until the third round because of the acquisitions of Russell Wilson & Sean Payton.
I used all of their limited picks on defense, since they addressed offense mostly in free agency.
Zacch Pickens should be a nice replacement for Dre’Mont Jones.
DETROIT LIONS
In 3.0, I had Detroit stopping Jalen Carter’s fall at pick 18. He’s off the board in this one, but Anthony Richardson fell, so I pounced. The Lions are one of my two favorite landing spots for Richardson, who needs time to develop behind a seasoned veteran.
I went heavy on defense for Detroit.
Tucker Kraft will be their replacement for TJ Hockenson.
GREEN BAY PACKERS
Darnell Washington is an absolute steal in the second round.
Stetson Bennett will have a decent career as a back up QB in the NFL, Green Bay needs one with Jordan Love taking over.
HOUSTON TEXANS
In 3.0, I have Houston taking CJ Stroud at 2, he goes #1 here, so I pivot to Bryce Young.
Pairing Jaxon Smith-Njigba with Stroud would have been a home run, pairing him with Young is still pretty lethal.
The Texans have a lot of picks, so I ended up doubling down on some positions like TE & CB.
Young’s Alabama teammate, Cameron Latu, feels like a steal in the late 6th round.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Indianapolis might end up regretting not being more aggressive in moving up, but I think Will Levis has been their guy for awhile.
Double dipped at TE with Zack Kuntz & Brenton Strange, but both are rather raw projects with plenty of potential.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
For the first time since 2020, Jacksonville isn’t picking first overall.
I have a strong feeling the Jaguars first pick will be a defensive back, so I’m sticking with Cam Smith.
Davis Allen in the late sixth round is solid value.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Zay Flowers was my Chiefs pick in 3.0, but he’s off the board here. Instead, I selected Jalin Hyatt, who will give them the speed threat Tyreek Hill once did.
Jammie Robinson will step into the void left by Tyrann Mathieu in Kansas City.
Kenny McInthosh adds to KC’s collection of multi-purpose RBs.
Over the next month I’ll do seven round mocks for all 32 teams. I’ll do 8 teams at a time, simultaneously, so there won’t be any overlapping players within each group of eight.
For these mocks I am not projecting any trades. I did try to keep each team’s first round selection the same as I had for Mock Draft 3.0.
ARIZONA CARDINALS
Unless Arizona trades out of #3, Will Anderson to the Cardinals is the surest thing in this draft.
Rashee Rice is my favorite pick for the Cardinals.
ATLANTA FALCONS
In 3.0 I had Atlanta trading up for Anthony Richardson. He’s off the board this time, so I pivoted to defense & took the top CB, Devon Witherspoon.
I gave the Falcons a QB in the fourth round, Tanner McKee is QB5 on a lot of draft boards.
Ricky Stromberg in the seventh could be a steal.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
I had Baltimore trade up for Quentin Johnston in 3.0, he’s off the board at #22, but they still land a WR in Jordan Addison.
With the uncertainty of the Lamar Jackson situation, I have the Ravens drafting a possible successor in Hendon Hooker.
BUFFALO BILLS LOL
Buffalo drafting O’Cyrus Torrence is one of my more consistent picks. I really like the fit.
Tyler Scott has speed for days which will make the Bills’ offense even more dangerous.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
I explained in 3.0 why I switched Carolina’s choice at #1 from CJ Stroud to Bryce Young.
Adding Young’s Alabama teammate, Jahmyr Gibbs, was a nice pick, but I should have also targeted a WR.
CHICAGO BEARS
In 3.0 I had the Bears trading back and drafting Broderick Jones, so I had them take him at #9 this time.
As Bears fan, I’d be thrilled to land Adetomiwa Adebawore & John Michael Schmitz in the second.
I hate the idea of drafting kickers, but Chicago has a ton of picks, so I picked Jake Moody with the next to last pick of the draft.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Just like 3.0, Dalton Kincaid is off the board, so I have Cincinnati pivot to the offensive line and take Anton Harrison.
I have the Bengals grabbing their TE in the third round with Tucker Kraft.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Cleveland doesn’t have a first round pick, so this is my first time mocking any draft picks for them.
The Browns first pick, Keion White, has been rising up draft boards.
Kayshon Boutte has first round talent, but off field issues push him down to the fourth round.
Cleveland picks Jake Haener in the sixth round to develop behind Deshaun Watson.
Nickels and Dimes 