| NFC NORTH |
| GREEN BAYThere is some hope for RB JOSH JACOBS as the Brown County District Attorney has hesitated in bringing formal charges. NFL.com: Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs was released from police custody in Wisconsin on Wednesday after the Brown County District Attorney’s Office said it was not “prepared to make a formal charging decision” following Jacobs’ arrest on Tuesday. Brown County District Attorney David L. Lasee said in a Wednesday statement that his office has requested “additional investigation, as there is reason to believe that additional evidence may exist that would impact whether criminal charges are appropriate, and what charges would be issued.” A final charging decision will be made by the DA’s office at a later date. Jacobs was arrested on Tuesday on five charges, including felony strangulation, and booked into Brown County Jail, according to a Hobart/Lawrence Police Department press release. The arrest stems from an alleged incident on Saturday morning in which Hobart/Lawrence Police were dispatched to a disturbance complaint involving Jacobs. In addition to the charge of felony strangulation, Jacobs, 28, was booked on four misdemeanor counts of assault, criminal damage to property, disorderly conduct and intimidation of a victim, according to jail records. Jacobs was released from Brown County Jail at 12:20 p.m. local time on Wednesday, jail records show. The investigation into the allegations against Jacobs “remains open and is ongoing,” per the Brown County D.A. Jacobs’ attorneys, David Z. Chesnoff, Richard A. Schonfeld and Clarence Duchac, said Wednesday in a statement obtained by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport that they were “extremely pleased” that Jacobs was released from custody and that no criminal charges were filed at this time. “We remain confident that, once all of the evidence is gathered and evaluated, it will confirm that no charges should be brought against Josh in the future,” Jacobs’ attorneys added. |
| MINNESOTAEva Geitheim of SI.com offers this early report from the Vikings QB battle: Minnesota VikingsBetween the talent on their roster and their successful run just two seasons ago, the Vikings perhaps possess the most important QB competition in the league. Third-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy and veteran Kyler Murray are battling for the job. McCarthy was the starter last season, but between inconsistency and injury, was not reliable enough. As such, the Vikings have brought in Murray, a former No. 1 pick and Pro Bowler whose career has been hampered in recent years by injury and inconsistency as well. Both quarterbacks took part in practice on Wednesday and spoke to the media after. McCarthy shared his thoughts on the Vikings bringing in Murray, saying, “The organization made a decision that they feel like is going to improve the depth and quality of the room. … All I’m thinking about is continuing the upward trajectory I set for myself that last quarter of the season and continuing to be the best version of me every single day.” Focusing on himself and his own play was a theme for McCarthy is his comments. He said this offseason he’s been working on processing, making great decisions and ball placement among other areas he can improve. In regards to his relationship with Murray, McCarthy said, “It’s just like two guys in a classroom. He sits on one side, and I sit on the other side, and it’s the coaches’ responsibility to teach us and coach us.” McCarthy doesn’t see any “awkwardness” between him and Murray, but said, “It’s just like the same feeling when you’re in high school, and there’s another person on the other side of the room. That’s just kind of how it is.” Murray, meanwhile, struck a different tone while speaking to the media as he noted he’s willing to help McCarthy in any way he needs. “It’s been great,” Murray said. “Obviously, he’s a younger guy, so any way I can help him, I feel like I played seven years going on eight. I’m considered a veteran even though I don’t see myself as that. Giving him any knowledge he needs, we’re both competitors and I know we both want what’s best for the team.” Murray added that this is “new territory” for him and he never really expected to be in this situation, but he also said, “Now that I am here, I feel like you can’t draw it up any better. I was a fan of the Vikings growing up and the fact that I’m here now, I’m blessed, I’m honored. I can’t wait to put the jersey on.” |
| NFC EAST |
| DALLASThere is a certified Good Guy on the Cowboys and his name is QB DAK PRESCOTT. This release from the Pro Football Writers Association: Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, who was praised for his dealings with local and national media during the previous season, has been selected as the 2026 Good Guy Award winner by the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA). Prescott, the 22nd Good Guy Award winner, is the first member of the Cowboys franchise to win the award. Other finalists for the Good Guy Award were Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio and Chicago Bears safety Kevin Byard III. The Good Guy Award is given to an NFL player for his qualities and professional style in helping pro football writers do their jobs. The award has been presented annually by the PFWA since 2005. Prescott, a finalist for the Good Guy Award for the second time in the past three seasons (2024, 2026), is one of the more accessible players in the league, especially at the quarterback position. He fulfills his regular media obligations and then some, and he also chats with local media in an off-the-record format to provide context. The Dallas PFWA chapter named their local Good Guy award for Prescott – the chapter’s award recipient in 2017 and 2019 – starting with the 2025 presentation. “Dak Prescott is one of the more accessible star players in the NFL. He talks once a week during the season and of course after every game. However, if Dak is needed for an off-the-record conversation, he’s there for you,” said Dallas PFWA chapter vice president and former PFWA president Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News. “Dak explains the game to you from a game plan standpoint and reviews certain plays if you ask. The trust he has with the beat writers is respected on both sides. He understands the job of reporters more than anybody.” |
| WASHINGTONDT JAVON KINLAW can’t contain himself about the newcomers to the Commanders defense. Count the dashes from Jeremy Bergman of NFL.com: After fielding one of the oldest rosters and worst defenses in the NFL in 2025, Washington spent the offseason rebuilding its defensive line. Javon Kinlaw took notice. The veteran defensive tackle, entering his second season in D.C. and seventh in the league, couldn’t help but marvel at the talent around him when meeting with reporters Wednesday during Commanders organized team activities. “We’ve got some m———— now,” Kinlaw said. “Excuse my language.” Kinlaw then offered more language to be excused while listing off the depth of Commanders new and old along Washington’s D-line. “S—, (Odafe) Oweh, he can go,” Kinlaw said. “S—, Charles Omenihu can go. S—, K’Lavon (Chaisson) can go. S—, Tim Settle, he can go. S—, who else am I missing? And we got, s—, D-Wise (Deatrich Wise) back. S—, you already know he can go. S—, we got D.A. (Dorance Armstrong) coming back. He can go. S—, Jer’Zhan (Newton) can go. S—, D-Payne (Daron Payne) can go. “It’s gonna be exciting, bruh. It’s gonna be super exciting to play with these guys, for sure. A lot of talent, bruh. I’m just excited, bro. I’m super excited.” Washington broke the bank for Oweh in the offseason, adding the former Ravens and Chargers pass rusher on a four-year, $100 million deal. Chaisson, Settle and Omenihu also joined from free agency, while Wise returned to the fold. Those additions, along with the selection of first-round linebacker Sonny Styles and the replacement of former defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. with Daronte Jones, will hope to turn around a Commanders defense that wilted in its second season under coach Dan Quinn. Washington ranked dead last in total defense and 27th in scoring defense in 2025. In 17 games last season, Kinlaw, a first-round pick in 2020, logged 43 tackles, three QB hits and zero sacks. With a front seven full of “m————” around him in 2026, Kinlaw is expecting more production for all involved. |
| NFC WEST |
| SEATTLEIan Rapoport of NFL.com drops a nugget that the sale market for the Seahawks has heated up. Eduardo Razo of Heavy.com: In January, ESPN’s Seth Wickersham and Brady Henderson reported, citing sources, that the Seattle Seahawks will go up for sale after Super Bowl LX. After a few quiet months, the wheels are beginning to get rolling on a sale. The latest update on the team’s pending sale comes from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, who notes the potential buyer will pay over $10 billion for the team, which won the Super Bowl last season. “Here’s my understanding of the potential sale of the Seahawks: The market, I’m told, has been robust, and the way it is trending, I would not be surprised at all,” Rapoport said on the May 27 edition of the “Pat McAfee Show.” “There’s a special meeting among NFL owners this coming August. “The Seahawks could have a new owner before the season if all goes perfectly well. The sale could eclipse $10 billion. Everything Seth Wickersham reported about the market being softer than expected has changed. Things have really picked up steam. A new owner could potentially be coming soon for Seattle.” Moreover, Pat McAfee shared his thoughts on what Rapoport’s information as whoever buys the team will be walking into an ideal ownership situation. “Congratulations to the Seattle Seahawks,“ McAfee said. “Obviously, that $10 billion valuation, they got a Super Bowl team, they got a lot of contracts over there locked in. I mean, coach [Mike] Macdonald is going to be there for 100 years. He’s seemingly very young. Good for them, whoever gets in there. The NFL team has become like the billionaire thing.“ This news from Rapoport is the second update this May from an insider on the Seahawks’ pending sale, after a few months of quiet. During his May 6 mailbag article, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer shared the latest regarding the Seahawks’ sale amid all the quietness that’s going on in this process. “Because it’s Seattle, a lot of the same big names are cycled through,“ Breer wrote. “From the sounds of it, Clippers owner and ex-Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer might be more likely than Amazon tycoon Jeff Bezos, but I’m not sure either is a probable bidder.” Apart from tech big names, there could be other potential buyers that have no ties to either Microsoft or any other major tech company. Moreover, Breer mentioned another name who has recently tried to purchase an NFL team. “I’ve heard a few other names as potential buyers, one who’s a limited partner in an NBA team. Steve Apostolopoulos, a Canadian billionaire, is one to consider—he did bid on the Commanders in 2023,“ Breer added in his article.” As a result, whoever buys the Seahawks may not have any ties to the tech industry. It will be interesting to see if, before the summer ends and the 2026 season begins, Seattle has a new owner and begins a new era with a team looking to win back-to-back Super Bowls. Furthermore, the new owner won’t need to do much and just let general manager John Schneider keep doing what he has been doing to build a contender. |
| AFC WEST |
| KANSAS CITYThe Chiefs have their first OTA practice – and QB PATRICK MAHOMES is in attendance. Nate Taylor of ESPN.com: – Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs’ star quarterback, returned to the field with his teammates Tuesday for the first time since experiencing the most significant injury of his career, participating in the team’s opening OTA practice. The extent of Mahomes’ participation wasn’t revealed, since the session was closed to reporters, but the Chiefs posted video of the star QB making a throw on the field, with a brace on his left knee. The Chiefs’ first practice that will be open to reporters is set for Thursday, which is expected be the next step in seeing the full extent of Mahomes’ progress during his rehab and recovery from the surgery he had Dec. 15 to repair the torn ACL and LCL in his left knee. “Phase 2 [of the offseason program], remember, there’s no contact and there’s no offense versus defense,” coach Andy Reid said earlier this month about Mahomes. “It’s Phase 3 that you get into that.” Even if Mahomes participates in a limited capacity this week, his on-field work is still a positive factor in the quarterback’s long-term goal. Since his injury — which occurred late in a Dec. 14 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers — Mahomes has made it his mission to be on the field for the Chiefs’ opening night, which will be a “Monday Night Football” home game Sept. 14 against the Denver Broncos. In recent weeks, the Chiefs have become optimistic that Mahomes will be in uniform that night. Throughout his rehab, Mahomes has spent plenty of days inside the Chiefs’ training facility. He has most often worked with Julie Frymyer, one of the team’s top athletic trainers who also has helped him recover from previous injuries throughout his nine-year career. Before this week, the lone footage of Mahomes throwing a football since his surgery was a short clip he posted on his Instagram account in late March. In the four-second clip, Mahomes, inside a training gym, executed a five-step dropback at a moderate tempo before releasing the ball, which appeared to be an intermediate pass. Mahomes has increased his workout sessions since then, which allowed him to be on the field for Tuesday’s practice. |
| AFC NORTH |
| PITTSBURGHBill Barnwell of ESPN.com with something he liked about Pittsburgh’s offseason and something he didn’t: Pittsburgh SteelersBest: Signing Jamel Dean to a three-year contract. I’m on the record suggesting that the Steelers need to take the end of the Mike Tomlin era as a sign that it’s time to rebuild around their young stars, but ownership has made it very clear that the team isn’t heading in that direction. Let’s leave their plan aside for a minute and judge how well they executed if their goal is to contend in 2026. The league generally doesn’t want to pay cornerbacks as they approach 30, with the Steelers as one of the few exceptions. Though in years past they’ve gone after players who have lost value such as Jalen Ramsey and Patrick Peterson, Dean is still playing at a very high level. Lining up in a blitz-heavy scheme under coach Todd Bowles in Tampa Bay, Dean gave up a 63.1 passer rating in coverage last season, one of the best marks in the league. His 2.1% missed tackle rate also ranked among the league leaders, and Dean has consistently been a very good tackler in his seven-year career. The Steelers are only really on the hook for one year and $13.5 million, leaving them with plenty of flexibility if Dean does take a step back in his age-30 season. Between their devastating trio of pass rushers on the edge and the combination of Dean and Joey Porter Jr. on the outside, new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham should have everything he needs to shut down opposing passing games in 2026. Worst: The continued handling of the quarterback situation. On the veteran side, the Steelers gave Aaron Rodgers halfway through May to decide on his future before re-signing the legendary quarterback to a one-year deal, reportedly giving him a big raise in the process. They weren’t competitive with other veteran quarterbacks, including Kyler Murray, Kirk Cousins and Joe Flacco, all of whom might project to be better than Rodgers in 2026. Since winning his fourth MVP award in 2021, Rodgers has ranked 26th, 25th and 23rd in Total QBR across his three subsequent healthy seasons. At 42, the chances are far more likely that Rodgers is worse in 2026 than of any sort of dramatic improvement. It would be one thing if the Steelers were waiting on peak Rodgers to return, but the entire organization was left on hold as a below-average starter spent months deciding whether he wanted to continue playing. And though Rodgers is obviously familiar with new head coach Mike McCarthy, it’s worth remembering that Rodgers’ performance improved dramatically in Green Bay after McCarthy left and was replaced by Matt LaFleur. Is there a quarterback of the future on this roster? The Steelers have taken a couple of low-likelihood shots. Will Howard was drafted in the sixth round last year, and though there’s optimism about the former Ohio State product, he hasn’t taken even a preseason snap as a pro because of injuries, let alone one in the regular season. The decision to draft Drew Allar in the third round this year hints at the organization’s real feelings about Howard, but the track record for quarterbacks with ideal NFL size and arm strength who aren’t good enough to actually go in the first round of the draft is treacherous. It’s possible that the Steelers unlock something in Allar, but I worry that we’re going to be facing this exact same conundrum at quarterback in Pittsburgh next offseason. |
| AFC SOUTH |
| INDIANAPOLISBill Barnwell of ESPN.com is critical of how much money the Colts have given QB DANIEL JONES: Worst: Guaranteeing Daniel Jones nearly $50 million for 2026. It was inevitable that the Colts would keep Jones after his incredible first half in 2025, even if that run ended with him tearing his Achilles and sitting out the final four games of the season. That came with a $37.8 million transition tag, which seemed reasonable enough for a player with Jones’ track record of inconsistency and the uncertainty surrounding his ability to return from the Achilles injury to begin the 2026 season. But when the Colts eventually came to terms with Jones on an extension, the actual price to get him under contract and on the field in 2026 had ballooned. Ballard probably wanted to restructure that $37.8 million figure to reduce Jones’ cap hit in 2026 and obviously hoped to get him under contract past this upcoming season — at least for one more year — without making a multiyear commitment. To get that done, though, the Colts had to guarantee Jones $49.5 million in 2026. They weren’t able to tie more than $510,000 of that into per-game roster bonuses, which would have protected the Colts if Jones was unable to play to start the year, or benched by the end of his second season. Was anyone else really going to pay $37.8 million or more to trigger the transition tag and force the Colts into a difficult decision? If that was a real concern, why didn’t the Colts give Jones the $43.9 million franchise tag, which would have made an outside deal even more unlikely? And if there was no market for him, the Colts needed to do more to produce a friendlier contract for their quarterback, either by reducing the guarantee or by putting more of the money into per-game roster bonuses. The Giants got fooled by one good year from Jones and made a franchise-altering mistake. The Colts are desperate for a solution at QB after cycling through option after option following Andrew Luck’s retirement, but this deal might not afford them any sort of stability or upside. |
| AFC EAST |
| NEW ENGLANDMike Vrabel speaks and Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports: – New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed reporters Wednesday for the first time since he missed Day 3 of the NFL draft, saying it was a decision he doesn’t regret. Vrabel previously said his absence was a “personal and private matter” and part of a commitment to seek counseling starting that weekend in hopes of giving his family and the Patriots “the best version of me that I can possibly give them.” Asked Wednesday how he would describe how the process of balancing family and football has unfolded, Vrabel said, “Really good. I appreciate that my family is great. I love Jen [Vrabel], I love the boys, I love my personal friends.” Vrabel then pivoted his answer to football, as the Patriots are in the sixth week of their voluntary offseason program, which included their second organized team activity Wednesday. Vrabel was also asked if he might be away from the team in the future. “I can’t tell you anything other than I’m going to be out there today in full force,” he said. “So I’m going to focus on today and the excitement that we’ve had and that we’ve built so far.” In early April, the New York Post published a series of photos that showed Vrabel and former Athletic reporter Dianna Russini together at a resort days before the NFL’s league meetings in nearby Phoenix. Vrabel and Russini are both married to other people. Russini resigned on April 14. Vrabel previously said he addressed players about the situation on April 20, which was the first day of the voluntary offseason program. Asked Wednesday about how he feels he’s been able to mitigate any distractions, he said, “We all have to deal with things outside of here. My focus, and obviously the excitement that I have for coaching, is what is most important right now. This is a great opportunity.” |
| THIS AND THAT |
| EIGHT TEAMS WHO COULD KNOCK OF SEATTLEIf the Seahawks do not repeat, Dan Parr says there are only eight teams that could replace them (biggest omissions – New England, Houston and Chicago): Eight teams have won back-to-back Super Bowls, with only two pulling off the elusive double-dip since the turn of the century. So, the odds are stacked against the Seahawks in their quest to repeat. But which team is most likely to dethrone the reigning champions? In May, all we can do is speculate with the season still months away. For any fan base feeling spurned by not having its team on the list, I don’t recall a ton of fervor around the Seahawks at this time a year ago, but it didn’t stop them from going on a dominant run to the title. It’s entirely possible a squad not on this list will emerge once the real action begins. It could even be the defending AFC champion Patriots, although their chances of winning it all seem lower than Seattle’s chances of going back-to-back considering the Super Bowl loser has made it back to the game the next season only once in the last 32 years. With that, here’s my ranking of the biggest threats to the Seahawks. Super Bowl odds provided by DraftKings are as of 10:30 a.m. ET on Wednesday, May 27. 8 Kansas City Chiefs+1500I’m not ready to declare the Andy Reid-Patrick Mahomes Chiefs dead yet, even after witnessing their very ugly unraveling last season. The most pressing question is Mahomes’ health, but it’s not the only concern. I don’t know when he will be back to playing his usual brand of football, even if the target for his return from an ACL tear is Week 1. However, the possibility of him returning to something close to elite form — and DC Steve Spagnuolo working his magic on the other side of the ball — carries enough heft for me to include Kansas City on the list. The Chiefs have to be better everywhere else on offense, too, and the only marquee addition they made on that side of the ball was the signing of Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker III. He filled a major need, but it’s going to take Reid bringing along some young receivers and offensive linemen — primarily former first-round picks Xavier Worthy and Josh Simmons — for the offense to really pop. On defense, Spagnuolo has to somehow generate more pass-rush juice to help a remodeled secondary that will be leaning heavily on rookie CB Mansoor Delane. It feels like asking a lot of the Chiefs to get back to playing title-caliber football, but I do believe there is value in knowing what it takes to win in the NFL, and this franchise is only a year removed from playing in three consecutive Super Bowls. We’ll get a great look at how they measure up to the Seahawks when the teams meet on a Sunday night in Seattle in Week 7. 7 Detroit Lions+1800It was somewhat lost in Detroit’s collapse late last year, but the Lions started 5-2 and looked like they were bound for a third straight playoff appearance. They are now tied for the NFL’s fourth-longest active streak of consecutive winning seasons (four). I’m expecting the bad taste in their mouths from the way last season ended to fuel a heightened sense of urgency in a prideful group. Yes, the NFC North remains tough, but overall, the Lions’ schedule is one of the most favorable in the league, with only two true road games against teams that won a playoff game last season. They catch a huge break by missing all of the NFC West heavyweights in the regular season — the Cardinals are the only team they play from the division. While they wouldn’t go head-to-head unless they meet in the postseason, it’s worth noting that in the two years since Mike Macdonald took over as head coach, the Seahawks have allowed 40-plus points to only one team — the Lions, in a 42-29 home win for Detroit on a Monday night in Week 4 of the 2024 season. It’s going to take a better performance from a reworked offensive line for peak Jared Goff to return. If that group jells and they can get a relatively healthy year from Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams and Sam LaPorta, the Lions are built to give even the stoutest defenses fits. Of course, health is a major concern for the back end of the Lions defense, with Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch coming off injuries. There’s enough talent in the front seven, led by Aidan Hutchinson, to relieve some stress on the secondary, but head coach Dan Campbell has to find a way to get that group into decent shape to avoid more disappointment. 6 Denver Broncos+2000I can’t remember the last time a team coming off 14 wins entered a season with softer buzz. A quiet-as-a-mouse offseason — outside of the Jaylen Waddle trade — is probably the main culprit, but I’m not going to overlook one of the most complete rosters in the game. When I was putting together the top five draft needs for all 32 teams after the dust settled from free agency, it was hard to fill out Denver’s list. The team is strong everywhere you look, with the interior defensive line the only spot that might have taken a significant hit this offseason, due to the departure of John Franklin-Myers. Now, if Bo Nix is a lesser version of himself in his return from ankle surgery, the outlook changes a lot. At the same time, I also can’t rule out that he reaches new heights in Year 3, with arguably the league’s best offensive line, quality depth at running back and an upgraded receiving corps via the Waddle deal. The defense looks no worse than good on paper, even without JFM, and it’s possible DC Vance Joseph coaches the group to elite status once again after ranking first in yards allowed and third in scoring in 2025. Sean Payton’s teams have finished with a winning record in seven of his last eight seasons as a head coach, with the 8-9 2023 Broncos the lone sub-.500 squad in his first year with Denver. They came within a touchdown of winning the AFC title last season. I’m expecting the reigning AFC West champions to contend again, although they’ll have to survive a gauntlet of a schedule in the first six weeks that concludes with a Thursday night home game against the Seahawks. We’ll know before midseason how this version of the Broncos measures up. 5 San Francisco 49ers+1700Playing in the NFC West helps push the 49ers up the list here, since they will get at least two chances to knock the reigning champs from their perch. San Francisco was one of the three teams that defeated Seattle last season, with a 17-13 victory at Lumen Field in the opener. The Seahawks avenged that loss by dominating defensively in a 13-3 win at Levi’s Stadium in Week 18, but by then, the 49ers were a shadow of their former selves due to injuries to a long list of starters. I can’t imagine Kyle Shanahan’s squad having worse health luck than it did in 2025, when ailments tore through the roster on both sides of the ball. Returning from injury for the San Francisco defense will be Nick Bosa, a Pro Bowl selectee in all five of his healthy seasons since entering the league in 2019, four-time first-team All-Pro Fred Warner and 2025 first-round pick Mykel Williams. The acquisition of DT Osa Odighizuwa filled a big need. The pass rush must be better for the team to have a legit chance of making a title run, and there’s nowhere to go but up after tying for the fewest sacks in a single season by any NFL team since 2022 with 20. It’s easy to have faith in Shanahan’s ability to put one of the league’s better offenses on the field week in and week out after watching him navigate injuries to Brock Purdy and other key contributors on that side of the ball in 2025. It’s going to be fun to see what he can do with Purdy, Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle (coming off an Achilles tear) and blockbuster addition Mike Evans, if they can all stay on the field. 4 Philadelphia Eagles+1500Last season ended with a thud, as the injury-plagued 49ers knocked the Eagles out of the playoffs on Wild Card Weekend. The last two times the Eagles were bounced from the first round of the playoffs, they played in the Super Bowl the following season. So, go ahead Philly fans, book your flights to Los Angeles in February! Obviously, that pattern is only going to hold if the team gets better play from Jalen Hurts, who was a net negative in passing EPA (-10) during the final nine games of the regular season, per Next Gen Stats. GM Howie Roseman has given the QB a much different receiving corps, with Hollywood Brown, Dontayvion Wicks and Makai Lemon joining the team and A.J. Brown reportedly on his way out. There’s good news on the offensive line, with OT Lane Johnson and OG Landon Dickerson returning after considering retirement, but Philadelphia will need them to stay healthy to reap the benefits. Vic Fangio’s defense isn’t without question marks (at safety, primarily), but it has the potential to be elite once again after allowing the fewest yards and second-fewest points in the league last season. Philly gets to host Seattle on a short week (Saturday game) in mid-December, which might give Nick Sirianni and Co. an edge in a game that figures to be pivotal in determining playoff positioning. No team has won more games than the Eagles since the start of the 2022 season. They’ve earned a spot in this conversation. 3 Buffalo Bills+1000With playoff appearances in each of the last seven seasons — the longest active streak in the NFL — the Bills are going to make their way onto lists like this one for as long as Josh Allen is playing at a high level. He bends the game in his team’s favor like few players can, and is only one season removed from an MVP year. Buffalo has a new head coach in Joe Brady, but any challenges related to that transition might be mitigated by the bond that already exists between Allen and Brady, who has been on the team’s staff since 2022, including as offensive coordinator for the last two-plus seasons. The question, as has long been the case for the Bills, is whether Allen can carry the team to the top despite shortcomings in some other areas of the roster. The receiving corps was not nearly good enough last season, and while DJ Moore helps, there’s still a need for dynamic, downfield ball-winners to maximize Allen’s talent. On the other side of the ball, the run defense can’t sag like it did in 2025 if Buffalo is going to make a deeper run. The Bills allowed 136 yards per game on the ground, fifth-most in the league. Fixing that area has to be the first priority for new DC Jim Leonhard, who has the squad moving to a 3-4 base, but squeezing more out of the pass rush ranks high on the to-do list, as well, and that might not be an easy task. The team has a favorable schedule, at least by one metric, and won’t face the Seahawks in the regular season. If everything comes together around Allen, the Bills will have as good a shot as anyone at the title. 2 Baltimore Ravens+1000New Ravens head coach Jesse Minter and the Seahawks’ Mike Macdonald followed similar paths to their current jobs, with both serving on Baltimore’s staff from 2017-2020 and Minter replacing Macdonald as Michigan’s defensive coordinator in 2022. Now Minter has a shot to succeed Macdonald as a Super Bowl winner. Minter was hired to make sure last season was an aberration and not a sign of things to come in the Ravens’ Lamar Jackson era. The ingredients are there for a rebound. After all, Jackson is a two-time MVP and still hasn’t turned 30 years old, but last year’s performance was often tough to watch as he dealt with injuries. If he returns to form, Baltimore’s probably going to win a lot of games, but it will take the team reestablishing its identity inside the trenches to advance deep into the postseason. Help for the offensive line arrived in the form of first-round pick Olaivavega Ioane, who should start from Day 1 at guard. Marquee free-agent signee Trey Hendrickson, second-round pick Zion Young and 20th-year veteran Calais Campbell were brought in to help the defensive front regain its footing. The healthy return of Nnamdi Madubuike would go a long way to solidifying the interior, but it’s still not clear if/when he’ll be able to play after undergoing neck surgery. The range of potential outcomes might stretch a bit wider for the Ravens than it does for some other teams on this list, even with a manageable schedule, but the ceiling earns them an enviable spot in the conversation. 1 Los Angeles Rams+800While the surprising decision to draft Alabama QB Ty Simpson 13th overall didn’t help their chances for 2026, the Rams are the favorites to win Super Bowl LXI for good reason. Matthew Stafford, coming off an MVP year, is not showing any signs of slowing down entering his age-38 season and will be spearheading one of the league’s most explosive offenses once again. I’m sure Stafford would have preferred the addition of another weapon via the draft’s first round, but he still has offensive genius Sean McVay calling plays with Davante Adams, Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams and a deep group of tight ends at his disposal. The focus for McVay and GM Les Snead in free agency was tightening up on defense after the team allowed 31 or more points in four of its last seven games, including the playoffs. They were aggressive in upgrading the cornerback position, trading for Trent McDuffie and signing Jaylen Watson. The defensive line has the potential to be elite. It would be nice if they were a little more dynamic at linebacker, but overall, this group looks better than last year’s on paper. Los Angeles dropped two of its three games against division-rival Seattle last season, including the NFC title game. Those were some epic battles, though, with all three decided by four or fewer points. It will take surviving a meat-grinder of a schedule to get it done this season. Seattle’s road doesn’t look like it will be much easier, though. There’s a long way to go before the two teams meet in two of the final three weeks of the regular season, but it’s easy to envision them slugging it out down the stretch for the second year in a row. For now, the Rams are in a better position to come out on top this time. |
| 2023 DRAFTPete Prisco of CBSSports.com does a sensible thing and re-grades the 2023 Draft. And along the way, he candidly admits mistakes like QB WILL LEVIS. Interesting and honest: he defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks will once again push to win it all this year, while their division rival Los Angeles Rams are right there with them in terms of being considered Super Bowl contenders. The 2023 NFL Draft is a big reason why. It always takes three years to truly grade a draft, so I always go back and do a regrade of the teams and myself based on my initial draft grades. Sometimes the teams look bad. Sometimes I do. Sometimes we both do in terms of the same evaluations and, yes, there are times when we both even get it right. As it relates to the 2023 drafts for the Rams and Seahawks, they both look great right now. In fact, after giving them solid grades immediately after the draft, the new grade for both is A+. The Seahawks had two first-round picks and hit on cornerback Devon Witherspoon and receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, two of the best in the game at their positions. But they also got three other players in that draft who have started or will start this year. That’s great drafting. The Rams landed five starters in that draft, including the steal of the draft by taking receiver Puka Nacua in the fifth round. He is now considered one of the top offensive players in the league. There was a lot more, too. The Rams landed four other starters in defensive linemen Byron Young (third) and Kobie Turner (third) and offensive linemen Steve Avila (second) and Warren McClendon (fifth). That’s how you build a winner. They are the only teams to get the A+ grades, but five other teams got A grades. They are the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars and Philadelphia Eagles. All five are playoff contenders and maybe more this season. Looking back three years after a draft really does show the value in it. So dive in and see how your team did and how I did, with the latter not being great for some of my original evaluations. But at least I can say I am wrong, which many other analysts out there won’t do. Of course, they invented the game. Just ask them. Arizona Cardinals2023 grade: B+New grade: B+The skinny: They traded down in the first round with the Texans and still landed starting left tackle Paris Johnson Jr., although they could have taken star edge Will Anderson Jr.. They got another first-round pick in 2024 in that trade and used it on edge Darius Robinson, who started 12 games last season but had just one sack. In this draft, they had nine picks and eight are still on the roster, and three are good starters in Johnson, third-round corner Garrett Williams and third-round receiver Michael Wilson. How I did: I liked the pick of edge BJ Ojulari in the second round, but after flashing as a rookie he suffered a devastating knee injury during the 2024 training camp. He played just eight games last season with one sack. I didn’t love the Williams pick because he was coming off a knee injury, but he has been a good player. I did like the overall draft and the move to trade down. Atlanta Falcons2023 grade: C-New grade: BThe skinny: They took running back Bijan Robinson with the eighth pick, which has worked out well for them. He is a star back. They took starting guard Matthew Bergeron in the second and third-round edge Zach Harrison started seven games last year, but missed time with a knee injury. How I did: I didn’t love the Robinson pick, even though I thought he’d be a good player. I just don’t like taking backs that high. I liked fourth-round corner Clark Phillips III, who started every game in 2024, but played just one last season after suffering a triceps injury. This was a solid draft. Baltimore Ravens2023 grade: C+New grade: C-The skinny: They had six picks and just two — first-round receiver Zay Flowers and fourth-round edge Tavius Robinson — go into this season as a starter. That is not a great haul for a team that traditionally drafts well. Third-round linebacker Trenton Simpson and seventh-round guard Andrew Vorhees have started in the past. How I did: I liked the pick of Flowers in the first and he has proven to be a good player. I didn’t like the pick of Simpson in the third. He just hasn’t been what they expected. I didn’t really like the overall draft then and don’t love it now. Buffalo Bills2023 grade: B-New grade: B-The skinny: They took tight end Dalton Kincaid in the first and he has flashed at times, but injuries have slowed him some. This is a big year for him coming up. They also got starting guard O’Cyrus Torrence in the second and third-round linebacker Dorian Williams is a starter. Seventh-round tackle Nick Broeker is a backup. How I did: I loved the pick of Torrence, who has proven to be a big part of their offensive line. I didn’t love the pick of Williams, saying there were better options on the board, but he has proven to be a solid pick. Carolina Panthers2023 grade: B+New grade: DThe skinny: They made the bold move to trade up with Chicago to land quarterback Bryce Young. While he flashed last year, the verdict on the trade is still tilted to the Bears in a big way. If he continues to develop, it could be worth it. If not, it will be a disaster. They missed big on second-round receiver Jonathan Mingo and third-round edge DJ Johnson, who are both with other teams now. This draft is now all about Young, which it was anyway. How I did: Not good. Why in the hell did I give this grade a B+? I didn’t love the Young pick, but did say he was a good passer. I was worried about his size and was never really in on the hype. I liked Mingo, so that’s a big miss. But I said Johnson was their worst pick, so that’s a hit. This draft is not good, but Young can save it. Chicago Bears2023 grade: B+New grade: AThe skinny: They traded down with Carolina from the top spot and landed a nice haul in return, which has led to them drafting the foundation of this team. One of those players is right tackle Darnell Wright, who they took in the first round. He’s a good player. They had nine other picks in the draft. Of those nine, five are still on the roster and two are starters. They are second-round defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr. and second-round corner Tyrique Stevenson. But they also took quarterback Caleb Williams with the 2024 first overall pick they got in the Young trade. They won that trade big time. How I did: I didn’t like them trading down for a second time from No. 9 to No. 10 to take Wright. I said they should have taken Jalen Carter. I didn’t love the Dexter pick because of inconsistency questions. I liked the pick of back Roschon Johnson in the fourth, but after flashing as a rookie he had just two carries last season and would seem to be in jeopardy of being cut. While the draft itself was just OK, the trade saved it. Cincinnati Bengals2023 grade: ANew grade: B+The skinny: They had eight picks in this draft and four are solid starters. First-round edge Myles Murphy finally lived up to the expectations in the second half of last season. Second-round corner DJ Turner is a good player and third-round safety Jordan Battle is a quality starter. They hit big on fifth-round running back Chase Brown. They also got backups in receivers Charlie Jones (fourth) and Andrei Iosivas (sixth) and corner DJ Ivey (seventh). How I did: My favorite pick was Turner and my only question was with their draft was them not taking offensive lineman. I liked that they focused on improving a defense and landed three staters. Cleveland Browns 2023 grade: B+New grade: D-The skinny: They didn’t have a first- or second-round pick, having traded them to land Deshaun Watson in that now infamous deal. In the third, they took receiver Cedric Tillman and defensive tackle Siaki Ika. Tillman is a solid player, who has started 19 games, including 10 last year, while Ika was cut after one season and is now in the UFL. Fourth-round tackle Dawand Jones has started games and could win a job this year. Fourth-round edge Isaiah McGuire is a solid backup. Sixth-round center Luke Wypler is also a backup. How I did: I was as bad as the Browns were in trading for Watson. I loved Ika, although I did say he needed to keep his weight in check. I also liked Tillman in the third. The worst pick in my eyes was Jones, but I did write he could become the best pick if he kept his weight in check. This draft, coupled with the Watson trade, wasn’t good. Dallas Cowboys2023 grade: ANew grade: FThe skinny: They took defensive tackle Mazi Smith with their first-round pick and he busted and was traded to the Jets. Second-round tight end Luke Schoonmaker is a backup. Third-round linebacker DeMarvion Overshown was a big hit before he tore up his knee in 2024. He was back last year, but wasn’t quite the same. He is still a starter. None of their remaining five picks is still on the roster. How I did: Let’s just say I was terrible. I loved the pick of Smith, who never worked out. I said he would be a force in the run game. My favorite pick was fourth-round edge Viliami Fehoko, who was a big-time bust. He was the captain of my Better-Than team that year. Bad. Denver Broncos2023 grade: B-New grade: CThe skinny: The Broncos traded their first-round and second-round picks in the trade to get Russell Wilson. Oh, was that bad. They had five picks in the draft and all five are still with the team. The best pick was corner Riley Moss in the third. They also got receiver Marvin Mims in the second, trading up to take him. If only they hadn’t made the trade for Wilson. How I did: I had Mims as their best pick, but that goes to Moss. Mims is still a nice part of their offense and return game. I made the trade for Wilson the worst part of this draft and it was — even before he was let go by the Broncos. I thought third-round linebacker Drew Sanders could be a starter, but he’s been limited to 21 games because of injury. Detroit Lions 2023 grade: ANew grade: AThe skinny: The Lions killed this draft. It started by taking running back Jahmyr Gibbs in the first and he has proven to be a star in this league. They followed that up by taking linebacker Jack Campbell in the first, tight end Sam LaPorta in the second and safety Brian Branch in the second. All four have been outstanding when on the field, but injuries have limited Branch and LaPorta some. The only other player still on the roster is sixth-round offensive lineman Colby Sorsdal. They missed on third-round quarterback Hendon Hooker and third-round defensive tackle Brodric Martin. How I did: My favorite pick was LaPorta in the second. I liked Gibbs as a true air back, but questioned taking him so high. That has proven to be a wrong assessment on my part. I liked the pick of Martin in the third, which didn’t play out. He never developed. Green Bay Packers2023 grade: B+New grade: BThe skinny: They had 13 picks in this draft and five head into the season as starters, although some will be challenged. First-round pick Lukas Van Ness starts, but hasn’t come close to living up to the billing. Second-round tight end Luke Musgrave was passed on the depth chart by third-round tight end Tucker Kraft, who is coming off a knee injury. Both will play, but Kraft is the top guy. Second-round receiver Jayden Reed starts and seventh-round corner Carrington Valentine has been a starter, but will be challenged this season for his job. Sixth-round defensive end Karl Brooks is also a starter. How I did: I liked the pick of Musgrave, who has flashed at times but isn’t as good as Kraft. I didn’t love the pick of Reed, who is better than I thought. This was a solid draft. They got starters, but only Kraft was a real star before his injury. Houston Texans2023 grade: BNew grade: AThe skinny: They had eight picks in this draft and three go into the season as starters — two being first-round picks. Quarterback C.J. Stroud, taken second overall, is their starter, but he faces a big prove-it season in 2026. Edge Will Anderson Jr., taken third after a trade with Arizona, has developed into one of the best in the league. Fifth-round linebacker Henry To’oTo’o is a solid starter. The rest of the draft produced little, although third-round receiver Tank Dell flashed before a devastating knee injury two years ago. Three other picks are backups. How I did: I loved the pick of Dell, who was real value before the injury. Maybe he can get back to that form this year. I questioned giving up so much for Anderson, saying he better be a Hall of Fame player. He just might be. So that’s a miss for me. I also said second-round center Juice Scruggs was overdrafted, and he was. He was traded to the Lions this year. If Stroud shows his rookie form this season, this is one hell of a draft. Indianapolis Colts 2023 grade: BNew grade: DThe skinny: This draft was all about taking quarterback Anthony Richardson with the fourth overall pick. So far, it’s been a major fail. Injuries have impacted his play, but he wasn’t good when he did play. He is still young and raw. The rest of the 12-man draft class didn’t produce a lot either. Third-round receiver Josh Downs is a good player and seventh-round corner Jaylon Jones has started. Fourth-round defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore is a rotational player How I did: Not good. I thought their best pick was second-round corner JuJu Brents, but he is now in Miami after being let go. I thought Downs went higher than expected, but he has played well. I also said the draft would be defined by Richardson, who I thought had the tools with some development. That clearly hasn’t happened. Jacksonville Jaguars2023 grade: B-New grade: AThe skinny: They had 13 picks in the draft — trading down in the first to land some — and five of them are projected to be starters in 2026. First-round tackle Anton Harrison and second-round tight end Brenton Strange are good players on their offense. Fifth-round safety Antonio Johnson had his breakout season in 2025 and sixth-round receiver Parker Washington did as well. He was their go-to guy at times last season. Fourth-round linebacker Ventrell Miller will take over for the departed Devin Lloyd and has started in the past. Third-round running back Tank Bigsby was traded to the Eagles. How I did: I liked the idea of trading down to add picks and still landing Harrison. I didn’t love the pick of Strange, which has proven to be a miss by me, but I also didn’t like the Bigsby pick, which is a win for me. I liked fifth-round edge Yasir Abdullah, who has been little more than a backup and also thought Johnson would be a good player. Kansas City Chiefs2023 grade: C-New grade: C-The skinny: They took edge Felix Anudike-Uzomah in the first round and he has been a major flop so far. They then took receiver Rashee Rice in the second. He’s been a good player — when he’s been on the field. Third-round tackle Wanya Morris has started games. Fourth-round safety Chamarri Conner has been a good solid player at a couple of spots. The rest of the draft produced little help. How I did: I questioned taking Anudike-Uzomah, which has played true. I said I didn’t like his tape and I was right about that. I also praised the pick of Rice in the second. This was not a draft I liked then and it isn’t one I like now. Las Vegas Raiders2023 grade: B+New grade: FThe skinny: They used the seventh-overall pick on defensive end Tyree Wilson, who was a major flop. So much so they traded him to the Saints last month for essentially a fifth-round pick. Tight end Michael Mayer came in the second. He’s a solid player, but not special. Third-round pick Byron Young was cut two years ago. The best pick might be receiver Tre Tucker in the third. He had 57 catches and five touchdowns last season. How I did: Not good. I loved the pick of Wilson in the first and also liked fourth-round corner Jakorian Bennett, who is now with the Eagles. He did start for the Raiders before the trade to Philly. I didn’t love Tucker in the third, but he has been OK. I did think they had a good draft. The reality is it’s below average with the big miss on Wilson, who is now with the Saints after being traded there in April. Los Angeles Chargers2023 grade: C+New grade: B-The skinny: They had seven picks and five are still on the roster and three head into the season as starters. They are first-round receiver Quentin Johnston, second-round edge Tuli Tuipulotu and third-round linebacker Daiyan Henley. The two defensive players have been better than Johnson, who has been inconsistent. Fourth-round receiver Derius Davis has been a returner and backup on offense. How I did: My favorite pick was Henley and my worst was Johnston, stating then I thought there were better options on the board. I also said he had to be a Pro Bowl-type talent for the draft to really hit. He certainly hasn’t been that. Los Angeles Rams2023 grade: BNew grade: A+The skinny: They had 14 picks in the draft and five of them are starters with the best of them being fifth-round receiver Puka Nacua. He has proven to be a star and a steal. They also got starters in guard Steve Avila (second), defensive linemen Byron Young and Kobie Turner in the third and right tackle Warren McClendon in the fifth. Backup tight end Davis Allen also came in the fifth. Backup quarterback Stetson Bennett came in the fourth. How I did: I thought Avila was their best pick and Bennett was their worst. I went on to say how much I liked their draft, mentioning Young as a player I liked. I thought it was the type of draft to help overhaul the roster, which it did. I didn’t mention Nacua, which means I missed on him like the rest of the league. Miami Dolphins2023 grade: C-New grade: C-The skinny: The Dolphins didn’t have a first-round pick, losing it for tampering with Tom Brady. Their second-round pick, corner Cam Smith, was a bust and is now in the UFL. The Dolphins hit big on third-round running back De’Von Achane, who is a star and a cornerstone piece for the rebuild. The Dolphins waived sixth-round pick Elijah Higgins and he has caught 64 passes the past three seasons for the Cardinals. Oops. Achane saves this from being a disaster. How I did: I loved the Achane pick, saying he would be a home run threat right away. He has become that and more. I made Smith my worst pick, which played true. I didn’t like their draft. Minnesota Vikings2023 grade: C-New grade: C-The skinny: They had six picks and two are still on the roster, with both being projected starters. One is first-round receiver Jordan Addison, who has proven to be a good player. The other is fourth-round safety Jay Ward, who is expected to take over for Harrison Smith this season. The rest of the draft produced little. How I did: My favorite pick was Addison, who I said would be the best receiver in his class. He is not that, but he’s been a really productive player for them. I didn’t like the pick of corner Mekhi Blackmon in the second round, but he tore and ACL after a promising start to his career and is now in Indianapolis. This was not one of my favorite drafts then, and it isn’t now. New England Patriots 2023 grade: C+New grade: B-The skinny: Bill Belichick had 12 picks in this draft and four are still with the team. The best pick was first-round corner Christian Gonzalez, who is a star at his position. Second-round edge Keion White flashed at times, but he was traded to the 49ers last year. Third-round linebacker Marte Mapu started some, but is now in Houston after being traded this year. The hits were Gonzalez, sixth-round receivers Kayshon Boutte and Demario Douglas and sixth-round punter Bryce Baringer. The genius Belichick also used a fourth-round pick on kicker Chad Ryland, who flopped and is now in Arizona. Fourth-round center Jake Andrews is now the starter in Houston after being waived last year. How I did: I said Gonzalez would be a star, and he is. But who didn’t think that? I liked fifth-round guard Atonio Mafi, but he didn’t work out after starting five games as a rookie. He’s now with the Raiders. I didn’t love the pick of White or fourth-round guard Sidy Sow and both are gone. Douglas was on my Better-Than team, so I loved that pick. I didn’t love the draft then, but it’s slightly better now despite the big misses. New Orleans Saints2023 grade: BNew grade: DThe skinny: They had seven picks in this draft and just one — first-round defensive lineman Bryan Bresee — is a starter heading into this season. That’s bad. They whiffed on second-round edge Isaiah Foskey, who was released last summer and is now with the Bengals. Third-round running back Kendre Miller is a backup who has been plagued by injuries. Fifth-round safety Jordan Howden is a backup. How I did: I liked the pick of Miller, but injuries have really hurt him as a player. I didn’t like the pick of Foskey, which has played out. I didn’t think he would solve their pass-rush issues — and he didn’t. I liked the pick of Bresee and fourth-round guard Nick Saldiveri, who has been mainly a backup as he’s battled injuries. New York Giants2023 grade: B-New grade: DThe skinny: They had seven picks in this draft, but just one is a projected starter heading into the season, that being second-round center John Michael Schmitz. They traded up to get corner Deonte Banks in the first round and he has been a major disappointment and is a backup heading into this season. Third-round receiver Jalin Hyatt has 10 starts and 36 catches in three seasons. Of the remaining four picks, only running back Eric Gray is still on the roster. How I did: I liked the pick of Hyatt, but did say he needs to learn the entire route tree rather than just being a speed threat. That hasn’t happened. I liked Banks, but didn’t love the rest of their draft. I didn’t like Schmitz as much as others and he’s been just OK as a starter. New York Jets2023 grade: BNew grade: DThe skinny: They had seven picks in this draft and only one — second-round guard Joe Tippmann — heads into the season as a sure starter. First-round pick Will McDonald IV will be in a fight to start with Joseph Ossai, who is better against the run. McDonald is more of a pass-rush specialist. They missed on their other five picks. How I did: I liked sixth-round corner Jarrick Bernard-Converse, but he was let go last year and is now with the Giants. I thought McDonald went too high. While he has flashed, that has played true. I did like some of their down-the-line picks, but none worked out. Philadelphia Eagles 2023 grade: ANew grade: A The skinny: They had seven picks in this draft and six of the seven are on the roster and the seventh was traded to the Falcons in March. Of the six on the roster, four are starters. They are first-round defensive tackle Jalen Carter, first-round edge Nolan Smith, third-round guard Tyler Steen and seventh-round defensive tackle Moro Ojomo. The only miss was taking safety Sydney Brown in the third, and he even started games before the trade to Atlanta. How I did: I loved the pick of Carter, who I thought could be generational in terms of talent. While he has flashed at times, he didn’t come close to that level last year. He has to be better. I loved that they also landed Smith. Those two were big in the Eagles winning the Super Bowl two years ago. Brown was my choice for the worst pick and that played out. Pittsburgh Steelers2023 grade: B+New grade: B+The skinny: They had seven picks and the first four would all be starters if left tackle Broderick Jones didn’t suffer a neck injury last season. That is concerning going forward. Second-round corner Joey Porter Jr. has developed into a good player, as has second-round defensive tackle Keeanu Benton. Third-round tight end Darnell Washington is a great blocker who has improved as a receiver. Fourth-round edge Nick Herbig is a good backup who plays a lot. The only thing hurting this class is the uncertainty over Jones and his injury. How I did: I really liked the pick of Herbig, who has proven to be a steal and some think he should be on the field even more. I didn’t love the pick of Washington, who I thought should be moved to tackle. He has been a better receiver than I expected. I liked this class then and like it now — especially if Jones returns. San Francisco 49ers2023 grade: C-New grade: DThe skinny: They didn’t have a first- or second-round pick heading into the draft, and traded up in the third to take safety Ji’Ayir Brown. He is a starter. They traded their first to get Trey Lance the year before — bad miss — and then used a second, third and fourth to get running back Christian McCaffrey, which is a big hit. They did get compensatory picks in the third, but after taking Brown they took kicker Jake Moody, who is no longer with the team, and tight end Cameron Latu, who was cut and is now with the Eagles. This was not a good draft. How I did: I had sixth-round linebacker Dee Winters as their best pick and he was a solid starter last year filling in for Fred Warner, but he was traded to Dallas on draft night. I hated the pick of Moody in the second, which played out that way. You don’t take kickers that high. I did not like this draft, but it’s even worse now than I originally thought. Seattle Seahawks2023 grade: B+New grade: A+The skinny: They had 10 picks in this draft, including two in the first round, and three are starters and the first five have all started games. The first-round picks were corner Devon Witherspoon and receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, both superstar players. Second-round edge Derick Hall has started and is rotational piece of the defense. Second-round running back Zach Charbonnet was a big part of their offense before getting hurt late last season. Fourth-round guard Anthony Bradford is a starter, even if he isn’t a good one. They also got some backups in this draft who are still with the team. How I did: I loved the pick of Witherspoon, but who didn’t? I didn’t like taking Charbonnet because they had Kenneth Walker III, but Walker signed with the Chiefs this spring so maybe they knew. This was the draft that was the foundation of the Super Bowl champs. Getting Witherspoon and Smith-Njigba makes this a home run draft. Tampa Bay Buccaneers2023 grade: B-New grade: C+The skinny: They had eight picks and the first six are still with the team and the first three are all starters. First-round defensive tackle Calijah Kancey has been hurt by injuries, but has been a good player when on the field. Second-round guard Cody Mauch missed last season, but he was developing into a good starter and will be back this year. Third-round edge Yaya Diaby is a starter and fourth-round linebacker SirVocea Dennis has started and will challenge again this year. They didn’t get stars, but they got starters. Injuries have held this class back. How I did: I liked the pick of Mauch saying he was a college tackle who would become a good guard. That’s a hit. I didn’t love the Diaby pick, so that’s a miss. I did like the pick of Kancey, but injuries have really held him back. Tennessee Titans2023 grade: BNew grade: C-The skinny: They took guard Peter Skoronski in the first and he’s become a good starter. They then took quarterback Will Levis in the second, but after starting games in his first two seasons — playing inconsistent football — he missed all of last season and is now a backup. They also took running back Tyjae Spears in the third and he’s a nice change-of-pace back. How I did: I loved the pick of Levis in the second, and that hasn’t played out. I still think a change of scenery could help his career and lead to him being a starter somewhere else. I thought taking Spears because of injury history was risky, but he’s been solid. I liked the pick of Skoronski. Washington Commanders2023 grade: B+New grade: FThe skinny: They had seven picks in the draft and only one has a real chance to be a starter this year. That’s second-round safety Quan Martin,who has 37 starts but even he has been just OK. First-round corner Emmanuel Forbes flopped and was let go in November 2024. He’s now with the Rams and started some last season. The only other hit was on running back Chris Rodriguez in the sixth and he signed as a free agent in Jacksonville in March. How I did: I was as bad as the Commanders. I actually liked this draft. Why? I thought Forbes, despite being skinny, would become a quality cover player. Oops. I did like Martin. Fifth-round pass rusher K.J. Henry was another player I liked, but he didn’t work out. They were bad and so was I. |
