2. Carolina Panthers (Trade W/ HOU) – QB C.J. Stroud

Draft Grade – 75.7

If you’re going to take Stroud, you may as well recuperate some extra draft capital. This plan would be best as it allows them to grab a weapon and still take a terrific QB prospect. Stroud continued on with his outstanding pre-draft process as he killed the pro-day. He and Frank Reich would make for a very dependable pairing.

3. Baltimore Ravens (Trade W/ AZ) – QB Anthony Richardson

Draft Grade – 74.3

To explain how it got to this point, I traded Lamar Jackson to the Atlanta Falcons for picks: eighth overall, 110th overall, a 2024 first, a 2024 second-rounder, and a 2025 first. Then Baltimore traded again with Arizona, giving up a 2024 first and 2024 second in exchange for the third overall pick. The trade for the sake of Atlanta puts them in a competitive position and Baltimore receives a historic haul in return.

Using some of those resources to acquire Anthony Richardson would be their best bet. As a runner, he’d be a seamless replacement for Lamar Jackson. Getting him on the same level as a passer would take some time, but his potential exceeds where Lamar currently is. If you have to trade Jackson, as we heard it would happen, I couldn’t think of a better succession plan than this.

4. Indianapolis Colts – QB Will Levis

Draft Grade – 74.8

There’s no reason not to continue to make this the pick for Indianapolis. Will Levis is one of the most unrightfully detested prospects this year. It’s not even like he’s a boom-or-bust prospect, either. Even his accuracy, which people claim to be poor, is decent. He had a satisfying 75.6% adjusted completion percentage in 2022. Furthermore, the traits are simply too good to pass up.

5. Seattle Seahawks – EDGE Will Anderson Jr.

Draft Grade – 82.1

Getting to select Will Anderson Jr. would be a dream scenario for Seattle. This pass rusher is simply the safest defensive prospect to take, as he checks all the boxes. His skill set is eerily similar to legendary pass rusher Khalil Mack. From day one, expect him to be a playmaker in both dimensions of the game.

6. Detroit Lions – IDL Jalen Carter

Draft Grade – 81.4

Despite the poor pro-day and off-the-field concerns, this is still the best option for Detroit. They are just waiting to try and snap on any good three-tech, and Jalen Carter is sitting right there. His film is too overwhelmingly good to let off-the-field concerns drop him. Pair him next to Hutchinson and just wait for them to wreak havoc.

7. Las Vegas Raiders – CB Devon Witherspoon

Draft Grade – 79.7

After watching even more all-22 film on Devon Witherspoon, how can he possibly not be CB-one? The man oozes confidence and energy, which is a huge plus for the position. Moreover, with his rapid click-and-close ability and stellar technique, he can flourish anywhere he goes. He’d be an excellent number-one corner for the black and white.

8. AZ Cardinals (Trade W/ BAL, Via ATL) – EDGE Tyree Wilson

Draft Grade – 78.8

While Will Anderson would be great, you can’t go wrong with receiving a future first and second only to take Tyree Wilson instead. Wilson is still a fantastic option and someone with elite upside but not too much risk. This pick gives them their number-one pass rusher and establishes some strength up front.

9. Chicago Bears – OT Parris Johnson Jr.

Draft Grade – 77.9

This type of pick is easy to overthink, but Parris Johnson is just what this team needs to support Justin Fields. You already got the playmakers; now it’s about protecting Fields better. Johnson has rare length paired with near-elite mobility. He’s the prototypical Tackle and can play either side of the line for Chicago.

10. Philadelphia Eagles – HB Bijan Robinson

Draft Grade – 84.7

Again, this pick is Bijan Robinson, and for a good reason. Robinson would totally take this rushing attack to the next level. Moreover, he’d bring an extra receiving threat to rely on. Not enough people make this mock selection, as Bijan Robinson is by far the best prospect this year. We may never see a prospect as talented in the next 20 years.

11. Tennessee Titans – OL Peter Skoronski

Draft Grade – 79.6

This time around, I’m drafting Peter Skoronski to play Center. They could also try him out at Tackle; if he doesn’t pan out, he can play interior. This selection would allow them to replace Ben Jones, and Skoronski could be even better. His floor is one of the safest ones you can bet on this year, and he’ll bring the blocking mindset they look for in Tennessee.

12. Houston Texans – WR Quentin Johnston

Draft Grade – 78.5

Quentin Johnston paired with Bryce Young would be a dominant combo. A receiver is perhaps the biggest need, and Johnston is the best one this year. His absurd catch radius and explosiveness after the catch are why he’s WR-one.

13. New York Jets – OT Broderick Jones

Draft Grade – 76.0

This pick would be a classic reach, but one that’s necessary to put the team in its best position. While not a true first-rounder, Broderick Jones is a sufficient option to play LT. Even though he needs time to develop, his upside is elite. Having to start day one isn’t the worst option they could go with either. Just a side note, Aaron Rodgers was acquired for Corey Davis and a conditional 2024 second-round pick that could turn into a first.

14. New England Patriots – CB Christian Gonzalez

Draft Grade – 78.6

If Bill Belichick were the drinking type, he’d certainly be popping champagne to this pick. Christian Gonzalez is a top-ten talent and one of the most remarkable athletes in this class. New England doesn’t need Corneback, but this is arguably the best value in the class.

15. Green Bay Packers – EDGE Nolan Smith

Draft Grade – 78.7

A receiver was the priority target here, but Nolan Smith is too good of value to pass up here. From the standpoint of need and scheme fit, this pick is outstanding. Smith has preposterous speed and stellar bend, making him the perfect counterpart to Rashan Gary.

16. Washington Commanders – CB Deonte Banks

Draft Grade – 77.8

There are so many different avenues Washington can opt for, but Deonte Banks is very difficult to pass up. Banks has prototypical size and elite athleticism. His film was just as appealing as his combine numbers, and drafting him would make for a vigorous Corneback unit.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers – IDL Calijah Kancey

Draft Grade – 78.5

The temptation for Joey Porter was strong, but Kancey is a more impressive prospect and fills a more significant need. As Cam Heyward is close to being on his way out, grabbing a feisty defensive tackle will be crucial for Pittsburgh. He’d get rotated as a pass rusher in year one and could eventually take over as the full-time starter.

18. Detroit Lions – CB Joey Porter

Draft Grade – 77.5

I can’t think of a scenario that would get Lions fans more excited than this one. Joey Porter is some of the best value in the draft here, and it’s because he’s viewed as a near top-ten prospect. While he may not be that good, using this pick on him is more than reasonable. He has rare length and held his own in coverage against some of the best competition.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – OT Darnell Wright

Draft Grade – 75.5

Look at this roster and say who will play LT – there’s nobody. Darnell Wright is one of the few plug-in-play guys in the position this year. He has tremendous size, impressive technique, and a stellar anchor. His upside isn’t the best, but this pick allows their O-line not to be a disaster next season.

20. Seattle Seahawks – WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Draft Grade – 77.8

The Seahawks don’t need a receiver, but why not take one when Jaxon Smith-Njigba is available? JSN is an uber-reliable slot receiver and would bolster this receiving unit significantly. His quickness and foot speed is bar-none, the best in this class. He’s one of the surest prospects available, just don’t expect him to be a perimeter threat.

21. Los Angeles Chargers – WR Zay Flowers

Draft Grade – 77.3

This pick remains one of my favorite pairings in the draft. Just imagine Justin Herbert heaving up 60+ yard bombs to Zay Flowers. With Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, very little attention will go to Flowers. He’ll absolutely thrive in this offense, especially with Kellen More calling plays.

22. Baltimore Ravens – CB Cam Smith

Draft Grade – 76.8

The Ravens couldn’t find a better replacement for Marcus Peters than Cam Smith at pick 22. Smith has a very similar play style as he is ultra-aggressive and plays like a ball hawk. He put the questions about his long speed to bed by running a great 40-time and the potential shows on film.

23. Kansas City Chiefs (Trade W/ MIN)- OT Anton Harrison

Draft Grade – 75.2

Jawaan Jones will be suitable as an RT, but Kansas City needs to draft someone to play the left side. As Tackles went early, trading up and taking Anton Harrison became necessary. He’s terrific at mirroring in pass-pro and has the ideal size to play LT. This pick would be the final touch to a dominant O-line.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars – OG O’Cyrus Torrence

Draft Grade – 76.9

The weapons are already in place in Jacksonville; it’s just about improving the O-line at this point. O’Cryus Torrence would do precisely that, as he’s a big-mauling Guard ready to start from day one. His size and power are truly devastating, and he improves both the run and pass game.

25. New York Giants – SA Brian Branch

Draft Grade – 77.2

No quality Guards or Centers are of value here, so you may as well improve this secondary, which lacks high-end talent. Brian Branch could play both as a Strong Safety and nickel corner. His tackling ability is rare, and he brings an impactful skill set out of the slot. Pair him with Adoree’ Jackson and Xavier McKinney, and they’d have a pretty damn good DB room.

26. Dallas Cowboys – IDL Bryan Bresee

Draft Grade – 78.0

The Cowboys have a ton of talent scattered across their roster, but the one area that currently needs to be stronger is IDL. Byran Bresee is a large and quick Defensive Tackle with a ton of muscle mass. He’ll hopefully add a much-needed pass-rush presence on the inside for a long time.

27. Buffalo Bills – OT Dawand Jones

Draft Grade – 74.7

Unfortunately, Tackles went early, and the Bills are stuck taking Dawand Jones. On the bright side, Jones has a ton of potential as he’s egregiously large and flashed dominant reps. His length and raw power are about as good as your gonna find. At the end of the day, this is still an upgrade to Spencer Brown.

28. Cincinnati Bengals – TE Michael Mayer

Draft Grade – 78.7

There are other options on the table, but Michael Mayer will ultimately help this team the most. He is a do-it-all Tight End with the proper build to play TE in the NFL. Irv Smith would be starting next season if it weren’t for this selection.

29. New Orleans Saints – EDGE Lukas Van Ness

Draft Grade – 76.7

New Orleans simply must take whichever 4-3 EDGE is best available here. This time, Lukas Van Ness is of outstanding value at pick 29. Van Ness slipped because he is a one-dimensional pass rusher and doesn’t have a good enough floor to rely on. However, he has elite potential and could possibly be a number one guy for New Orleans.

30. Philadelphia Eagles – WR Jordan Addison

Draft Grade – 77.6

The Eagles get a chance to make an unstoppable offense by drafting Jordan Addison on top of Bijan Robinson. Addison isn’t perfect, but he has one of the safest floors in this class. Only having to be the fourth receiving option will allow him to have an effortless role. This unit would never slow down with four other star talents on offense.

31. Minnesota Vikings (Trade W/ KC) – WR Josh Downs

Draft Grade – 76.7

Outside of Justin Jefferson, what other receivers do you even have here? Getting Josh Downs in the building would do wonders for this offense. It would open up the passing game more and ensure they won’t be down to no names if Jefferson goes down.

33. Carolina Panthers – TE Dalton Kincaid

Draft Grade – 77.3

Some thought went into Myles Murphey, but ultimately, Dalton Kincaid is what they need most. You can’t expect Kincaid to be an inline blocker, but his receiving skills are entirely the best in a loaded class. Just use him as a wing/ slot receiver, and his production will show in the pros.

34. Arizona Cardinals – CB Emmanuel Forbes

Draft Grade – 76.4

Emmanuel Forbes’s play style fits what Arizona should be looking for in a corner. Coach Gannon likes to use a lot of off-coverage and match concepts where Forbes thrives. He can also press reasonably well and plays above what his weight is listed at. This selection is one of my favorites.

35. Indianapolis Colts – EDGE Myles Murphey

Draft Grade – 76.5

This pick is simply the best available player who happens to be an EDGE. While EDGE is not an immediate need, there’s only one long-term answer in place, and you can never go wrong with enhancing the trenches. At pick 35, this is some of the best value you could possibly find in the draft.

36. LA Rams – EDGE B.J. Ojulari

Draft Grade – 76.8

This pick can essentially just be whichever best EDGE is available. B.J. Ojulari is easily one of the best-projected second-rounders this year. His speed and explosiveness are being slept on, and he has ideal length too. Playing next to Aaron Donald will allow for many single teams, where he should be able to wreak havoc.

37. Seattle Seahawks – IDL Mazi Smith

Draft Grade – 75.7

Mazi Smith to Seattle has been among the most popular mock draft pairings this year. I can totally see why, as he’s just what they need at Nose-Tackle. At 6’3, 330 lbs, he has some of the most enforcive arm strength you’ll ever see. His pass-rush ability is a work in progress, but you’re drafting him to stuff the run.

38. Las Vegas Raiders – IDL Adetomiwa Adebawore

Draft Grade – 76.1

After what was supposed to be a dominant pass-rush group failed to meet expectations, taking a pass-rusher would be beneficial. Plug in Adetomiwa Adebawore and just wait for things to improve. He is probably the fastest Defensive Tackle in football history and has legit pass-rush moves. This pick makes perfect sense, as he could be a hybrid defensive end in this system.

39. Carolina Panthers – RB Jahmyr Gibbs

Draft Grade – 79.6

I was initially skeptical of Jahmyr Gibbs’s upside, but I’ve recently come around to liking him more. He’s got excellent burst and top-end speed paired with great receiving ability. Gibbs would make Stroud’s life dramatically more manageable. Plus, this fills a massive need.

40. Seattle Seahawks (Trade W/ NO) – CB Tyrique Stevenson

Draft Grade – N/A

Trading up to get Tyrique Stevenson would be massive for Seattle and help top off a legit defense. This move only cost picks 123, 154, and a future fifth to move up 12 spots. Stevenson has the size they are looking for and could easily be a high-end number two for them.

41. Tennessee Titans – EDGE Will McDonald IV

Draft Grade – 75.7

After addressing the O-line in round one, it’s time to grab an EDGE rusher to be the long-term answer, hopefully. Will McDonald IV could’ve easily gone round one and would fit perfectly as a 3-4 OLB in this scheme. His length and bend are top-notch and give him tremendous upside. His athleticism would finally be unleashed here in Tennessee.

42. New York Jets – LB Daiyan Henley

Draft Grade – 75.3

Daiyan Henley is an ideal fit for the Jets and fixes one of their most significant issues. He’d play weak side Lineback next to C.J. Mosely, an excellent Mike. Henley has plenty of range paired with a very natural feel in coverage. The former wide-out would be an incredible addition to an already highly touted defense.

43. New York Jets – WR Tank Dell

Draft Grade – 74.7

This is a pick I don’t feel confident about, but it’ll ultimately work out. After trading Corey Davis in this mock to acquire Rodgers, the receiving core looks thin. Tank Dell can be that guy they use to motion around and be utilized creatively. Despite being 5’8, he is a solid weapon to add next to Wilson and Lazard.

44. Atlanta Falcons – EDGE Felix Anudike-Uzomah

Draft Grade – 75.6

After trading for Lamar Jackson, it’s crucial to target defense here as the unit remains to be incomplete. Felix Anudike-Uzomah is of tremendous value and gives them a significantly better option at EDGE. He doesn’t have any trump cards but is instead a well-refined pass-rusher. Acquiring him will allow this defense to function better across the board.

45. Green Bay Packers – TE Luke Musgrave

Draft Grade – 77.2

After going EDGE in the first, grabbing a receiving threat is an absolute must for Green Bay. Luke Musgrave is an electric receiving threat as a TE and will complement Jordan Love well. In addition, he has the size and strength to block but will just need to develop his technique more. Musgrave remains underrated, and this would indeed be a steal for Green Bay.

46. New England Patriots – SA Jartavious Martin

Draft Grade – 75.2

New England could really use a rangy free safety as a long-term answer. Jartavious Martin out of Illinois provides that for good value. He ran a 4.46 and had an astonishing 1.47 split time. With proper size, he has all the tools needed to excel as an FS under Belichick.

47. Washington Commanders – IOL John Michael-Schmitz

Draft Grade – 73.5

John Michael Schmitz is a pro-ready Center who’d be an excellent addition to this offense. He lacks high-end physical tools but is a very refined and technically sound player. Currently, Nick Gates is the starting Center, and that just isn’t going to cut it.

48. Detroit Lions – WR Michael Wilson

Draft Grade – 74.7

A receiver is an underrated need for Detroit, and Michael Wilson is a true second-round talent. This pick may seem like a reach, but Wilson’s release package is beyond his years, and he has exceptional size. Spending a second-rounder on him is totally worth it, especially after the rest of the needs have been addressed.

49. Pittsburgh Steelers – SA Antonio Johnson

Draft Grade – 76.4

After losing Cam Sutton and Terrell Edmunds, replenishing the secondary would be wise for Pittsburgh. Antonio Johnson, out of Texas A&M, is a lengthy and versatile Safety. He could play out of the slot and as a Strong Safety. While a developmental corner would be nice, it is critical to fill in the positions they lost.

50. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – CB Kelee Ringo

Draft Grade – 74.7

They did just recently extend Jamel Dean, but adding some extra youth is a suitable option. Kelee Ringo would be a good matchup corner on day one, and if he doesn’t develop, you switch him to safety, where he might fit better.

51. Miami Dolphins – TE Sam LaPorta

Draft Grade – 75.5

After losing Mike Gesicki, it only makes sense to draft a similar type of player with their top pick. Sam LaPorta is undersized but fast with soft hands. He can flourish as a hybrid slot/ wing TE, especially with Tua throwing him the ball.

52. New Orleans Saints (Trade W/ SEA) – Keeanu Benton

Draft Grade – 74.6

Keeanue Benton is a target I love for New Orleans. With pick 40, he’d be too rich, but with a trade-down, it makes total sense. Benton is one of the most robust and efficient D-linemen in this class and is exactly what they need upfront. He’d make for a great pairing with Lukas Van Ness.

53. Chicago Bears – EDGE Derick Hall

Draft Grade – 75.1

The Chicago D-line remains to be hardly touched in free agency, and Derick Hall is the best value available. Derick Hall is a lengthy and explosive EDGE with a terrific long-arm move. Hall is an underrated prospect and could be a nasty number-two pass rusher.

54. Los Angeles Chargers – LB Drew Sanders

Draft Grade – 74.9

Grabbing an LB would be helpful, as Kenneth Murray’s contract will expire soon, and Eric Kendricks is only a short-term option. Drew Sanders isn’t a day-one starter but has extraordinary potential. He’s a converted EDGE, so it’ll take time to get used to the pros, but in the meantime, he can be used as a designed Blitzer.

55. Detroit Lions – IOL Cody Mauch

Draft Grade – 75.4

This is one of those picks that get you excited despite not even being a team fan. Cody Mauch getting to play under Dan Campbell would be awesome. You have to love the demeanor and play style from Mauch. Even though I view him as an interior player, he is a favorite of mine and could be an all-pro Guard for Detroit.

56. Jacksonville Jaguars – CB Garrett Williams

Draft Grade – N/A

The Comeback room is rather thin in Jacksonville, and Garrett Williams is available. I have yet to see his all-22 film, but the quickness and mirroring ability are all there. He’d be an excellent dime Corner on day one and hopefully could emerge into a full-time role.

57. New York Giants – IOL Joe Tippmann

Draft Grade – 74.4

Center is a glaring need for New York, and this is also excellent value for Joe Tippmann. With adequate size and high-end athleticism, he is the ideal Center to play in this offense. Daboll often pulls his lineman, and Tippmann is one of the best move blockers in this class.

58. Dallas Cowboys – TE Darnell Washington

Draft Grade – 76.8

It may be surprising to see Darnell Washington to the Cowboys, but I can explain. Tight End is a crucial aspect in this offense, and why not have two capable TEs who complement each others skillset’s wonderfully? Jake Ferguson is solid, but he’s practically a wing TE. Washington can block his ass off and be a genuine inline Tight End. This would make for a more well-balanced and dynamic offense.

59. Buffalo Bills – CB Clark Philips

Draft Grade – 75.0

The dime corner position is much more valuable than some think, and Clark Philips is precisely that. We saw how thin this group was when injuries occurred last season. Philips is ready to fill this role and would fit this scheme well.

60. Cincinnati Bengals – SA Sydney Brown

Draft Grade – 74.4

Following the loss of Jessie Bates and Von Bell, it’s reasonable to draft a Safety here. Sydney Brown would be an exceptional fit in this split-safety system. He is easily one of the most complete Safeties in this class and is an elite athlete relative to the position. He and Daxton Hill could turn into a deadly combo.

61. Chicago Bears – EDGE Andre Carter

Draft Grade – 74.8

Even after taking an EDGE with pick 53, it still makes sense to take another one. Andre Carter wouldn’t have to start day one and could possibly develop into a severe problem for offenses. His size-athletism combo is as good as you’ll find on day two. He only must gain some muscle mass and develop better moves.

62. Philadelphia Eagles – IOL Steve Avila

Draft Grade – 72.1

Finding another Guard remains a priority for the Eagles, and Steve Avila happens to fall in this mock draft. I’m not exactly a fan of his, but he’d be a capable starter for Philly and could turn into a quality one down the road. He’s got intriguing skills for being a big man, and drafting him would help complete this O-line.

63. Kansas City Chiefs – WR Jalin Hyatt

Draft Grade – 73.6

I am clearly not the biggest fan of Jalin Hyatt, but at pick 63 in this offense, how could this not be worth it? Hyatt, while overrated, brings a skillset that’d particularly be useful to the Chiefs. At Tennessee, he had a minimal role, but Kansas City should be able to tap into that role similarly.