The Daily Briefing Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Quarterback Derek Carr has been a free agent for a week. The market for unrestricted free agents opens in less than three weeks.

Time, as they say, is a-wastin’.

Carr’s brother, David, said Monday on NFL Network that Derek nevertheless plans to take his time.

“It’s gonna be a long process,” David Carr said, via NFL.com. “He wants to do his due diligence and see as many places as he can to get a feel for what the best place for him will be.”

That’s fine, but his head start on the rest of the market is going to quickly evaporate, especially with the Scouting Combine (a/k/a Tampering Central) just a week away. That’s when teams and agent of impending free agents begin to talk serious turkey.

The problem for Carr is that interested teams already know that there will be other options, via free agency or trade. Those options, as a practical matter, already exist. (Indeed, the tampering already has begun.)

And so for the same reason Carr is taking his time, other teams are taking their time, too. With an unprecedented game of quarterback musical chairs about to get rolling, the fact that the music started a little early for Carr doesn’t really matter all that much.

The challenge for every quarterback, Carr included, will be to do the right deal at the right time. Teams looking for quarterbacks will move on to Plan B and so on, and the overall money in the budget also will evaporate, quickly.

DALLAS

Todd Archer of ESPN.com counts 19 members of the 2022 Cowboys who could become free agents:

– Now the fun starts for the Dallas Cowboys.

They have 19 players set to become unrestricted free agents, including key contributors on both sides of the ball in Tony Pollard, Dalton Schultz, Donovan Wilson and Leighton Vander Esch. Fitting all those players together will be difficult and require some maneuvering because the team is about $7 million over the $225 million salary cap.

The Cowboys’ desire is always to keep their own free agents rather than spending big on the market. Here’s a look at what they should do to keep a roster that finished 12-5 strong and make the playoffs for the third straight year.

Stretch the budget to keep

S Donovan Wilson: The Cowboys’ base defense essentially features three safeties. Wilson led the Cowboys in tackles and had the most sacks (5) by a defensive back in the NFL in 2022. He was a tone-setter on a defense that led the league in takeaways each of the past two seasons. He is the type of player the Cowboys want: drafted in the sixth round, developed into a starter. Now it’s time to sign him to a second contract, although the length of said deal might need to be watched.

LB Leighton Vander Esch: When he was lost to a trapezius strain late in the season, his absence was felt. He was their best tackler. He is good in coverage. He gets everybody lined up correctly. The Cowboys were able to keep him last season on a one-year deal, but that won’t be the case this year. He figures to have a stronger market after starting 30 of 34 games the past two years. He also has had a positive impact on star edge rusher/linebacker Micah Parsons during his first two seasons.

Don’t overpay

WR Noah Brown: In 2022, He had more catches (43), yards (455) and touchdowns (3) than he had in his first four seasons combined. He was asked to play a larger role than anticipated, and he mostly responded, while continuing to be a core special-teamer. He has signed one-year contracts in each of the past two years and figures to have a third if he wants to stay in 2023.

DE Dante Fowler Jr.: Hard to argue with six sacks in 343 snaps in 2022. He had some penalties that hurt, but he has a natural ability to get to the quarterback. That might earn him more from another team, but the Cowboys lauded their pass-rush depth in 2022. If they lose him, they’ll have to find a comparable talent to replace him.

CB C.J. Goodwin: He is the Cowboys’ best special-teamer. He can still run. He is excellent in the locker room. But he is 33 and this seems be the year-to-year point for players like Goodwin with minimum-salary-benefit contracts.

Take a chance

RB Tony Pollard: The franchise tag, which will cost $10.09 million, looms for Pollard. That would make sense for the Cowboys if they don’t have a long-term deal in place by March 7, when the franchise tag window closes, but signing Pollard to a multiyear deal would make even more sense. Pollard showed he can be a featured back. He has speed to make things happen on his own, and he can get the tough yards. He also doesn’t have the wear on his body that most free agent backs have.

CB Anthony Brown: The Cowboys never really replaced him after he suffered a torn left Achilles in early December. Signing back on a one-year deal makes the most sense for both sides. The Cowboys know what the seven-year veteran can do, and Brown can complete his rehab with the only team he has known in order to build up his market for 2024. He is a better cornerback than most fans want to think.

DT Johnathan Hankins: Picked up in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders, Hankins was able to anchor the middle, although a biceps injury cost him the final month of the regular season before he returned in the playoffs. His size (6-foot-2, 320 pounds) is something the Cowboys need in the middle. He turns 31 in March, but would it be better to have somebody like him than a younger player who will have to figure out the NFL game? At this point, take a chance on Hankins.

Pay market price

QB Cooper Rush: He saved the Cowboys’ season after Prescott’s thumb injury. He did everything you want a backup quarterback to do, posting a 4-1 record to go with five touchdown passes and three interceptions (all versus the Philadelphia Eagles). Did he do it too well? Will somebody else pay more than the Cowboys want to pay their No. 2 quarterback?

DT Carlos Watkins: He is an underrated part of the defensive front. He can play both interior spots, but there seem to be a lot of guys who can fit that role. The best bet is to see what his market is and let him come back to the team to see if they can match such an offer.

LG Connor McGovern: He started 15 games and was solid. Nothing spectacular, but solid, which is OK. Not every pick on an offensive line can be a first-rounder. He can be a backup center. He can play some fullback. He is tough. His market might surprise folks, considering the dearth of linemen available.

LB Luke Gifford: Late in the season, coach Mike McCarthy said he felt Gifford could be a regular on defense if needed. He’s been mostly a special-teamer, so maybe a fresh start somewhere else gives him a better opportunity to play more on defense.

Either-or

LS Matt Overton: He did a nice job after signing in October. In other words, his name was never really mentioned, which is a good thing for a snapper. At this point, the Cowboys go year to year with their long-snappers, so it’s either keep him or …

LS Jake McQuaide: His 2022 season ended early with a torn triceps. His long background with special teams coordinator John Fassel gives him the edge.

OT Jason Peters: He had a big impact on Tyler Smith’s development as a rookie, but he is 41. He didn’t seem like a guy ready to retire, and he played well enough in spots. He is best as a fill-in player; not somebody to count on week after week at this point of his career. Another year at a reasonable contract to be the swing tackle makes sense for everything he brings. If not, see if Matt Waletzko or Josh Ball can fill that role.

WR T.Y. Hilton: Added in December, the veteran made a big impact on and off the field. He showed he still has his speed despite his age (33). But two questions: Does he want to continue to play, and how much will it cost to keep him? The emphasis will be on the latter.

Move on

LB Anthony Barr: He did a fine job after signing in training camp, but they drafted Damone Clark (despite a neck injury) last year with an eye on the future. His time is now. And it might be time to see of Jabril Cox can have a defensive role too.

TE Dalton Schultz: He played last season on the $10.9 million franchise tag, and the belief is the cost to keep him will be too high. The Cowboys drafted Jake Ferguson and added Peyton Hendershot as an undrafted free agent in 2022, and they like Sean McKeon. Plus, this is considered a strong tight end class. As much as Schultz has been Prescott’s security blanket, they have to consider the cost.

K Brett Maher: This decision already seems to be made by the team because of how the season ended, but maybe they shouldn’t be so cavalier about the kicker spot. Maher set the franchise single-season marks for points (137) and field goals of 50-plus yards (nine). It doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have a competition at the spot, but he did a lot of good in 2022 before the poor ending.

WASHINGTON

It should be noted that Eric Bieniemy is receiving plenty of support from other Chiefs after he was ripped by RB LeSean McCoy.  Michael David Smith of ProFootballTalk.com:

Former Chiefs running back LeSean McCoy said Eric Bieniemy had nothing to do with the team’s successful passing game during Bieniemy’s five years as the Chiefs offensive coordinator. Several of McCoy’s former teammates took issue with that.

Jamaal Charles, the Chiefs’ all-time leading rusher, addressed McCoy directly on Twitter.

“I have to disagree with you Shady,” Charles wrote. “Bieniemy Coach me 4 years I learned so many thing for EB and I still keep in contact with him a great husband and father. He deserves to be a head coach.”

Other former Chiefs teammates weren’t so polite.

“Man you fucked up with it,” former Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu said in a tweet directed to McCoy.

Former Chiefs guard Jeff Allen was among those who retweeted Mathieu’s tweet, while former Chiefs safety Ron Parker also took issue with McCoy.

Tyreek Hill, who played four years in the offense coordinated by Bieniemy and is now in Miami, said the difference of opinion between McCoy and Bieniemy all started with Bieniemy instructing McCoy to hold the ball tighter so he wouldn’t fumble.

“Shady mad Eb told him tuck that ball,” Hill wrote.

There may be something to that: McCoy was the Chiefs’ lead back for much of his one season in Kansas City, but after losing two costly fumbles in two Chiefs losses, his playing time declined significantly, and he was inactive for the Chiefs’ Super Bowl win that year. Things didn’t end well for McCoy in Bieniemy’s offense.

SAN FRANCISCO

An enflamed QB BROCK PURDY has postponed his elbow surgery per NFL.com:

QB Brock Purdy visited on Tuesday with Dr. Keith Meister, who recommended postponing elbow surgery due to Purdy’s ongoing inflammation, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported. Purdy is set to meet with Meister again in early March and all signs continue to point to a UCL repair that would have Purdy ready for the 2023 season.

LOS ANGELES RAMS

Former NFL linebacker Chase Blackburn is the Rams’ new special teams coordinator.  Myles Simmons of ProFootballTalk.com:

The Rams have found a new special teams coordinator.

Los Angeles is hiring Chase Blackburn for the role, according to a report from NFL Media.

Blackburn was the Panthers’ special teams coordinator from 2018-2021 under head coaches Ron Rivera and Matt Rhule. After he was let go following the 2021 season, he spent last year as the Titans assistant special teams coach.

Entering the league as an undrafted free agent with the Giants in 2005, Blackburn appeared in 132 games with 45 starts over his career. He won two Super Bowls with the giants before finishing his playing days with the Panthers in 2013 and 2014.

He made the transition into coaching with Carolina in 2016 as an assistant special teams coach.

The Rams let go of former special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis in January. He’d been with the club since 2021.

SEATTLE

Brady Henderson of ESPN.com on a Seattle offensive line signing:

The Seattle Seahawks have re-signed right guard Phil Haynes to a one-year deal, it was announced Tuesday.

Haynes, who turned 27 in October, was set to become an unrestricted free agent next month.

He spent his first four seasons with the Seahawks after they drafted him in the fourth round out of Wake Forest in 2019. He has only five career starts but shared time at right guard in 2022 with starter Gabe Jackson as part of a regular rotation designed to ease the burden on Jackson’s balky knee and get Haynes on the field.

KANSAS CITY

Doctors have operated on “core muscles” of WR MECOLE HARDMAN.  Tom Pelissaro of NFL.com with the tweet.

#Chiefs WR Mecole Hardman had successful groin repair surgery with Dr. William Meyers in Philadelphia this morning, per source. It cleared up the issue he was dealing with this past season. An intriguing free agent-to-be.

BALTIMORE

New OC Todd Monken talks up the passing talents of QB LAMAR JACKSON.  Kevin Patra of NFL.com:

The Baltimore Ravens hired offensive coordinator Todd Monken to jumpstart a passing offense that hasn’t gotten off the ground in recent seasons.

Speaking Tuesday at his introductory press conference, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cleveland Browns and Georgia Bulldogs OC said his philosophy revolves around getting the most out of the player’s skill sets.

“Players dictate style of play,” Monken said. “They do. Players around the quarterback dictate the style of play. There’s no way around it… When I was in Tampa, we had really good receivers … and we had quarterbacks that loved to throw it — sometimes to the other team, but they liked to throw it. But the reality is we were much better throwing it. So that’s where you play to — the strengths of who you have.”

For years under Greg Roman, the Ravens’ strength lied in the ground game. Baltimore was great at it — with Lamar Jackson under center. The passing game, on the other hand, struggled mightily. Following the Marquise Brown trade and Rashod Bateman’s foot injury in 2022, the receiver corps was gutted. At times it was Mark Andrews or bust.

This offseason, the hope is Baltimore upgrades the pass-catching unit. But Monken made no grand pronouncements about the brand of football he intends to employ.

“To me, balance isn’t run-pass,” he said. “Balance is make them cover all five of your guys, make them defend the field, make them defend the depth of the field.”

The biggest question in Baltimore is the future of Jackson, who is likely to be franchise-tagged before the March 7 deadline. Monken glowed about what separates the former NFL MVP from other quarterbacks.

“Elite. You know, he’s got an elite skill set,” he said of Jackson. “It’s obvious when you watch him on film. The things he can do with a football and the plays that he makes. I think he’s underrated as a passer, I think so, in terms of his ability to make plays and throw it down the field. You’ve all seen it. I’m like you. I’m no different than you. I watch what you guys watch, and it’s pretty amazing.”

If the Ravens invest in an upgraded receiver corps, we might see more of that underrated passing from Jackson in 2023 in Monken’s offense.

CLEVELAND

Browns coaching nuggets at NFL.com:

The Browns have parted ways with special teams coordinator Mike Priefer, the team announced Tuesday. Priefer had held the position since 2019.

Bubba Ventrone, current Colts ST coordinator, has been requested for an interview for the vacant STC role, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported, per sources.

Ephraim Banda, current defensive coordinator at Utah State, is expected to be hired as the Browns’ new safeties coach, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

JACKSONVILLE

TE EVAN ENGRAM is a free agent, but he longs to stay in Duval.

Evan Engram is set to be the top tight end to hit free agency this offseason. Coming off the best season of his career in his first year with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Engram hopes to remain in Duval on a long-term contract, Kevin Patra of NFL.com reports.

Engram told SiriusXM NFL Radio on Monday he believes the feeling is mutual.

“The conversations we’ve had are very positive, he (agent Mike McCartney) has a great relationship with the Jags, so hopefully something gets done and I think it’s mutual,” he said. “We haven’t had too many conversations yet, but the interest is there on both sides for me to come back, and obviously, I would love to come back as well. But like you said, it’s a business. I felt like I’ve put a lot of great things on film, had a lot of great results this year, and I was a big part of helping my team win. So, when you do that at the pass-catcher position — you have a lot of highlight plays, and you’re doing something special with the football — those guys get taken care of financially wise.”

Engram pointing out that he’s a pass-catching tight end — as opposed to a blocker — is no accident. He’s right. Pass catchers get paid, and blockers mostly get ignored.

The former first-round pick of the New York Giants, Engram inked a one-year, $9 million prove-it deal in Jacksonville last season. He proved under coach Doug Pederson that he could be a playmaker with a coaching staff that knows how to utilize his talent and a top-tier QB in Trevor Lawrence.

Engram noted he isn’t worried about possibly getting tagged.

“It’s a hypothetical, so it could happen, it could not,” he said. “If that happens, I think that would be a place-holder to get something done. That’s just the way I feel about it. If it does come to that, there will be conversations I have with my team, and we’ll move forward from there. If that does happen, I’m going to be blessed either way. We’ll figure something out long-term that both sides will be happy with.”

His 73 catches for 766 yards in 2023 represented career highs, plus he snagged 4 TD passes.

BUFFALO

Would the Bills, like the Vikings before them, move on from WR STEFON DIGGS? Lou Flavius of ProFootballRumors:

Stefon Diggs has triggered additional speculation regarding his future with a set of cryptic tweets following his brother teasing an offseason move.

Diggs could be disenchanted with the Buffalo Bills, having cut a very unhappy figure during the team’s playoff loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. He was seen remonstrating on the sidelines and is said to have left the stadium immediately after the game, leaving his teammates behind.

The wide receiver later got on Twitter to air his frustrations and there’s been talk over a possible trade since then.

Diggs was back on the social media platform last week, where he caused a stir with a bunch of tweets that have seemingly come out of nowhere.

“Everybody know wassup wit me…” he tweeted on Thursday. The tweet was confusing, to say the least, with even teammate Cole Beasley noting he was in the dark.

“I don’t know what’s going on,” Beasley wrote. “You don’t hit me up or nothing. Lol”

“I stay out the way… and mind my business,” another tweet from Diggs read.

The wideout has explained his angry reactions to the Bills’ playoff exit and there’s nothing to suggest he wants to go somewhere else. However, the recent tweets do line up with his brother, Trevon Diggs, posting a picture of Stefon in a Dallas Cowboys uniform to Instagram.

THIS AND THAT

MICHAEL IRVIN

A Marriott hotel affirmatively reached out to the NFL about Michael Irvin’s behavior during Super Bowl week.  It resulted in him being removed from coverage and on thin ice for future employment.  He’s taken aggressive steps to defend himself and seems to be making some headway.  Mike Florio wrote this on February 18:

Early in Super Bowl week, representatives of an Arizona hotel owned by Marriott informed NFL Network of a misconduct complaint made by an unnamed employee about Hall of Fame receiver Michael Irvin. It resulted in Irvin being removed from the Super Bowl coverage both at NFL Network and ESPN.

Irvin reacted swiftly, filing a $100 million lawsuit against Marriott and the accuser. And the court in Collin County, Texas is moving as swiftly as any court ever moves in a civil lawsuit.

Via TMZ.com, the presiding judge already has ordered that Marriott must identify the name of the employee — and that Marriott must produce video evidence regarding the alleged interaction. Marriott also must disclose the NFL Network employee(s) to whom the report was made.

The specific allegations against Irvin never has been disclosed. Although he did himself no favors by talking publicly about the situation in the aftermath of being pulled off the air by NFL Network, his legal strategy has been effective, to say the least.

Irvin aggressively is attempting to prove his innocence. So far, he seems to be winning.

Making the situation even more compelling — and awkward for the league — is that Marriott is a long-time sponsor of the NFL.

Now today we learn:

As Hall of Fame receiver Michael Irvin’s lawsuit against Marriott proceeds through its early phases, Marriott continues to refuse to provide to Irvin’s lawyer the surveillance video that supposedly reveals the interaction between Irvin and a hotel employee who complained about his behavior. Irvin’s lawyer isn’t pleased with Marriott’s recalcitrance.

“I’m mad as hell that they’re hiding this stuff that is so relevant to my client’s livelihood,” attorney Levi McCarthern told Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News. “I think it is terrible they’re doing that. I don’t know what’s on the video. None of us have gotten to see it. But I sure think that, at a minimum, Michael has got a right to see the video.”

Irvin absolutely has a right to see the video. He’ll eventually get it. It’s highly relevant evidence on the question of whether Irvin did what he was accused of doing.

The accusation has had significant consequences to Irvin. NFL Network pulled him from its Super Bowl coverage. ESPN removed him from his scheduled appearance on First Take. Irvin’s reputation has taken a massive public blow. His media career potentially hangs in the balance.

And so, yes, it’s appropriate and necessary for the video to be seen and scrutinized.

A state-court judge previously ordered that the video be provided. Marriott has since removed the case to federal court. It’s just a matter of time before the presiding judge issues the same ruling.

Which means it’s just a matter of time before Irvin gets the video.

The video shows what it shows. It may show clear evidence of misconduct. It may bolster Irvin’s position, allegedly supported by eyewitnesses, that nothing happened. It may be inconclusive. Regardless, Irvin has a right to see it.

And the longer Marriott resists producing it, the more some will possibly begin to think that the video hurts the company’s position. Really, if it confirms the allegation, why not let Irvin and the rest of the world see what’s there?

PEYTON HILLIS

Former NFL RB Peyton Hillis nearly died in a Florida swimming incident – but he finally is out of the woods and posting on social media.  As you’ll see in this story, the exact details of the incident are still kind of unclear (was he the bystander?):

Former Arkansas and NFL running back Peyton Hillis said Tuesday that he expects to make a full recovery after being hospitalized earlier this year when he reportedly rescued several people during a swimming accident in Florida.

As part of a lengthy social media post — his first since the incident — Hillis expressed thanks for the “love and support” he received and for the help staff at the hospital gave him, saying each made “all the difference” in his recovery.

“I haven’t taken any interviews on this because I’d like to keep my family out of the public eye because it was a very traumatic time for us,” he wrote on Twitter. “But I did want to come on here and show my appreciation for everyone who helped save my life and for all of your prayers and love and support. I left the hospital with no worries and concerns and should make a 100 percent recovery. I’m a very lucky and blessed man.”

Hillis reportedly aided in a water rescue Jan. 4 off the coast of Pensacola that involved at least one family member.

According to Escambia County emergency services, four people — two adults and two children — were struggling in the water when a bystander helped them get out. Paramedics arrived on the scene, and two adults went to the hospital, including one who was taken by helicopter. Officials would not identify who was involved.

Hillis’ girlfriend, Angela Cole, previously posted that he was on a ventilator in intensive care before being taken off it while at the hospital.

FREE AGENT FITS

Now that he’s identified the top 50 likely free agents, Matt Bowen of ESPN.com tells us who should sign them:

1. Lamar Jackson, QB

Best team fit: Baltimore Ravens

With new offensive coordinator Todd Monken in Baltimore, the Ravens can build a system around Jackson’s dynamic traits at the position — one that features QB run-game elements, play-action and a detailed dropback route tree to scheme against opposing coverages. The franchise tag should be a starting point to securing Jackson on a multiyear contract after Jackson totaled 2,242 passing yards and 742 rushing yards before missing the final six games of the 2022 season with a knee injury.

2. Orlando Brown Jr., OT

Best team fit: Kansas City Chiefs

Brown is a massive performer in the run game and uses his 6-foot-8, 340-pound frame to compensate for average foot and body quickness in pass pro. I think he stays in Kansas City as a key part of an upper-tier Chiefs offensive front. In 2022, Brown registered a pass block win rate of 91.8% when blocking for Patrick Mahomes at the left tackle position. Look for the Chiefs to perhaps use the franchise tag on Brown as they work toward a multiyear contract.

3. Javon Hargrave, DT

Best team fit: Seattle Seahawks (was Eagles)

Coach Pete Carroll and the Seahawks can upgrade the defensive front with Hargrave, adding a disruptive tackle with pass-rush juice. This past season, Hargrave notched 11 sacks and 37 tackles, and his pass rush win rate of 17.2% when lined up on the interior ranked third overall in the NFL. And Seattle’s 33.5% pass rush win rate was No. 28 last season. Hargrave is slippery off the ball with the upfield burst to attack the pocket, and he can hold a gap in the run game, too.

4. Daron Payne, DT

Best team fit: Washington Commanders

Multiple teams would be in the mix for Payne if he makes it to free agency given his great tape and pass rush production in 2022, but I see the Commanders using the franchise tag or signing the defensive tackle to a long-term deal. A big, powerful mover at 6-foot-3, 320 pounds, Payne has the foot quickness and lower-body agility to create disruption. I think he stays in Washington to secure one of the league’s best defensive fronts.

5. Geno Smith, QB

Best team fit: Seattle Seahawks

Smith posted career numbers in Seattle this past season, throwing for 4,282 yards and 30 touchdown passes, with a league-leading 69.8 completion percentage. So let’s run it back. It’s also an easy fit for Smith in Shane Waldron’s offense, where the Seahawks can mix play-action, boot concepts and the dropback game, utilizing Smith’s top targets in DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. The veteran quarterback sees it fast from the pocket and is very efficient with the football, and I anticipate a three-year deal for Smith here.

6. Derek Carr, QB

Best team fit: New Orleans Saints (was Raiders)

The Saints will need to get very creative here to make the money and salary cap work. But Carr — who was released by the Raiders — would obviously upgrade a New Orleans team that has key players in place on both sides of the ball and could challenge for an NFC South title. Remember, Saints coach Dennis Allen drafted Carr in 2014. Carr is a midtier starter with the arm talent to make every throw necessary in a pro offense, along with good mobility on second-reaction plays. But he must improve his footwork based on what we saw on the ’22 tape in order to be a more accurate thrower. His 60.8 completion percentage was the second lowest of his career.

7. Mike McGlinchey, OT

Best team fit: Chicago Bears (was 49ers)

McGlinchey didn’t produce his best tape in pass protection last season, but he has the blocking traits at a premier position to upgrade a Bears offensive front that must do a better job of protecting quarterback Justin Fields. He wins with angles and the ability to get off the ball, and while McGlinchey’s pass block win rate slipped to 89.6% this season, his run block win rate of 81.2% ranked fifth overall in the NFL. It could be a big, multiyear deal for McGlinchey, and Bears general manager Ryan Poles would be adding a starting right tackle to address the subpar play of the Chicago offensive line (58 sacks allowed).

8. Saquon Barkley, RB

Best team fit: New York Giants

The franchise tag could be in play for Barkley if he returns to the Giants in his dual-threat role for coach Brian Daboll. In 2022, Barkley produced 1,650 total yards, with 32 rushes of 10 yards or more. And the tape tells us that Barkley’s explosive traits are back. He’s a difference-maker with big-play juice, and he’s a key part of what Daboll wants to do offensively. He has regained his explosiveness and suddenness after injuries limited him to 15 total games over the previous two seasons.

9. Jamel Dean, CB

Best team fit: Atlanta Falcons (was Buccaneers)

A 26-year-old defender who plays a premium position, Dean will have multiple options on the market. The Titans are a potential landing spot, too, but I like the idea of pairing him with A.J. Terrell in Atlanta to give the Falcons two corners with press-man ability and backfield vision in zone looks. Dean is long at 6-foot-1, can disrupt throwing windows and creates on-the-ball production. He had double-digit pass breakups in each of his first three pro seasons, with two interceptions last year.

10. Daniel Jones, QB

Best team fit: New York Giants

It makes sense for Jones to stick with the Giants, given his fit in Daboll’s offense. Last season, Jones’ 60.8 QBR ranked seventh in the NFL, and we saw his throwing volume in both play-action and dropback schemes increase over the second half of the season. He can play tall in the pocket and create conflict for defenses with dual-threat ability as a runner (708 yards rushing). This could end up being the franchise tag or a multiyear deal.

11. Jessie Bates III, S

Best team fit: Cleveland Browns (was Bengals)

The Browns will need to do some work with the cap, but Bates upgrades a Cleveland defense that needs better play and more ball production at the safety position. Bates has the post and split-field range to cover some grass, along with the scheme versatility to play from depth or spin down in coverage. He logged four interceptions and eight pass breakups last year in Cincinnati, and he has posted 14 career interceptions over five pro seasons. Bates, who played on the franchise tag last season, is in line for a long-term deal.

12. Dalton Schultz, TE

Best team fit: Los Angeles Chargers (was Cowboys)

Some roster cuts are anticipated in L.A., which will help the team out with the cap — and maybe open the door for Schultz to play for Kellen Moore, his former offensive coordinator in Dallas. In Moore’s system, Schultz could be used as a seam stretcher for quarterback Justin Herbert, with catch-and-run opportunities on play-action and boot. His regular-season production in 2022 was slowed by a knee injury, but the tight end logged 12 receptions for 122 yards and three touchdowns in the Cowboys’ two playoff games.

13. James Bradberry, CB

Best team fit: Arizona Cardinals (was Eagles)

A key part of the Eagles defense that made a run to Super Bowl LVII, Bradberry would make sense in Arizona, where he could play for new coach Jonathan Gannon (his coordinator in Philadelphia). We know the scheme fit works here, with Bradberry using his press-man skills and high-level zone eyes to make plays on the ball. Last season, Bradberry posted 17 pass breakups and three interceptions. At 30 years old, Bradberry should get one more shot at a multiyear contract and could upgrade a Cardinals defense lacking perimeter coverage talent. Arizona’s 68.5% completion percentage against on throws outside the numbers ranked 28th last season.

14. C.J. Gardner-Johnson, S

Best team fit: Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles would be retaining one of their most versatile defenders, as Gardner-Johnson can play the safety position or cover in the slot. He tied for the NFL lead with six interceptions in just 12 regular-season games, and his urgent play style pops on the tape. With the coverage traits and ball skills to create impact plays, Gardner-Johnson is in position to sign a multiyear deal.

15. Jawaan Taylor, OT

Best team fit: New England Patriots (was Jaguars)

The Jags could use the franchise tag to keep Taylor in Jacksonville, but he can also fill a major need for Bill O’Brien’s offense in New England, slotting in at right tackle, where Isaiah Wynn and Marcus Cannon are both headed to free agency. Taylor has the movement traits at 6-foot-5, 312 pounds to mirror speed and can handle power rushers. And at just 25 years old, Taylor has room for growth, too. The Patriots would have to spend some money to sign Taylor to a multiyear contract. Last season, New England allowed 41 sacks (15th), and quarterback Mac Jones struggled when pressured, turning in a league-low 4.1 QBR in those situations.

16. Dre’Mont Jones, DT

Best team fit: Chicago Bears (was Broncos)

With edge/interior flexibility, Jones is a high-end mover who shows a quick first step off the ball and the short-area juice to penetrate versus the run game or create pass rush production. In ’22, he registered 6.5 sacks and 28 pressures, and his pass rush win rate when lined up inside (15.9%) ranked sixth among all defenders. He is an ascending player who would immediately upgrade a talent-deficient Bears pass rush, and I expect Jones to cash in with a long-term deal. The Bears allowed almost 5 yards per rush last season, and their sack total of 20 was last in the NFL.

17. Josh Jacobs, RB

Best team fit: Las Vegas Raiders

I have Jacobs returning to Vegas on the franchise tag after posting career highs in rushing attempts (340), rushing yards (1,653) and receiving yards (400) in Josh McDaniels’ offense. He shows lateral agility and big-play chops, posting 41 rushes of 10 yards or more last season, second most in the NFL. We know the scheme fit works, and the Raiders place a lot of importance on their run game. That could be even more true in 2023, when Las Vegas will have a new starter at the quarterback position.

18. Tremaine Edmunds, ILB

Best team fit: Detroit Lions (was Bills)

Detroit needs to add more difference-makers on defense, and I see Edmunds as a prime fit at the second level of the Lions’ system. He’s a long 6-foot-5 linebacker with coverage range and downhill acceleration against the run game. Edmunds registered seven pass breakups, 102 tackles, one interception and a sack in 2022. He’s a young player at age 25, but Edmunds has already started 74 games over five pro seasons. He would be a strong addition to a Detroit team that was among the worst on defense last season but will have the opportunity to compete for the NFC North title this fall.

19. Tony Pollard, RB

Best team fit: Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys could release Ezekiel Elliott, and Pollard — who fractured his left fibula in the playoff loss to San Francisco — would then be in line to return to Dallas on the franchise tag as the lead back in Mike McCarthy’s system. While splitting touches with Elliott in 2022, Pollard rushed for 1,007 yards and averaged 9.5 yards per catch on 39 receptions. He has explosive dual-threat upside, with the formation flexibility in the pass game to play a featured role in the Cowboys’ offense next season.

20. Marcus Davenport, DE

Best team fit: Houston Texans (was Saints)

New Houston coach DeMeco Ryans needs edge defenders for his system, and Davenport fits here given his physical traits in both base and sub-packages. Davenport could be schemed to isolate in one-on-one pass-rush matchups or deployed on stunts/slants from the Texans’ loaded fronts. And at 6-foot-6 and 262 pounds, he can also set an edge against the run. While the production declined for Davenport in ’22 (0.5 sacks, 20 pressures), he did record nine sacks and three forced fumbles in 2021.

21. Jakobi Meyers, WR

Best team fit: Houston Texans (was Patriots)

The Texans will be in position to draft a rookie quarterback with the No. 2 pick this spring, and Meyers is a fit here as a nuanced route runner with a 6-foot-2 frame and strong hands to work the middle of the field. Last season in New England, Meyers caught 47 of his 67 targets on throws inside the numbers. He’s an intermediate option with outside flex, and he can stretch defenses on deep overs or crossers. And there’s also a history here: Houston general manager Nick Caserio spent 20 seasons with the Patriots before getting hired by the Texans.

22. Lavonte David, ILB

Best team fit: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay has major cap issues at this point, but bringing David back on a short-term deal benefits the defensive system of coach Todd Bowles. At age 33, David still plays with urgency and savvy style on tape. He’s well schooled as a zone defender, with the speed and range track the ball in the run game or blitz from the second level. Last season, Davis notched 124 tackles, five pass breakups and three sacks.

23. Jordan Poyer, S

Best team fit: New England Patriots (was Bills)

Here’s a fun one. Poyer’s multidimensional traits fit with Bill Belichick’s scheme as a movable defensive player with deep-field range. Veteran safety Devin McCourty is set to hit free agency, so there is a need here. A highly instinctual defensive back, Poyer could match in coverage, check tight ends or track the ball from post/deep-half alignments in New England. And he can play multiple roles in Belichick’s sub-packages. Last season, Poyer logged four interceptions and eight pass breakups for the Bills.

24. Zach Allen, DE

Best team fit: Arizona Cardinals

Looking at Gannon’s defensive scheme and how he deploys his pass-rushers, keeping Allen in Arizona should be a priority for the Cardinals. Allen registered 6.5 sacks and 26 pressures for Arizona last season, and the 26-year-old has some versatility, with the ability to rush from multiple alignments. His run stop win rate of 37.9% ranked in the top 40 among all NFL defenders in 2022 as well.

25. Jimmy Garoppolo, QB

Best team fit: New York Jets (was 49ers)

Yes, the Jets could trade for Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and Carr is visiting with them, too. But if none of that comes together for New York, Garoppolo would immediately make the Jets better from an offensive perspective under new coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. They will likely feature the timing and rhythm throws, along with play-action elements. Garoppolo completed 67.2% of his passes — with 16 touchdown passes — in his 11 games played last season before suffering a foot injury. I’ll also mention the Bucs as a fit for Garoppolo, too, if they can figure out the money.

26. Odell Beckham Jr., WR

Best team fit: Dallas Cowboys (was Rams in 2021)

Both the Chiefs and the Bills are also potential landing spots for Beckham, but we know there is interest from Dallas, which has a real need to add a proven No. 2 target opposite of CeeDee Lamb. Beckham missed the entire 2022 season after suffering a knee injury during the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI win. If the knee checks out, Beckham can still create immediate separation as a detailed and efficient route runner. In 12 games with the Rams in 2021 (including the playoffs), Beckham caught 48 passes for 593 yards and seven touchdown receptions. He would upgrade the Dallas passing game for Dak Prescott.

27. JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR

Best team fit: Kansas City Chiefs

I like Smith-Schuster back to the Chiefs on a short-term deal, given how he was deployed in Andy Reid’s passing game last season. He can work the dirty areas of the field as a slot target for Mahomes, and he will flex outside to run isolation routes. Smith-Schuster logged 73 receptions for 933 yards during the regular season, and he showed up on the Super Bowl stage, too, catching seven of nine targets for 53 yards.

28. Cameron Sutton, CB

Best team fit: San Francisco 49ers (was Steelers)

Sutton will have multiple suitors given his flexibility to play in the slot; Tennessee, Atlanta and Las Vegas all work here. But with the number of 49ers defensive backs heading to free agency and Sutton’s ability to cover in man and find the ball in zone, the fit works in San Francisco with new defensive coordinator Steve Wilks. Sutton posted three interceptions and 15 pass breakups for the Steelers in 2022, which were both career highs.

29. Evan Engram, TE

Best team fit: Jacksonville Jaguars

Engram returns to Jacksonville, where he played a volume role in 2022, catching 77 passes for 766 yards and four scores in Doug Pederson’s offense. It’s his deployment as a flexed-out player in the pass game that — schemed throws and catch-and-run targets from the slot or lined up out wide — that make Engram as easy fit in Jacksonville to produce again with quarterback Trevor Lawrence. The tight end signed a one-year deal last offseason, so we could see the Jags offer a multiyear contract this spring.

30. Dalvin Tomlinson, DT

Best team fit: Atlanta Falcons (was Vikings)

The Falcons could boost their defensive line with Tomlinson, a 325-pound nose guard who can play as a 1-technique in a 40 front. With 13 sacks over six pro seasons, Tomlinson isn’t going to bring high-end pass-rush production to Atlanta. But thanks to lateral quickness and that size, Tomlinson can clog up running lanes, demand double-teams and provide an interior push next to Grady Jarrett to take away opposing quarterback’s throwing platforms.

31. David Long Jr., ILB

Best team fit: Las Vegas Raiders (was Titans)

Long would fill a critical need for the Raiders as a second-level linebacker with the natural instincts to track the ball and finish. Las Vegas was 27th in yards allowed per play last season (5.8). And Long, at 5-foot-11 and 227 pounds, was one of the best off-ball run defenders I watched on tape in 2022. In 12 games for the Titans last season, Long registered 86 tackles, two interceptions and six pass breakups.

32. Yannick Ngakoue, DE

Best team fit: Cincinnati Bengals (was Colts)

Ngakoue led the Colts with 9.5 sacks last season, and he has totaled 65 over eight NFL seasons. There will be a market for Ngakoue, but finding the right team fit and situation is tough, given that he will be targeted as a sub-package player. The Bengals feature a defense that produced only 30 sacks in 2022 (29th in the NFL), and a short-term deal makes sense, allowing them to slot Ngakoue as their nickel pass-rusher. He shows good burst and an ability to bend around offensive tackles.

33. Mike Gesicki, TE

Best team fit: Carolina Panthers (was Dolphins)

In Frank Reich’s offense, Gesicki would serve as a vertical seam option who can stress opposing defenses as a three-level target. Gesicki caught just 32 passes in Miami last season for coach Mike McDaniel, but the 2021 tape and numbers (73 receptions) tell us that the 6-foot-6 tight end can produce when deployed as a matchup player and red zone target.

34. Rock Ya-Sin, CB

Best team fit: Pittsburgh Steelers (was Raiders)

How strong the market for Ya-Sin ends up being will play a role in the Steelers’ ability to make a move, but I like the fit — especially if Pittsburgh can’t re-sign Sutton. Ya-Sin is well-versed in both man and zone schemes and has a physical approach to the game, so he would upgrade the perimeter of the Steelers’ secondary. He had seven pass breakups this season and allowed just one touchdown receptions as the nearest defender, according to NFL Next Gen Stats.

35. Isaac Seumalo, G

Best team fit: Indianapolis Colts (was Eagles)

Seumalo would fill a need opposite of Quinten Nelson at right guard for the Colts. He’s a technically sound blocker with the foot quickness to re-direct defenders and the body control to wrestle back versus power rushers. Seumalo had a pass block win rate of 93.6% in Philadelphia last season, which ranked 15th among offensive guards. The Colts allowed 60 sacks (second-most) and produced the league’s worst pass block win rate at 48.5% in 2022.

36. DJ Chark, WR

Best team fit: Baltimore Ravens (was Lions)

The Ravens would be adding a vertical stretch target on the perimeter for Jackson. Chark averaged 16.7 yards per reception in 11 games for Detroit last season, separating on deep balls and finding open voids on schemed in-breakers. In five pro seasons, he has caught 18 touchdowns, and at 6-foot-4, he could give the Ravens someone who can win on the boundary. Baltimore was last in the NFL last season in wide receiver yardage (1,517).

37. T.J. Edwards, ILB

Best team fit: Atlanta Falcons (was Eagles)

Edwards is a stack linebacker who will key and diagnose quickly versus the run, and he has the second-level range to impact zone windows. His 159 tackles tied for sixth in the NFL last season, and he can be schemed as a blitzer in both base and sub-personnel packages. Atlanta ranked 25th in yards allowed per play in 2022 (5.7), and it needs a playmaker in the middle of the defense.

38. Byron Murphy Jr., CB

Best team fit: Minnesota Vikings (was Cardinals)

The Vikings would have to make some moves to create more money on the salary cap, but there is a real need for coverage corners in Minnesota to fit the scheme of new defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Only Detroit and Chicago allowed more yards per pass attempt than the Vikes last season (7.3). Murphy’s production took a hit this season — four pass breakups — but he did record four interceptions and 12 pass breakups in 2021. And he has the man-coverage traits to play inside or outside the numbers.

39. Brandon Graham, DE

Best team fit: Philadelphia Eagles

Graham posted a career-high 11 sacks this past year, his 13th NFL season. He has spent every season with the Eagles. Why not return? Graham is a rotational edge rusher who can still provide quality depth and production at age 35, and I could see him back in Philly on a one-year deal.

40. Ben Powers, G

Best team fit: Buffalo Bills (was Ravens)

The Bills have to be better on the interior of the offensive line, and Powers can fill that role at the left guard position with Rodger Saffold III entering free agency. The 310-pounder plays his best football in close quarters, and he registered a run block win rate of 78.8%, the second best among guards. And while he can get stressed on his edges in pass pro, Powers finished the ’22 season with a pass block win rate of 93.2%, which ranked 10th among all guards.

41. Nate Davis, G

Best team fit: Washington Commanders (was Titans)

With Commanders right guard Trai Turner set up to be a free agent, Washington could upgrade at the position by adding Davis. He’s a good mover at 320 pounds and can reach and climb in zone schemes, delivering a strike on contact. And Davis will drop anchor to handle power rushers in pass protection. While his run-block win rate was below average this season (68.8%), he did rank among the top 25 guards in pass block win rate (93.2).

42. Kaleb McGary, OT

Best team fit: Denver Broncos (was Falcons)

Starting right tackle Billy Turner is heading to free agency, so the Broncos would be smart to land McGary to block for Russell Wilson in Sean Payton’s new offensive system. A 2019 first-round pick, McGary has some quickness off the ball and can use his movement skills to match up to speed on the edge. While longer pass-rushers can create conflict for McGary, I see him as an upgrade for Denver. Wilson took 55 sacks last season, which tied for the most in the NFL.

43. Miles Sanders, RB

Best team fit: Miami Dolphins (was Eagles)

We have to see how the market develops for Sanders, who set career highs in rushing attempts (259), rushing yards (1,269) and touchdowns (11) for the Eagles this past season. But there is an opening right now in Miami, considering both Jeff Wilson Jr. and Raheem Mostert are scheduled to hit free agency. Sanders would fit in Mike McDaniel’s heavily schemed run game and could see more usage as a receiver.

44. Drue Tranquill, ILB

Best team fit: New York Giants (was Chargers)

The Giants need to find an answer at linebacker. Tranquill’s 144 tackles for the Chargers in 2022 were a career high, and he can be deployed as a blitzer from multiple second-level alignments. He logged 5.5 sacks and four pass breakups last season, too. Tranquill would play inside linebacker for Wink Martindale’s defense, but he has the movement ability of a weakside linebacker in both base and sub-packages.

45. Dalton Risner, G

Best team fit: Los Angeles Rams (was Broncos)

The Rams are cash-strapped, but they would be wise to make some room for Risner to bolster the interior of the offensive line. He’s a close-quarters mauler at left guard who displays a strong and rugged play-style. Risner ranked 10th in the league in run block win rate this past season among guards (74.4%) and he can set an anchor in pass pro. Los Angeles must fix their offensive line issues after giving up 59 sacks (third most).

46. Vonn Bell, S

Best team fit: Cincinnati Bengals

If Bates leaves via free agency, the Bengals should then bring back Bell, a tough and physical safety who plays a key role in Lou Anarumo’s defense. Bell can match to tight ends, play off the numbers in the deep-half or spin down to muddy the middle of the field. The veteran safety intercepted a career-high four passes in 2022 and added eight pass breakups.

47. Arden Key, DE

Best team fit: Houston Texans (was Jaguars)

Key played for Ryans, the Texans’ new coach, in San Francisco in 2021, and he has produced 11 sacks over his past two seasons (the most recent of which in Jacksonville). He has the positional flexibility to be deployed as an interior/edge rusher in Houston, and at 6-foot-5, Key has the short-area speed to create pocket disruption.

48. Jadeveon Clowney, DE

Best team fit: Baltimore Ravens (was Browns)

I’m putting Clowney with Baltimore on a one-year deal; I like the fit as a rotational sub-package defender in Mike Macdonald’s defense. While his production declined in 2022 (two sacks), Clowney still has the physical tools of a straight-line power rusher who can win defined one-on-ones and set a hard edge against the run out of the Ravens’ multiple fronts.

49. Sam Darnold, QB

Best team fit: Atlanta Falcons (was Panthers)

We can look at Darnold as competition for an incumbent starter or as a high-level No. 2 quarterback. And with the expectation the Falcons cut Marcus Mariota, Darnold would work in Atlanta as competition for second-year QB Desmond Ridder in Arthur Smith’s system. In six starts last season for the Panthers, Darnold completed 58.6% of his passes for 1,143 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions. He’s a good mover with arm talent and second-reaction ability, but we still see some limitations late in the down, where his decision-making declines. A return to Carolina is possible, too.

50. Germaine Pratt, ILB

Best team fit: Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals should retain Pratt, a three-down linebacker who can play downhill against the run and create coverage disruption. In 2022, Pratt logged 14 pass breakups, two interceptions and 99 tackles. The production is there — and so is the tape. I see him back playing the Mike ‘backer position for Anarumo in ’23.

2023 DRAFT

Today, we have the 2^nd Mock Draft of the cycle from Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com:

With the start of the NFL Scouting Combine just around the corner (March 2-5 on NFL Network and NFL+), here’s my second projection of the year for Round 1 of the 2023 NFL Draft. The quarterback carousel is going to shake up the outlook for the draft, with some big-name veterans potentially on the move this offseason. When the dust settles, I think we’re going to see a heavy run on defensive linemen and cornerbacks in the first round.

1  Chicago Bears

    Jalen Carter 

    Georgia · DT · Junior

I’m not projecting trades in a mock draft this early in the offseason, but I’ll be surprised if the Bears end up holding onto the No. 1 overall pick. That said, I don’t think they’ll move down beyond the range of one of the top defensive players.

2   Houston Texans

     Bryce Young

     Alabama · QB · Junior

Young is the best quarterback in the class. I’ll think he’ll fit beautifully with the Texans as they try to work their way up in the AFC South.

3   Arizona Cardinals

     Tyree Wilson

     Texas Tech · Edge · Senior (RS)

First edge rusher off the board? Over Will Anderson Jr.?!? There’s a lot of love for Wilson around the league. His combination of size, length and production has teams very intrigued.

4   Indianapolis Colts

     C.J. Stroud

     Ohio State · QB · Sophomore (RS)

The Colts need to turn the page on their recent approach to the game’s most important position: cycling through veteran arms. Stroud will be a great fit with new head coach Shane Steichen in Indy.

5   Seattle Seahawks  (via DEN)

     Will Anderson Jr.

     Alabama · Edge · Junior

Yes, this would indeed be a steal for the Seahawks. Anderson teams up with Uchenna Nwosu to give Seattle two explosive edge rushers.

6   Detroit Lions (via LAR)

     Myles Murphy

     Clemson · Edge · Junior

Aidan Hutchinson was a home run pick last year, and fellow rookie James Houston IV was very productive in limited playing time. Murphy would give the Lions three outstanding young edge rushers.

7    Las Vegas Raiders

      Will Levis

      Kentucky · QB · Senior (RS)

The picture will be clearer after we get through the quarterback carousel in free agency, but as of now, the Raiders need someone at the position. Levis has incredible tools.

8   Atlanta Falcons

     Lukas Van Ness

     Iowa · Edge · Sophomore (RS)

I expect Van Ness to put on a show at the NFL Scouting Combine. He’ll start capturing a lot of attention after he tests in Indianapolis.

9    Carolina Panthers

      Peter Skoronski

      Northwestern · OL · Junior

For this mock, I’m assuming the Panthers don’t trade up to land a quarterback and instead go the veteran route at the position. Skoronski can slide inside to play guard in Carolina, teaming up with Ikem Ekwonu to give the Panthers two building blocks for the offensive line. New head coach Frank Reich knows the impact of investing heavily in the line of scrimmage, having spent time on the Eagles’ staff before he left for Indianapolis.

10  Philadelphia Eagles (via NO)

     Devon Witherspoon

     Illinois · CB · Senior

An edge rusher wouldn’t surprise me here, but I think Witherspoon is the best corner in the draft. He reminds me a lot of former Eagles Pro Bowler Asante Samuel.

11   Tennessee Titans

       Paris Johnson Jr.

       Ohio State · OT · Junior

Given the uncertainty about Taylor Lewan’s future, Tennessee’s offensive line must be addressed. Johnson needs to get a bit stronger, but he’s an outstanding athlete.

12   Houston Texans (via CLE)

      Jordan Addison

      USC · WR · Junior

Houston instantly adds some firepower for No. 2 overall pick Bryce Young. The selection of Addison, along with the return of John Metchie III, would give the receiving corps a huge boost.

13   New York Jets

       Broderick Jones

       Georgia · OT · Sophomore (RS)

GM Joe Douglas continues to invest in the offensive line. The Jets have been crushed by injuries up front, so it’s imperative that they continue to bolster the unit. Jones has tremendous upside.

14    New England Patriots

         Christian Gonzalez

         Oregon · CB · Junior

Bill Belichick nabs a height-weight-speed corner who can play the ball.

15    Green Bay Packers

        Dalton Kincaid

        Utah · TE · Senior

Kincaid is one of my favorite players in the draft. I think he’s the most dynamic pass-catching tight end in the class.

16    Washington Commanders

       Joey Porter Jr.

       Penn State · CB · Junior (RS)

Washington’s roster has a lot of needs to address, including cornerback. Porter Jr.’s value at No. 16 is too good to pass up.

17   Pittsburgh Steelers

      Darnell Wright

      Tennessee · OT · Senior

Wright’s a plug-and-play right tackle for an offensive line that needs to be overhauled to protect last year’s first-round pick, Kenny Pickett.

18   Detroit Lions

       Anthony Richardson

       Florida · QB · Sophomore (RS)

The Lions have the perfect situation for Richardson as he enters the league. He can sit behind Jared Goff for at least a year and then provide the rewards that come from building a team around a quarterback playing on his rookie contract.

19   Tampa Bay Buccaneers

       Bijan Robinson

       Texas · RB · Junior

The Bucs need to figure out what they’re going to do at quarterback in the wake of Tom Brady’s retirement, but Robinson will take pressure off whoever is under center.

20   Seattle Seahawks

       Jaxon Smith-Njigba

       Ohio State · WR · Junior

Seattle adds another weapon to complement Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf. Smith-Njigba is a pure route runner and will be a high-volume target.

21   Los Angeles Chargers

      Quentin Johnston

      TCU · WR · Junior

Speed on the outside has been a missing element for the Chargers. Johnston fills that need.

22   Baltimore Ravens

      Brian Branch

      Alabama · CB · Junior

Ozzie Newsome is still in the building, and Alabama players will always be coveted by the Ravens. Baltimore will value Branch’s versatility and playmaking ability.

23    Minnesota Vikings

       Deonte Banks

       Maryland · CB · Junior (RS)

Banks has good size, and I think you’ll see his stock rise as the evaluation process unfolds. The cornerback is physical and tough.

24    Jacksonville Jaguars

        Bryan Bresee

        Clemson · DT · Sophomore (RS)

Bresee battled through adversity at Clemson. I believe the former No. 1 overall recruit’s best football is still ahead of him.

25   New York Giants

      Jalin Hyatt

      Tennessee · WR · Junior

The Giants are desperate for some explosiveness at receiver. Hyatt provides plenty of it.

26   Dallas Cowboys

      Keion White

     Georgia Tech · Edge · Senior (RS)

White has inside/outside versatility, and I think he’ll be one of the stars of next week’s combine.

27   Buffalo Bills

      O’Cyrus Torrence

      Florida · IOL · Senior

Buffalo could use some upgrades in front of Josh Allen. The Bills must continue to protect their most valuable asset by steadily investing in the O-line. Torrence will also help this offense in the ground game.

28   Cincinnati Bengals

       Michael Mayer

       Notre Dame · TE · Junior

With Hayden Hurst heading for free agency, Mayer can step right into the lineup and win contested catches for the Bengals.

29   New Orleans Saints (via SF through MIA, DEN)

      Zay Flowers

      Boston College · WR · Senior

Flowers is one of the most enjoyable players to study in this year’s class. He’d be a lock for the top 15 if he were two inches taller.

30   Philadelphia Eagles

      Felix Anudike-Uzomah

      Kansas State · Edge · Junior

The way the Eagles do business, I’d be shocked if they left the first round without an offensive or defensive lineman.

31   Kansas City Chiefs

       Nolan Smith

       Georgia · Edge · Senior

Smith is an outstanding athlete who reminds me a little bit of Haason Reddick when he was coming out of Temple. Smith would get a lot of pass-rush opportunities in Kansas City, thanks to the Patrick Mahomes-led offense.