NFL Draft 2023 – Running Back Class Shines

 Running Back 2023 Class Shines

Draft Insiders’ Yearbook 2023 – Ready Now – Order Today

Running Backs – Grade: B
      Positional Overview:
This year’s running back position is another above average group after a solid class last April. Underclassmen will once again dominate from among the top prospects with most having early NFL starting grades. This class could supply two #1 picks with Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs, the best candidates. There should be possibly 5-6 selections in the top 100 picks and 10-12 in the top 150 selections. Robinson is a very tough complete back. He is a well-rounded performer with a nice combination of quickness, power and complete skills to be a three down back. Gibbs is a playmaker with NFL starting talent. He had an impressive NFL Combine workout. He is a first-round bubble prospect with the talent to provide impact as a rookie. Zack Charbonnet is a workhorse back and one of the most durable runners in recent years. Devon Achane is another playmaker who figures to fill a few roles as a 1A type. He provides impact as receiver and a top change of pace runner. Lew Nichols is an emerging highly-underrated talent to become a three-down workhorse and one of the surprises of this group. This class should produce as many as 7-8 quality feature backs with a few at the top of the class capable of becoming early pro starters. Another gem is Tyjae Spears who we scouted extensively. He has the skills to be a quality role weapon with the athleticism to be a very good pro. He is a complete 1A type and best 3rd down back in this class. This class could provide 20+ selected in the seven rounds with many return specialists and 3rd down backs.

    NFL Teams in need:

  • Bears                 5. Cardinals
  • Rams                6. Panthers
  • Ravens             7. Jets 
  • Lions               8. Chargers

 NFL Premier Player
Derrick Henry

Blue Chip – Bijan Robinson
Red Chip – Jahmyr Gibbs
Rising – Zach Charbonnet
Falling – Sean Tucker
Underrated – Zach Evans
Overrated – Devon Achane
Sleeper – Kenny McIntosh
Hidden Gem – Lew Nichols
Boom/Bust – DeWayne McBride
Longterm Surprise – Tank Bigsby

         Positional Traits

Best Athlete – Bijan Robinson
Inside Runner – Bijan Robinson
Outside Run – Jahmyr Gibbs
Goal line Runner – Bijan Robinson
Best All-purpose – Kendre Miller
Best Hands – Kenny McIntosh
Best After Catch – Tyjae Spears
Best Blocker – Roschon Johnson
Most Durable – Zach Charbonnet
Best Instincts – Jahmyr Gibbs
Best Intangibles – Chase Brown

Top Running Backs Prospects 
1 Bijan Robinson                     Texas
2 Jahmyr Gibbs                       Alabama
3 Devon Achane                      Texas A&M
4 Zach Charbonnet                  UCLA
5 Kendre Miller                        TCU
6 DeWayne McBride              Alabama-Birm
7 Tyjae Spears                          Tulane
8 Zach Evans                           Mississippi
9 Kenny McIntosh                  Georgia
10 Sean Tucker                        Syracuse
11 Roschon Johnson              Texas
12 Tank Bigsby                        Auburn
13 Chase Brown                       Illinois
14 Lew Nichols                        Central Michigan
15 Chris Rodriguez                 Kentucky
16 Eric Gray                            Oklahoma
17 Deuce Vaughn                  Kansas State
18 Mohamed Ibrahim         Minnesota
19 Izzy Abanikanda             Pittsburgh
20 Evan Hull                       Northwestern




Top 50 Pro Prospects for the NFL Draft

Top 50 Pro Prospects for the NFL Draft 2023

 DraftInsiders.com

March 25, 2023

 Frank Coyle/ Head scout

  Free Exclusive Emails for Full Subscribers

 Top 50 Pro Prospects

 #  Pro Prospect           Pos      Ht / Wt           School 

1 Will Anderson          Edge    6-4, 245         Alabama

2 Bryce Young                        QB       5-11, 195          Alabama

3 CJ Stroud                            QB       6-3, 215            Ohio State

4 Will Levis                             QB       6-3, 232            Kentucky

5 Peter Skoronski                    OT        6-4, 315            Northwestern

6 Jalen Carter                          DT        6-3, 310            Georgia

7 Tyree Wilson                        DE       6-5, 275            Texas Tech

8 Myles Murphy                       Edge    6-5, 275            Clemson

9 Lukas Van Ness                   Edge    6-4, 255            Iowa

10 Devon Witherspoon              CB        6-1, 180            Illinois

11 Paris Johnson                      OT        6-6, 315            Ohio State

12 Nolan Smith                         Edge    6-3, 235            Georgia

13 Broderick Jones                   OT        6-4, 315            Georgia

14 Christian Gonzalez                CB        6-1. 205            Oregon

15 Bijan Robinson                     RB        5-11, 225          Texas

16 Michael Mayer                      TE        6-5, 255            Notre Dame

17 Dalton Kincaid                      TE        6-6, 245            Utah

18 Anthony Richardson              QB       6-4, 235            Florida

19 Quentin Johnston                 WR       6-3, 215            TCU

20 Joey Porter                          CB        6-1, 200            Penn State

21 Jordan Addison                    WR       5-11, 175          Southern Cal

22 Luke Musgrave                     TE        6-5, 255            Oregon State

23 Jaxon Smith-Njigba               WR       5-11, 200          Ohio State

24 O’Cyrus Torrence                  OG       6-5, 340            Florida

25 Kelee Ringo                         CB        6-2, 205            Georgia

26 Brian Branch                         S          6-0, 195            Alabama

27 Trent Simpson                      LB        6-3, 230            Clemson

28 Jahmyr Gibbs                       RB        5-11, 200          Alabama

29 Isaiah Foskey                       Edge    6-5, 260            Notre Dame

30 Deonte Banks                       CB        6-1, 200            Maryland

31 Bryan Bresee                        DT        6-4, 300            Clemson

32 Cam Smith                           CB        6-1, 190            South Carolina

33 Will McDonald                      Edge    6-3, 240            Iowa State

34 John Michael Schmitz           C          6-3, 310            Minnesota

35 Darnell Wright                      OT        6-5, 335            Tennessee

36 Zay Flowers                          WR       5-10, 175          Boston College

37 Drew Sanders                       LB        6-4, 245            Arkansas

38 Keion White                          DE       6-4, 280            Georgia Tech

39 Cody Mauch                         OG       6-5, 310            North Dakota State

40 Adetomiwa Adebawore         Edge    6-2, 280            Northwestern

41 BJ Ojulari                             Edge    6-3, 245            LSU

42 Darnell Washington               TE        6-6, 265            Georgia

43 Jalin Hyatt                            WR       6-0, 180            Tennessee

44 Derick Hall                            Edge    6-3, 260            Auburn

45 Blake Freeland                     OT        6-7, 305            BYU

46 Jack Campbell                      LB        6-3, 250            Iowa

47 Steve Avila                           C          6-3, 335            TCU

48 Daiyan Henley                      LB        6-2, 235            Washington State

49 Dawand Jones                     OT        6-7, 360            Ohio State

50 Rashee Rice                         WR       6-1, 210            SMU

 




First Round Mock Draft – 4.0

First Round Mock Draft – 4.0

Frank Coyle/ Head scout

 NFL Combine & March Free Agency Newsletters – available now

Photo – LB Will Anderson – Alabama
               Alabama Photographer – Evan Pilat

 Mock draft during Pro Day schedule and after early weeks of NFL Free Agency.

1st Round

  #         Team                   W/L      Player           Pos      Ht/Wt          School

1         Carolina (Chicago)         7-10      Bryce Young                    QB       5-10, 195          Alabama
2         Houston                        3-13-1   CJ Stroud                           QB       6-3, 215            Ohio State
3         Arizona                         4-13      Will Anderson                   Edge    6-3, 250            Alabama
4         Indianapolis                  4-12-1   Will Levis                         QB       6-4, 230            Kentucky
5         Seattle (Denver)            5-12      Jalen Carter                     DT        6-3, 315            Georgia
6         Detroit (LA Rams)        5-12      Devon Witherspoon      CB        6-1, 180            Illinois
7         Las Vegas                        6-11      Anthony Richardson       QB       6-4, 245            Florida
8         Atlanta                            7-10      Myles Murphy                  DE       6-5, 270            Clemson
9         Chicago (Carolina0       3-14      Paris Johnson                  OT        6-6, 315            Ohio State
10         Phil (New Orleans)     7-10      Tyree Wilson                    DE       6-6, 270            Texas Tech
11         Tennessee                       7-10      Broderick Jones             OT        6-5, 310            Georgia
12         Houston (Cleveland)     7-10      Quentin Johnston        WR       6-3, 210            TCU
13       NY Jets                           7-10      Peter Skoronski          OT        6-4, 315         Northwestern
14         New England                8-9        Michael Mayer                TE        6-4, 250            Notre Dame
15         Green Bay                      8-9        Jaxon Smith-Njigba      WR       6-0, 195            Ohio State
16         Washington                   8-8-1     Bijan Robinson              RB        5-11, 225          Texas
17         Pittsburgh                      9-8        Christian Gonzalez         CB        6-1. 200            Oregon
18         Detroit                           9-8        Jordan Addison              WR       5-11, 175      Southern Cal
19         Tampa Bay                    8-9       Joey Porter                       CB        6-2, 195            Penn State
20         Seattle                          9-8        Lukas Van Ness           Edge    6-5, 270          Iowa
Miami (pick forfeited)                9-8
21         LA Chargers                  10-7      Dalton Kincaid                 TE       6-4, 245           Utah
22         Baltimore                       10-7      Nolan Smith                     Edge    6-2, 240            Georgia
23         Minnesota                      12-4      Kelee Ringo                      CB        6-2, 205            Georgia
24         Jacksonville                   9-8        Trent Simpson                LB        6-2, 235            Clemson
25         NY Giants                      9-7-1     Brian Branch                    S          5-11, 195          Alabama
26         Dallas                          12-5      Cam Smith                       CB        6-1, 190        South Carolina
27         Buffalo                            13-3      Will McDonald                  Edge    6-4, 240           Iowa State
28         Cincinnati                      12-4     John Michael Schmitz     C        6-3, 315           Minnesota
29         New Orleans (Den-S.F.-Mia) 13-4   Luke Musgrave      TE       6-6, 255           Oregon State
30         Philadelphia                  14-3      O’Cyrus Torrence           OG       6-5, 330            Florida
31         Kansas City                      14-3      Isaiah Foskey                Edge    6-5, 260            Notre Dame




NFL Free Agency – 2nd Tier Features Odell, Floyd, Wagner & Risner

Free Agency – 2nd Tier Features Odell, Floyd, Wagner & Risner

 Top Remaining Free Agents – Unrestricted & ‘Street’ Players

    March 21, 2023
     Frank Coyle/ Head scout

  Rank / Player / Position / Team / Age  

  1. Leonard Floyd, Edge, Rams: Age 29

Cap casualty in LA and still effective after 9 sacks in 2022. Expect a contender stepping to the plate and landing him.

  1. Dalton Risner, G, Broncos. Age: 28.

Tough durable veteran with rare versatility and consistently high grades. Excellent pass protector.

    13. Odell Beckham, WR, Rams – Age: 30
Playmaker looks to return from his 2nd ACL surgery. GMen and Boys at the head of the line.

  1. Bobby Wagner, LB, Rams – Age: 33

Another Rams cap casualty and part of the endless SB hangover. Still an impact defender, though only
a short deal works here.

  1. Yannick Ngakoue, DE, Colts – Age: 28

This playmaker changes teams annually and will again entertain all offers. Becoming a situational edge
piece, though still very effective on passing downs.

  1. D.J. Chark, WR, Lions – Age: 26

Fast young veteran comes off an injury riddled stay in Detroit. High quality #2 in right scheme.

  1. Marcus Peters, CB, Ravens – Age: 30

Tough veteran corner is still playing at a high level and will perk interest from playoff clubs, though
probably on a shorter deal.

  1. Donovan Smith, OT, Bucs – Age: 28

Young vet left tackle was a late addition as a cap casualty. Look for a contender on a short deal.

  1. Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Raiders – Age: 27

Savvy young cover man has performed well when healthy. Talented cornerback could be great value
on deal.

  1. Taylor Rapp, S, Rams – Age: 25

Tough young run stuffer with improved coverage skills.

  1. Mecole Hardman, WR, Chiefs – Age: 25

Fast young vet is coming off hamstring surgery. One of the best returners in the league and a
playmaker from the slot or outside especially on reverses and screens.

  1. A’Shawn Robinson, DL, Rams – Age: 28
  2. Bryce Callahan, CB, Chargers – Age: 31
  3. Leonard Fournette, RB, Bucs – Age: 28
  4.  Terrell Edmunds, S, Steelers – Age: 26
  5.  Frank Clark, DE, Chiefs – Age: 31
  6.  Robert Quinn, DE, Eagles – Age: 33
  7.  Shelby Harris, DT, Broncos – Age: 30
  8.  Calais Campbell, DL, Ravens – Age: 37
  9.  Rodney Hudson, C, Cardinals – Age: 35
  10.  Foster Moreau, TE, Raiders – Age: 27
  11.  Nasir Adderley, S, Chargers – Age: 27 (Retired)
  12.  John Johnson, S, Browns – Age: 27
  13.  Zeke Elliott, RB – Cowboys – Age: 29
  14.  Adrian Amos, S, Packers – Age: 30
  15.  Connor McGovern, C/G, Jets – Age: 30
  16.  Poona Ford, NT, Seahawks – Age: 27
  17.  Taylor Lewan, OT, Titans – Age: 30
  18.  Andrew Van Ginkel, LB, Dolphins – Age: 27
  19.  Austin Hooper, TE, Titans – Age: 30
  20.  Johnathan Abram, S, Raiders – Age: 27
  21.  Isaiah Wynn, OT, Patriots – Age: 28
  22. Kareem Hunt, RB, Browns – Age: 28
  23. Ryan Neal, S, Seahawks – Age: 27
  24. Byron Cowart, DL, Seahawks – Age: 28
  25. Kwon Alexander, LB, Jets – Age: 33
  26. Anthony Walker, LB, Browns – Age: 28
  27. Deion Jones, LB, Browns – Age: 30
  28. Keisean Nixon, CB/KR, Packers – Age: 26
  29. Rashaan Evans, LB, Falcons – Age: 27
  30. Landon Collins, DB, Giants – Age: 29
  31. Zach Cunningham. LB, Titans – Age: 29
  32. Ronald Darby, CB, Broncos – Age: 31
  33. Shaquill Griffin, CB, Bucs – Age: 26
  34. Melvin Ingram, DE, Dolphins – Age: 34
  35. Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Dolphins – Age: 30
  36. Denzel Perryman, LB, Raiders – Age: 30
  37.  Jermaine Eluemunor, OT, Raiders – Age: 28
  38.  Justin Houston, DE/OLB, Ravens – Age: 34
  39.  Richie James, WR, Giants – Age: 27
  40.  Rodney McLeod, S, Colts – Age: 33
  41.  Jon Feliciano, C/G, Giants – Age: 31
  42.  Jason Verrett, CB, 49ers – Age: 32
  43.  Jaylon Smith, LB, Giants – Age: 29
  44.  Jadeveon Clowney, DE, Browns – Age: 30
  45.  Matt Ioannidis, DT, Panthers – Age: 29
  46.  Jamison Crowder, WR, Bills – Age: 31
  47.  L.J. Collier, DE, Seahawks – Age: 27
  48.  Brandon Shell, OT, Dolphins – Age: 29
  49.  Damien Wilson, LB, Panthers – Age: 30
  50.  Nelson Agholor, WR, Patriots – Age: 31
  51.  Irv Smith Jr., TE, Vikings – Age: 27
  52. George Fant, OT, Jets – Age: 30
  53. Fabian Moreau, CB, Giants – Age: 28
  54. Mason Rudolph, QB, Steelers – Age: 28
  55. Duron Harmon, S, Raiders – Age: 32
  56. Anthony Barr, LB, Vikings – Age: 31

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Georgia Pro Day Workout – 2023 Pro Day Schedule

Georgia Pro Day Workout

2023 Pro Day Schedule

 Frank Coyle/ Head scout

Defender Jalen Carter Disappoints in Workout

The much-anticipated Georgia Pro day was completed on Wednesday with several first round prospects expected to workout. Highly regarded defensive lineman Jalen Carter participated in only positional drills at the Georgia Pro day after opting out of the workout at the NFL Combine. Carter was mentioned as a possible #1 overall selection in the NFL Draft 2023, though was never higher than our 3rd overall prospect entering the postseason. This average workout probably costs him a top 5 selection, though most likely still in the top 8 overall draft choices.

At the Bulldog pro day, his positional drills were terminated early with leg cramping and breathing issues completing his workout. He did not plan to perform any of the spring and leaping events.

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Carter weighed in at 323 pounds, 9 pounds heavier than his weight at the NFL Scouting Combine two weeks ago in Indianapolis.  He had to leave the combine after arrest warrants were issued for him in Athens, Georgia, for racing and reckless driving charges stemming from an investigation into a fatal Jan. 15 car crash. He was booked on the two misdemeanors and released from custody the same day. He returned to the combine but did not participate in on-field activities in Indianapolis.

Edge defender Nolan Smith had another top workout doing positional drills in front of the 32 clubs in attendance. He was outstanding in drills, and moved easily and changed directions like a defensive back. This comes after a strong NFL Combine which most likely guaranteed him a top 20 selection.

Offensive tackle, Broderick Jones continues his rise up the charts. He did only positional drills and rest on his sub 5.0 time and other numbers. He is a possibly top 10 selection and will challenge for the first offensive lineman off the board on April 27th.

2023 NFL Pro Day Schedule

The 2023 NFL Pro Day schedule will stretch from Tuesday, March 7 through to Thursday, April 6th. Highly regarded programs like Ohio State on Wednesday, March 22, Alabama on Thursday, March 23 and April 6th, Notre Dame on Friday, March 24th, LSU on March 29th and Florida and Tennessee on Thursday, March 30 will be heavily attended with many prospects expected to earn top 100 grades for the NFL Draft 2023.

2023 NFL Pro Day Schedule

Tuesday, March 7
Indiana

Wednesday, March 8
Columbia
Hawaii
Miami (OH)
UNLV

Thursday, March 9
Harvard
Illinois State
Monmouth
Nevada
Prairie View A&M
Texas
Texas State

Friday, March 10
Illinois
Rice
SE Missouri State

Sunday, March 12
Grand Valley State

Monday, March 13
Coastal Carolina
Oregon State
South Carolina
Western Michigan

Tuesday, March 14
Clemson
Louisiana Tech
Northwestern
Oregon

Wednesday, March 15
Air Force
Central Michigan
Colorado
Georgia
Kent State
Louisiana
Mercer
Michigan State
Minnesota
UCLA

Thursday, March 16
Arizona
Army
Eastern Michigan
Georgia State
Georgia Tech
Tulane

Friday, March 17
Georgia Southern
Michigan
San Diego
San Diego State

Monday, March 20
Bowling Green
Iowa
James Madison
Northern Iowa
Stony Brook
Syracuse
Toledo

Tuesday, March 21
Auburn
Iowa State
Liberty
Maine
Ohio
Princeton
Rutgers
Stephen F. Austin
Troy
USC

Wednesday, March 22
Bryant
Delaware
Marshall
Nebraska
New Mexico State
Ohio State
SMU
Stanford
Temple
UAB
UConn
UTSA
Virginia
Virginia Tech
Weber State

Thursday, March 23
Alabama
Cal
Cincinnati
Eastern Kentucky
Holy Cross
Houston
Merrimack
Northern Illinois
UMass
Utah
William & Mary
Wisconsin
Yale

Friday, March 24
Boston College
BYU
Kentucky
Missouri
Notre Dame
Old Dominion
Penn State
San Jose State
Texas Southern

Monday, March 27
Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Ball State
Baylor
Boise State
Duke
Florida International
Jackson State
Memphis
Miami
North Carolina
Sam Houston State
Southern Miss
UT Martin
West Virginia

Tuesday, March 28
Arkansas State
California (PA)
Central Arkansas
East Carolina
Florida Atlantic
Louisville
Middle Tennessee
Mississippi State
North Carolina State
Shepherd
Texas A&M
Tulsa
Vanderbilt
Washington State

Wednesday, March 29
Akron
Arkansas
Duquesne
Incarnate Word
LSU
Maryland
Mississippi
Morgan State
North Dakota
North Dakota State
North Texas
Oklahoma State
Pitt
Texas Tech
USF
Wake Forest
Washington
Western Kentucky

Thursday, March 30
Appalachian State
Charlotte
Florida
Fresno State
Oklahoma
Ouachita Baptist
TCU
Tennessee
Wyoming

Friday, March 31
Chattanooga
Colorado State
Florida State
Kansas
Kansas State
South Dakota State

April
Tuesday, April 4
Clemson

Wednesday, April 5
Grand Valley State
Montana State

Thursday, April 6
Alabama




NFL Free Agency 2023 – Top 111 Players

NFL Free Agency 2023 – Top 111 Players

 Free Agents – Unrestricted & ‘Street’ – 
    All Trades and FA Signings Announced Starting March 15th

Top 111 Free Agents 
     Unrestricted & ‘Street’ Players
     Frank Coyle/ Head scout

                     Rank / Player / Position / Team / Age  

    1. Orlando Brown, OT, Chiefs – Age: 27

Quality left tackles are difficult to find and Brown will get interest in the NFL. Just 27, he performs well
in big game situations and will command attention especially from contenders.

  1. Javon Hargrave, DT, Eagles – Age: 30

Strong interior pass rusher looks for a big payday. He struggles in run defense and is viewed as a
rotational piece by several clubs.

    1. Jessie Bates, S, Bengals – Age: 26

Young defender comes up best in big game situations. Very tough vs the run and improving in
coverage.

    1. Zach Allen, DE/DT, Cardinals – Age: 26

Player on the come after a huge 2022 performance. Versatile edge defender will command a big
contract.

  1. Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S/CB, Eagles – Age: 25

Versatile young defender lines up at several positions and will be in high demand in today’s game.

  1.  Dalton Schultz, TE, Cowboys. Age: 27.

Talented receiving tight end did not get the Franchise tag this season. The deep TE draft class may
effect offers here and he could resign with Big D.

  1.   Dre’mont Jones, DT, Broncos: Age 28

Quick interior lineman with big play ability and one of the hidden gems in this class.

  1. Mike McGlinchey, OT, 49ers . Age: 28

High quality right tackle in his prime are always in demand. 49ers will be limited in any offer especially
after signing DT Hargrave.

  1. Leonard Floyd, Edge, Rams: Age 29

Cap casualty in LA and still effective after 9 sacks in 2022. Expect a contender stepping to the plate

and landing him.

  1. Jamel Dean, CB, Buccaneers. Age: 26.

Tough young corner graded out high weekly and will be coveted by many clubs.

  1. Jakobi Meyers, WR, Patriots. Age: 26.

Quality possession receiver in a weak FA class at the position. Good #2 receiver for offense.

  1. Dalton Risner, G, Broncos. Age: 28.

Tough durable veteran with rare versatility and consistently high grades. Excellent pass protector.

  1. Odell Beckham, WR, Rams – Age: 30

Playmaker looks to return from his 2nd ACL surgery. GMen and Boys at the head of the line.

  1. Tremaine Edmunds, LB, Bills – Age: 25

Coming off a breakout performance and a three down Mike with big play ability.

  1. Bobby Wagner, LB, Rams – Age: 33

Another Rams cap casualty and part of the endless SB hangover. Still an impact defender, though only
a short deal works here.

  1. Cameron Sutton, CB, Steelers – Age: 28

Young corner coming off an excellent year and signed with the Lions.

  1. James Bradberry, CB, Eagles – Age: 30

Wily veteran rebounded with an excellent performance in his 1-year time with the Eagles in 2022.
Eagles also may trade shutdown CB Darius Slay.

  1. Jawaan Taylor, OT, Jaguars – Age: 25

Young RT may get a few strong offers, though is not coming off a quality performance while giving up
five sacks.  Signed with Chiefs on a 4-year deal.

  1. Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, 49ers – Age: 31

Finished in SF despite a solid career despite annual durability issues. Signed with the Raiders.

  1. Yannick Ngakoue, DE, Colts – Age: 28

This playmaker changes teams annually and will again entertain all offers. Becoming a situational edge
piece, though still very effective on passing downs.

  1. Miles Sanders, RB, Eagles – Age: 26

Tough back could resign here, though must become more well rounded to be feature back.

  1. D.J. Chark, WR, Lions – Age: 26

Fast young veteran comes off an injury riddled stay in Detroit. High quality #2 in right scheme.

  1. Mike Gesicki TE, Dolphins – Age: 30

Agile sure handed veteran did not fit in the Dolphins passing game. Capable of being a total steal at
reasonable numbers.

  1. Isaac Seumalo, G, Eagles – Age: 29

Hard-nosed veteran is still in his prime and looks for a big payday here.

  1. Jordan Poyer, S, Bills – Age: 32

Savvy playmaking veteran was excellent in 2022. May have to settle for a shorter deal due to age,
though still a ball hawk.

  1. Marcus Peters, CB, Ravens – Age: 30

Tough veteran corner is still playing at a high level and will perk interest from playoff clubs, though
probably on a shorter deal.

  1. Jason Kelce, C, Eagles – Age: 35

Future HOFer will return on a 1-year deal and anchor the Eagles front line one more time.

  1. Baker Mayfield, QB, Rams – Age: 27

Looking for his 4th team in short career, though barely given a shot at last two stops with Carolina and
Rams. Any new club (Bucs) could find lightning in a bottle if fully healthy and right scheme.

  1. Vonn Bell, S, Bengals – Age: 28

Well-rounded safety will get a strong off from Bengals especially with Bates most likely gone.

  1. Byron Murphy, CB, Cardinals – Age: 25

Young talented corner returns after missing half the 2022 season with a knee injury. Quality cover man
could be a major steal if the price is reasonable.

  1. Dalvin Tomlinson, DT, Vikings – Age: 29

Quick wide body tackle with burst to be disruptive to penetrate and also play the run very well.

  1. Patrick Peterson, CB, Vikings – Age: 33

Aging Pro Bowl corner is coming off a comeback performance in 2022 that brought attention to one of
the premier cover men in the game. Signed with Steelers and good fit for their veteran unit.

  1. Donovan Smith, OT, Bucs – Age: 28

Young vet left tackle was a late addition as a cap casualty. Look for a contender on a short deal.

  1. Lavonte David, LB, Buccaneers – Age: 33

Savvy veteran hopes to land with a playoff contender and make another run at a ring.

  1. Ben Powers, G, Ravens – Age: 26

Young hard-nosed guard has developed nicely especially as a pass protector. ,He signed with the
Broncos early in the process.

  1. David Long, LB, Titans – Age: 26

Savvy undersized backer is just entering his prime. Playoff teams should be on line.

  1.   Jimmie Ward, S, 49ers – Age: 32

Talented playmaker has had durability issues annually which will hurt interest by many clubs.

  1. Garrett Bradbury, C, Vikings – Age: 28

Young pivotman had a good 2022 season after a tough career start. Struggles vs big nose tackles,
but graded out high in 2022 and should get interest on the second wave of free agency.

  1. Kaleb McGary, OT, Falcons – Age: 28

Right tackle has become a solid pass protector, in addition to top run blocker.

  1. Jonathan Jones, CB, Patriots – Age: 29

Veteran cover man has provided top play both on the outside and in the slot. The Pats resigned him to
keep their secondary intact.

  1. Marcus Davenport, DE, Saints – Age: 26

Erratic veteran had a poor 2022 season after a strong performance in 2021. He has not shown
consistent pass rushing production which could force him to a second tier signing.

  1. Donovan Wilson, S, Cowboys – Age: 28

Tough young veteran is coming off a strong 2022 season where he performed well in a number of
roles. He tackles, can blitz and is effective in coverage. Good addition.

  1. Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Raiders – Age: 27

Savvy young cover man has performed well when healthy. Talented cornerback could be great value
on deal.

  1. Nate Davis, G, Titans – Age: 26

One of the best guards in the league and only 26. Solid addition to an interior.

  1. Taylor Rapp, S, Rams – Age: 25

Tough young run stuffer with improved coverage skills.

  1. David Montgomery, RB, Bears – Age: 28

Thumper with well-developed game, though average speed and big play production.

  1. JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, Chiefs – Age: 26

Savvy veteran comes off a good performance for the SB champs. Young and production either from the slot or outside and looking to land with a contender and possibly returning to KC.

  1. Drue Tranquill, LB, Chargers – Age: 28

Young Will backer is a high quality cover man and excellent piece in the sub packages. Struggles in
run support.

  1. Mecole Hardman, WR, Chiefs – Age: 25

Fast young vet is coming off hamstring surgery. One of the best returners in the league and a
playmaker from the slot or outside especially on reverses and screens.

  1. Allen Lazard, WR, Packers – Age: 30

Physical veteran is a quality possession receiver and may follow QB Aaron Rodgers to the Jets if that
signing ever takes place.

  1. Germaine Pratt, LB, Bengals – Age: 27

Hard hitting backer has developed into a quality three down defender. He couples with Logan Wilson to
form an excellent duo. He resigned with the Bengals.

  1. Jamaal Williams, RB, Lions – Age: 29
  2.   Bobby Okereke, LB, Colts – Age: 27
  3. David Onyemata, DT, Saints – Age: 30
  4. Leonard Fournette, RB, Bucs – Age: 28
  5.   Juan Thornhill, S, Chiefs – Age: 27
  6. Arden Key, EDGE, Jaguars – Age: 26
  7.   Terrell Edmunds, S, Steelers – Age: 26
  8.   Frank Clark, DE, Chiefs – Age: 31
  9. Devin Singletary, RB, Bills – Age: 25
  10.   Robert Quinn, DE, Eagles – Age: 33
  11. Graham Glasgow, OL, Broncos – Age: 30
  12.   Bradley Bozeman, OL, Panthers – Age: 27
  13.    Julian Love, S, Giants – Age: 25
  14. Shelby Harris, DT, Broncos – Age: 30
  15.   Eric Kendricks, LB, Vikings – Age: 32
  16.   Rodney Hudson, C, Cardinals – Age: 35
  17.   Greg Gaines, DT, Rams – Age: 27
  18.    Foster Moreau, TE, Raiders – Age: 27
  19.   Nasir Adderley, S, Chargers – Age: 27
  20.   John Johnson, S, Browns – Age: 27
  21.    Leighton Vander Esch, LB, Cowboys – Age: 26
  22.   Ethan Pocic, C, Browns – Age: 28
  23.   Adrian Amos, S, Packers – Age: 30
  24.    Connor McGovern, C/G, Jets – Age: 30
  25.    Cooper Rush, QB, Cowboys – Age: 27
  26. Adam Thielen, WR, Vikings – Age: 31
  27.   Poona Ford, NT, Seahawks – Age: 27
  28.   Taylor Lewan, OT, Titans – Age: 30
  29. Sam Darnold, QB, Panthers – Age: 27
  30.   DeShon Elliott, S, Lions – Age: 26
  31.   Darius Slayton, WR, Giants – Age: 27
  32. Fletcher Cox, DT, Eagles – Age: 32
  33.   Edge Andrew Van Ginkel, LB, Dolphins – Age: 27
  34.   Austin Hooper, TE, Titans – Age: 30
  35.   Johnathan Abram, S, Raiders – Age: 27
  36.   Hayden Hurst, TE, Bengals – Age: 29
  37. Trayvon Mullen, CB, Raiders – Age: 27
  38. Isaiah Wynn, OT, Patriots – Age: 28
  39. Jarrett Stidham, QB, Raiders – Age: 27
  40.   Andrew Wylie, OT, Chiefs – Age: 28
  41. Alex Anzalone, LB, Lions – Age: 29
  42. Robert Tonyan, TE, Packers – Age: 28
  43. Kareem Hunt, RB, Browns – Age: 28
  44. Ryan Neal, S, Seahawks – Age: 27
  45. Josh Oliver, TE, Ravens – Age: 26
  46. Byron Cowart, DL, Seahawks – Age: 28
  47.    Connor McGovern, OG, Cowboys – Age: 27
  48.   Kwon Alexander, LB, Jets – Age: 33
  49. Andre Dillard, OT, Eagles – Age: 27
  50. Jarran Reed, DL, Packers – Age: 30
  51. Anthony Walker, LB, Browns – Age: 28
  52. Jeff Wilson Jr., RB, Dolphins – Age: 27
  53. Parris Campbell, WR. Colts – Age: 26
  54. Alexander Mattison, RB, Vikings – Age: 25
  55. Emmanuel Moseley, CB, 49ers – Age: 27
  56. Gardner Minshew, QB, Eagles – Age: 27
  57. Deion Jones, LB, Browns – Age: 30
  58. Keisean Nixon, CB/KR, Packers – Age: 26
  59. Sean Murphy-Bunting, CB, Buccaneers – Age: 26
  60. Cole Holcomb, LB, Redskins – Age: 27



Bears Deal #1 Overall Pick to the Panthers in Blockbuster Trade

Bears Deal #1 Overall Pick to the Panthers

 Bears Land Two #1 & #2 Picks Plus Wideout D.J. Moore Over Next Three Drafts

Frank Coyle/ Head scout – DraftInsiders.com

The Bears have a major trade in line for their No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft when the league year starts on March 15th. The Panthers paid a huge price for the #1 overall pick in exchange for a compensation package that includes two 1st-round picks, two #2 picks and receiver D.J. Moore.

The full package of assets sent to Chicago can be the bonanza the Bears need to land several blue-chip prospects to their young roster. They received the ninth-overall pick this year, a 2nd-round selection in 2023 (# 61 overall originally from the 49ers), a 1st-round pick in 2024, a 2nd-round pick in 2025 plus the veteran wideout DJ Moore. He completed the first year of a three-year, $61M million contract with the Panthers. The Bears now have four of the top 64 selections.

Panthers are now in the position to land their #1 QB after several seasons of a revolving door at the position. Owner David Tepper has lost patience on the QB carousel in his short time in Carolina and realizes that Super Bowl contenders almost always ride the arm of a top flight passer. The payment of draft capital seems enormous and most likely earmarked for QB Bryce Young or CJ Stroud. The Panthers were competitive last season within a weak division that they feel they can challenge for the division title this season with a better playmaker at the controls. They also watch divisional rival, the Saints signed Derek Carr last week making them the favorite for the NFC South almost immediately.




NFL Awards Compensatory Selections to 16 Teams

NFL Awards 37 Compensatory Selections
49ers and Rams Receive Multiple Picks

NFL announced it has awarded 37 compensatory picks to 16 teams for the NFL Draft 2023, which will be held April 27-29 in Kansas City, Missouri.

Two NFC West teams led the way, with the 49ers receiving a league-high seven selections and the Rams gaining four draft choices. The 37 compensatory picks include five special selections that were awarded at the end of the third round to teams that have had a minority employee hired as a head coach or primary football executive by another club. Three of those picks were awarded to San Francisco. The special compensatory picks were instituted as an amendment to the 2020 Collective Bargaining Agreement to promote equal employment opportunities within NFL teams.

As for the compensatory picks awarded that were not based on coaching or executive hires, a team losing more or better compensatory free agents than it acquires in the previous year is eligible to receive compensatory draft picks. The compensatory picks are positioned from Round 3 to Round 7 based on the value of the compensatory free agents lost. The formula that determines compensatory free agents is based on salary, playing time and postseason honors.

In addition, the league penalized the Houston Texans their original 5th round selection this year for a salary cap violation. They determined the Texans provided QB Deshaun Watson an undisclosed compensation in the form of a membership at an alternative athletic facility in 2020. Texans have two #1 picks the 2nd and 12th overall selections.

List of Compensatory Picks awarded to teams for the NFL Draft
   * special compensatory picks for coaching and team personnel lost

Round 3
96 – Arizona Cardinals
97 – Washington Commanders
* 98 – Cleveland Browns
* 99 – San Francisco 49ers
* 100 – Kansas City Chiefs
* 101 – San Francisco 49ers
* 102 – San Francisco 49ers

Round 4
135 – New England Patriots

Round 5
167 – Los Angeles Rams
168 – Arizona Cardinals
169 – Dallas Cowboys
170 – Green Bay Packers
171 – Los Angeles Rams
172 – New York Giants
173 – San Francisco 49ers
174 – Las Vegas Raiders
175 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
176 – Dallas Cowboys
177 – Los Angeles Rams

Round 6
210 – New England Patriots
211 – Minnesota Vikings
212 – Dallas Cowboys
213 – Arizona Cardinals
214 – Las Vegas Raiders
215 – Washington Commanders
216 – San Francisco 49ers
217 – Kansas City Chiefs

Round 7
250 – Kansas City Chiefs
251 – Los Angeles Rams
252 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
253 – San Francisco 49ers
254 – New York Giants
255 – San Francisco 49ers
256 – Green Bay Packers
257 – New Orleans Saints
258 – Chicago Bears
259 – Houston Texans

Total 2023 Compensatory Picks by Team

Team                                # of Picks
San Francisco 49ers               7
Los Angeles Rams                 4
Arizona Cardinals                   3
Dallas Cowboys                      3
Kansas City Chiefs                 3
Green Bay Packers                2
Las Vegas Raiders                 2
New England Patriots             2
New York Giants                     2
Tampa Bay Buccaneers         2
Washington Commanders      2
Chicago Bears                        1
Cleveland Browns                   1
Houston Texans                     1
Minnesota Vikings                  1
New Orleans Saints                1




NFL Franchise Tag Deadline – Giants Close Deal on Daniel Jones

NFL Franchise Tag Deadline
Giants Close Deal on Daniel Jones, Tag Saquon Barkley

Photo – QB Daniel Jones – Giants
Photo – Ben Solomon – NY Giants

The NFL franchise tag deadline created several huge changes in the makeup of playoff teams and the QB position in particular. The Ravens tagged QB Lamar Jackson after extended contract talks failed to close a deal. Teams have until July to negotiate Other potential free agent QBs, Daniel Jones, Geno Smith and Derek Carr closed huge deals on the final days prior to the deadline. Jones signed a 4-year deal for $160M plus incentives after an excellent 2022 performance which led to the playoffs. Carr ended his NFL caravan with a four-year deal with the Saints. He looks like a perfect fit for the declining Saints who have the team makeup to make a fast turnaround and win the weak NFC South. Smith may be the best story of the year after a checkered NFL career with more failures as a starter. He led the Seahawks to a postseason in 2022 after Seattle traded star QB Russell Wilson last offseason.

Tuesday marked the official deadline for NFL teams to use a tag on players whose contracts are set to expire.

After the signing of Daniel Jones, the Giants GM Joe Schoen was able to tag Saquon Barkley and retain their two star free agents. Giants brass and Barkley will work to close a deal over the next few weeks to create more salary cap room for the upcoming Free Agency market.

Previously, the NFL announced the 2023 salary cap will be a record $224.8 million per club. That’s an increase of 8% from the $208.2 million in 2022. Prior years were $182.5M in 2021 (Covid adjustment), 198.2M in 2020 and $188.2M in 2019.

NFL teams have until 4 pm est on March 15th to get under the salary cap before the free agency period officially opens.

Non-Exclusive Franchise Tag Players (6) – deadline March 7, 2023

Quarterback – $32.42M – tag average for position
Lamar Jackson, QB, Ravens. Age 26

Running back – $10.1M tag average for position
  Saquon Barkley, RB, Giants. Age: 26
Tony Pollard, RB, Cowboys. Age: 26
Josh Jacobs, RB, Raiders. Age: 26

Tight end – $11.36M – tag average
Evan Engram, TE, Jaguars. Age: 28

Defensive tackle – $18.94M tag for tackles
Da’Ron Payne, NT, Redskins. Age: 26.

2023 Franchise/Transition tag figures
Position                       Franchise #
Quarterback:               $32.42M
Running back:             $10.1M
Wide receiver:             $19.74M
Tight end:                    $11.36M
Offensive linemen:      $18.24M
Defensive end:            $19.73M
Defensive tackle:         $18.94M
Linebacker:                 $20.93M
Cornerback:                 $18.14M
Safety:                         $14.46M
Kicker/punter:              $5.39M

Transition #
Quarterback:               $29.5M
Running back:             $8.43M
Wide receiver:             $17.99M
Tight end:                    $9.72M
Offensive linemen:      $16.66M
Defensive end:            $17.45M
Defensive tackle:        $16.1M
Linebacker:                 $17.48M
Cornerback:                $15.79M
Safety:                        $11.87M
Kicker/punter:             $4.87M
 
There are three tender options: 1) Non-exclusive franchise tag; 2) Exclusive franchise tag; 3) Transition tag.
 
Non-exclusive franchise tag – This is a one-year tender of the average of the top five salaries at the player’s position over the last five years, or 120 percent of his previous salary, whichever is greater. The player can negotiate with other teams. The player’s current team has the right to match any offer or receive two first-round draft picks as compensation if he signs with another club.

Exclusive franchise tag: Unlike the non-exclusive version, the tagging team retains the sole right to negotiate with the player. The exclusivity comes with a bump in pay scale (current average salary versus averaging of the previous five years). This one-year tender offer of the average of the top five salaries at the player’s position for the current year, or 120 percent of his previous salary, whichever is greater. The rise in pay scale means only a select few get this tag. Usually, players for whom other teams would gladly give up two first-round picks receive this version of the tag — generally, quarterbacks.

Transition tag: The transition tag is a one-year tender offer for the average of the top 10 salaries at the position — as opposed to the top five for the franchise tag. It guarantees the original club the right of first refusal to match any offer the player might receive from another club. The tagging team is awarded no compensation if it chooses not to match a deal.




Offensive Players Shine Over Final NFL Combine Workouts

Offensive Players Shine Over Final Two Days at the NFL Combine

 Frank Coyle/ Head scout

 Photo – RB Bijan Robinson – Texas
 Photo – Adam Davis/Icon Sportswire/AP
 
The 2023 NFL Combine concluded with a larger group of offensive players finishing the week long event for over 300 prospects. The combine featured many fragmented workouts plus non participants which makes the Pro day schedule the next important phase of scouting evaluation.

Draft Insiders’ will have all workouts covered through April and factored into our Yearbook and Update Report before the NFL Draft 2023.

 Top NFL Combine Offensive Players

Quarterbacks

Anthony Richardson, Florida had an amazing workout. He ran a 4.45 time and put up elite numbers. He displayed a strong arm and excellent mobility to rank as the fastest rising prospect  at the NFL Combine. C.J. Stroud, Ohio State threw the ball easily and looked polish in his throws and footwork. Will Levis, Kentucky displayed a big arm and nice touch especially on his deep throws. He moved easily and got the ball out quickly. Stetson Bennett, Georgia was impressive throwing the ball and displayed an above average arm with fine accuracy.

 Running Backs

 Bijan Robinson, Texas had a solid performance with a 4.46 time with a 1.52 ten yard split. He is quick in drills at 215 lbs. He leaped well which translated to explosiveness to the hole in positional drills. He also caught the ball easily and is a complete feature back. Jahmyr Gibbs, Alabama was outstanding, showing explosiveness and long speed. He ran a 4.32 time with a blazing 1.52 split. He moved quickly in drills and looked naturally catching the ball. Evan Hull, Northwestern was impressive and performed a full workout. He looked sharp in drills and caught the ball well to improve his stock significantly. Deneric Prince, Tulsa was explosive and ran a 4.41 time with a 1.53 ten at 216 lbs. He did well in positional drills.

 Wide Receivers

Trey Palmer, Nebraska ran a blazing 4.33 time with a 1.51 ten-yard split. He moved easily in positional drills and helped his cause. Jalen Cropper, Fresno State ran a 4.40 time and was very polished in passing drills with fine hands, leaping and body control. Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee had the best all around workout for the position with a 4.40 time plus a 40” VL and an 11’3” BJ. He finished with fine positional drills. Andrei Iosivas, Princeton had a complete workout and shined in every event. He ran a 4.44 time with a 39” VL and a fast 6.85 three cone time.  Charlie Jones, Purdue had a solid overall performance including a 4.44 time and fine positional drills. He moves efficiently and creates separation to provide a dependable target. He is a polished pass catcher. Matt Landers, Arkansas was very impressive with a 4.37 sprint and fine leaping drills. He moved easy for a 6’4” and 200 lbs. prospect and has scouts back tracking his film. Bryce Ford-Wheaton, West Virginia ranked with any receiving prospect with an outstanding performance. He ran a 4.38 time at over 6’4” 220 lbs., in addition a 41” VL and 6.97 three cone. He needs some route running development, though possesses a rare physical athletic skill set.

Tight Ends

Darnell Washington, Georgia is a massive imposing athlete who tested well. He moves well for a huge athlete who is a dominant inline blocker.  Zack Kuntz, Old Dominion had an exceptional overall workout and is a fast-rising prospect. He ran and leap among the best in recent memory at the position and looked sharp in positional drills.  Sam LaPorta, Iowa was impressive and was smooth in events. He catches the ball well and runs precise routes.

Offensive Linemen

Blake Freeland, BYU was outstanding and ran a 4.98 time at almost 6’8” and 302 lbs. He leaped very well and moved easily in drills to improve his status significantly. Anton Harrison, Oklahoma had a strong workout with a 4.99 time and good positional drills. Cody Mauch, North Dakota State made a strong impression with a fine workout. He moves easy for over 6’5” and 302 lbs. and ran a 5.08 time. His versatility and well-developed skill set elevated his status. Peter Skoronski, Northwestern had a solid performance and moved exceptionally easy in positional drills. Darnell Wright, Tennessee ran a 5.01 time at over 6’5” and 333 lbs. He moves well and has the developed skills to a right tackle prospect. Luke Wypler, Ohio State had a good full workout and ran a 5.14 time and good positional drills to improve his stock.