2023 NFL Draft Round 2 and 3 grades: Rating every pick (2024)

Welcome to The Athletic’s pick-by-pick grades for Rounds 2 and 3 of the 2023 NFL Draft. From quarterbacks Will Levis and Hendon Hooker to defensive backs Brian Branch and Joey Porter Jr., we break down every selection from Friday.

Many prefer to wait until three or four years from now to grade these selections. And it’s true, in 2027 we’ll get a better idea of each player’s successes and failures but an instant reaction is warranted for each pick. We will analyze each choice based not only on the prospect but also on the methodology and value. That goes for draft picks to the trades. Did a team give up too much or take a prospect too high? Or, did a team navigate its need with value to perfection? That’s what goes into our grades.

Just like perhaps half of the teams in their selections, we will miss the mark on some grades. We can take some good-natured ribbing. As always, I suggest you catch up on prospects by perusing Dane Brugler’s Beast, which has become the annual must-have guide of draft season. So, buckle in to watch the marriage of America’s two most popular sports in real time.

Best available: Updated list
Live coverage:Updates from rounds 4-7
More grades: Rating every Round 1 pick

ROUND TWO

32. Pittsburgh Steelers: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

The Steelers had three target areas entering the draft: offensive tackle, cornerback and inside linebacker. With their first two selections, the Steelers hit the target. And this one hits home.

Son of Pittsburgh Steelers’ great linebacker Joey Porter Sr., this Porter is a physically impressive defender who became more complete last fall. Porter barely was tested in the 10 games of which he played. Opponents caught just 15 of the 30 passes thrown in his direction for 143 yards. He didn’t intercept a pass, but he didn’t allow a touchdown, either.

Although Porter is a true cornerback, he has the physical ability to play in the box if required, especially if an opponent runs 22 personnel on short-yardage downs. There’s no better-looking corner when it comes to size (6-2 ½, 193), arm length (34), wingspan (80 7/8), speed (4.46 in the 40) and strength (17 reps of 225 pounds in the bench). But he also has the widest variance among the elite corners, too. Porter could become a Pro Bowler or he could struggle.

In this organization, you can bet Porter is going to feel the responsibility of upholding his family name. The only question for the Steelers is not trading out and turning down some pretty good offers to draft him.

Grade: B

33. Tennessee Titans: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

There was significant speculation Levis could end up in Tennessee in the first round. For the Titans, it couldn’t have worked out more perfectly.

Levis (6-3 7/8, 229) is the most prototypical of the 2023 quarterbacks — a strong pocket passer with a big arm, big hands (10 5/8 inches) and decent movement. A good comparison is maybe Blaine Gabbert when he came out of Missouri. It’s all intangibly based as to whether Levis succeeds Ryan Tannehill as the Titans’ eventual starter or becomes a career backup like Gabbert.

After earning a degree in finance from Penn State in three years, Levis transferred to Kentucky. In two seasons he threw for 43 touchdowns and 23 interceptions and completed nearly 66 percent of his passes for 5,233 yards. He had a good offensive line in 2021, but it was a disaster in 2022 in allowing 46 sacks.

Levis is mentally prepared to lead an offense as a rookie starter if necessary. This was a tremendous value for Tennessee.

Grade: A

34. Detroit Lions: Sam LaPorta, TE, Iowa

LaPorta (6-3 ½, 245) doesn’t possess an elite physical attribute, but his athletic ability, speed and explosiveness compares favorably with his predecessors at Iowa, including NFL starters Noah Fant, T.J. Hockenson and George Kittle. LaPorta’s intensity, toughness and personality are comparable to Kittle. LaPorta is a willing blocker with room for improvement, but he’ll fight. He tore the meniscus in his knee on Nov. 19, had surgery and then returned for a Dec. 31 bowl game.

In four seasons, LaPorta totaled 153 catches and 1,786 yards, ranking first and second, respectively, in both categories at Iowa. He posted solid numbers at the NFL combine with a 4.59 40 time (third fastest), not far behind Kittle in 2017 (4.52). LaPorta also spent part of the offseason training with Kittle and Hockenson in Nashville.

It’s coincidental that LaPorta essentially replaces Hockenson, who was traded to Minnesota last midseason. There’s some question about why LaPorta over Michael Mayer, who also was available. But both were Mackey Award finalists, and it came down to preference.

Grade: B+

35. Las Vegas Raiders: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

Considered the top all-around tight end in the draft, Mayer slipped into the second and became a tremendous value selection. In the process, the Raiders filled a big void after trading Darren Waller to the Giants.

Big and physical with great hands a good catch radius, Mayer (6-4 ½, 249) was one of college football’s top tight ends the past two seasons and played right away as a true freshman at Notre Dame. In his final two seasons for the Irish, Mayer caught 138 passes for 1,649 yards and 16 touchdowns with seven drops. Last fall, he was named an All-American after 67 catches for 809 yards and nine scores.

A basketball player growing up, Mayer can post up on defenders in the pass game. He’s a weapon as a run blocker, too. Mayer played just three seasons at Notre Dame and was the school’s all-time leader in tight end receptions.

In their first two selections, the Raiders got bigger and more physical. They also stole the best player remaining from the first round.

Grade: A

36. Los Angeles Rams: Steve Avila, G, TCU

With good size (6-3 ½, 332) and a versatile background, Avila is a plug-and-play option from minicamp onward. At TCU, where he had 35 starts, Avila started 17 games at center before flipping to left guard this year for the national runners-up. TCU coach Sonny Dykes called him the best offensive line prospect he ever coached, and Avila proved it as a consensus All-American.

In 15 games last year, including two in the College Football Playoff, Avila didn’t give up a sack. He started games at four different positions and is scheme flexible as well. In addition, he was a strong leader on a team full of them.

The Rams needed an upgrade along the offensive line after last year’s collapse. Avila helps them become a tougher football team.

Grade: B+

37. Seattle Seahawks: Derick Hall, Edge, Auburn

The Seahawks needed a jolt to their No. 26-ranked defense, and Hall provides a lift along the edge.

Hall (6-2 ¾, 254) was born at 23 weeks weighing two pounds and spent his first five months of life in a hospital. He then grew into an All-SEC defensive player, a team captain, honor roll student and an impactful voice on campus.

Hall was an underrated pass rusher in the SEC, although Pro Football Focus’ hurry count reflect Hall’s true impact. Over the past three seasons, Hall picked up 74 hurries to go along with his 19.5 sacks and 29.5 tackles for loss. He also added 25 additional quarterback hits.

Hall has some versatility, too, in playing off the ball but primarily lining up as an edge rusher outside the tackle. His long arms (34 ½ inches), wingspan (82 5/8) and speed (4.55 in the 40), coupled with his production and intangible qualities suggest Hall will be a tremendous teammate on day one and possible starter sooner than later.

Grade: B

38. Atlanta Falcons: Matthew Bergeron, OL, Syracuse

The Falcons continue to build their offense after using their last three first-rounders on skill-position players and landed a four-year starter for the offensive line.

A Quebec native with French as his first language, Bergeron started 39 games at Syracuse, with 31 coming at left tackle. Bergeron has become technically sound and developed into a good run blocker as a second-team All-ACC offensive lineman.

At the combine, Bergeron (6-5 ¼, 318) didn’t run the 40 and put up 29 reps of 225 pounds on the bench at his pro day. It’s possible Bergeron starts his career at guard to get used to game speed and shifts outside when he’s ready. At a minimum, he should become a swing performer as a rookie.

Grade: B-

39. Carolina Panthers: Jonathan Mingo, WR, Ole Miss

The Panthers dealt No. 1 receiver D.J. Moore to Chicago to land the No. 1 overall pick, and by selecting Mingo, they have a chance to replace him in time.

Everything about Mingo (6-1 ¾, 220) is smooth and well-defined. He caught 51 passes for 861 yards and five touchdowns last season at Ole Miss and was a second-team All-SEC pick. Mingo produced 10 catches of 30-plus yards, and he uses his size well in his routes with great body control. His 247-yard game against Vanderbilt broke Elijah Moore’s single-game record at Ole Miss.

What’s easy to see with Mingo is his physical size, large hands (10 3/8) and his 4.46 speed with a 1.52-second 10-yard split. He also put up 22 reps of 225 pounds, so there’s strength to match his weight. He missed seven games in 2021 after a stress fracture but came back strong in 2022.

Grade: B

40. New Orleans Saints: Isaiah Foskey, Edge, Notre Dame

The Saints have chosen to fortify their defense and added their second consecutive defensive lineman in this draft in Foskey. New Orleans got both value and targeted need in both selections.

A major part of Notre Dame’s defense the past two seasons, Foskey recorded 22 sacks and 31.5 tackles for loss along with 35 hurries over that time frame, according to PFF. Although he can play head-up on the offensive tackle, Foskey lined up primarily outside the tackle for Marcus Freeman. In 2021, Foskey also saw action off the ball as an outside linebacker. Perhaps most impressive, Foskey had seven forced fumbles in his past two seasons.

A solid, lean edge rusher, Foskey (6-5 1/8, 264) combines long arms (34 inches) with a solid 40 time (4.58). Foskey holds the Notre Dame career sack record (26.5), and his motor matches his statistics.

Grade: A-

41. Arizona Cardinals: B.J. Ojulari, Edge, LSU

The best remaining edge rusher in the draft, B.J. Ojulari now joins his brother, Azeez, who also was a second-round pick last year.

The son of Nigerian parents, Ojulari brought both elite production and character to LSU the past three years. Although a hamstring injury prevented him from working out at the combine, Ojulari (6-2, 3/8, 248) possesses tremendous quickness and speed off the edge with long arms (34 ¼). He’s perfect for the Cardinals’ 3-4 defense.

A major contributor for the Tigers, Ojulari was exceptional coming off the edge, where he played 94 percent of his snaps. Ojulari produced 103 quarterback hurries beyond his 16.5 sacks and 25 tackles for loss.

The Cardinals opted for offensive line in the first round and filled one of their greatest needs in the second.

Grade: B+

42. Green Bay Packers: Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State

Depleted at tight end, the Packers filled one of their biggest needs with Musgrave. He gives quarterback Jordan Love a big, athletic target who can run about every route.

Any evaluation of Musgrave was built more on potential than production. There’s no question about talent. Musgrave (6-5 7/8, 253) has massive hands and a wide wingspan to go along with a 4.61 40-yard dash time and other good numbers.

Musgrave is tall, agile and flexible, but he missed significant time during his collegiate career. Last year, a left knee injury cost him his final 11 games. Over four seasons at Oregon State, he caught 47 passes for 633 yards and two touchdowns with nine drops. But he competed well enough at the Senior Bowl that scouts are high on his potential.

Grade: B

43: New York Jets: Joe Tippman, C, Wisconsin

With new quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the building, the Jets decided to bring him some help from the state he called home for 18 years. Tippmann should start right away at either center or guard.

With Wisconsin’s inconsistent performance, Tippmann’s individual efforts largely went unnoticed in the center-heavy Big Ten. Every snap he played the past two years came at center, and he posted some impressive numbers. Despite facing many physical interior linemen in 2021 and 2022, Tippman (6-6, 313) allowed just one sack and four combined hits on the quarterback.

Tippmann may be listed as a center, but he also could flip to guard, which he acknowledged at the combine. With his length, it might actually be a better move in the long run. But in the short term, it might be at center.

Grade: A

44. Indianapolis Colts: Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State

The Colts picked up a two-for-one in Brents, who not only was a top-flight cornerback at Kansas State but comes from Indianapolis’ Warren Central High School.

Built like an X receiver, Brents has the physical dimensions to batter opponents at the line of scrimmage and hammer them once they catch the ball. Standing nearly 6-3 and weighing 198 pounds, Brents has 34-inch arms, a nearly 83-inch wingspan and ran a 4.53 40.

In 14 games for Big 12 champion Kansas State, Brents allowed 24 catches on 52 targets for 374 yards and three scores while intercepting four passes. He cut the quarterback’s passer rating from 101.9 in 2021 — his first year at K-State after transferring from Iowa — to 57.7 last season. He has played in both zone and man defenses.

There are durability concerns with Brents stemming from his high school career. But he is talented and physical when he’s on the field.

Grade: B

45. Detroit Lions: Brian Branch, S, Alabama

The Lions jumped up three spots to grab perhaps the most versatile defensive back in the draft and continue reshaping their secondary.

A non-traditional safety, Branch has the perfect skills to play nickel in the NFL. He has great quickness and instincts, which were on display last season at Alabama. Branch, who became a first-team All-American, collected 90 tackles, including 14 for loss, and three sacks plus two interceptions and nine passes defensed. He also returned a punt 68 yards for a touchdown.

Branch (5-11 5/8, 190) possesses average speed (4.58 in the 40) and put up 14 reps of 225 pounds on the bench. He’s a physical tackler and fought through injuries last year, which impacted Alabama’s defense. Branch does have positional flexibility and can play corner, safety or nickel from day one. He’s a perfect fit for Aaron Glenn’s defense, and the value is off the charts as Brugler’s No. 17-ranked player.

Grade: A+

46. New England Patriots: Keion White, Edge, Georgia Tech

In typical Bill Belichick fashion, the Patriots continue to get great value. In White, they picked up one of the top remaining pass rushers on a unit that put up 54 sacks.

A late bloomer, White was a six-year player with four seasons at Old Dominion and the past two for Georgia Tech. White began his career as a tight end and played two seasons at that position before shifting to defensive end in 2019, where he picked up 19 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. His 2020 season was canceled because of the pandemic, then he transferred to Tech and played in only four games in 2021 because of an ankle dislocation. Last season White was a machine with 11 sacks and 33.5 tackles for loss.

White (6-4 7/8, 285) has long arms (34 inches) and wingspan (80) mostly played outside the tackle but generated 30 hurries last year for Georgia Tech to go along with his seven sacks. White has plenty of room to grow despite his college experience and can play in multiple schemes because of his size.

Grade: A-

47. Washington Commanders: Quan Martin, S, Illinois

Washington is all-in on remaking its secondary in selecting its second consecutive defensive back. It fits for the Commanders, who have taken steps to shift from mid-level to upper level in all defensive categories.

One of three elite defenders in the Illinois secondary, Martin has the most positional flexibility of the trio. Last season Martin had 14 pass breakups, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and three tackles for loss to go along with 64 overall tackles.

Martin (5-11, 194) mostly played in the slot but sometimes shifted deep or outside if teammate Devon Witherspoon moved inside to cover the opponent’s most explosive receiver. Opponents caught 42 passes on Martin (74 targets) for 611 yards and three touchdowns. He projects best to nickel, but he has the speed (4.46 40 time) to play deep safety or corner if necessary.

Grade: B

48. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cody Mauch, OL, North Dakota State

After cutting left tackle Donovan Smith and watching injuries sink the offense last year, Tampa Bay opted for a tough, nasty, versatile offensive lineman in Mauch.

If anyone wonders why North Dakota State dominates the FCS ranks, it’s because of players like Mauch. A farm kid in North Dakota, Mauch initially walked on for the Bison as a tight end, switched to defensive end, gained 40 pounds and moved to offensive line. Then Mauch earned a scholarship and started 37 games at left tackle.

A good athlete with quickness, no offensive linemen touched Mauch’s 3-cone time, which is probably more relevant to that position group than the 40. It will take time for Mauch to adjust to NFL size and speed, and he likely slides inside to guard as a rookie. But don’t doubt his intensity or willingness to success.

Grade: A-

49. Pittsburgh Steelers: Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin

The Steelers are in the running for the best draft, and they might have found the best fit for their 3-4 defensive line in Benton.

In Wisconsin’s 3-4 defense, Benton lined up almost exclusively on the interior but split between the B gap (54 percent) and A gap (46 percent), according to Pro Football Focus. That will allow him to compete anywhere from a zero tech to a 4-technique in the NFL.

Benton finished his career with nine sacks, 10 tackles for loss and 80 tackles. With a wide frame, Benton (6-3 ¾, 309) is capable of battling double teams on every snap, which is what he did as a Badger. For his size, Benton ran an impressive 40 in 5.08 seconds and put up 25 reps of 225 pounds on the bench. It would be interesting to see Benton play for a defense where he can do more than just tie up blockers to allow linebackers to make plays.

Grade: A

50. Green Bay Packers: Jayden Reed, WR, Michigan State

Green Bay added some versatility in its pass-catching ranks with Reed, who is built differently than last year’s selections Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs.

Reed bet on himself and won when he transferred to Michigan State from Western Michigan after a superb freshman year in 2018. The last two seasons, Reed was a weapon for the Spartans, especially in 2021 when they won the Peach Bowl. That year, Reed caught 59 passes for 1,026 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also was an elite punt returner with a pair of touchdowns. Like Michigan State, Reed slumped last year with 55 catches for 636 yards and five scores.

With tremendous quickness and good hands, Reed (5-10 7/8, 187) ran the 40 in 4.45 seconds at the combine. He has the potential return punts and fit in as a third or fourth receiver.

Grade: B

51. Miami Dolphins: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina

Considered one of the top cornerbacks entering the 2022 season, Smith produced underwhelming statistics that belie his talent. In 11 games, Smith had only 27 tackles, six passes defensed and one interception. He also blocked a field goal and dealt with a concussion.

Smith (6-0 ½, 180) is a physical marvel with long arms (76 1/8 wingspan) and a 4.43 40-yard dash. He has incredible ability; it just might take a good secondary or cornerbacks coach to bring it out of him in Miami.

Grade: C

52. Seattle Seahawks: Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA

Pete Carroll has an affinity for running the ball, and with Kenneth Walker III and now Charbonnet, not only do the Seahawks have a talented 1-2 punch, but they also have two different types of runners.

In 10 games last year, Charbonnet (6-0, 214) rushed for 1,358 yards on 194 carries (7.0 yards per carry) with 14 touchdowns. He also was critical in the pass game with 37 catches on 44 targets for 320 yards. Perhaps most impressive was that Charbonnet averaged 4.2 yards after contact and fumbled only twice in his four-year career.

Charbonnet began his career at Michigan and led the Wolverines in rushing as a true freshman in 2019. In the COVID-altering 2020 season, he started three of Michigan’s six games and was a rotational back. He transferred to UCLA shortly after the season.

Grade: B+

53. Chicago Bears: Gervon Dexter Sr., DT, Florida

Ryan Poles opted for an offensive tackle in the first round to help protect Justin Fields. This time, the Bears chose their pivotal 3-tech for second-year coach Matt Eberflus.

A strong locker room voice at Florida, Dexter recorded 106 tackles the last two seasons with 4.5 sacks and eight tackles for loss. He’s powerful and has a good base. In one of the most impressive combine 40-yard dashes, Dexter (6-5 ½, 310) finished in 4.88 seconds, the fastest time for any player weighing more than 300 pounds.

Dexter was a B gap monster at Florida, picking up 32 quarterback hurries the past two seasons, according to PFF. He registered only eight combined tackles in that time, which suggests he can offer more. However, if he continues on his current trajectory, Dexter is on his way toward a high-level NFL career.

Grade: A-

54. Los Angeles Chargers: Tuli Tuipulotu, Edge, USC

One of the most productive players in USC history, Tuipulotu immediately can help the Chargers. But the question is where?

Physically, Tuipulotu (6-3, 266) is a tweener along the defensive line with shorter-than-ideal arms (32 ¼) but big hands (10 1/8). A right hamstring injury prevented him from testing at the combine.

Lining up as both a 5-technique and edge rusher, Tuipulotu was a force last season for the Trojans with 37 hurries, according to PFF. He also had 13.5 sacks, 22 tackles for loss and battled down a pair of passes. He was named the Pac-12 defensive player of the year and earned All-American honors. Overall, he finished with 21 sacks, 30 tackles for loss and four forced fumbles in three seasons.

Tuipulotu doesn’t look like an edge, and he’s not necessarily built for the line in a 3-4. If the Chargers go more multiple, then sure. If not, then they might waste a pretty good player.

Grade: C

55. Kansas City Chiefs: Rashee Rice, WR, SMU

After losing multiple veteran receivers in consecutive seasons, the Chiefs traded up to add an ultra-productive receiver from pass-happy SMU. Rice caught 96 passes for 1,355 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. His 112.9 receiving yards per game led the nation. He was a second-team All-American and finished his career with 233 receptions for 3,111 yards and 25 touchdowns.

Rice (6-0 ½, 204) has decent but not blazing speed with a 4.51 40 time, but his 1.5 10-yard split was among the best of the receivers. Even more impressive was his 41-inch vertical, which tied for No. 1 in his position group. The way he tracks the ball is top level, as demonstrated by his 18 catches of 20-plus air yards. That will come in handy when hauling down launches from Pat Mahomes.

Grade: B

56. Chicago Bears: Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami

In a need to get more competitive in the back end, the Bears traded up to grab Stevenson, an active, tough cornerback from Miami. Stevenson broke up 24 passes and intercepted three passes over four seasons. Stevenson was a good tackler, collecting 115 in his career, including six for loss. He started 26 games and played in 46.

At the combine, Stevenson measured well (6-0 3/8, 198) and ran well (4.45 in the 40). His longer arms and physical play could help him compete for a starting role either outside or in the nickel.

Grade: B-

57. New York Giants: John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota

Big, thick and experienced, Schmitz (6-3 ½, 301) started 36 games over four seasons at center for the Gophers and guided one of college football’s most physical running games. Schmitz allowed just two sacks and three quarterback hits in the past three seasons. He was PFF’s highest-graded center, a first-team All-American and a finalist for the Rimington Trophy.

Minnesota’s offense used the zone read and often relied on a combination of zone and sweep runs. Schmitz is both physical at the point of attack and can pull when needed. He fits perfectly into the Giants offense and could start right away at center.

Grade: A

58. Dallas Cowboys: Luke Schoonmaker, TE, Michigan

After losing Dalton Schultz in free agency, the Cowboys needed to find at least a second tight end in the draft to play alongside Jake Ferguson. They found one in Schoonmaker, but they bypassed two higher-rated available tight ends, according to Brugler.

Tremendous size (6-5 ¼, 251) coupled with a quality senior year led Schoonmaker to a solid senior season at Michigan. Despite a pair of shoulder injuries, Schoonmaker finished with 35 catches for 418 yards and three touchdowns for the Big Ten champion Wolverines. It was his only season as Michigan’s primary tight end.

Schoonmaker ran the 40 in 4.63 seconds at the combine. Perhaps he’s not physically elite in any area, but he’s solid enough as a route runner and a blocker to become an asset as a No. 2 or No. 3 tight end.

Grade: C-

59. Buffalo Bills: O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida

The Bills filled a major need and married it with top value in landing Torrence, who was rated No. 37 overall by Brugler.

One of the draft’s true success stories, Torrence (6-5 3/8, 330) weighed more than 420 pounds in high school before changing his diet, and he became a first-team All-American last year. As a lightly recruited offensive lineman out of high school, Torrence started for three seasons at Louisiana then followed coach Billy Napier to Florida for one season.

With hands measuring 11 ¼ inches and a wingspan around 84 inches, Torrence has a left tackle body but anchors so well against powerful defenders that guard is a great spot for him. He still needs to make technical strides, but he was a disciplined blocker without any penalties as a Gator and started 47 games at guard.

Grade: A

60. Cincinnati Bengals: D.J. Turner, CB, Michigan

Cincinnati’s No. 23-ranked pass defense picked up a key addition in the speedy Turner. The Michigan corner turned heads at the combine with a 4.26 40 time, the fastest time this year and third-fastest time recorded for a corner. Although he has a smallish frame (5-11 ¼, 178), Turner battles and will tackle. He’s ideally suited to cover slot receivers as a nickel corner.

A starter the past two seasons for the two-time Big Ten champions, Turner mostly played outside and intercepted three passes and defended 20 passes. Over that span, he allowed 59 catches on 130 targets for four touchdowns.

Grade: B+

61. Jacksonville Jaguars: Brenton Strange, TE, Penn State

The run of second-round tight ends continues with the Jaguars taking the Penn State pass catcher. Like with Dallas, Jacksonville chose to pass up two top-51 ranked tight ends by Brugler in favor of one ranked No. 97. It seems perplexing in both situations.

Strange is durable, productive and sound. That meant something in the Big Ten, and it will for Strange (6-3 7/8, 253) in the NFL as a valuable No. 2 or No. 3 tight end right away. He started every game the past two seasons with 52 catches for 587 yards and eight touchdowns. He only dropped one pass last year, which is helpful with ascending quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

Grade: C-

62. Houston Texans: Juice Scruggs, C, Penn State

Fit and powerful, Scruggs (6-3 ¼, 301) fills a position of need and brings a tenacious attitude to Houston. A car accident nearly derailed his career in 2019, and he was out for the entire season. He returned a year later and started his final 26 games with the Nittany Lions.

With good arm length (33 ¼) and great technique, Scruggs has the chance to become a longtime starter with his old rival and new quarterback C.J. Stroud.

Grade: B

63. Denver Broncos: Marvin Mims Jr., WR, Oklahoma

One of the top vertical threats in college football, Mims averaged 20.1 yards per catch last year for the Sooners on 54 receptions for 1,083 yards. That came after a 2021 campaign in which he hauled in 32 passes for 705 yards (22 yards per catch) and five scores.

Mims (5-10 7/8, 183) will offer Denver an explosive element (4.38 speed in the 40) in the deep game. He also brings a special teams element with 11.8 yards per return. Right away, expect Mims to step in as a third or fourth receiver with the capability for a few explosive touchdowns. The more consistent he becomes, the more the offense will improve with him.

Grade: B+

ROUND THREE

64. Chicago Bears: Zacch Pickens, DT, South Carolina

The Bears picked their second defensive tackle on Friday to rebuild a defense that generated only 20 sacks last year and was 29th overall.

A former five-star recruit, Pickens didn’t quite measure up statistically to that status, but he still started 32 games in three seasons at South Carolina. A solid, dependable starter for the Gameco*cks, Pickens lined up both over center and outside the opposing guard and had an impact with 13 hurries last season.

Pickens finished with 131 tackles, including 11.5 for loss, and 7.5 sacks in his college career. Pickens (6-3 7/8, 291) did showcase his athletic ability at the combine by running the 40 in 4.89 and measuring with massive arms (34 3/8) and a wide wingspan (81 5/8). He should be in line to rotate this year with the potential for upward mobility.

Grade: B

65. Philadelphia Eagles: Tyler Steen, OT, Alabama

A three-year starter at Vanderbilt, Steen transferred to Alabama last year and opened all 13 games at left tackle for the Tide in 2022. Steen has the size (6-6, 321) but perhaps not quite the requisite arm length (32 ¾) to play on the left side but there is no reason why he can’t flip to right tackle.

There’s plenty to like about Steen, and the potential is there to become a quality starter should he cut down on his penalties (five holding calls). Playing against high-level competition every week — and in practice last fall — in the SEC for four seasons prepared Steen well for the next step as probably a rotational tackle or guard with the Eagles.

Grade: B

66. Philadelphia Eagles: Sydney Brown, S, Illinois

Few players will fit in better — or become more beloved — in Philadelphia than Brown. The third Illini defensive back selected so far, Brown was the undisputed leader of perhaps the nation’s best secondary in 2022.

At the NFL combine, Iowa tight end Sam LaPorta and Minnesota running back Mo Ibrahim were asked about the best opponent they faced. Both mentioned Illinois safety Sydney Brown first. Amid a stacked secondary, Brown became an elite playmaker on the nation’s top statistical defense. He led the Big Ten with six interceptions and defended 13 passes. Brown (5-9 ½, 211) is physical and active in run defense and understands the game at a high level.

Reminiscent of former Bears safety Mike Brown, Sydney Brown (no relation) always is around the football. In the regular-season finale, the Canadian scored on an interception and a fumble recovery. He has massive hands (10 ¼ inches) and ran the 40-yard dash in 4.47 seconds. A team captain with 50 career starts, Brown is a high-character performer. He may open his career on special teams, but it won’t take long before he enters a starting lineup.

Grade: A

67. Denver Broncos: Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas

The Broncos picked up one of the better values in the draft with Sanders, who surprisingly lasted until the third round.

A one-year player at Arkansas after transferring from Alabama, Sanders became an All-American last fall at middle linebacker with 103 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks. He also forced three fumbles and had six passes defensed. Sanders (6-4 3/8) was a five-star signee out of high school and played in every game as a true freshman at Alabama in 2020 and started three games at outside linebacker in 2021 before transferring.

According to PFF, Sanders had 22 missed tackles, which Brugler described as Sanders being overaggressive. Sanders played in the box for 710 plays last season at Arkansas and was used as a pass rusher on 18.4 percent of his snaps. He’ll play everywhere for the Broncos.

Grade: A

68. Detroit Lions: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

Perhaps the Lions’ first-round picks were considered reaches. But in the third round, the Lions picked their potential quarterback of the future and afforded him the opportunity to redshirt while rehabbing from a torn ACL. Can you say win-win-win?

For half a season, Hooker was the Heisman Trophy front-runner at Tennessee. That momentum slowed after a loss to Georgia, then Hooker tore his ACL in a loss to South Carolina. Because he was unable to work out for teams as he recovers, there’s plenty of mystery surrounding Hooker’s availability this season, though he has said he’ll be cleared by Week 1. Whenever that happens, Hooker will compete for the backup spot right away.

Last season he completed 69.6 percent of his passes for 3,135 yards, 27 touchdowns and two interceptions. In 2021, he completed 68.2 percent for 31 scores and three picks. Granted, Tennessee’s wide-open passing attack doesn’t completely translate to the NFL, but several aspects remain relevant. Hooker graduated from Virginia Tech in four years, then played two more seasons in Knoxville. He’s 25 years old, mature beyond his years and a passionate teammate.

His ACL tear might end up as a blessing for both Hooker and the Lions. There won’t be any pressure to play him, and he can learn the offensive intricacies in both practice and in the video room for a year.

Grade: A+

69. Houston Texans: Nathaniel “Tank” Dell, WR, Houston

An electrifying talent as both a receiver and return specialist, Dell has oodles of quickness ideally suited for the slot. Nobody was more productive in the wide-open American Athletic Conference. Dell had 199 receptions for 2,727 yards and 29 touchdowns the last two seasons for Houston and led the nation at 101 yards per game.

Dell’s size (5-8 3/8, 165) is a drawback. But his all-around game is not. He has the potential to be a nice safety valve for C.J. Stroud the way Jaxon Smith-Njigba was in 2021.

Grade: B

70. Las Vegas Raiders: Byron Young, DT, Alabama

Another defensive lineman for the Raiders. Young should become a rotational player right away and potentially start early this season.

Young (6-4, 294) has incredibly long arms (34 3/8), hands (11 inches) and wingspan (81 1/8), which could translate to both the interior or playing head up on a tackle. Young has good technique and is well-schooled coming from Alabama.

Grade: A-

71. New Orleans Saints: Kendre Miller, RB, TCU

New Orleans was looking for another running back to complement — for now — Alvin Kamara, and it found one in TCU’s Miller.

For the College Football Playoff runner up, Miller (5-11 1/8, 215) rushed for 1,399 yards and 17 touchdowns. He’s both powerful and sturdy, but he did fumble six times. He was unable to work out at the combine because of a knee injury. Still, Miller should see plenty of action spelling Kamara.

Grade: C+

72. Arizona Cardinals: Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse

A three-year starter, Williams (5-10 3/8, 192) knocked away 27 passes and intercepted four, including a pick-6 against Trevor Lawrence. An ACL tear last October prevented him from working out and pushing his stock upward. Perhaps this becomes somewhat of a redshirt season, but Williams has enough talent to compete for snaps once he’s healthy.

Grade: C+

73. New York Giants: Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee

If the Giants were looking for a downfield burner — think Desean Jackson — they found him in Hyatt. He ran a 4.40 at the combine, but his acceleration dwarfs that time. Hyatt had 20 catches of 20-plus yards — seven receptions of 50-plus yards — and led the nation in virtually every deep ball category.

Last season Hyatt (6-0, 176) caught 67 passes (89 targets) for 1,267 yards and a school-record 15 touchdowns at 18.9 yards per catch. He won the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver and became the 13th unanimous All-American in Tennessee history.

Hyatt played about 89 percent of his snaps from the slot and was a mismatch against virtually every defender. He caught five touchdown passes against Alabama in a last-second victory. Although Hyatt is unrefined and raw, his speed will make him a weapon every time he takes the field.

Grade: A-

74. Cleveland Browns: Cedric Tillman, WR, Tennessee

The tall, perimeter counterpunch to Jalin Hyatt, Tillman hauled in 37 passes (59 targets) for 417 yards and three scores in just six games last year. It comes one season after Tillman led the Vols with 64 catches for 1,081 yards — the Vols’ first 1,000-yard receiver since 2012 — and 12 touchdowns.

Tillman’s size (6-3 3/8, 213) will keep him largely outside where he can win one-on-one matchups. Although he doesn’t have the blazing speed of Hyatt, Tillman can track down deep balls and beat single coverage; he has 16 catches of 25-plus yards the last two seasons. He’s also a physical downfield blocker, which is important for the Browns.

Grade: B

75. Atlanta Falcons: Zach Harrison, Edge, Ohio State

After spending the first two picks on offense, the Falcons finally turned to defense to upgrade a pass rush that generated just 21 sacks last year. Atlanta found a versatile one in Harrison.

A premier Big Ten edge rusher, Harrison generated 62 quarterback hurries the past three seasons for the Buckeyes, according to PFF. Nearly all of his snaps have come outside the tackle, but at his size (6-5 ½, 274), massive arms (36 ¼) and wingspan (85 ½) Harrison could play a traditional 5-technique if required.

Harrison finished his four-year career with 25.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, 11 passes defensed and five forced fumbles. He started 28 games and participated in the College Football Playoff three times.

Grade: B

76. New England Patriots: Marte Mapu, S, Sacramento State

Another versatile chess piece for Bill Belichick, Mapu flashed at the Senior Bowl and vaulted up draft boards. He finished at No. 100 on Brugler’s overall list. The Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year, Mapu collected 76 tackles, including 6.5 for loss, broke up six passes and intercepted two. In 2021, Mapu had 14 breakups and four interceptions. He was a surprising omission from the combine.

Blessed with a linebacker body (6-3, 221) and long arms (78 ¾ wingspan), Mapu is a heavy hitter and covers like a safety. He had a leg muscle injury in Mobile and couldn’t compete in the game, then tore a pec muscle during training and couldn’t work out for teams. Mapu might have to redshirt for a season, but if he’s healthy, he could become an asset right away in subpackages and on special teams.

Grade: A-

77. Los Angeles Rams: Byron Young, Edge, Tennessee

The depleted Rams picked up an athletic edge rusher in Young, who has the potential to pop in short order. Blessed with blazing speed (4.40 40) and explosiveness to match (38-inch vertical), Young was a first-team All-SEC performer at Tennessee last year with seven sacks and 12 tackles for loss.

Young also is one of the draft’s best stories. He spent 18 months working at Dollar General until he could get into the Georgia Military College. He landed at Tennessee five years after high school and played two seasons. Now age 25, Young (6-2 3/8, 250) has fought through enough adversity to endear himself to most NFL teams.

Grade: B+

78. Green Bay Packers: Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State

Nearly bare bones at tight end two days ago, the Packers added their second one of the night in Kraft.

Everything about Kraft says solid tight end prospect. He comes from South Dakota State, the launching ground for current Philadelphia tight end Dallas Goedert, and helped the Jackrabbits win the FCS national championship in January. Kraft’s 2022 numbers were meager in part because of a high-ankle sprain he suffered at Iowa in the season opener. Kraft caught 27 passes for 348 yards and three scores last year, one season removed from 65 catches for 780 yards and six touchdowns.

Kraft (6-4 ½, 254) ran a decent 40 (4.69) and put up 23 reps of 225 at the combine. He has big hands (10 inches) and a wingspan to match. He also blocks and is physical and intense.

Grade: B+

79. Indianapolis Colts: Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina

New quarterback Anthony Richardson needed a quality slot receiver, and the Colts picked up one of the better ones in Downs.

One of the nation’s most prolific pass catchers, Downs combined for 195 catches, 2,364 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns in North Carolina’s Air Raid offense the past two seasons. Downs primarily played out of the slot and always found a way to get open. With 94 catches on 116 targets with only two drops last year, Downs was a sure thing for Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye, a potential first-rounder in 2024.

Downs (5-8 ¾, 171) has good speed and quickness, which is vital for a player of his size. He projects into the slot and could also return punts. In other words, he’s a lot like former Colts star T.Y. Hilton.

Grade: B+

80. Carolina Panthers: D.J. Johnson, Edge, Oregon

This could qualify as a reach for the Panthers, who traded up for Johnson. The No. 21-ranked edge rusher graded as a fifth-rounder by Brugler, Johnson (6-4, 260) was an elite performer at the combine. He ran a 4.49 40 and his wingspan measured 80 inches.

At Oregon, Johnson played outside linebacker and tight end until the 2022 season when had six sacks. He had 39 tackles last year as an honorable mention selection. He’s athletic but unrefined. It’s a reach at this point of the draft.

Grade: D+

81. Tennessee Titans: Tyjae Spears, RB, Tulane

Spears (5-9, ½, 201) was incredibly productive at Tulane, which beat USC in the Cotton Bowl this year. Speared rushed for 1,581 yards and 19 touchdowns at 6.9 yards per carry. He also was active in the passing game with 22 catches for 256 yards and two scores. Spears was named the AAC Offensive Player of the Year and the Cotton Bowl MVP.

Also a member of Tulane’s track squad, Spears had a decent showing at the combine but didn’t run the 40 until his pro day on campus. Where he stood out was his trip to Mobile, Ala., where he was voted the Senior Bowl practice player of the week by NFL scouts. That’s where Spears validated his draft stock. He has the potential to rotate with Derrick Henry and eventually succeed him.

Grade: A-

82. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: YaYa Diaby, Edge, Louisville

A case study in perseverance, Diaby worked at an airport for a year before walking on at the Georgia Military College to play junior college football for two seasons. Diaby earned a scholarship there, then picked up another when he transferred to Louisville in 2020. Diaby started 32 games the past three seasons and finished with 10.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss over that span.

Diaby (6-3 3/8, 263) had a breakout season in 2022 with nine sacks, 14 tackles for loss and 19 hurries, according to PFF. Diaby showed his versatility by primarily playing a 5-technique over the opposing tackle in each of his past three seasons in Louisville. According to PFF, nearly 70 percent of Diaby’s snaps came head up on the offensive tackle. Along with good-sized arms (33 7/8) and hands (10 3/8), Diaby also has impressive speed at 4.51 seconds in the 40.

The Bucs now have a handful of rotational edge rushers and should have a more aggressive defense this fall.

Grade: B

83. Denver Broncos: Riley Moss, CB, Iowa

The Broncos traded their fourth rounder on Saturday and third-round selection next year for Moss, a player who visited Denver last week. It might be worth it for a player with outstanding ball skills.

Moss was voted the Big Ten’s top defensive back and an All-American in 2021 and twice was a first-team All-Big Ten cornerback. He finished with 11 career interceptions and three pick-sixes. At the combine, Moss posted the top broad jump (129 inches) of any defensive back in Iowa history, and his 39-inch vertical was the best by an Iowa cornerback. His 4.45-second 40-yard dash tied for tops ever among Iowa cornerbacks. His 1.48 10-yard split tied for the fifth-fastest at the combine this year.

A former nationally recognized hurdler, Moss originally came to Iowa as a two-star and ended up starting games over five seasons. Few defenders possess the Moss’ hands or ability to break on the ball. He’s at his best in zone coverage when he has eyes on the quarterback.

Grade: B+

84. Miami Dolphins: Devon Achane, RB, Texas A&M

One of the fastest players at the combine, Achane (5-8 1/2, 188 pounds) has explosiveness rarely seen from his position group. That makes him an obvious fit for the speed-focused Dolphins. Achane ran the 40 in 4.32 seconds at the combine and boasts Olympic-caliber speed on the track. Achane was an All-American for the Texas A&M indoor and outdoor track teams and ran the 100 in 10.14 seconds and the 200 in 20.2 seconds. He skipped his senior track season to train for the combine.

Achane plays more physical than his size indicates. Despite a late-season foot injury and the Aggies out of bowl contention, he returned to the lineup in time to rush for 215 yards in an upset of LSU.

Although he played for one of the nation’s worst offenses, Achane was worth watching. He rushed for 1,102 yards and eight touchdowns while catching 36 passes for 196 yards and three more scores. He also added a 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. He oozes potential as a subpackage running back, perhaps a deep threat at receiver and absolutely at kick returner.

Grade: B

85. Los Angeles Chargers: Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State

A potential subpackage competitor on day one, Henley played five seasons at Nevada from 2017-21 before transferring to Washington State last year. The Cougars used Henley everywhere, and he picked up 106 tackles, four sacks, 12 tackles for loss and forced three fumbles. He was named first-team All-Pac-12.

A complete defender, Henley played mostly as a box linebacker but also covered the slot about five plays every game. With only five missed tackles last year, Henley was also one of the best in that area. If there is a knock on Henley, it’s size (6-0 7/8, 225). He began his career as a safety and moved to linebacker only three years ago.

Grade: B

86. Baltimore Ravens: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson

The Ravens did what the Ravens do: Find great value and select it. That’s what happened here with Simpson, who was Brugler’s No. 38 overall player and went 86th.

A two-year starter at Clemson, Simpson has the perfect inside linebacker physique and athletic ability. Simpson (6-2 3/8, 235) ran a 4.43 40 time at the combine with a sizzling 1.48 10-yard split and posted 25 reps of 225 pounds on the bench. He finished with 77 tackles in 12 games last year, earning third-team All-ACC honors.

Simpson played a little bit of everywhere for the Tigers. Though about 65 percent of his snaps were in the box, Simpson also played over the slot (14 percent) and as a pass rusher (17.5 percent). In 2021, Simpson actually played more over the slot than in the box.

Grade: A

87. San Francisco 49ers: Ji’Ayir Brown, S, Penn State

Perhaps the Big Ten’s most underrated defensive back, Brown was as active as any defender the past two seasons. Last year, Brown recorded seven tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, four interceptions, seven passes defensed and two forced fumbles. In 2021, Brown had six interceptions and 11 breakups. He combined for 147 tackles in those two years.

A physical tackler and team leader, Brown (5-11 3/8, 203) is strong (18 bench press reps), but his 40 time (4.65) is not ideal. However, there’s no doubt Brown will find a way to see the field early in his career with the 49ers.

Grade: B

88. Jacksonville Jaguars: Tank Bigsby, RB, Auburn

Bigsby posted solid numbers during his Auburn career, but it seems like he offers more than what his Tigers’ production suggested. Last year, Bigsby (5-11 ½, 210) averaged 6.0 yards per carry on 970 total yards and rushed for 10 touchdowns. In 2021, he ran for 1,099 yards and put up 834 yards in 2020 after just four starts in 10 games. He was the SEC’s freshman of the year.

He ran a 4.56 40 at the combine and came back to Auburn’s pro day to run a 4.45. Although he has good speed, Bigby’s strengths lie in his power and elusiveness. He could wind up as the most underrated runner in the draft.

Grade: B+

89. Los Angeles Rams: Kobie Turner, DT, Wake Forest

A non-combine invitee, Turner was a quality defensive tackle for multiple schools and should step in as a rotational defensive lineman right away.

According to Pro Football Focus, Turner (6-2 1/3, 293) recorded 27 hurries last year, and he is constantly competing. In his past three full seasons, Turner recorded at least 10 tackles for loss, and he led the ACC in forced fumbles last year (three). Turner has good strength (31 bench-press reps of 225 pounds) coupled with a high motor. At Richmond, Turner exclusively played in the B gap, but for Wake Forest he played about 40 percent of his snaps either in the A gap or over the tackle.

Grade: B

90. Dallas Cowboys: DeMarvion Overshown, LB, Texas

A quick, explosive linebacker built to help stop passing games, Overshown (6-2 ½, 229) had 10 tackles for loss last year (30.5 in his career) with four sacks and five passes defensed for Texas. He started 33 games in his career and is physical and aggressive as a tackler. He looks like a situational linebacker with special teams ability from day one.

Grade: B

91. Buffalo Bills: Dorian Williams, LB, Tulane

The Bills looked at multiple linebackers this draft to replace Tremaine Edmunds and landed one of the most experienced in college football in Williams.

Williams became one of college football’s better linebackers last season in leading Tulane to a Cotton Bowl win. With great speed (4.49), Williams has closing ability and good tackling mechanics. In four seasons, he finished with 311 tackles, including 27 for loss, and 15 pass breakups. Although on the small side (6-1, 228), Williams could help in subpackages and special teams right away.

Grade: B

92. Kansas City Chiefs: Wanya Morris, OT, Oklahoma

When scouts look at starter kits for offensive tackles, Morris (6-5 3/8 307) appears on the package. He has massive arms (35 1/8) and wingspan (85) plus ran a 5.1 40. But there was always something that didn’t come together. He was a freshman All-American with 12 starts at Tennessee in 2019, then transferred to Oklahoma in 2021 and didn’t start a game.

There are a few questions, too. Last year Morris was suspended for two games because of academics and hit a TCU fan during a field storming. Everything is there physically for Morris to start in the NFL; it’s going to be up to him and his position coach to make it real.

Grade: B-

93. Pittsburgh Steelers: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

Pittsburgh couldn’t ignore the value any longer. The Steelers selected the No. 30 player who was 63 spots lower on Brugler’s board. Pittsburgh will have a terrific two-tight end combo in Washington and Pat Freiermuth, one of the best in the NFL.

With incredible physical skills, Washington showcased his abilities at the combine with an eye-opening one-handed catch on a fade route. There was no more physically impressive tight end entering the draft than Washington (6-6 ½, 264). At the combine his hands measured 11 inches, and his wingspan was 83 ¾ inches. Then his 4.64 40-yard dash time and 21 bench-press reps of 225 pounds solidified everything.

Last year, Washington caught 28 passes (on 43 targets) for 454 yards and two scores. That’s nothing to overlook considering Georgia’s other tight end, Brock Bowers, was a first-team All-American. Bowers will join Washington in the NFL perhaps as early as next spring. They were an elite tandem.

Grade: A+

94. Arizona Cardinals: Michael Wilson, WR, Stanford

Big, fast, physical and strong, Wilson (6-1 7/8, 213) looks like a starting NFL receiver. He recorded the most reps of 225 pounds (23) of any wideout at the combine and was among the faster players of his group with a 10-yard split.

Wilson’s injury history pushed him down to the late third round. He suffered a foot injury requiring surgery following the abbreviated 2020 season, and it cost him eight games in 2021. Last year, Wilson played in only six games and caught 27 passes for four touchdowns on 40 targets with four drops. Overall, there’s so much to like about Wilson, if he can stay healthy.

Grade: B

95. Cincinnati Bengals: Jordan Battle, S, Alabama

A physically developed and experienced safety, Battle started 44 games at Alabama and twice was a second-team All-American. Three of Battle’s six interceptions were for touchdowns, and he also notched 6.5 tackles for loss and 16 passes defensed in his career.

Battle (6-1, 209) has good measurables but not quite elite production or speed. However, his experience playing in 54 games in a Nick Saban-coached secondary will help him minimize his deficiencies and compete for defensive snaps and right away on special teams.

Grade: A-

96. Detroit Lions: Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky

The Lions needed a big, physical defensive tackle to rotate, but they gave up a ton to select a player graded as a seventh-rounder by Brugler. The Lions dealt a fourth-rounder and two fifths to move up late in the third round.

Martin (6-4 ¾, 330) played six years of college football, including the first four at Division II North Alabama. He transferred to Western Kentucky and became a starter last fall. Martin has gigantic arms (35) and a wingspan to match (83 ¼ inches) and plays with physicality. But, wow, that was a ton for a non-combine invite. He’s either a big-time steal or a reach longer than Martin’s wingspan.

Grade: D

97. Washington Commanders: Ricky Stromberg, C, Arkansas

Tough and consistent, Stromberg started 44 games in the SEC and was named the league’s top blocker last year. Stromberg also has positional versatility with 11 starts at guard before moving to center the last three seasons.

Last year, Stromberg (6-3 ¼, 306) didn’t allow a sack, and he posted solid measurements at the combine (79 5/8 wingspan). He’s a quality swing interior lineman on day one and could become a starter at some point this year.

Grade: B+

98. Cleveland Browns: Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor

A massive nose tackle, Ika (6-2 7/8, 335) was a fixture in Baylor’s defense the last two seasons after transferring from LSU. He tied up multiple blockers along the line of scrimmage to allow the linebackers and safeties to clean up the statistics.

Ika saw plenty of snaps, totaling 920 the last two years. In 2021, when the Bears won the Big 12 championship, Ika generated 24 hurries and six sacks. Those numbers fell last year to 15 hurries and no sacks. But in 2021 Ika largely played a 50-50 split as a nose and 3-technique, while last season two-thirds of his snaps came in the B gap. His future is likely to come at the A gap or 0-technique.

Grade: A-

99. San Francisco 49ers: Jake Moody, K, Michigan

One of the top kickers in recent Big Ten history, Moody hit 29 of 35 field goals last season and all 60 extra points. It’s easy to pan taking a kicker in the third round, but this is a team challenging for the Super Bowl, and a field goal in cold weather could determine the outcome. Moody is comfortable in those situations. It’s not a bad choice but still a tad too early.

Grade: C

100. Las Vegas Raiders: Tre Tucker, WR, Cincinnati

A speedster who ran a 4.4 40 at the combine, Tucker fits the Raiders’ historic personality. Tucker (5-8 ½, 182) caught 52 passes for 672 yards and three touchdowns last year. But he also had six dropped passes. He’s tough and fast, but his length could create issues. If he can contribute as a kick returner, it’s a good pick. But Tucker’s teammate, Tyler Scott, was far more accomplished.

Grade: C

101. San Francisco 49ers: Cameron Latu, TE, Alabama

A solid tight end who can learn beside George Kittle, Latu (6-4 3/8, 242) was a two-year starter at Alabama and set the program record in 2021 for single-season touchdowns (eight) for his position group. Latu finished with 56 catches for 787 yards and 12 touchdowns after moving from defensive end to tight end.

Latu doesn’t wow in many areas, but he’s solid and adds something to San Francisco’s offense. That’s important.

Grade: B

102. Minnesota Vikings: Mekhi Blackmon, CB, USC

The Vikings entered the draft with only five selections and worked the third round to their favor by trading down and ending up with a quality cornerback in Blackmon (5-11 178). Last season he was a first-team All-Pac-12 corner with 15 passes defensed, three interceptions and 66 tackles. He has good speed (4.47 in the 40) and has decent strength (11 reps of 225 in the bench press) but needs to avoid penalties (five pass interference calls).

But Minnesota needs defensive backs for the No. 31-ranked defense, and Blackmon has the capability to play right away.

Grade: B-

(Top image: John Bradford / The Athletic;
photos: Joe Robbins, G Fiume, Jonathan Bachman / Getty Images