NFL prospect Will Anderson Jr., Alabama Crimson Tide. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
The 2022 NFL season is officially over, as the Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl LVII. Here, we take a look at a full two-round 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
With Super Bowl LVII in the books, all attention now turns to the 2023 offseason, and that includes the ever-important 2023 NFL Draft. Many teams are in the market for franchise quarterbacks, while others will look to bolster their defense, but either way, there should be plenty of action across this three-day event.
With that said, here is our full two-round 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
*Draft order per tankathon.com
1
Will Anderson
Edge, Chicago Bears
When all is said and done, there is a real likelihood that the Chicago Bears will trade away this pick, as they could net so many good assets back in return. However, this is going to be a mock draft that does not include trades, so with the No. 1 overall selection, they bring in an edge rusher that will be an anchor of this defense for years to come.
In the entire 2023 NFL Draft class, Will Anderson is considered by most to be the best player available, and more than deserving of hearing his name called first overall. Anderson has the size and skill to fill many voids on a Bears defense that has more than a few holes to fill this offseason in Year 2 of Ryan Poles as GM.
2
Bryce Young
Quarterback, Houston Texans
The big debate is going to come at No. 2 overall if the Chicago Bears hold onto the first pick, as the decision will have to be made between Bryce Young and CJ Stroud. Both quarterbacks are considered 1A and 1B in this draft class, so it will depend on how the front office feels about each player.
For Houston, they are hitting the reset button all over the place, as it started with a new head coach, and will continue with them bringing in a new quarterback. For now, Bryce Young is the first signal-caller off the board, but do not be surprised if Stroud ends up being the first quarterback talent, either.
The Bears moved on from Robert Quinn before the trade deadline, so they'll be in the market for an edge rusher this offseason. Will Anderson Jr. is in the same pre-draft conversations as Chase Young and Nick Bosa when it comes to best non-QB players in a class.
Bryce Young might be historically undersized by successful NFL QB standards, but we don't care. He's been that good for Alabama, dragging that team to victory just about every week. And he did it with none of the playmakers that made life so much easier for Tua Tagovailoa and Mac Jones in previous years.
The more you watch of Tyree Wilson, the more you love his game. Not only what he put on tape at Texas Tech, but his upside 2-3 years down the road. He's long, has the frame to add weight if needed, and is a dominant, high-motor pass rusher who can take over games.
Since Andrew Luck's retirement, the Colts have had little success turning to QBs nearing the end of their careers, and it's safe to assume that owner Jim Irsay will be looking for the team's next face of the franchise. C.J. Stroud has flown under the national-media radar all season, but some NFL teams will tell you he'll be in the running for QB1, and his performance in the College Football Playoff semifinal game vs. Georgia showed that he can beat you with his arm and his legs.
Jalen Carter, who was arguably the best defender on a '21 Georgia D that had five first-round picks, would fill a huge void in Seattle, where the defense has struggled getting after the quarterback.
Myles Murphy turned 21 in early January, and while we'd like to see him play with more consistency ... he just turned 21 in early January. He has all the physical tools you look for in an elite edge defenders and it's easy to see him in a few years being dominant. And that, in large part, is what makes him such an interesting prospect.
It's hard to imagine that Jarrett Stidham is in the team's long-term plans as a starter. And with Derek Carr set to be somewhere else in 2023 -- and Tom Brady officially-for-now retired, drafting a QB seems to be a high priority. Levis, who definitely looks the part, was plagued by injuries and poor play all fall. That said, NFL teams love how he projects to the next level, but he'll be a controversial talking point in the coming months.
Joey Porter Jr. is the prototypical big, physical cornerback who looks like he belongs in the NFL. He can sometimes get a little too handsy downfield, but he checks many of the boxes of what teams look for when drafting DBs.
Anthony Richardson is one of the most exciting prospects in this class. The problem: he's short on experience, and while his physical tools are rare, the Panthers are in dire need of a starting QB right now. David Tepper could choose to go the free agency route (again), but that has been, shall we say, a crapshoot. At the end of the day, Carolina may have to move inside the top 5 if it wants to get a quarterback with Day 1 starter potential.
Jordan Addison isn't a big target, but he's one of the most dynamic players in the country who can line up anywhere. The only question is whether Addison or Quentin Johnston will be WR1. Two different body types, two different playing styles -- both dominant.
Paris Johnson, who played left tackle for the Buckeyes this season, also has experience on the interior; either way, he is a Day 1 starter.
Peter Skoronski is solid and consistent, which are two of the best things you can say about an offensive lineman. The biggest issue he'll face during the pre-draft process will be arm length and whether his NFL future is at tackle or guard.
O'Cyrus Torrence transferred from Louisiana and didn't miss a beat. He was dominant for Florida last fall, he was dominant during Senior Bowl practices, and if history is any guide, he'll be dominant in the NFL, too.
Quentin Johnston's an above-the-rim playmaker whose athleticism and contested-catch abilities make him in the running for WR1. Mac Jones has a new offensive coordinator and now he gets a new downfield target.
Lukas Van Ness never started a game at Iowa, but that's not the point. The point is that NFL teams love his size, his athleticism, and where his game could be a couple of years from now. Purdue's George Karlaftis went at the end of Round 1 a year ago, and USC's Drake Jackson went a round later; both players were high-upside prospects who exceeded expectations as rookies. Van Ness is in the same conversation but could be the best of the bunch.
Devon Witherspoon had a great season for the Illini, and while there will be questions about his slight frame, you wouldn't know it watching him play.
Brian Branch isn't the first name you hear about when the conversation turns to Alabama's defense, but maybe he should be. He's a sure tackler, can blitz off the edge, and is solid in coverage. And if Nick Saban trusts him, that's all you need to know about his NFL prospects.
Maryland teammate and fellow CB Jakorian Bennett got much of the buzz in the fall, but Deonte Banks put together the type of season that will land you in the top-50 conversation. He's a fluid athlete who is also a big, physical corner who can run with NFL wide receivers.
Christian Gonzalez, a Colorado transfer, is a big-time athlete who is still growing into the position. He has the size, strength and speed to line up against NFL wide receivers; he just needs to Improve in run support.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba barely saw the field during the 2022 season because of injuries, but he's still one of the top wideouts in the class. And with Geno Smith about to get paid, the Seahawks might as well get him some more weapons.
There was some thought that Harrison might return to Oklahoma for an NIL deal that was too good to pass up, but he's instead opted for the NFL. He's one of the top tackles in the class, and now the question is whether he finds his way into Round 1 or goes early on Day 2.
Bijan Robinson is special, and while he is probably one of the best players in this class, he could still be around late in Round 1 because he's a running back. And while the Ravens and offensive coordinator Greg Roman have parted ways, it's fair to assume that the team will still revolve around Lamar Jackson and the run game. J.K. Dobbins showed flashes after returning from ACL surgery, but there isn't a lot of depth behind him. A backfield of Jackson, Dobbins and Robinson is a problem for the rest of the AFC, even if Baltimore has more pressing needs here.
Drew Sanders is a former five-star who transferred from Alabama after the 2021 season, and all he did was show out for the Razorbacks. He was an edge rusher for the Crimson Tide, but he lined up all over the defense for Arkansas. He's a one-man wrecking crew when he's on the field.
We'll see if Dawand Jones ultimately finds his way into the first round, but it's hard to overlook just how dominant he was in one day of practice at the Senior Bowl. Yes, his footwork needs some fine-tuning, but his huge frame, long arms and enormous wingspan more than make up for what he lacks in quickness. He's block-out-the-sun big, even when standing next to his offensive linemates.
The Georgia-to-first-round pipeline continues. A year after five Bulldogs went in Round 1, expect a handful this time around, too. Kelee Ringo is a long, physical corner who has matched up against some of the best players in the country.
Jalin Hyatt wasn't in the first-round conversation heading into the 2022 season, but he's a great example of a player taking advantage of his opportunities, thanks in large part to Hendon Hooker's Heisman Trophy campaign. Hyatt is a bona-fide deep threat who consistently ran past defensive backs who were helpless to do much about it all season.
Michael Mayer is more Gronk than Kelce, but that's not a bad thing. And in Green Bay, he'll get plenty of chances, whether it's with Aaron Rodgers, Jordan Love, or the QB behind Door No. 3.
Broderick Jones had had a strong '22 campaign for the Bulldogs, where he has faced some of the best defensive players in the country every day at practice for the last two years. He's not yet a finished product, but he has the athleticism and strength to be a difference-maker when he puts it all together.
Jahmyr Gibbs has drawn comparisons to Dalvin Cook and Alvin Kamara as both a runner and a receiver. The Saints have big needs at QB, for sure, but they're not going to find one at this point in the first round. Instead, they double up on Kamara-type talents in the backfield.
James Bradberry will be a free agent in a few weeks, and while there are very few holes on this defense, there will be depth needs in the secondary. Cam Smith is a first-round talent who can be a Day 1 contributor.
Luke Musgrave was getting some late-first/early Day-2 buzz down at the Senior Bowl, and while he didn't have a great week, it was certainly easy to see why teams like him. He missed most of '22 with an injury, but he's well built, long, and has the athleticism to consistently separate from both safeties and linebackers. His blocking is a work in progress, but he'll be a contributor in the passing game from Day 1.
Free agency moves, trades and big stretch-run performances from college players all continue to impact ESPN's 2023 WNBA mock draft. And thanks in part to exact trades involving draft picks, our fourth update comes just a week after our previous projection.
We still don't know how many four-year seniors might take the option of coming back for a fifth season because of the pandemic-affected 2020-21 academic year, so there is no certain all of the players in this mock draft will make themselves eligible for the draft.
Most players have said publicly that they will make that decision after their college seasons end, in which case we considered then for inclusion. Senior post player Mackenzie Holmes of the No. 2 Indiana Hoosiers has not declared for certain she will return to college, but told ESPN she is very strongly leaning that direction. For now, we didn't include her for draft consideration. Also, at this point, no draft-eligible juniors have publicly said they will declare, so they weren't included, either.
Top selection Aliyah Boston was the only first-round pick from the No. 1 South Carolina Gamecocks in our first three mock drafts. But Gamecocks defensive specialist Brea Beal joins Boston in the first round this time, while another South Carolina guard, Zia Cooke, also received consideration.
The three-round draft is scheduled to be held April 10.
First round
0:18
Aliyah Boston thwarts LSU's fastbreak with huge block
Aliyah Boston shows off her defensive prowess with a big-time block.
South Carolina Gamecocks | forward | 6-foot-5 | senior
Boston is not just pro-ready from a playing perspective, but also in her leadership. And she won't shy from having a lot put on her shoulders by the Fever, who hope to finally get back to the franchise they used to be. Boston's stats (13.4 PPG, 9.9 RPG) have dropped from last season because of the Gamecocks' depth, but she's an even better overall player who has studied the WNBA and knows what she need to add and Improve on at the next level.
Maryland Terps | guard | 6-foot-3 | senior
Miller's size, quickness and ability to run the floor could be big assets for a Lynx team remaking itself after Sylvia Fowles' retirement. Minnesota might debate between Miller and Haley Jones at this pick. If the Lynx opt for Miller, who is averaging 19.8 points and 6.6 rebounds, she will supply them an explosive transition player who is hard to guard and appears to have a high ceiling.
Stanford Cardinal | guard | 6-foot-1 | senior
The Wings might see Jones as having elite playmaker potential without necessarily needing to score a lot to have a big impact on the game. She is averaging 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists for Stanford, which needs her to do a lot of everything. Jones' lack of 3-point shooting -- 3 of 29 this season and 23 of 102 in her Stanford career -- might not be a big concern for Dallas.
0:16
Diamond Miller drops in smooth layup
Maryland's Diamond Miller gets inside and scores to increase the Terrapins' lead.
Villanova Wildcats | forward | 6-foot-2 | senior
Siegrist moves up the draft board in part because her numbers keep getting bigger: She leads Division I basketball in scoring (29.4 PPG) while shooting 53.8% from the field and averages 9.3 rebounds. The Mystics are a strong defensive team that could get an offensive boost from Siegrist, who had a 50-point game on 20-of-26 shooting on Feb. 11. Washington might see some of Elena Delle Donne in Siegrist, even if she's not as tall.
Tennessee Lady Vols | forward | 6-foot-2 | senior
Jackson, who is averaging 18.2 PPG, has always been a reliable scorer who is good at getting to the rim. She is averaging 5.9 RPG and has tantalizing room for growth on the defensive end, something new Wings coach Latricia Trammell specializes in and teaches well.
Tennessee Lady Vols | guard | 6-foot-2 | senior
Horston is averaging 15.5 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists, and might be a "best player available" pick for the Dream at this point in the draft. Her size, length and hustle also should fit into the style Atlanta coach Tanisha Wright hopes to play.
South Carolina Gamecocks | guard | 6-foot-1 | senior
General manager Lin Dunn's preference for great defensive players might mesh with Beal's reputation as one of the most elite defenders in college. Beal averages just 5.6 PPG -- along with 4.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists -- but the Gamecocks don't need her to score. Indiana might keep Beal and South Carolina teammate Boston together in the WNBA.
0:30
South Carolina's bench loves Brea Beal's 3-pointer
Brea Beal beats the third-quarter buzzer with a nice 3-pointer.
Virginia Tech Hokies | center | 6-foot-6 | senior
Kitley has been like clockwork with her production: 18.0 PPG, 10.8 RPG and 2.1 BPG this season, much like her previous two years. She would supply the Dream a legit big player inside who has shown she can run the floor, which she will need to do well to make the transition to the WNBA.
UCLA Bruins | guard | 5-foot-9 | senior
Osborne is a tireless defender who also averages 15.5 PPG, 5.6 RPG and 2.8 APG. She could help a Storm squad moving on after legendary point guard Sue Bird's retirement. Osborne has made 212 3-pointers in her Bruins career and has filled a leadership role for UCLA.
0:43
Charisma Osborne makes a great defensive play for the steal
Charisma Osborne makes a great defensive play for the steal
Iowa State Cyclones | forward/guard | 6-foot-1 | senior
Joens, one of the greatest scorers in Big 12 history, is 167 points shy of 3,000 for her career. She has made 317 3-pointers at Iowa State while shooting almost 36% from behind the arc, but also never shies from battling inside. At 20.2 PPG and 9.1 RPG, Joens has a high motor and never stops moving -- the type of player new Sparks coach Curt Miller can appreciate.
Oklahoma Sooners | forward | 6-foot-0 | senior
Williams is the leading scorer (16.0 PPG) and second-leading rebounder (6.2 RPG) on an Oklahoma squad vying for the Big 12 title. She is shooting 53.0% from the field and could get the chance to play for the WNBA team in her native Texas. Forwards who are Williams' size need heart, hustle and nose-for-the-ball instincts, traits she possesses.
UConn Huskies| forward | 6-foot-5 | senior
Juhász has played well for the depth-challenged Huskies after an early-season thumb injury: She is averaging a double-double -- 14.4 PPG, 10.3 RPG -- plus 3.4 assists. Her size, production and UConn pedigree could make her a possible fit for the Lynx, who are building around former Huskies star Napheesa Collier.
The Yahoo fantasy baseball analysts — Andy Behrens, Scott Pianowski and Dalton Del Don — took part in a first-round mock draft. Each analyst gets four picks in the first (to represent a 12-team league). But don't worry, this is just the first iteration of this mock — Rounds 2 and 3 are coming soon.
[Batter up: Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Baseball league for free today]
Now, on to the picks:
He's hit .311 over the past four seasons with elite speed, power and run production — a perfect fantasy profile. — Behrens
Acuña Jr. already has a near-40/40 season to his credit, and he just turned 25. — Behrens
Ramirez is now firmly established as a player who will finish among the category leaders in four of the five standard fantasy stats. — Behrens
It should go without saying that a guy coming off a 62-homer season is a decent choice pretty much anywhere in the first round. — Behrens
The super soph brings category juice, unknown upside, and fun. The Mariners have built a solid lineup around Rodriguez, too — Pianowski
We still haven't seen his best season; Tucker's upside is AL MVP. One of the rare players capable of grabbing all five categories. — Pianowski
I know upside is the fun word, but floor matters, too. When has Mookie Betts ever let you down? He's the favorite to lead the league in runs scored for the fourth time. — Pianowski
Round 1, Pick 8: Yordan Alvarez, OF, Houston Astros
He's not a runner, but the rest of the Alvarez Statcast page is gloriously pinned to the right. As silly as Alvarez's stats were last year, he was actually unlucky with his batted-ball fortune. If that luck balances out, he can break the game. — Pianowski
[2023 Fantasy Baseball Rankings: C | 1B | 2B | 3B | SS | OF | SP | RP]
Still just 23 years old, Vlad is the favorite to lead MLB in batting average and will benefit from Toronto's new park dimensions. — Del Don
There's concern he'll stop running, and he's UTIL only, but Ohtani's bat is good enough to go here regardless. — Del Don
Round 1, Pick 11: Bo Bichette, SS, Toronto Blue Jays
Still just 24 years old, Bichette has said he wants to run more in 2023, and he'll also get a big boost from Toronto moving in its fences. — Del Don
Round 1, Pick 12: Gerrit Cole, SP, New York Yankees
He was incredibly unlucky last year for multiple reasons and should bounce back as fantasy's top pitcher in 2023. — Del Don
Stay tuned for the next iterations of our Expert Fantasy Baseball Mock Draft for 2023!
The ESPN fantasy baseball crew conducted their first fantasy baseball mock draft of the season, using the new default standard head-to-head points league scoring and roster settings.
That meant drafting rosters of 19 players per team (down from 26 in previous years), which put more of the spotlight on star-caliber baseball talents. Our fantasy experts also accounted for ESPN's scoring tweaks for pitchers; wins, previously worth 5 points, are now worth 2 apiece, while losses, previously worth minus-5, are now minus-2 points. Holds joined the fray with a 2-point valuation.
Default rosters now include 16 starters: seven pitchers of any kind along with a C, 1B, 2B, 3B, SS, three outfielders and a utility player (can be any position, and is also the only slot to allow a DH-only player). Bench spots are cut down to three.
Hitters score one point for every base reached via hits (total bases), as well as each walk, run, RBI and stolen base, and lose one point when they strike out. Pitchers earn a point for every out they record (three per inning) and an extra point for a strikeout, as well as five points for a win or a save. Pitchers lose two points per run allowed, one point per baserunner (hit or walk) and five points for a loss.
This draft was held on Monday., Feb. 13 and included Todd Zola, Eric Karabell, Jim McCormick, David Schoenfield, Derek Carty, AJ Mass, Pierre Becquey, Tristan H. Cockcroft, Kyle Soppe and James Best.
If you'd like to conduct your own mock drafts, check out the Mock Draft Lobby, select one of several league types and sizes available, and you'll be mock drafting in minutes. Ready for the real thing? Create or join a fantasy baseball league for free.
Round 1
1. Shohei Ohtani, LAA (DH1) -- Zola
2. Juan Soto, SD (OF1) -- Karabell
3. Jose Ramirez, CLE (3B1) -- McCormick
4. Aaron Judge, NYY (OF2) -- Schoenfield
5. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., TOR (1B1) -- Carty
6. Freddie Freeman, LAD (1B2) -- Mass
7. Gerrit Cole, NYY (SP1) -- Becquey
8. Corbin Burnes, MIL (SP2) -- Cockcroft
9. Mookie Betts, LAD (OF3) -- Soppe
10. Max Scherzer, NYM (SP3) -- Best
Round 2
11. Sandy Alcantara, MIA (SP4) -- Best
12. Manny Machado, SD (3B2) -- Soppe
13. Yordan Alvarez, HOU (OF4) -- Cockcroft
14. Trea Turner, PHI (SS1) -- Becquey
15. Shane Bieber, CLE (SP5) -- Mass
16. Jacob deGrom, TEX (SP6) -- Carty
17. Kyle Tucker, HOU (OF5) -- Schoenfield
18. Aaron Nola, PHI (SP7) -- McCormick
19. Justin Verlander, NYM (SP8) -- Karabell
20. Matt Olson, ATL (1B3) -- Zola
Round 3
21. Kevin Gausman, TOR (SP9) -- Zola
22. Jose Altuve, HOU (2B1) -- Karabell
23. Francisco Lindor, NYM (SS2) -- McCormick
24. Julio Rodriguez, SEA (OF6) -- Schoenfield
25. Carlos Rodon, NYY (SP10) -- Carty
26. Rafael Devers, BOS (3B3) -- Mass
27. Pete Alonso, NYM (1B4) -- Becquey
28. Spencer Strider, ATL (SP11) -- Cockcroft
29. Brandon Woodruff, MIL (SP12) -- Soppe
30. Marcus Semien, TEX (2B2) -- Best
Round 4
31. Corey Seager, TEX (SS3) -- Best
32. Fernando Tatis Jr., SD (SS4) -- Soppe
33. Alex Bregman, HOU (3B4) -- Cockcroft
34. Dylan Cease, CWS (SP13) -- Becquey
35. Bo Bichette, TOR (SS5) -- Mass
36. Luis Castillo, SEA (SP14) -- Carty
37. Shane McClanahan, TB (SP15) -- Schoenfield
38. Mike Trout, LAA (OF7) -- McCormick
39. Paul Goldschmidt, STL (1B5) -- Karabell
40. Nolan Arenado, STL (3B5) -- Zola
Round 5
41. Zack Wheeler, PHI (SP16) -- Zola
42. Austin Riley, ATL (3B6) -- Karabell
43. Ronald Acuna Jr., ATL (OF8) -- McCormick
44. Wander Franco, TB (SS6) -- Schoenfield
45. Kyle Schwarber, PHI (OF9) -- Carty
46. Tyler Glasnow, TB (SP17) -- Mass
47. Will Smith, LAD (C1) -- Becquey
48. Ozzie Albies, ATL (2B3) -- Cockcroft
49. Alek Manoah, TOR (SP18) -- Soppe
50. Jose Abreu, HOU (1B6) -- Best
Round 6
51. Steven Kwan, CLE (OF10) -- Best
52. Robbie Ray, SEA (SP19) -- Soppe
53. Edwin Diaz, NYM (RP1) -- Cockcroft
54. Bobby Witt Jr., KC (SS7) -- Becquey
55. Triston McKenzie, CLE (SP20) -- Mass
56. Bryan Reynolds, PIT (OF11) -- Carty
57. Emmanuel Clase, CLE (RP2) -- Schoenfield
58. Cristian Javier, HOU (SP21) -- McCormick
59. Julio Urias, LAD (SP22) -- Karabell
60. Jake Cronenworth, SD (2B4) -- Zola
Round 7
61. Anthony Santander, BAL (OF12) -- Zola
62. Carlos Correa, MIN (SS8) -- Karabell
63. Max Fried, ATL (SP23) -- McCormick
64. Zac Gallen, ARI (SP24) -- Schoenfield
65. Xander Bogaerts, SD (SS9) -- Carty
66. Michael Harris II, ATL (OF13) -- Mass
67. George Springer, TOR (OF14) -- Becquey
68. Devin Williams, MIL (RP3) -- Cockcroft
69. Joe Musgrove, SD (SP25) -- Soppe
70. Cedric Mullins, BAL (OF15) -- Best
Round 8
71. Gunnar Henderson, BAL (3B7) -- Best
72. Josh Bell, CLE (1B7) -- Soppe
73. Adley Rutschman, BAL (C2) -- Cockcroft
74. Framber Valdez, HOU (SP26) -- Becquey
75. Josh Hader, SD (RP4) -- Mass
76. Raisel Iglesias, ATL (RP5) -- Carty
77. Logan Webb, SF (SP27) -- Schoenfield
78. Luis Arraez, MIA (1B8) -- McCormick
79. Yu Darvish, SD (SP28) -- Karabell
80. Logan Gilbert, SEA (SP29) -- Zola
Round 9
81. Masataka Yoshida, BOS (OF16) -- Zola
82. Corbin Carroll, ARI (OF17) -- Karabell
83. Dansby Swanson, CHC (SS10) -- McCormick
84. Vinnie Pasquantino, KC (1B9) -- Schoenfield
85. Yandy Diaz, TB (3B8) -- Carty
86. Daulton Varsho, TOR (C3) -- Mass
87. Nestor Cortes, NYY (SP30) -- Becquey
88. Brandon Nimmo, NYM (OF18) -- Cockcroft
89. Luis Robert, CWS (OF19) -- Soppe
90. Randy Arozarena, TB (OF20) -- Best
Round 10
91. J.T. Realmuto, PHI (C4) -- Best
92. Eloy Jimenez, CWS (OF21) -- Soppe
93. Felix Bautista, BAL (RP6) -- Cockcroft
94. Kyle Wright, ATL (SP31) -- Becquey
95. Lucas Giolito, CWS (SP32) -- Mass
96. Rhys Hoskins, PHI (1B10) -- Carty
97. George Kirby, SEA (SP33) -- Schoenfield
98. Tommy Edman, STL (2B5) -- McCormick
99. Jordan Romano, TOR (RP7) -- Karabell
100. Kris Bryant, COL (OF22) -- Zola
Round 11
101. Pablo Lopez, MIN (SP34) -- Zola
102. Ryan Pressly, HOU (RP8) -- Karabell
103. Chris Bassitt, TOR (SP35) -- McCormick
104. Jeff McNeil, NYM (2B6) -- Schoenfield
105. Charlie Morton, ATL (SP36) -- Carty
106. Brandon Lowe, TB (2B7) -- Mass
107. Ketel Marte, ARI (2B8) -- Becquey
108. Willy Adames, MIL (SS11) -- Cockcroft
109. Blake Snell, SD (SP37) -- Soppe
110. Salvador Perez, KC (C5) -- Best
Round 12
111. Brady Singer, KC (SP38) -- Best
112. Taylor Ward, LAA (OF23) -- Soppe
113. Ryan Helsley, STL (RP9) -- Cockcroft
114. Luis Garcia, HOU (SP39) -- Becquey
115. Triston Casas, BOS (1B11) -- Mass
116. Luis Severino, NYY (SP40) -- Carty
117. Nathaniel Lowe, TEX (1B12) -- Schoenfield
118. Christian Walker, ARI (1B13) -- McCormick
119. Ty France, SEA (1B14) -- Karabell
120. Oneil Cruz, PIT (SS12) -- Zola
Round 13
121. Jordan Montgomery, STL (SP41) -- Zola
122. Nick Castellanos, PHI (OF24) -- Karabell
123. Kenley Jansen, BOS (RP10) -- McCormick
124. Alejandro Kirk, TOR (C6) -- Schoenfield
125. Max Muncy, LAD (3B9) -- Carty
126. Starling Marte, NYM (OF25) -- Mass
127. MJ Melendez, KC (C7) -- Becquey
128. Anthony Rizzo, NYY (1B15) -- Cockcroft
129. Nick Lodolo, CIN (SP42) -- Soppe
130. Amed Rosario, CLE (SS13) -- Best
Round 14
131. Jose Berrios, TOR (SP43) -- Best
132. Jorge Polanco, MIN (2B9) -- Soppe
133. Teoscar Hernandez, SEA (OF26) -- Cockcroft
134. Alex Verdugo, BOS (OF27) -- Becquey
135. Andrew Vaughn, CWS (OF28) -- Mass
136. Willson Contreras, STL (C8) -- Carty
137. Andres Munoz, SEA (RP11) -- Schoenfield
138. Clayton Kershaw, LAD (SP44) -- McCormick
139. Camilo Doval, SF (RP12) -- Karabell
140. Sean Manaea, SF (SP45) -- Zola
Round 15
141. Keibert Ruiz, WSH (C9) -- Zola
142. Lance Lynn, CWS (SP46) -- Karabell
143. Jeffrey Springs, TB (SP47) -- McCormick
144. Hunter Greene, CIN (SP48) -- Schoenfield
145. Chris Sale, BOS (SP49) -- Carty
146. Lance McCullers Jr., HOU (SP50) -- Mass
147. Adolis Garcia, TEX (OF29) -- Becquey
148. Kodai Senga, NYM (SP51) -- Cockcroft
149. Sean Murphy, ATL (C10) -- Soppe
150. Rowdy Tellez, MIL (1B16) -- Best
Round 16
151. Merrill Kelly, ARI (SP52) -- Best
152. Jon Gray, TEX (SP53) -- Soppe
153. Christian Yelich, MIL (OF30) -- Cockcroft
154. A.J. Minter, ATL (RP13) -- Becquey
155. David Bednar, PIT (RP14) -- Mass
156. Byron Buxton, MIN (OF31) -- Carty
157. Jose Miranda, MIN (1B17) -- Schoenfield
158. Jordan Walker, STL (3B10) -- McCormick
159. Scott Barlow, KC (RP15) -- Karabell
160. Tim Anderson, CWS (SS14) -- Zola
Round 17
161. Jesse Winker, MIL (OF32) -- Zola
162. Freddy Peralta, MIL (SP54) -- Karabell
163. Gleyber Torres, NYY (2B10) -- McCormick
164. Lars Nootbaar, STL (OF33) -- Schoenfield
165. Paul Sewald, SEA (RP16) -- Carty
166. DJ LeMahieu, NYY (3B11) -- Mass
167. Brandon Drury, LAA (3B12) -- Becquey
168. Jesus Luzardo, MIA (SP55) -- Cockcroft
169. Joe Ryan, MIN (SP56) -- Soppe
170. J.D. Martinez, LAD (DH2) -- Best
Round 18
171. Alex Cobb, SF (SP57) -- Best
172. Jazz Chisholm Jr., MIA (2B11) -- Soppe
173. Vaughn Grissom, ATL (2B12) -- Cockcroft
174. Thairo Estrada, SF (2B13) -- Becquey
175. Shea Langeliers, OAK (DH3) -- Mass
176. Clay Holmes, NYY (RP17) -- Carty
177. Evan Phillips, LAD (RP18) -- Schoenfield
178. Oscar Gonzalez, CLE (OF34) -- McCormick
179. Tyler Stephenson, CIN (C11) -- Karabell
180. Tony Gonsolin, LAD (SP58) -- Zola
Round 19
181. Drew Rasmussen, TB (SP59) -- Zola
182. Andrew Painter, PHI (SP60) -- Karabell
183. Danny Jansen, TOR (C12) -- McCormick
184. Andres Gimenez, CLE (2B14) -- Schoenfield
185. Tyler O'Neill, STL (OF35) -- Carty
186. A.J. Puk, MIA (RP19) -- Mass
187. Daniel Bard, COL (RP20) -- Becquey
188. Alexis Diaz, CIN (RP21) -- Cockcroft
189. Jack Flaherty, STL (SP61) -- Soppe
190. Tyler Mahle, MIN (SP62) -- Best
Team rosters are presented in first-round pick order. Primary position is used. If a player qualifies at more than one position, all positions are included in parentheses. Pick is displayed as "Round.Pick".
Team Zola
C1 Keibert Ruiz, WSH (Pick: 15.1)
1B1 Matt Olson, ATL (Pick: 2.10)
3B1 Nolan Arenado, STL (Pick: 4.10)
2B1 Jake Cronenworth, SD (Pick: 6.10 | 2B/1B)
SS1 Oneil Cruz, PIT (Pick: 12.10)
SS2 Tim Anderson, CWS (Pick: 16.10)
OF1 Anthony Santander, BAL (Pick: 7.1)
OF2 Masataka Yoshida, BOS (Pick: 9.1)
OF3 Kris Bryant, COL (Pick: 10.10)
OF4 Jesse Winker, MIL (Pick: 17.1)
DH1 Shohei Ohtani, LAA (Pick: 1.1 | DH/SP)
SP1 Kevin Gausman, TOR (Pick: 3.1)
SP2 Zack Wheeler, PHI (Pick: 5.1)
SP3 Logan Gilbert, SEA (Pick: 8.10)
SP4 Pablo Lopez, MIN (Pick: 11.1)
SP5 Jordan Montgomery, STL (Pick: 13.1)
SP6 Sean Manaea, SF (Pick: 14.10)
SP7 Tony Gonsolin, LAD (Pick: 18.10)
SP8 Drew Rasmussen, TB (Pick: 19.1)
Team Karabell
C1 Tyler Stephenson, CIN (Pick: 18.9)
1B1 Paul Goldschmidt, STL (Pick: 4.9)
1B2 Ty France, SEA (Pick: 12.9)
3B1 Austin Riley, ATL (Pick: 5.2)
2B1 Jose Altuve, HOU (Pick: 3.2)
SS1 Carlos Correa, MIN (Pick: 7.2)
OF1 Juan Soto, SD (Pick: 1.2)
OF2 Corbin Carroll, ARI (Pick: 9.2)
OF3 Nick Castellanos, PHI (Pick: 13.2)
SP1 Justin Verlander, NYM (Pick: 2.9)
SP2 Julio Urias, LAD (Pick: 6.9)
SP3 Yu Darvish, SD (Pick: 8.9)
SP4 Lance Lynn, CWS (Pick: 15.2)
SP5 Freddy Peralta, MIL (Pick: 17.2)
SP6 Andrew Painter, PHI (Pick: 19.2)
RP1 Jordan Romano, TOR (Pick: 10.9)
RP2 Ryan Pressly, HOU (Pick: 11.2)
RP3 Camilo Doval, SF (Pick: 14.9)
RP4 Scott Barlow, KC (Pick: 16.9)
Team McCormick
C1 Danny Jansen, TOR (Pick: 19.3)
1B1 Luis Arraez, MIA (Pick: 8.8 | 1B/2B)
1B2 Christian Walker, ARI (Pick: 12.8)
3B1 Jose Ramirez, CLE (Pick: 1.3)
3B2 Jordan Walker, STL (Pick: 16.8)
2B1 Tommy Edman, STL (Pick: 10.8 | 2B/SS)
2B2 Gleyber Torres, NYY (Pick: 17.3)
SS1 Francisco Lindor, NYM (Pick: 3.3)
SS2 Dansby Swanson, CHC (Pick: 9.3)
OF1 Mike Trout, LAA (Pick: 4.8)
OF2 Ronald Acuna Jr., ATL (Pick: 5.3)
OF3 Oscar Gonzalez, CLE (Pick: 18.8)
SP1 Aaron Nola, PHI (Pick: 2.8)
SP2 Cristian Javier, HOU (Pick: 6.8)
SP3 Max Fried, ATL (Pick: 7.3)
SP4 Chris Bassitt, TOR (Pick: 11.3)
SP5 Clayton Kershaw, LAD (Pick: 14.8)
SP6 Jeffrey Springs, TB (Pick: 15.3 | SP/RP)
RP1 Kenley Jansen, BOS (Pick: 13.3)
Team Schoenfield
C1 Alejandro Kirk, TOR (Pick: 13.4)
1B1 Vinnie Pasquantino, KC (Pick: 9.4)
1B2 Nathaniel Lowe, TEX (Pick: 12.7)
1B3 Jose Miranda, MIN (Pick: 16.7 | 1B/3B)
2B1 Jeff McNeil, NYM (Pick: 11.4 | 2B/OF)
2B2 Andres Gimenez, CLE (Pick: 19.4)
SS1 Wander Franco, TB (Pick: 5.4)
OF1 Aaron Judge, NYY (Pick: 1.4)
OF2 Kyle Tucker, HOU (Pick: 2.7)
OF3 Julio Rodriguez, SEA (Pick: 3.4)
OF4 Lars Nootbaar, STL (Pick: 17.4)
SP1 Shane McClanahan, TB (Pick: 4.7)
SP2 Zac Gallen, ARI (Pick: 7.4)
SP3 Logan Webb, SF (Pick: 8.7)
SP4 George Kirby, SEA (Pick: 10.7)
SP5 Hunter Greene, CIN (Pick: 15.4)
RP1 Emmanuel Clase, CLE (Pick: 6.7)
RP2 Andres Munoz, SEA (Pick: 14.7)
RP3 Evan Phillips, LAD (Pick: 18.7)
Team Carty
C1 Willson Contreras, STL (Pick: 14.6)
1B1 Vladimir Guerrero Jr., TOR (Pick: 1.5)
1B2 Rhys Hoskins, PHI (Pick: 10.6)
3B1 Yandy Diaz, TB (Pick: 9.5)
3B2 Max Muncy, LAD (Pick: 13.5 | 3B/2B)
SS1 Xander Bogaerts, SD (Pick: 7.5)
OF1 Kyle Schwarber, PHI (Pick: 5.5)
OF2 Bryan Reynolds, PIT (Pick: 6.6)
OF3 Byron Buxton, MIN (Pick: 16.6)
OF4 Tyler O'Neill, STL (Pick: 19.5)
SP1 Jacob deGrom, TEX (Pick: 2.6)
SP2 Carlos Rodon, NYY (Pick: 3.5)
SP3 Luis Castillo, SEA (Pick: 4.6)
SP4 Charlie Morton, ATL (Pick: 11.5)
SP5 Luis Severino, NYY (Pick: 12.6)
SP6 Chris Sale, BOS (Pick: 15.5)
RP1 Raisel Iglesias, ATL (Pick: 8.6)
RP2 Paul Sewald, SEA (Pick: 17.5)
RP3 Clay Holmes, NYY (Pick: 18.6)
Team Mass
C1 Daulton Varsho, TOR (Pick: 9.6 | C/OF)
1B1 Freddie Freeman, LAD (Pick: 1.6)
1B2 Triston Casas, BOS (Pick: 12.5)
3B1 Rafael Devers, BOS (Pick: 3.6)
3B2 DJ LeMahieu, NYY (Pick: 17.6 | 3B/1B/2B)
2B1 Brandon Lowe, TB (Pick: 11.6)
SS1 Bo Bichette, TOR (Pick: 4.5)
OF1 Michael Harris II, ATL (Pick: 7.6)
OF2 Starling Marte, NYM (Pick: 13.6)
OF3 Andrew Vaughn, CWS (Pick: 14.5 | OF/1B)
DH1 Shea Langeliers, OAK (Pick: 18.5)
SP1 Shane Bieber, CLE (Pick: 2.5)
SP2 Tyler Glasnow, TB (Pick: 5.6)
SP3 Triston McKenzie, CLE (Pick: 6.5)
SP4 Lucas Giolito, CWS (Pick: 10.5)
SP5 Lance McCullers Jr., HOU (Pick: 15.6)
RP1 Josh Hader, SD (Pick: 8.5)
RP2 David Bednar, PIT (Pick: 16.5)
RP3 A.J. Puk, MIA (Pick: 19.6)
Team Becquey
C1 Will Smith, LAD (Pick: 5.7)
C2 MJ Melendez, KC (Pick: 13.7 | C/OF)
1B1 Pete Alonso, NYM (Pick: 3.7)
3B1 Brandon Drury, LAA (Pick: 17.7 | 3B/1B/2B)
2B1 Ketel Marte, ARI (Pick: 11.7)
2B2 Thairo Estrada, SF (Pick: 18.4 | 2B/SS)
SS1 Trea Turner, PHI (Pick: 2.4)
SS2 Bobby Witt Jr., KC (Pick: 6.4 | SS/3B)
OF1 George Springer, TOR (Pick: 7.7)
OF2 Alex Verdugo, BOS (Pick: 14.4)
OF3 Adolis Garcia, TEX (Pick: 15.7)
SP1 Gerrit Cole, NYY (Pick: 1.7)
SP2 Dylan Cease, CWS (Pick: 4.4)
SP3 Framber Valdez, HOU (Pick: 8.4)
SP4 Nestor Cortes, NYY (Pick: 9.7)
SP5 Kyle Wright, ATL (Pick: 10.4)
SP6 Luis Garcia, HOU (Pick: 12.4)
RP1 A.J. Minter, ATL (Pick: 16.4)
RP2 Daniel Bard, COL (Pick: 19.7)
Team Cockcroft
C1 Adley Rutschman, BAL (Pick: 8.3)
1B1 Anthony Rizzo, NYY (Pick: 13.8)
3B1 Alex Bregman, HOU (Pick: 4.3)
2B1 Ozzie Albies, ATL (Pick: 5.8)
2B2 Vaughn Grissom, ATL (Pick: 18.3)
SS1 Willy Adames, MIL (Pick: 11.8)
OF1 Yordan Alvarez, HOU (Pick: 2.3)
OF2 Brandon Nimmo, NYM (Pick: 9.8)
OF3 Teoscar Hernandez, SEA (Pick: 14.3)
OF4 Christian Yelich, MIL (Pick: 16.3)
SP1 Corbin Burnes, MIL (Pick: 1.8)
SP2 Spencer Strider, ATL (Pick: 3.8 | SP/RP)
SP3 Kodai Senga, NYM (Pick: 15.8)
SP4 Jesus Luzardo, MIA (Pick: 17.8)
RP1 Edwin Diaz, NYM (Pick: 6.3)
RP2 Devin Williams, MIL (Pick: 7.8)
RP3 Felix Bautista, BAL (Pick: 10.3)
RP4 Ryan Helsley, STL (Pick: 12.3)
RP5 Alexis Diaz, CIN (Pick: 19.8)
Team Soppe
C1 Sean Murphy, ATL (Pick: 15.9)
1B1 Josh Bell, CLE (Pick: 8.2)
3B1 Manny Machado, SD (Pick: 2.2)
2B1 Jorge Polanco, MIN (Pick: 14.2)
2B2 Jazz Chisholm Jr., MIA (Pick: 18.2)
SS1 Fernando Tatis Jr., SD (Pick: 4.2)
OF1 Mookie Betts, LAD (Pick: 1.9)
OF2 Luis Robert, CWS (Pick: 9.9)
OF3 Eloy Jimenez, CWS (Pick: 10.2)
OF4 Taylor Ward, LAA (Pick: 12.2)
SP1 Brandon Woodruff, MIL (Pick: 3.9)
SP2 Alek Manoah, TOR (Pick: 5.9)
SP3 Robbie Ray, SEA (Pick: 6.2)
SP4 Joe Musgrove, SD (Pick: 7.9)
SP5 Blake Snell, SD (Pick: 11.9)
SP6 Nick Lodolo, CIN (Pick: 13.9)
SP7 Jon Gray, TEX (Pick: 16.2)
SP8 Joe Ryan, MIN (Pick: 17.9)
SP9 Jack Flaherty, STL (Pick: 19.9)
Team Best
C1 J.T. Realmuto, PHI (Pick: 10.1)
C2 Salvador Perez, KC (Pick: 11.10)
1B1 Jose Abreu, HOU (Pick: 5.10)
1B2 Rowdy Tellez, MIL (Pick: 15.10)
3B1 Gunnar Henderson, BAL (Pick: 8.1)
2B1 Marcus Semien, TEX (Pick: 3.10)
SS1 Corey Seager, TEX (Pick: 4.1)
SS2 Amed Rosario, CLE (Pick: 13.10)
OF1 Steven Kwan, CLE (Pick: 6.1)
OF2 Cedric Mullins, BAL (Pick: 7.10)
OF3 Randy Arozarena, TB (Pick: 9.10)
DH1 J.D. Martinez, LAD (Pick: 17.10)
SP1 Max Scherzer, NYM (Pick: 1.10)
SP2 Sandy Alcantara, MIA (Pick: 2.1)
SP3 Brady Singer, KC (Pick: 12.1)
SP4 Jose Berrios, TOR (Pick: 14.1)
SP5 Merrill Kelly, ARI (Pick: 16.1)
SP6 Alex Cobb, SF (Pick: 18.1)
SP7 Tyler Mahle, MIN (Pick: 19.10)
When my friends, family and teachers began asking me “what is mock trial,” I consistently struggled to find the right answer. My standard five word response, “It’s like a fake trial,” didn’t quite seem to cover it.
On a surface level, mock trial is a unique opportunity for high schoolers to get engaged with the legal world. For me, it was the perfect chance to explore a field I had been interested in since childhood.
Every year, our team spent months exploring the 90-page case packets, picking apart witness statements and evidentiary rules down to small semantic differences. During hundreds of hours of practice, those packets became the elements of a real trial: direct and cross examinations, pretrial motions and speeches. In January and February, we finally put that analysis into practice, running the case against other teams in our county in modified trials at local courthouses.
Throughout the pandemic, our competition transitioned to an online format. While those years of competing were still filled with invaluable experiences, they were definitely different from the in-person trials we have returned to this year. It has made students appreciate our in-person competition format. The experience is an incredible one and would not be possible without the legal professionals and teachers who dedicate time to the program (thank you Kevin and Ms. Kalinski!).
Mock trial is a series of well-handled mistakes. It is almost unquestionable that mistakes will occur in each trial, and handling those missteps is the crux of the competition. That aspect of the activity forces participants to take mistakes in stride and learn from them.
I spent the better part of my middle school years refusing to raise my hand, paralyzed by the fear of making a mistake. That mindset carried through to my freshman year, during which I was often hesitant to offer my ideas in class for fear of being wrong. But that was completely different in mock trial. Throughout the year, older students and mentors demonstrated growth through mistakes, and celebrated that process as a mark of effort or success.
Through mock trial, those same people taught me that taking a risk and being incorrect is far more valuable than not speaking up. To paraphrase what my coach told me during my first year, you can be the smartest person in the courtroom, but it doesn’t help anyone if you don’t speak up. Mock trial requires loudly pronouncing your argument to a waiting audience, even if you might be incorrect.
Most importantly, mock trial is a community. Through late-night Zoom calls, arguments over objections and hours of repetitive practice, our team has forged a multilaterally supportive community, without which I never would have been able to take advantage of mock trial’s learning opportunities or experience those lessons.
Beyond just our team, mock trial brings students from all schools and backgrounds together to compete. My teammates and I have created inter-team friendships, allowing for connections between students and schools who care about exploring the law. As competitive as it can be, the energy in the courthouse between trials is one filled with positivity and excitement.
Some of my friends have (lightheartedly) poked fun at mock trial, ironically comparing it to our school’s sports teams because of how seriously students take it. While it definitely isn’t a sport, it’s a unique way to experience those elements of community and collaborative effort.
Each competition is a fake trial, but they are also much more than that. They couldn’t possibly be summarized in five words. They are experience, they are personal growth and they are community.
Ellen Kim is a senior at San Mateo High School. Student News appears in the weekend edition. You can email Student News at news@smdailyjournal.com.
Republicans skewered President Joe Biden on Thursday after his first public address on the shoot-down of a Chinese spy balloon and three other objects, which Biden said were "most likely balloons tied to private companies, recreation or research institutions studying weather or conducting other scientific research."
"I want to be clear: We don't have any evidence that there has been a sudden increase in the number of objects in the sky," Biden said. "We're now just seeing more of them, partially because the steps we've taken to increase our radars, to narrow our radars, and we have to keep adapting our approach to … dealing with these challenges."
Republican Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., criticized Biden's decision to shoot down the three newer objects but take several days before deciding to shoot down the Chinese spy balloon.
Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
"Joe Biden has no trouble shooting down weather balloons, but when China’s spy balloon was in his sights over Alaska, he wouldn’t take the shot," said Cotton said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "He’s afraid of the Chinese Communist Party, and they know it — that’s dangerous for America."
"The CCP is laughing at him," Cotton said in a tweet Thursday.
Alaska Sen. Dan Sullivan said "the president’s remarks left the American people with more questions."
BIDEN SNAPS AT REPORTER OVER QUESTION ABOUT FAMILY'S BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS: 'GIVE ME A BREAK, MAN'
Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska (Samuel Corum)
"As I’ve emphasized with senior Department of Defense officials already, in particular Assistant Secretary of Defense [Melissa] Dalton, the talking point that we’re only now seeing objects because we’ve retuned our radars in the aftermath of the Chinese Balloon is questionable at best," Sullivan said in a statement to Fox News Digital.
Sullivan said he was "disappointed" the president didn't immediately address the military effort to take down the China spy balloon and other objects and recover the debris.
BIDEN SAYS THREE AERIAL 'OBJECTS' US SHOT DOWN LIKELY NOT RELATED TO CHINA SURVEILLANCE
American forces recover debris from a shot-down Chinese surveillance balloon in South Carolina. (US Fleet Forces)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
"I’m disappointed that the President did not begin his remarks by thanking the men and women of our military, particularly those in Alaska, who in the last two weeks have detected and tracked the Chinese spy balloon, at least two other Unidentified Anomalous Phenomenon, shooting down two of them, and have intercepted two different sorties of Russian bear bombers – all while continuing the difficult task of recovering UAP debris in extreme weather," Sullivan said.
Will Anderson, EDGE, Alabama
There are still a lot of dominoes to fall at quarterback in free agency and via trades. Once Aaron Rodgers and Derek Carr have landing spots, predicting a trade for the No. 1 pick will be possible. Until then, I'm waiting to forecast trades. If things break awkwardly for the Bears, they could be stuck at the top of the draft anyway. There are worse positions to be in as Anderson is an elite pass-rusher who will fit well in Matt Eberflus's defense.
Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
Young is still the favorite to be the top pick at most sportsbooks and Houston could even trade up to the 1.01 if they want him significantly more than C.J. Stroud or Will Levis. If Young is gone, Stroud is likely to be the next man up. Seeking the face of their franchise, Houston's only choice at this spot is quarterback.
Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
Based on the league's highest-paid defenders, the NFL has placed an emphasis on EDGE defenders over interior defensive linemen, giving Anderson slightly higher odds of coming off the board first. However, Carter is a menace to opposing quarterbacks, separating him from the average defensive tackle. Pro Football Focus graded him as their No. 2 and No. 1 pass-rushing defensive lineman in the past two years.
C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
Had I been projecting trades, Indy moving up to No. 1 to get a quarterback would have been my first prediction. After churning through veterans for a few years, it's time for them to take a shot on a rookie. Stroud tossed 85 scores in two seasons as the Buckeye's starter and even has an outside chance to be the first quarterback off the board.
Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
Barring a surprising Will Levis selection by one of the QB-needy teams ahead of Seattle, it's hard to see any other combination of players having their names called in the first four picks. The Seahawks' needs depend entirely upon what they do with Geno Smith, who is a free agent. If he is brought back (I think he will be), the Seahawks are likely zeroed in on a pass-rusher here.
6. Detroit Lions (via the Rams)
Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
A year after adding Aidan Hutchinson to their defensive line, the Lions are in desperate need of help in their secondary. Devon Witherspoon and Joey Porter are both candidates to go here, but the mild consensus seems to have Gonzalez as the top corner in the draft.
Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
The Raiders have not traded for Aaron Rodgers yet, so quarterback remains a need for them. If that holds until the draft, it's hard to see them cutting Derek Carr only to trot out Jarrett Stidham or Jimmy Garoppolo for a season. Once their quarterback situation becomes more clear, this pick will be easier to predict. For now, I see them making a gamble on the upside that Carr couldn't supply them.
Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson
The Falcons have had the league's saddest excuse for a pass-rush for multiple years. They are also in need of a quarterback. With the board shaking out this way, that will have to wait. Murphy has an elite combination of size and speed, giving the Falcons some much-needed juice in their front seven.
Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
Richardson might be a reach here. Grinding the Mocks has his ADP at 15. However, the Panthers can't keep taking shortcuts at quarterback. Giving Frank Reich a toolsy quarterback teeming with upside is a great way for Carolina to turn the page.
10. Philadelphia Eagles (via the Saints)
Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
What an absurd luxury it must be to have a Super Bowl-caliber roster and a top-10 pick, plus another selection at the end of the first. Even though the Eagles are loaded, I don't see them spending this pick frivolously. They could even trade back. Without projecting that, their best bet is it replace free agent James Bradberry with an aggressive outside corner.
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11. Tennessee Titans
Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
Left tackle Taylor Lewan has already said he expects to be cut by the Titans and is mulling retirement. That leaves a massive hole on Tennesee's roster and first-year GM Ran Carthon would be sprinting to the podium to take Johnson if he is still available.
12. Houston Texans (via the Browns)
Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
All signs point to Houston moving on from Brandin Cooks in the offseason, leaving them with a barren receiver room. Johnson ranked third among all Power Five receivers who declared for the draft in yards per route run. Listed at 6'4/215, he also has prototypical size to match his blazing speed. Pairing Stroud and Johnson on Day One would be a monstrous win for Houston.
13. New York Jets
Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
The Jets have four tackles hitting free agency in the spring. Former first-round left tackle Mekhi Becton has appeared in one game over the past two years. Having hit home runs at running back and receiver last year, Jets GM Joe Douglas will want to round out his offense with an anchor on the offensive line.
Joey Porter, CB, Penn State
Both Matt Miller and Todd McShay have Porter to the Patriots. McShay even has him as the first corner off the board. Normally a strength of New England's defense, cornerback was a sore spot for Bill Belichick in 2022. Porter's physical brand of play would be perfect for Belichick's secondary.
Jordan Addison, WR, USC
It would be ironic for the Packers to finally draft a wide receiver in the same offseason Aaron Rodgers leaves. However, if they want any chance of seeing Jordan Love succeed, he needs more firepower at receiver.
Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
The Commanders are strong contenders to take a quarterback, but they will need to make a significant trade to acquire their man. Instead, this scenario sees them roll with Sam Howell and bolster their defense with a top-flight corner.
Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
Kenny Pickett flopped as a rookie, but Pittsburgh needs to supply him a fair shake with an improved offensive line. If he continues to struggle with better protection, it could be time to move on next year.
18. Detroit Lions
Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa
The Lions are likely looking at taking a pass-rusher and a corner with their two first-round picks. Given their investment in Hutchinson, it makes sense for them to hold off on another EDGE until the second time they take the podium.
Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
Like the Commanders, the Bucs will be exploring avenues to get a quarterback via the draft unless they make a drastic move before the end of April. If they stay put, investing in their secondary, which is set to lose multiple corners in free agency, is a solid consolation prize for missing out on a quarterback.
20. Seattle Seahawks
O'Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida
The Seahawks spent the 2022 draft upgrading their tackles. This time around they will get the chance to Improve the interior of their offensive line. Torrence is almost unanimously considered the best interior offensive line prospect this year.
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Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh
Kancey will be drafted for his pass-rushing chops but can contribute in run-defense as well. PFF graded him as their No. 1 Power Five defensive lineman against the pass and No. 20 against the run last year. His ability to play in all phases allows his to fill multiple needs for the Chargers.
22. Baltimore Ravens
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
Rashod Bateman improved in his second season. Even if he continues to grow, the Ravens are in desperate need of a second viable receiver. Bateman has played almost exclusively on the outside in Baltimore, perfectly positioning JSN to take on slot duties as a Raven.
Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland
Wide receiver is also on the table here, but the Vikings' massacre at the hands of Daniel Jones to end their season should steer them in the direction of cornerback. Grinding the Mocks has a notable drop-off after the sixth corner comes off the board and PFF sees Banks as the end of an even smaller tier.
Brian Branch, S, Alabama
Pass-defense was an issue for the Jags last year and Branch is the highest-graded corner or safety remaining on most boards. Branch's versatility will be a huge draw for the Jags, who need help at multiple spots in their secondary.
25. New York Giants
Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College
No team needs a No. 1 receiver more than the Giants and there are multiple candidates to fill that role with this pick. What Flowers (5'7/178) lacks in size he makes up for in production. He earned a 93rd percentile Dominator Rating in his final season at Boston College.
26. Dallas Cowboys
Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
The Cowboys already have one top-end receiver in CeeDee Lamb, but their options beyond him proved to be subpar replacements for Amari Cooper. They were banking on big plays from 33-year-old T.Y. Hilton in the playoffs.
27. Buffalo Bills
Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
Finding a landing spot for Robinson is nearly impossible because of how excellent of a prospect he is. Per PFF, Robinson racked up 104 broken tackles in 2022. That was 21 more than any other back. He's also a strong receiver. Robinson plays a devalued position in the modern NFL, but he is on par with Saquon Barkley and Ezekiel Elliott as a prospect.
Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
The Bengals will have to address their offensive line via free agency and the draft, but Mayer has the talent of a top-20 selection and also fills a massive need for them. Three Cincinnati tight ends are about to enter free agency, including Hayden Hurst.
29. New Orleans (via the 49ers)
Bryan Bresse, DT, Clemson
The Saints ranked 29th in pressure rate in 2022. They have four defensive tackles who are set to hit free agency. Bresse fills that need on their roster and does his best work against the pass.
30. Philadelphia Eagles
Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
Howie Roseman and the Philly front office have never shied away from doubling down on the strengths of the roster. The Eagles have an elite receiver duo but not much going on behind A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith on the depth chart. Giving Jalen Hurts a third receiver to throw to would supercharge an already-elite offense.
31. Kansas City Chiefs
Keion White, EDGE, Georgia Tech
The Chiefs can save $22 million by cutting Frank Clark. Though Clark had a strong postseason, his regular season shortcomings make his release almost inevitable. Wide receiver was also a strong contender at this spot but the Downs pick at No. 30 moved Kansas City to EDGE.
