1.01 LA Joshy – RB Bijan Robinson 6’0” 220 lbs, Texas Longhorns
The most coveted prospect since Saquon Barkley back in 2018, Bijan is expected to join the IFL and immediately become a top 5 RB/WR/TE. A freakishly twitchy athlete, it’s clear as day he is an elite tackle breaker, leading college football in that category according to PFF. His 6.1 YPC is respectable and he’s noted as a quality pass catcher with 19 receptions and 16.5 yards per catch! The sky is the limit for Bijan in the NFL.
Josh lands a pillar for his rebuild, which is starting with the ultimate building block for a foundation. There are two paths Josh can go down. Take an absolute star for his squad or trade this pick for a fortune and build out a barren team with a variety of stabs at potential impact players. One player does not build a championship roster.
1.02 Las Vegas Craigers – RB Jamyr Gibbs, 5’11” 200 lbs, Alabama Crimson Tide
As it stands now, there’s a top prospect in this rookie class. Following Bijan, Jamyr Gibbs is the clear 1.02. Gibbs joined Alabama from Georgia Tech and delivered on his ample potential as a dual-threat weapon for the Crimson Tide. He kept up with Bijan’s 6.1 YPC and especially excelled as a pass catcher finishing 5th in college football with 44 receptions and 10.1 per catch. What scares me is how he can translate his running style between the tackles in the more physical NFL. His ceiling is a top 10 RB/WR/TE in the Aaron Jones mold, but I’d like to see him become more physical as a runner.
Craig lands another pillar on his offense, which needs a bit more star power to finally win a ring. (Been saying that for years.) At running back, he has Javonte Williams coming off a serious knee injury and Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson. Perhaps Khalil Herbert can earn the starting job in Chicago as well. With Gibbs, it’s a very serviceable running back room which ceiling just grew much higher.
1.03 Kansas Chittay – RB Zach Charbonnet, 6’1” 220 lbs, UCLA Bruins
If you like tough, physical running backs, Zach Charbonnet is your favorite prospect in the 2023 running back class. Charbonnet took a major step forward as a runner, jumping to 7.0 YPC from 5.6 the year prior on about the same number of carries. He was the focal point of a much-improved offense at UCLA and can be found as the third best runner on many, if not most rookie prospect boards. While there is a long way to go in the rookie scouting process, if Charbonnet goes on Day 2, he has an excellent chance to lead an NFL running back depth chart. He reminds me of Tyler Allgeier with more receiving prowess. (37 receptions in 2022.)
Chittay’s roster may not be a radiated wasteland like Josh’s, but he desperately needs a star to build around. Tony Pollard is an RFA and Pacheco’s starting viability will be in question until he actually starts games again in September. Whoever is the best running back prospect, combined with talent and situation will likely be the pick.
1.04 Denver Dave – WR Quentin Johnston, 6’4” 212 lbs, TCU Horned Frogs
If you’re looking for a true X receiver in the 2022 NFL draft, Quentin Johnston is the guy. He was the best player on a talented National Championship game TCU team and likely solidified himself as a 1st round pick. His 1,069 yards ranked 22nd in college football and did it on 60 receptions. As it stands, Johnston is likely the first receiver off the board in a weak WR class, although Smith-Njigba and Addison may have something to say about that. To add, there are certain things I worry about when it comes to wide receiver prospects. One of those is the ability to create separation and that is not a Quentin Johnston strength. If he lands in a quality landing spot, he can certainly find himself as a #2 or #3 RB/WR/TE on a championship IFL team.
I thought Dave was in the midst of a multi-year rebuild, but he’s going for it in 2023 after trading for backup running back AJ Dillon and AJ Brown. There are still many moves to be had, including building a quality defense. Linebacker is certainly in play here, but selecting this high leads to selecting a cheap, multi-year starter on offense. I like the #1 receiver in the class being the choice here, whether that’s Addison, JSN, or the lengthy Johnston.
1.05 Kansas Chittay – LB Trenton Simpson, 6’3” 240 lbs, Clemson Tigers
It’s a weak linebacker class and the NFL is devaluing the position like never before. That being said, Trenton Simpson leads the group in potential despite a mediocre 68.3 PFF grade in 2022. It was his first year as a starting linebacker, but he displayed an elite coverage ceiling along with his incredible athletic profile. A potential late 1st round pick, he is the model teams look for in a modern-day NFL backer.
Like all the AFC West teams outside of Vegas, Curt doesn’t have a semblance of a defense. The goal here is for Simpson to lead the Chiefs in a Roqan Smith mold. If he lands in a starting role from day 1, no way he slips by Dave at the 1.07.
1.06 Jacksonville Nate – LB Drew Sanders, 6’5” 232 lbs, Arkansas Razorbacks
Similar to Simpson, Drew Sanders’ saw his first year as an inside linebacker in 2022. A former edge rusher, Sanders is lowkey in the Micah Parsons mindset and can play multiple positions as a multi-faceted defender. You don’t have to look any further than his 11 sacks in 2022. He’s a massive man and an elite athlete. It’s very likely Sanders is a top 10 IFL draft pick if he is at least a 2nd-round pick. If he can improve his instincts as a run defender, Sanders could very well be an elite IDP asset for the duration of his career. He’s a 1B to Simpson’s 1A.
It’s been 84 long years and Nate has still refused to build a competent LBing corps. For the second straight season, he’ll select a mid-round linebacker and Sanders could slide into his #1 spot if he doesn’t pick up TJ Edwards’ RFA contract. Fingers crossed for Nate that Devin Lloyd can regain a full-time role for the real-life Jaguars and Sanders can solidify his LBing group for the next three years.
1.07 Denver Dave – DT, Jalen Carter, 6’3” 310 lbs, Georgia Bulldogs
The first shocker of this IFL draft, Jalen Carter will be the highest defensive tackle ever taken in IFL history. We saw 11 defensive tackles score over 250 points and it’s clear that elite assets at the position are now incredibly valuable. Savvy GMs will see the high potential of Carter and see he can be a difference-maker. Carter is arguably the best interior defender to enter the NFL since Quinnen Williams, who just dropped a 322-point season. Carter’s pass rush ability trumps Williams and will land in a 3-tech spot for fantasy goodness.
Dave’s 2nd of 3 1st round picks makes history with Carter. In the new era of DTs being very relevant IDPs, he’ll land a pillar of his roster. Offensive tunnel vision may cloud Dave’s selection, but IDPs are needed for him across the roster.
It’s very unlikely Jalen Carter makes it past the 1.11. Dave, Curt and Erik all need an interior anchor.
1.08 Indy Erik – LB, Jack Campbell, 6’5” 246 lbs, Iowa Hawkeyes
There’s value in picking players with high floors. Campbell fits the bill as the first linebacker off the board that’s played the position for more than one year. Like all the backers taken in the 1st round, Campbell boasts quality size, but lacks the elite athleticism that Simpson and Sanders possess. Campbell is a tackle machine, finishing 12th in the country with 125 total tackles. He threw together a few big plays to boot. Campbell is safe and that’s the type of player you want with a mid-1st round pick.
Not making the playoff last year was a massive disappointment for Erik. It’s simply incredible he couldn’t make it with such an incredible core group of Austin Ekeler, Najee Harris and Kenneth Walker. Linebacker is a dire need for Erik, as he doesn’t currently boast a top 32 option with CJ Mosley and Zaire Franklin likely on their way out. Look for Erik to certainly come out of 1st round with 1-2 linebackers.
1.09 Denver Dave – Zach Evans, 6’0” 215 lbs, Ole Miss Rebels
One of the most polarizing prospects of the 2023 draft cycle, Zach Evans is a draft expert favorite. Somehow splitting a backfield with a 3-star freshman, Zach Evans still performed admirably when called upon, with 6.5 YPC on only 144 carries. His 12 receptions left a bit to be desired, but Evans looks like a day 2 running back on tape. There’s talk of discipline issues and like all running back prospects, his landing spot will largely determine how high he goes in our draft.
Dave begins what could be the start of a second run of running backs. While Evans didn’t dominate the Ole Miss backfield, he still possesses the talent to translate into a quality NFL starter. With Johnston already in tow, Dave could very well be building a very good offense to contend for the West. It may largely depend on what the defense looks like come September.
1.10 Kansas Chittay – EDGE, Will Anderson Jr., 6’4”, 243 lbs, Alabama Crimson Tide
We’re now heading into year two of the EDGE switch which has devalued the position a bit. The volume of quality players alone may slide elite prospect Will Anderson down to outside the top 10. Anderson checks every box you need for a future star; elite pressure rate, quality run defender, quality athlete, and even a team captain. Anderson likely ends up in Chicago or Arizona which will start him full-time from the jump. Expect an Aiden Hutchinson rookie season at a minimum and he’s a locked-in mid-1st round pick for IFL purposes.
I don’t see Will Anderson landing anywhere behind the 1.10. Too many teams could use his services and with position flexibility incoming, Anderson is the type of building block championship teams need. Curt should be elated to land a prospect with such low bust potential with the 10th pick.
1.11 Indy Erik – WR, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, 6’0” 198 lbs, Ohio State Buckeyes
Talk to a fantasy ‘expert’ and you’ll hear Jaxon Smith-Njigba is clearly the #1 receiver. Talk to an NFL ‘expert’ and JSN may not be a 1st round pick. There are hoes out there that think he’s the second coming of Jesus Christ. If you read these reports, that expert may have some Gholston in him. JSN isn’t a bad prospect by any means, but we have to respect with how the NFL views him. This draft is filled with quality slot receivers, which could lead to Jaxon sliding down draft boards. What’s very encouraging is JSN’s incredible sophomore season next to Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave. You’ve also likely seen the video of both Wilson and Olave calling JSN the best athlete of the trio. I love the weight JSN comes in with and should be physical enough to not be bullied at the line of scrimmage. A good comparison is Jarvis Landry, butttttt more athletic.
One thing I love about Erik’s approach is he rarely drafts for need, but rather best player available. While receiver isn’t a hole with Garrett Wilson leading the way, JSN could turn into a PPR monster in the right situation. He screams mid-1st round pick as it stands now and Erik could quietly benefit as a fantasy ‘expert’ favorite.
1.12 Cincinnati Danny – TE, Michael Mayer, 6’4” 251 lbs, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
There are a number of things you look for in an elite tight-end fantasy prospect. First and foremost is receiving prowess, particularly when it comes to route running and contested catch ability. Mayer comes out of Notre Dame with a laundry list of highlight catches that stem from both these abilities. While he doesn’t possess the generational athletic profile of Kyle Pitts, he checks the college production box with 67 catches and 809 yards, along with 9 TDs. Mayer is also an elite in-line blocker, which will keep him on the field full-time. While Kincaid may have a higher ceiling, Mayer is the safest tight-end prospect. Especially at a position infamous for busts, give me Mayer all day, every day.
Danny’s 2023 was one of the best IFL storylines and he’s looking to return to the postseason for the second time in his history. A quality offensive foundation of Josh Jacobs, Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle are there, but some additional depth is required. Mayer fits perfectly into Danny’s offense and in the right landing spot could perform in year one.
1.13 Indy Erik – TE, Dalton Kincaid, 6’4” 242 lbs, Utah Utes
You probably won’t see many fantasy mock drafts with Dalton Kincaid in the 1st round, but that may start to change as we get closer to the NFL draft. There’s talk Kincaid is the #1 tight end on many NFL boards and it’s possible he’s is selected before the aforementioned Michael Mayer. Kincaid is a superb receiver and route runner for his size and reeled in 70 receptions, 890 yards, and 8 TDs in 2022. This is the type of tight end that can succeed as a fantasy contributor. He’ll be a hot topic of conversation leading up to the IFL draft.
Who will be the GMs to take the risk on the elite tight ends in this class after we’ve seen a great number of busts?
Erik doesn’t have a fantasy-viable tight end on his roster. Kincaid’s value feels about right in the late 1st if he’s an NFL 1st round draft pick. 2023 is the best tight-end draft we’ve ever seen (eat your heart out 2017 TE class) and it may lead to Kincaid sliding down the IFL draft board a bit. Erik won’t miss out on an opportunity to land him here if he feels Kincaid has the goods.
1.14 Pittsburgh Spencer – EDGE, Tyree Wilson, 6’6” 275 lbs, Texas Tech Red Raiders
If you’ve read any mock drafts thus far, you’ve likely seen Tyree Wilson within the top 10 selections, particularly to the Seahawks at #5. Wilson is a rock-solid prospect, both from an athletic and college production standpoint. He finished with a 22.6% pass-rush win rate and routinely made Big 12 tackles look silly blocking him. I have a soft spot for college players who produce in spades and Wilson’s 52 total tackles and 8 sacks certainly fit that bill.
Spencer will take a hard look at EDGE here as he doesn’t have a long-term piece at the position. Wilson likely won’t be able to come in and start right away, but few EDGEs do. The 5th year option will help Spence keep control of him for an additional year at an affordable cost.
1.15 Pittsburgh Spencer – RB, Tyjae Spears, 5’11” 195 lbs, Tulane Green Wave
After the hype Tyjae Spears has received over the past few weeks, it’s looking like he is firmly in the day 2 conversation. If he does jump into day 2 of the NFL draft, he won’t make it past the IFL’s 1st round. Spears is incredibly shifty and is elite by any statistical metric. He averaged the 8th highest YPC in college football at 6.9 and a very respectable 11.6 YPR on 22 receptions. Spears is the epitome of a rookie IFL draft selection that could be fantasy viable as a rookie. The landing spot will be key.
Spencer lands a stud muffin delux here at the end of the 1st round for an offense that needs rejuvenation. This lowkey is an important draft for Spencer, who built a quality team, but was dealt horrible luck in missing the postseason for the first time since 2018. 5 picks in the first two rounds should assist in shoring up some holes and Spears could immediately be a top 3 RB/WR/TE for his squad.
1.16 Indy Erik – WR, Jordan Addison, 6’0” 175 lbs, USC Trojans
Jordan Addison is a bit undersized, but holy fuck can this guy run a crisp route. A poor man’s Devonta Smith, Addison is an elite separator and turned Kenny Pickett into a 1st round pick two years ago at Pittsburgh. Addison took a step back production-wise at USC, but still delivered a 59-reception, 875-yard season in 11 games. Look for Addison to be a quality #2 NFL receiver and profiles as a 4-5 RB/WR/TE on a championship IFL team.
After talking about Addison being in play for the 1.04, his slide to the 1.16 would be a coup for Erik. It would help mitigate losses from players like Dionte Johnson and/or DK Metcalf. While I don’t like his upside nearly as much as JSN or certainly Johnston, Addison is a safer prospect than either.
2.01 LA Joshy – QB, Bryce Young, 6’0” 194 lbs, Alabama Crimson Tide
If you’ve tuned into Alabama the past two years, Bryce Young always popped off the screen. He’s far and away the best QB prospect and anyone who says otherwise is kidding themselves. Fantasy-wise, he has ample mobility and big-play ability in spades. His ‘IT’ is off the charts and delivers in the biggest moments. He’s tailor-made to be a franchise pillar for an NFL team. If he can stay healthy with his fragile stature, he’ll be a top 10 QB for fantasy purposes.
There are fits that just make sense and Josh taking Bryce Young here is too perfect. I recall Josh falling in love with Baker Mayfield with such a passion only the brightest stars could rival. Giving him his franchise QB to pair with Bijan is what fantasy dreams are made of.
2.02 Denver Dave – S, Brian Branch, 6’0 193 lbs, Alabama Crimson Tide
2023 hosts a very good safety class and Brian Branch leads the way as an elite run and coverage profile. In the Antoine Winfield Jr. mold, Branch is a jack-of-all-trades safety, who will play all over the field. His run defense hopefully keeps him near the line of scrimmage, particularly as a slot cornerback. His 3 sacks and 2 INTs in 2022 showcase a big play specialist as well. He’s likely a top-15 NFL draft pick.
Dave dips back into the IDP well with a guy like Branch who is likely a lock for a 200+ point rookie season. A desolate safety room is blossomed by a guy like Branch who has overall #1 safety upside. Near the top of the 2nd round is exactly where Branch belongs, so long as he isn’t selected to play free safety in a defensive scheme.
2.03 Kansas Chittay – DT Bryan Bresee, 6’5” 300 lbs, Clemson Tigers
Former #1 overall recruit Bryan Bresee didn’t light the college football landscape on fire as anticipated, but it was largely due to a litany of injuries. As we’ve seen with prospects in recent years, (Jalen Phillips comes to mind) that is not a death knell to a quality NFL future. Bresee was recovering from a 2021 torn ACL and missed several games in 2022 due to a kidney infection. His freshman year was oddly his most productive, but the upside he possesses will keep him in the NFL 1st round draft and the IFL 2nd round conversation.
Chittay encounters a bit of FOMO after missing out on Jalen Carter, but he snags a wonderful consolation prize. Like Dave, Chit’s DT room is as desolate as a COVID-era Vegas buffet. Receiving some help from an elite IDP prospect should assist with potential 2024 contention and beyond.
2.04 Kansas Chittay – WR Zay Flowers, 5’10” 172 lbs, Boston College Eagles
Someone like Zay Flowers has a wide range of outcomes in the NFL draft. Many draft experts tout Flowers as ‘their guy’ and it’s not hard to see why. His big play ability in addition to separate is unique, even in a class filled with receivers similar to his abilities. Flowers is very likely to be slept on due to his size, but he somehow put together a 1,000-yard, 12-TD season in a pathetic Boston College offense. A likely day 2 pick, if Flowers enters a half-decent passing attack, he could be a fantasy factor early on.
Potential slot receivers like Flowers are quality back-end options for IFL offenses because of their reception floors. While Curt needs to work on the ceiling of his team, the way his draft board shakes out, it’s not likely possible outside of his 1.03. Flowers is a beautiful selection in the early 2nd and could join a distinguished list of 2nd round IFL picks that turned into fantasy starters.
2.05 New England Mark – QB, Will Levis, 6’3” 232 lbs, Kentucky Wildcats
I’ve read a lot of questions about Levis coming into the draft and I wanted to dive into what was so different from his 2021 versus 2022. The answer appears to be volume. He didn’t have as many passing opportunities, playing in two fewer games, but statistically, he was similar in passer rating, accuracy, and yards per attempt. As it stands it seems like he’s a top-10 pick and perhaps even the #2 QB off the board. He has a dual-threat ability and is perfect for modern-day fantasy. If he lands in a quality landing spot (like Atlanta) that can provide him with quality weapons, he’ll be an IFL 2nd rounder.
Outside of Matthew Stafford who is coming off a back injury, Mark needs some help at QB. While EDGE and safety are also firmly in play here, Levis as a top 5 NFL draft pick warrants a mid-2nd round pick to a needy team. Like Bryce Young, he has a top-10 IFL fantasy ceiling, albeit a lower floor.
2.06 Jacksonville Nate – RB, Sean Tucker, 5’10” 205 lbs, Syracuse Orangemen
Sean Tucker on some draft boards is a top-three running back, but there are some issues with his profile. His production took a major step back in his third season, with a mediocre 5.1 YPC, ranking 108th in college football. Receiving-wise, he was a volume pass catcher, with 36 receptions, but his 7.1 YPR left much to be desired as well. (2021 saw him at a much better 6.1 YPC and 12.8 YPR) Athletically, he should test very well which could lead him into a day 2 pick. I’m particularly curious to see his 3-cone as I’m not sure he’s as shifty as needed to be a starting running back in the NFL.
There is going to be some incredible value at running back in the 2nd round. Sean Tucker would certainly fit that bill and Nate will take this as an opportunity to plan for a future devoid of Nick Chubb/CMC. Nate snagged the best value in the draft last year in Dameon Pierce and will definitely be looking at recreating that magic again with a guy like Tucker.
2.07 Denver Dave – S, Antonio Johnson, 6’3” 195 lbs, Texas A&M Aggies
You may not have heard of Antonio Johnson yet, but you will. This Kyle Hamilton clone has elite length and big play ability showcased by 3 forced fumbles and a 1-sack campaign in 2022. A&M was trash as a team, but Johnson still showcased elite run defense and coverage ability. He’ll likely be utilized like the aforementioned Hamilton and could be a top-16 safety in short order. He’s a 1a/1b with Branch. The landing spot should determine who is picked first.
Dave rounds out his draft with a balanced approach, with two offensive studs and three IDPs. Doubling down on safety is another way to bolster 2023 production and both Johnson and Branch should immediately be fantasy starters. (Although we thought the same about Kyle Hamilton.)
2.08 Indy Erik – TE Darnell Washington, 6’7” 270 lbs, Georgia Bulldogs
Darnell Washington may as well have a mountain named after him. The man is a massive human being and I’m fascinated to see how the NFL values him. Very well an NFL 1st round pick, Washington may end up being a value for our rookie draft due to being overshadowed by tight end teammate Brock Bowers and other prospects Mayer and Kincaid. Washington was no slouch as a receiver, with 28 receptions, 454 yards and 16.2 YPR. As a blocker, his real-life value truly shines through. Look for Washington to be a 2nd-round NFL draft pick and if he enters a situation where he can start right away, a mid-2nd round IFL pick is likely.
Another stab at tight end for Erik, who does not have anyone viable for the position. Erik took a similar prospect last year in Jelani Woods, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he took another physical freak in Washington.
2.09 Indy Erik – LB DeMarvion Overshown, 6’4” 224 lbs, Texas Longhorns
It feels like DeMarvion Overshown has been at UT forever. A converted safety, Overshown is an elite athlete that will certainly help him transition into a quality NFL player. How his instincts develop, particularly as a run defender will be critical. A third-round pick would go a long way to solidify his draft profile. If you watched any Texas games this year, Overshown put up highlights on a weekly basis. I hope he joins a team that lets him work in space and blitz the quarterback.
We’ve talked at nauseam over the past couple of years about the needs of Erik and if you read these closely you know Erik needs linebacker help. Overshown = help at the position. Perhaps Christian Harris and Troy Anderson can also develop this year and Erik can have 4-5 top 32 options.
2.10 LA Joshy – RB, Kendre Miller, 6’0” 220 lbs, TCU Horned Frogs
It’s a damn shame we didn’t get to see Kendre Miller in the college football playoff. Especially against Georgia, TCU desperately needed him. Miller feasted for TCU, with 224 carries, 1399 yards, and 17 rushing TDs. (6.2 YPC) While he wasn’t a prolific receiver, he was passable with 16 receptions and 7.3 YPR. Miller can absolutely be a mid-first-round pick, but he needs to be a day 2 pick. How his athletic profile rounds out will likely determine his draft slot. I will add there’s a very good chance some normally day 2 running back prospects may slide into the 4th round due to this year’s depth.
Until I see a commitment to the finer details of the IDP side of the ball, there likely won’t be a defensive player mocked to Josh through the draft season. That’s not to say that selecting Kendre Miller at the 2.10 is nothing but incredible value. Josh can and probably should take home run swings. Miller has the potential to be a star if the cards break right. Just needs a starting, near full-time role at running back.
2.11 Indy Erik – EDGE, Myles Murphy, 6’5” 275 lbs, Clemson Tigers
Myles Murphy is an athletic marvel, who may be a bit raw. How the NFL views him is a bit up for debate, but he’s almost always mocked as a top-16 pick. What Murphy needs to do is develop additional pass-rushing moves to combine with his elite athletic traits. That’s a tale as old as time for a variety of young NFL pass rushers. Give him 1-2 years and he could be the next Rashan Gary.
Erik has a couple of quality EDGEs, but again, there’s a question mark on what he does with Matt Judon. Erik has some tough choices to make with Dionte Johnson, DK Metcalf, Zarie Franklin, CJ Mosley, and Budda Baker, all candidates for an RFA or FT. EDGE could be a need with only Josh Allen and George Karlaftis potential long-term starters.
2.12 Indy Erik – S, JL Skinner, 6’4” 220 lbs, Boise State Broncos
I love a good box safety and Skinner is this year’s Jaquon Brisker. We’ve seen players like him come into the NFL and succeed in a high-volume role near the line of scrimmage. Something always track is big play ability. Skinner delivered 4 INTs last season and amassed 2 INTs and two forced fumbles in ’21. Skinner is a bit skinny for 6’4” but can certainly develop into his frame. He’s another excellent safety prospect in a deep class.
I’m not quite sure Erik will select Skinner after the Kyle Hamilton selection, but if Budda Baker walks, safety will be a need. Skinner in the right situation can be fantasy viable in year one, which is definitely what you want if you’re going to pick a safety in the 2nd round.
2.13 Pittsburgh Spencer – WR, Jalin Hyatt, 6’1” 180 lbs, Tennessee Volunteers
Do you know who won the Biletnikoff Award for the best receiver in college football? That would be Jalin Hyatt, who delivered an absurd season in the SEC. He finished 5th in receiving yards with 1267, 2nd in TDs with 15 on only 67 receptions. His production in a win against Alabama was absurd with 6 receptions, 207 yards, and 5 TDs. His route-running ability may pigeonhole him as a deep-threat specialist, but Hyatt has the ceiling to develop into one of the best receivers in the NFL.
Spencer just dealt away a pillar of his roster in AJ Brown. Without a startable option left at the receiver position, now is the time to rebuild the position. Hyatt has the potential to be a star but is likely to at least be a serviceable 4/5 RB/WR/TE option. He’s a fine late 2nd round pick, so long as he’s a day 2 selection.
2.14 Pittsburgh Spencer – RB, Devon Achane, 5’9” 185 lbs, Texas A&M Aggies
Yea, 2022 didn’t go the way Devon Achane intended. His usage increased quite a bit without 2021 4th-round pick Isaiah Spiller. His stats decreased across the board, but it was disappointing to see the twitchy Achane only average 5.6 YPC and 5.4 YPR on 36 receptions. At only 5’9” he’s likely at best a committee back. That being said, in the right offense, he can be a very statable asset. Combined with KR/PR yardage, Achane should be valuable in our league that emphasizes all-purpose players. The landing spot is critical moreso than other running backs in this mock.
Spencer should be all about BPA here and Achane can assist with what’s a disappointing running back room. We’ve seen Spencer select 2nd round running backs with success as recently as 2022 with Tyler Allgier. Bet your bootyhole Spencer will have his eyes set on his favorite sleeper here late in the 2nd round.
2.15 Pittsburgh Spencer – QB, Anthony Richardson, 6’4” 232 lbs, Florida Gators
You will hear literally everything when it comes to Anthony Richardson’s draft profile. In draft experts I trust, they don’t believe Richardson is too far off from being a starting caliber QB. He’s more accurate than given credit for, a quality processor of defenses, has a cannon for an arm, and is an elite runner. That type of ceiling should lock him into the 2nd round of our draft.
While Spencer doesn’t need a QB, Jalen Hurts’ rookie contract will expire after 2023. Richardson could quickly replace him with his elite ceiling and could end up as the QB1 out of this class from a fantasy perspective. Richardson could end up as a top-10 pick, or slide out of the 1st round entirely.
2.16 Las Vegas Craig – RB, 5’11” 205 lbs, Chase Brown, Illinois Fighting Illini
Every week I kept seeing Chase Brown on college highlights. He was the focal point of an Illinois team that hasn’t been a factor in the college football landscape for a generation. On 328 carries, he only delivered a 5.0 YPC average, but I’m willing to cut him some slack on such a large volume. Brown is the epitome of a running back prospect sleeper. I’m very curious to see how he tests at the combine and he could sneak into the day 2 conversation if he runs in the 4.3s. He’s not a particularly powerful back and his decision-making may be a bit of a concern on runs between the tackles.
Another bushel of picks here for Craig in the 2023 draft. With depth on his roster, Craig has the option of taking some home run swings with running back prospects. While Brown doesn’t fill a need, but he could be a quality depth piece for the championship contender.
2.17 Cleveland Kyle – EDGE, Nolan Smith, 6’3” 235 lbs, Georgia Bulldogs
Nolan Smith is absolutely flying under the radar at this current time. The importance of a quality pass rush in the NFL is arguably the 2nd most critical aspect of a successful team. Smith isn’t necessarily a polished pass rusher, but he has the athletic tools to develop them in time. Similar to former #1 overall pick Tavon Walker, Smith is an elite run defender. If he’s able to develop for 1-2 years, he could make a year 3 jump and be a top 16 EDGE option moving forward.
The toilet bowl AFC winner, Kyle landed himself a 2nd round pick. While 2023 was by any measure a disappointment, going best player available here is the move. Brian Burns is an RFA and there isn’t a solidified starter at EDGE outside of him. Kyle’s team may be due for a multi-year rebuild and Smith could be a part of a 2024-2025 run.
Other notable names: QB CJ Stroud, RB Tank Bigsby, RB Deuce Vaughn, WR Josh Downs, WR Marvin Mims, TE Luke Musgrave, TE Sam LaPorta, DT Calijah Kancey, EDGE BJ Ojulari, EDGE Will McDonald IV, EDGE Felix Anudike-Uzomah, EDGE Keion White, EDGE Lukas Van Ness, EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu, LB Daiyan Henley, LB Henry To’oTo’o, LB Ventrell Miller, S Jammie Robinson, P Ethan Evans (All-American from the University of Wingate)
Conclusion: This is a deep class with a metric fuckton of uncertainty, particularly at the running back position. I particularly struggled to slot running backs, with players like Kendre Miller, Sean Tucker, and Devon Achane all being potential IFL 1st round picks. I’m particularly curious to see how this draft shakes out at RB. If a running back is a day 2 pick, are they automatically a 1st round pick? If so, we may see close to half the 1st round with rookie running backs.