Apr 18, 2023

In a little over a week, on Thursday, April 27, 31 players will get new teams in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft. The next night, 71 more names will be called in the second and third rounds. NFL draft analysts Mel Kiper Jr. and Todd McShay took a closer look at Days 1 and 2 of the draft with projections for all 102 of those picks.

They took turns making selections, alternating from Mel's pick for the Panthers at No. 1 through Todd's prediction for the Niners' compensatory slot at No. 102. Mel has the odd numbers; Todd has the evens.

An important note for this mock, though: They based picks on a combination of what they think each team will do and what they would do if they were playing general manager for all 32 teams. They used their personal rankings to guide them. No trades allowed here, either. Eight teams make at least four picks, and all 32 franchises have at least one selection -- although the Broncos, Browns and 49ers all have to wait until Round 3.

Let's get going, starting with Kiper's tough quarterback decision atop the board. And be sure to check out our "SportsCenter" Mock Draft Special that dives deeper into this mock draft.

Recent mock drafts from :
Kiper | McShay

Jump to a round: 1 | 2 | 3

ROUND 1

1. Carolina Panthers (from CHI)

Kiper's pick: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

I'm doing this mock draft to fill needs -- within reason. My No. 1 overall prospect? Defensive tackle Jalen Carter. The Panthers have to get a quarterback, though, and they can get their choice of them at No. 1. Young has superstar potential.

2. Houston Texans

McShay's pick: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

I really wouldn't be surprised if Houston jumps at the chance to draft a dominant defender like Alabama's Will Anderson Jr., but I'm making the pick here, and there's no way I'm passing up one of the top two quarterbacks in the class with that glaring need. Stroud is extremely accurate and would give the Texans' offense a franchise passer to build around.

3. Arizona Cardinals

Kiper's pick: Will Anderson Jr., DE, Alabama

The Cardinals are extremely thin along the defensive line. Anderson could become one of the faces of their franchise. He could have been the No. 1 pick in last year's draft.

4. Indianapolis Colts

McShay's pick: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

Indy has to solve the problem under center. Richardson might not be ready to play right away, but the sky is the limit on his potential. With a huge arm and great mobility, he'd be a dynamic player running new coach Shane Steichen's offense.

5. Seattle Seahawks (from DEN)

Kiper's pick: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

If Carter falls to Seattle here, general manager John Schneider might rush the pick to the podium. Carter is a perfect fit in the middle of Seattle's defense. He will eat up blockers and make everyone around him better.

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6. Detroit Lions (from LAR)

McShay's pick: Tyree Wilson, DE, Texas Tech

I was hoping Jalen Carter would fall here, but Wilson is a really good fit with the Lions, who had well-documented defensive issues last season. Pair him with Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston and that edge rush could cause problems for opponents.

7. Las Vegas Raiders

Kiper's pick: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

I thought hard about Kentucky quarterback Will Levis, but the reality is the Raiders believe they have the roster to compete in the AFC West this season. That's why they signed Jimmy Garoppolo. If they want a defender to help them in 2023, it's Witherspoon, who could immediately become their top guy.

8. Atlanta Falcons

McShay's pick: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

How about popping in Gonzalez -- who has great speed, size and ball skills -- opposite A.J. Terrell? The Falcons gave up 7.3 yards per pass attempt last season (23rd in the NFL), but this duo could smother opposing receivers.

9. Chicago Bears (from CAR)

Kiper's pick: Peter Skoronski, OT/G, Northwestern

I've gone back and forth on which offensive lineman the Bears will take here, but Skoronski is the best on my board (No. 8 overall), even though I like him a little more as a guard. Chicago needs a right tackle, which is why I projected Darnell Wright here in my two-round mock. I'd be confident in Skoronski's ability to learn the position.

10. Philadelphia Eagles (from NO)

McShay's pick: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

Look, I know he might not go this high, and we can spend hours talking about running back value in Round 1. But Robinson is my No. 2 overall prospect and makes sense in this Eagles offense. He is a complete back who could dominate alongside newly extended quarterback Jalen Hurts in the backfield.

11. Tennessee Titans

Kiper's pick: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

Thanks for not taking my guy, Todd, and leaving him here for me. The Titans could get one of the steals of the draft. Levis is a little bit of a gunslinger, but he hasn't come close to his ceiling. He is my second-ranked passer in this class. With the right infrastructure around him, he is going to thrive. Tennessee has playmakers to help him. Now it needs an offensive lineman (or two) on Day 2.

Editor's Picks

12. Houston Texans (from CLE)

McShay's pick: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

I landed both of the Texans' picks in Round 1, and I'm keeping the pairing of C.J. Stroud and Jaxon Smith-Njigba together after they piled up 1,606 receiving yards and nine TDs in 2021 at Ohio State (before a hamstring injury limited Smith-Njigba last year). The wideout is a super smooth route runner and could be a star in the NFL.

13. New York Jets

Kiper's pick: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

As we await the outcome of the Aaron Rodgers tug of war with the Packers, the Jets have to find a new starter at right tackle. Jones started every game at left tackle for the national champs last season, but he has the versatility to move to the right side.

14. New England Patriots

McShay's pick: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

Man, I thought about tight end Dalton Kincaid here. Patriots coach Bill Belichick loves two-TE sets, and Kincaid would be great with Hunter Henry. But quarterback Mac Jones also needs protection after struggles under pressure last season, and Johnson has the size, power and awareness to hold down left tackle. (Johnson also is versatile enough to play elsewhere along the line while Trent Brown is still under contract.)

15. Green Bay Packers

Kiper's pick: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

There are some good edge rushers still on the board, but I wouldn't pass up Kincaid if I were running Green Bay's draft. He is the best pass-catching tight end in this draft, a true seam stretcher with soft hands.

16. Washington Commanders

McShay's pick: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

I know Washington just signed Andrew Wylie, but Wright is an excellent run-blocker who could be a long-term solution at right tackle. And if the Commanders want, they could bump him inside as a rookie. Wright plays with power and quickness to open running lanes and stall pass-rush attempts.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers

Kiper's pick: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

What a landing spot for one of my favorite prospects in this class. Flowers can play inside or outside, and he can make defenders miss after the catch. The Steelers can fill their need at cornerback in Round 2.

Update: The Steelers are adding Allen Robinson via trade, but he's a much different receiver than Flowers. This deal doesn't change Pittsburgh's need, and I could see it still adding Flowers here.

18. Detroit Lions

McShay's pick: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh

OK, I like this. We're building one heck of a defensive line in Detroit after landing Tyree Wilson earlier. Sure, Kancey is undersized (6-foot-1, 281 pounds), but he is explosive and can make an impact as a run-stuffer and as an interior pass-rusher.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Kiper's pick: Lukas Van Ness, DE, Iowa

I'm not quite as high on Van Ness as you, Todd -- he is outside my top 25 overall -- but NFL teams reach for edge rushers, and we haven't had one in a while. I wouldn't be surprised if Van Ness landed in the top 12. In Tampa Bay, he'd play end in the Bucs' 3-4 defense.

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20. Seattle Seahawks

McShay's pick: Nolan Smith, OLB, Georgia

It's a slight slide for Smith, but Seattle won't be complaining. He showed off his explosion at the combine, and you see it on tape too, with his great takeoff speed and change-of-direction ability. The Seahawks have to focus on building up that defensive line, so even after you got them Jalen Carter at No. 5, I'm getting them a disruptive edge rusher here.

21. Los Angeles Chargers

Kiper's pick: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

Addison would mesh well with the skill sets of Mike Williams and Keenan Allen in L.A., likely playing mostly in the slot. He is the best route runner of the wideouts in this class.

22. Baltimore Ravens

McShay's pick: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State

The Ravens are looking for a playmaking corner to line up opposite Marlon Humphrey, so I think the guy who picked off 14 passes in college -- including six pick-sixes -- makes a lot of sense. Sure, Forbes is only 166 pounds, but his instincts, speed and arm length make him tough to beat. Mel, I know you're also a big fan of his game.

23. Minnesota Vikings

Kiper's pick: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

Corner is a clear weakness for Minnesota, which brought in Byron Murphy Jr. in free agency to replace veteran Patrick Peterson. Long-armed Porter could see early action outside. He didn't have much production in college -- one interception -- but that should change at the next level.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars

McShay's pick: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

Yes, the Jags just franchise-tagged Evan Engram, but this pick still makes sense to me for a team that could go "best available" at No. 24. Mayer not only will give quarterback Trevor Lawrence a big target to hit on third down and in the red zone but also is one of the best blocking tight ends in the class. And with Engram under contract for the 2023 season only, Mayer's role could expand in the future.

25. New York Giants

Kiper's pick: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

With the top three receivers off the board in this scenario, the Giants shouldn't reach -- which is what Todd is about to do for Dallas. New York should target a corner instead. Banks has the size, speed and instincts to be a No. 1 corner.

26. Dallas Cowboys

McShay's pick: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

Yeah, you said it, Mel. This feels a little early for Johnston, but I played myself here a little bit by taking Michael Mayer -- who would have been a perfect fit in Dallas -- off the board two picks ago. Regardless, there's no denying that the Cowboys need pass-catchers, and Johnston could be the true No. 2 behind CeeDee Lamb. Johnston has a big catch radius and can make plays downfield.

27. Buffalo Bills

Kiper's pick: Trenton Simpson, ILB, Clemson

I'm breaking my rules a little bit because I don't have a first-round grade on Simpson. The Bills just don't have many starting spots open, but they need a replacement inside for Tremaine Edmunds, who signed with the Bears. Simpson could fill that need; he has the coverage traits to play on third downs.

28. Cincinnati Bengals

McShay's pick: Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State

I'm guessing this will be a bit of a surprise, but I love this dude's tape. And I just moved Brents up to No. 27 overall on my board. He is tall and long, and he can smother receivers in press coverage. The Bengals really need some help in that area.

Julius Brents' NFL draft profile

Check out the highlights that contributed to Julius Brents' career at Kansas State.

29. New Orleans Saints (from SF/MIA/DEN)

Kiper's pick: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson

The Saints are a hard team to predict. Could they go tight end here? What about a young edge defender or safety? Ultimately, after New Orleans cleaned out its defensive tackle position this offseason, Bresee makes too much sense. He has some pass-rush upside too.

30. Philadelphia Eagles

McShay's pick: Myles Murphy, DE, Clemson

How about the other really good defensive lineman from Clemson? The Eagles' D-line was excellent last season, recording 70 sacks. But the unit is aging and could have depth issues. Murphy has the burst to get home on the QB and fits what the Eagles like to do in Round 1: build up the trenches.

31. Kansas City Chiefs

Kiper's pick: Will McDonald IV, OLB, Iowa State

Here's another team that can afford to take the best prospect available. The Chiefs selected defensive end George Karlaftis in Round 1 last year, and you can think of McDonald as a complement to Karlaftis' skill set. McDonald is a speed rusher who will wreck offensive tackles in pass situations.

ROUND 2

32. Pittsburgh Steelers (from CHI)

McShay's pick: Brian Branch, S/CB, Alabama

DJ Turner (Michigan) would also be a good get for the cornerback room here, but I really love Branch's versatility. Pittsburgh could line him up over the slot as a rookie, before dropping him to safety down the road.

33. Houston Texans

Kiper's pick: Keion White, OLB, Georgia Tech

Todd, you went all offense for Houston in Round 1, so I have to take a defender here. White has the size and traits to make an impact as a rookie. Coach DeMeco Ryans would love working with him.

34. Arizona Cardinals

McShay's pick: DJ Turner, CB, Michigan

I just mentioned Turner at the top of Round 2, and Arizona could keep building its defense back up with an ultra-fast cornerback here. The Cards only managed 11 interceptions last season and lost Byron Murphy Jr. to free agency.

35. Indianapolis Colts

Kiper's pick: O'Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida

If we're giving the Colts a quarterback in Round 1, we should help that passer here. Torrence can clear running lanes. He and Quenton Nelson would form one of the league's most tenacious guard tandems.

On The Clock

On The Clock follows the journey of four top quarterback prospects throughout their final college football season and into the offseason as they prepare for the NFL Draft. Stream now on ESPN+

36. Los Angeles Rams

McShay's pick: Felix Anudike-Uzomah, DE, Kansas State

The Rams didn't have a first-round pick, so their draft begins here with a speed rusher off the edge. Los Angeles has needs all over the place, but the lack of support for Aaron Donald in the front seven is pretty concerning. Anudike-Uzomah should provide immediate help.

37. Seattle Seahawks (from DEN)

Kiper's pick: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

This is where I'd feel comfortable taking Hooker if I were running a draft room. Seattle was able to fill defensive holes with its top two picks, and now it can try for its quarterback of the future. Geno Smith's contract shouldn't prohibit the Seahawks from taking Hooker if they like him.

38. Las Vegas Raiders

McShay's pick: Steve Avila, C/G, TCU

Mel took care of the cornerback need in the first round, so I'm moving on to the offensive line in the second. The Raiders invested in Jimmy Garoppolo and franchise-tagged running back Josh Jacobs, so why not give them both some help on the interior line. Avila could end up being a really good run-blocker in the pros.

39. Carolina Panthers

Kiper's pick: Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee

When the Panthers traded away wide receiver DJ Moore to move up to the No. 1 pick, I was worried for the quarterback they were going to draft. Their pass-catcher depth chart was barren. Now, after signing veteran Adam Thielen in free agency and taking a speedy wideout in this projection, Bryce Young would have a much better chance as a rookie.

40. New Orleans Saints

McShay's pick: Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State

Derek Carr loved targeting Darren Waller in Las Vegas, so I'm excited about landing Carr another tight end with great physical traits in New Orleans. Musgrave is a bit of a projection since he missed 10 games last season and didn't have a ton of college production, but he has speed and a wide catch radius.

41. Tennessee Titans

Kiper's pick: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

I gave the Saints a defensive tackle in Round 1 when I thought hard about a tight end. Now, let's snag that tight end. Washington is a mismatch in the pass game and a really solid blocker in the run game. He could thrive in the NFL with more targets.

42. New York Jets (from CLE)

McShay's pick: Joe Tippmann, C, Wisconsin

Shoring up the offensive line is key for the Jets, especially if they land Aaron Rodgers. Mel brought in Broderick Jones in the first round to give them an offensive tackle, but the interior needs work too. Tippmann is my top-ranked center, and his mobility stands out on tape.

43. New York Jets

Kiper's pick: Adetomiwa Adebawore, DT, Northwestern

Well, Todd stole my pick, but I guess it doesn't matter since they're both going to the Jets. Adebawore lit up at the combine, showing off his impressive physical traits. He has positional flexibility, even if he is likely never going to be a 10-sack-per-season player.

44. Atlanta Falcons

McShay's pick: Jonathan Mingo, WR, Ole Miss

If Atlanta is going to give Desmond Ridder a real shot to be its answer under center, then it better get him another pass-catcher to complement Drake London and Kyle Pitts. Mingo is physical and can line up all over the offense. I've heard a lot of buzz around his name over the past month or so.

What to know for the 2023 NFL draft

45. Green Bay Packers

Kiper's pick: BJ Ojulari, OLB, LSU

The Packers are thinner than you think on the edge. Ojulari, my fourth-ranked outside linebacker, had more than 80 QB pressures over the past two seasons.

46. New England Patriots

McShay's pick: Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami-FL

The Patriots re-signed Jonathan Jones, and their pass defense was pretty strong last season, but the cornerback room needs depth. Adding speed and physicality outside makes sense on Day 2.

47. Washington Commanders

Kiper's pick: Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia

Ringo is a boom-or-bust defender, and some scouts believe he'll eventually move to safety. He is worth a flier in Round 2 because of his traits, though. If he puts his tools together, the Commanders could get a steal.

48. Detroit Lions

McShay's pick: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama

I'm not sure Gibbs falls this far, but the Lions would love this scenario. They signed David Montgomery and already have D'Andre Swift, but Gibbs brings a different element to the offense than the former, and the latter hasn't been able to stay healthy. Gibbs is nearly impossible to tackle in the open field and could put up big numbers as an after-the-catch playmaker for Jared Goff in the pass game.

49. Pittsburgh Steelers

Kiper's pick: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

We're doing a nice job tag-teaming Pittsburgh's top needs, Todd, but one remains. I actually had this pairing at No. 32 overall in my two-round mock draft. Harrison could immediately challenge Dan Moore Jr. for the starting left tackle spot.

50. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

McShay's pick: Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State

At 6-foot-8 and 374 pounds, Jones is massive and could be the answer opposite Tristan Wirfs on an offensive line that needs support. The Bucs cut Donovan Smith and no longer have Tom Brady getting the ball out quickly. If Tampa Bay doesn't go tackle in Round 1, it will likely take the best one on the board here in Round 2.

51. Miami Dolphins

Kiper's pick: Brenton Strange, TE, Penn State

I struggled a little bit with this one, Miami's first pick of the draft. Could it go with a running back or will it fill that need on the veteran market? I like Strange's upside as a pass-catcher, and he is more rounded than Mike Gesicki, who left for New England in free agency.

52. Seattle Seahawks

McShay's pick: Jayden Reed, WR, Michigan State

Reed is one of my favorite prospects in the class. He is so good after the catch and can line up inside or outside. He would be the perfect complement to DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett in an offense that loves receivers who can generate separation.

53. Chicago Bears (from BAL)

Kiper's pick: Mazi Smith, DT, Michigan

The Bears really have to shore up the trenches in front of quarterback Justin Fields. Smith is one of the strongest players in this class. He won't offer much as an interior pass-rusher, but he will plug holes in the run game.

Mazi Smith's NFL draft profile

Check out the highlights that contributed to Mazi Smith's career at Michigan.

54. Los Angeles Chargers

McShay's pick: Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin

The Chargers allowed 5.4 yards per rush last season, by far the worst in the NFL. Benton has the power to stuff runs at the line of scrimmage and the quickness to make plays behind it.

55. Detroit Lions (from MIN)

Kiper's pick: Drew Sanders, ILB, Arkansas

We've given Detroit two defensive linemen and a running back so far, but I still spot a void at linebacker. I want to see Sanders compete for a starting spot on the inside. At 6-foot-4, he could be used as a great blitzer too. He just makes plays.

56. Jacksonville Jaguars

McShay's pick: Riley Moss, CB, Iowa

I know you have Moss as a safety at the next level, Mel, but I think he could start out at cornerback with Jacksonville. He is so instinctive and has the size (6-foot-1, 193 pounds) to compete with bigger receivers. Moss also picked off 11 passes in college, so he'd be a good addition for a Jags defense on the upswing.

57. New York Giants

Kiper's pick: John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota

Todd and I probably overuse "plug and play," but that's exactly what Schmitz offers for the Giants. They need a starting center, and he can be that. He is a complete lineman.

58. Dallas Cowboys

McShay's pick: Sam LaPorta, TE, Iowa

A tight end this good, this late? It makes me feel better about the Cowboys missing out at the position in Round 1. LaPorta could give Dak Prescott and the Dallas offense an immediate answer to losing Dalton Schultz in free agency.

59. Buffalo Bills

Kiper's pick: Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina

This is another fit I had in my two-round mock draft. Downs could fill a role as Buffalo's slot receiver. He is extremely quick.

60. Cincinnati Bengals

McShay's pick: Matthew Bergeron, OT/G, Syracuse

The Bengals signed Orlando Brown Jr. to end their pass-protection woes once and for all. But if Jonah Williams gets traded, the issues could pop right back up. Bergeron has the quicks and strength to provide depth at offensive tackle; but he also could play guard despite seeing just five snaps there in college.

61. Chicago Bears (from SF/CAR)

Kiper's pick: Derick Hall, DE, Auburn

The Bears are devoid of pass-rushers; they haven't added many guys this offseason who can get after the quarterback. Hall had 16 sacks over the past two seasons. He is a better fit for a team that runs a 3-4 defense, but he could be a situational rusher as a rookie while he puts on more weight to hold up against the run.

62. Philadelphia Eagles

McShay's pick: Zacch Pickens, DT, South Carolina

More trench warfare for the Eagles! Fletcher Cox is 32 years old and on a one-year deal, so bringing in an explosive, powerful and versatile defensive lineman to stack next to Jordan Davis in the future is a good use of this late pick in Round 2.

63. Kansas City Chiefs

Kiper's pick: Marvin Mims, WR, Oklahoma

I just love the idea of Mims in Kansas City. He can catch deep passes from Patrick Mahomes, and he is a stellar improviser on broken plays. If he cuts down on concentration drops, he'll outplay his draft position.

ROUND 3 (* denotes a compensatory selection)

64. Chicago Bears

McShay's pick: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina

I like what you did with the first three Chicago picks, Mel. You hit their top three positions of need, so I guess I'll pivot to their fourth: cornerback. Smith is a reliable cover guy with great instincts and plenty of versatility.

65. Houston Texans

Kiper's pick: Jack Campbell, ILB, Iowa

Off-ball linebackers have less value in today's NFL as teams throw the ball much more than they run it, but Campbell is a really good player. He showed off his physical tools and change-of-direction skills at the combine. Houston needs impact players in this draft.

66. Arizona Cardinals

McShay's pick: Cedric Tillman, WR, Tennessee

Whether or not DeAndre Hopkins gets traded, the Cardinals could use additional receiver help. And Tillman is a big pass-catcher with strong hands, downfield ability and really good body control. Injuries held him back a bit last season, but Tillman would be a good get in the third round.

67. Denver Broncos (from IND)

Kiper's pick: Byron Young, OLB, Tennessee

At 6-foot-2 and 250 pounds, Young is undersized, but he has a nose for pressuring quarterbacks. This is Denver's first pick in this draft, and it should focus on the front seven with one of these selections.

68. Denver Broncos

McShay's pick: Tyjae Spears, RB, Tulane

Denver can stay right there at the podium to announce its new third-down back. Spears makes defenders miss, has breakaway speed and can make an impact in the pass game.

69. Los Angeles Rams

Kiper's pick: Jartavius Martin, S, Illinois

The Rams have completely redone their secondary this offseason, but they still have a ways to go. This is not the best safety class, but Martin is my third-ranked player at the position. He played a bunch of corner snaps last season, but I see him as more of a center fielder in the NFL.

2023 NFL draft rankings

• Best 300-plus prospects on the board »
• Consensus rankings, position top fives »
• Kiper's Big Board » | McShay's top 32 »
• Reid's top 379 » | Miller's top 368 »
• Leggy 100 » | QB Hot Board » | HBCU »

70. Las Vegas Raiders

McShay's pick: Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State

The Raiders traded away Darren Waller, and new quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo ranked second in the NFL in yards per attempt on passes to tight ends last season (9.5). Kraft would be a red zone favorite for Garoppolo in Las Vegas.

71. New Orleans Saints

Kiper's pick: A.T. Perry, WR, Wake Forest

Chris Olave caught 72 passes as a rookie last season, but no other Saints receiver had more than Rashid Shaheed's 28 catches. Yes, Michael Thomas should be back healthy, but New Orleans could use another outside threat. The 6-foot-3 Perry had 26 touchdowns over the past two seasons.

72. Tennessee Titans

McShay's pick: Cody Mauch, OT/G, North Dakota State

Building up the rest of the offense won't mean much if we ignore the O-line, which allowed 49 sacks last season (tied for fifth most). With short arms for an NFL tackle, Mauch might be a better fit at guard, but there's no doubting his explosion and ability to lock on in pass protection. Ryan Tannehill (and/or Will Levis) would be happy with this pick.

73. Houston Texans (from CLE)

Kiper's pick: Jaquelin Roy, DT, LSU

This is the last of Houston's five picks in the first three rounds, and we've gotten it a quarterback, wide receiver, edge rusher and inside linebacker so far. Why not more help along the spine of the defense? Roy is a nose tackle who can push the pile.

74. Cleveland Browns (from NYJ)

McShay's pick: Gervon Dexter, DT, Florida

Welcome to the NFL draft, Cleveland. I'm wasting no time once the Browns are finally on the clock in addressing the roster's biggest hole. It's a thin defensive tackle class, but Dexter gives them depth up the middle and some interior pass-rushing upside thanks to his speed.

75. Atlanta Falcons

Kiper's pick: Yasir Abdullah, OLB, Louisville

If we're not giving the Falcons an edge rusher in the first two rounds -- after they finished 31st in the league with 21 sacks last season -- we have to get them one here. The undersized Abdullah is intriguing. He is only 6-foot-1, but he had 19.5 sacks and 35.5 total tackles for loss over the past two seasons. He is a good player.

76. New England Patriots (from CAR)

McShay's pick: Rashee Rice, WR, SMU

Rice dominates over the middle of the field, and I could see him building a nice connection with quarterback Mac Jones as a reliable target. Even after New England signed JuJu Smith-Schuster, it wouldn't feel right exiting Day 2 of the draft without giving the Pats a wide receiver.

77. Los Angeles Rams (from NE/MIA)

Kiper's pick: Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA

Check out the Rams' running back depth chart. Does that fire you up? Charbonnet might not break off many 50-yard runs in the NFL, but he can break tackles. He also has some potential as a pass-catcher. And he can stay local in this scenario.

78. Green Bay Packers

McShay's pick: Michael Wilson, WR, Stanford

The Packers love a good Day 2 wideout, and Wilson's ability to get separation on corners and elude them after the catch would be huge for Jordan Love as this offense transitions post Aaron Rodgers (again, assuming a trade happens).

Michael Wilson's NFL draft profile

Check out the highlights from Stanford's wide receiver Michael Wilson.

79. Indianapolis Colts (from WSH)

Kiper's pick: Darius Rush, CB, South Carolina

Rush, who ran a blazing 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the combine, gave up a few too many long catches last season, but he has tremendous traits. The Colts traded away Stephon Gilmore in March, opening up snaps at corner.

80. Pittsburgh Steelers

McShay's pick: Daiyan Henley, ILB, Washington State

After Devin Bush didn't work out in Pittsburgh, the Steelers signed Cole Holcomb in March. But the linebacker depth isn't great, and Henley has the burst to make plays.

81. Detroit Lions

Kiper's pick: Luke Schoonmaker, TE, Michigan

Schoonmaker might be a little underrated in this deep tight end class. He is solid but not spectacular. With T.J. Hockenson gone, Detroit doesn't have much in its tight end room. And now we've filled all of the Lions' needs, haven't we, Todd?

82. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

McShay's pick: Sydney Brown, S, Illinois

I loved the Bucs' Antoine Winfield Jr. pick on Day 2 in 2020, and I'm looking at a similar player here late on Day 2 three years thereafter to line up next to him. With really good instincts and quicks, Brown is a ball magnet who can make plays against the run and the pass.

83. Seattle Seahawks

Kiper's pick: Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse

Williams tore an ACL in October, so he hasn't been able to work out for NFL teams. I love what he showed before his injury, though. He isn't very big -- 5-foot-10 -- but this would be an upside play for the Seahawks, who are only looking for rotational corners.

84. Miami Dolphins

McShay's pick: Isaiah Foskey, DE, Notre Dame

It's a little surprising that Foskey slid this far, as he plays with really good explosion off the edge. And with only four selections, Miami has to nail every one of its picks, and this is good value at this point in Round 3.

85. Los Angeles Chargers

Kiper's pick: Devon Achane, RB, Texas A&M

My comp for Achane? Darren Sproles. That's because Achane has a ton of value as a returner and in the pass game. He needs to hit his ceiling to be as productive as Sproles, of course, but he is my third-ranked back in this class. We know Austin Ekeler has requested a trade, which creates some uncertainty for the Chargers. This would be great insurance.

86. Baltimore Ravens

McShay's pick: Tyler Scott, WR, Cincinnati

The Ravens haven't picked since the first round, and Mel went cornerback there. I guess it's on me to get the Ravens a wideout now. The position is thinning out a little bit, but Scott can be dangerous downfield with his elite second gear.

NFL draft coverage from

Football Outsiders projects top draft prospects at key positions:
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87. Minnesota Vikings

Kiper's pick: Colby Wooden, DT, Auburn

Wooden is an interesting 3-technique prospect. He had six sacks last season, four of which came when he was lined up as a tackle. NFL teams covet interior players who can contribute on third downs. He is worth a dart throw near the end of Round 3.

88. Jacksonville Jaguars

McShay's pick: Zach Harrison, DE, Ohio State

Harrison didn't have a ton of sack production in college (12 sacks over four years), but he has a quick first step and can set the edge against the run. And his versatility would be welcome on the Jags' defensive front.

89. New York Giants

Kiper's pick: Nathaniel Dell, WR, Houston

Dell had 199 catches over the past two seasons, and he was used inside and outside. In fact, 61 of those catches came when "Tank" was aligned wide right, while 60 receptions came when he was in the slot on the left side of the field. That's versatility. At 5-foot-8, he isn't big, but he has some ability after the catch. The Giants could add him to their stockpile of pass-catchers.

90. Dallas Cowboys

McShay's pick: Kendre Miller, RB, TCU

Dallas moved on from Ezekiel Elliott, so it is a prime candidate to add a running back on Day 2 to pair with Tony Pollard in the backfield. And Miller has some impressive agility; his tape is filled with elusive jump cuts.

91. Buffalo Bills

Kiper's pick: Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M

I'm surprised Johnson is still on the board. What are we doing, Todd? This is a great pick for Buffalo. Johnson played a ton of nickel corner for the Aggies, and he piled up tackles for them. For the Bills, this is a pick to get some help for their aging safeties.

92. Cincinnati Bengals

McShay's pick: Ji'Ayir Brown, S, Penn State

Cincinnati plugged the Jessie Bates III hole at safety with Nick Scott in free agency, but there are still some question marks at the position on the Bengals' depth chart. Watch a few minutes of Brown's tape and you'll be wowed by his instincts and recognition skills. I think he could move around the defense and contribute as a rookie.

93. Carolina Panthers (from SF)

Kiper's pick: Andre Carter II, DE, Army

Carter has some stiffness, but he looked like a first-rounder in 2021, when he had 15.5 sacks. Last season? He struggled with more attention from blockers, finishing with three sacks. With a 6-foot-6 frame, he is worth a flier as an edge rusher in Round 3. NFL coaching will really help him blossom.

94. Philadelphia Eagles

McShay's pick: Blake Freeland, OT, BYU

I ended up with all four picks for Philly here, and I'm capping them off with a quick-footed zone blocker who could provide depth for the Eagles' line and potentially open up some running lanes for new back Bijan Robinson.

95. Kansas City Chiefs

Kiper's pick: Tyler Steen, OT, Alabama

The 6-foot-6 Steen started 45 games for the Crimson Tide, playing both left and right tackle. The Chiefs are relying on some youth along the O-line, and Steen could be the swing tackle as a rookie.

96. Arizona Cardinals*

McShay's pick: Roschon Johnson, RB, Texas

Arizona ranked 20th in yards per rush (4.3) and 27th in runs of 10-plus yards (42) last season. I know, I know. This roster has a lot of issues, but Johnson could put up big numbers for the Cards and give quarterback Kyler Murray more help.

97. Washington Commanders*

Kiper's pick: Zack Kuntz, TE, Old Dominion

At 6-foot-7 and 253 pounds, Kuntz ran a 4.55-second 40-yard dash at the combine, one of the best times from any tight end there. He has a ways to go to become a complete player, though. In Washington, he could sit behind Logan Thomas and use 2023 as a redshirt year.

98. Cleveland Browns*

McShay's pick: Henry To'oTo'o, ILB, Alabama

I like To'oTo'o's speed at the second level, and I think his range would boost a run defense that got knocked for 4.7 yards per carry last season, eighth worst in the NFL.

Henry To'oTo'o's NFL draft profile

Check out the best highlights that contributed to a stellar college career for Alabama's Henry To'oTo'o.

99. San Francisco 49ers*

Kiper's pick: Joey Fisher, OT/G, Shepherd

OK, last two picks for me, and they're both for the 49ers, who have yet to draft a player. Let's start with Fisher, who was invited to the Senior Bowl but couldn't practice due to a broken hand. He had an impressive pro day, though, and I think he is likely going to play guard in the NFL. He isn't ready to compete in 2023, but he has a ton of upside.

100. Las Vegas Raiders (from KC/NYG)*

McShay's pick: Tavius Robinson, OLB, Ole Miss

Chandler Jones is 33 years old, and he didn't live up to expectations in his first season in Las Vegas, so getting more explosive pass-rushers with versatility wouldn't be a bad call for the Raiders.

101. San Francisco 49ers*

Kiper's pick: YaYa Diaby, DE, Louisville

I just wrote about Diaby on Monday; he is my 10th-ranked defensive end. He broke out with 9.5 sacks last season. At 6-foot-3 and 263 pounds, he is a little undersized, but he has tools with which to work.

102. San Francisco 49ers*

McShay's pick: Tre'Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB, TCU

The Niners went from 0 to 60 mph quickly, huh? After sitting out the first 98 picks, they've had three selections in a four-pick span. I considered USC defensive lineman Tuli Tuipulotu here to close out our three-round mock draft, but San Francisco's cornerback depth is lacking, and Hodges-Tomlinson has good instincts and ball skills despite a smaller frame.

Three round 2023 nfl mock draft mel kiper todd mcshay predict 102 picks alternating all 32 teams

2023-04-26 00:01:00