The unpredictable nature of the NFL draft adds to the excitement and anticipation each year. Fans and analysts alike are constantly reminded to expect the unexpected during the selection process. However, top analysts can provide valuable insights and help steer our draft compass in the right direction with their mock projections. Utilizing FantasyPros' consensus draft board from March 28, 2023, we can explore the latest trends and examine what recent mocks reveal about potential outcomes and the most notable prospects for the first round.
Following a challenging season for the Cleveland Browns, where quarterback Deshaun Watson faced a ruptured Achilles tendon twice, the team is in dire need of a quarterback. The Browns traded Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a fifth-round pick for Kenny Pickett, indicating their intent to bolster the quarterback position. Despite this, ESPN's Adam Schefter (as reported by Ryan Dunleavy of The New York Post) suggests that Cleveland is leaning towards selecting Abdul Carter, an edge rusher from Penn State.
By drafting Carter, the Browns could potentially sign a veteran quarterback like Carson Wentz or acquire Kirk Cousins from the Atlanta Falcons to enhance their quarterback roster. This move could lead to an impressive pass-rushing duo with Myles Garrett, who recently signed a four-year, $160 million extension. Although FantasyPros' consensus board currently lists Carter at 20 percent, recent mock drafts by NFL.com's Eric Edholm and ESPN's Matt Miller have linked him to the Browns more frequently. "If Schefter says it, I trust it," Miller stated in his analysis regarding Carter's potential selection.
Initially, Will Campbell was the most mentioned prospect as the top offensive tackle in this year's draft. However, skepticism arose regarding his shorter arm length, leading analysts to speculate that he may have to transition to guard. At the NFL Scouting Combine, Campbell's arm length was measured at 32⅝ inches, but he contested this measurement during his pro day, stating, "I knew my arms were 33 inches." His determination and skill were evident, but the rise of Armand Membou has overshadowed Campbell's prospects.
Since an impressive performance at the combine, Membou has solidified his place in the top 10 of mock drafts, surpassing Campbell as the top offensive tackle prospect. Analysts Eric Edholm and James Foster of The 33rd Team predict that the New England Patriots will select Membou at No. 4, while the New York Jets, holding the No. 7 pick, are also showing interest in the Missouri product.
During free agency, reports from Fox Sports' Jordan Schultz indicated that Ashton Jeanty has garnered support within the Las Vegas Raiders organization as they look to build around talented rookie tight end Brock Bowers. Despite this internal backing, the FantasyPros consensus draft board suggests that cornerback Will Johnson (60 percent) is the projected pick over Jeanty (20 percent) for the Raiders' No. 6 selection.
Although the Raiders recently signed Raheem Mostert, their biggest need remains at running back, especially considering Mostert's age and injury history. Reports from The Athletic indicate that fourth-year tailback Zamir White is on the trade block, further emphasizing the team's need for depth in the running back position. With head coach Pete Carroll likely wanting to prioritize defense, the Raiders may opt for Johnson instead, especially after last year's struggles in the secondary.
As the running back class shapes up, analysts view both Jeanty and Omarion Hampton as top prospects. B/R scout Dame Parson has assigned both players an impressive grade of 8.3, with Jeanty slightly edging out as the best in the class. Recent mock drafts suggest that Hampton, who rushed for over 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns in consecutive seasons at North Carolina, is likely to be selected within the top 20. With the Denver Broncos needing a lead running back after allowing Javonte Williams to walk in free agency, Hampton's skill set makes him a perfect fit.
Analysts like Eric Edholm have connected Hampton to the Dallas Cowboys at the No. 12 pick, as they look to replace their leading rusher from last season, Rico Dowdle. With the recent additions of Williams and Miles Sanders, the Cowboys are keen on solidifying their backfield.
Wide receiver Matthew Golden has seen his stock rise significantly after clocking an impressive 4.29 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the combine. In a receiver class lacking star power, Golden is emerging as a top prospect. Recent mock drafts position him as the No. 2 wide receiver, surpassing Missouri's Luther Burden III. In his final year at Texas, Golden recorded 58 receptions for 987 yards and nine touchdowns, showcasing his speed and route-running ability, which could provide a significant boost to any offense.
According to FantasyPros' consensus board, many analysts predict that Golden will be selected in the late first round. However, B/R's latest mock draft suggests that the Arizona Cardinals are targeting him at the No. 16 pick, as the team seeks to enhance their offensive speed and playmaking capabilities alongside other talents like Harrison and tight end Trey McBride.
The edge-rushing position is expected to dominate the first round, with players like Carter, Walker, and Mykel Williams drawing significant attention. Due to his versatility, Walker may generate even more buzz leading up to the draft. According to FantasyPros' consensus draft board, analysts are linking the Carolina Panthers with Walker and Williams at No. 8, potentially starting a run on edge-rushers that could include talents like Stewart, Green, Ezeiruaku, and Pearce shortly thereafter.
With a strong emphasis on edge-rushers, this year's draft is shaping up to be an exciting event filled with surprises and strategic selections that could redefine team dynamics in the upcoming NFL season.
For more insights and analysis, follow Maurice Moton, who covers the NFL for Bleacher Report, on Twitter at @MoeMoton.
