First Round Mock Draft – 4.0

First Round Mock Draft – 4.0

Frank Coyle/ Head scout

 NFL Combine & March Free Agency Newsletters – available now

Photo – LB Will Anderson – Alabama
               Alabama Photographer – Evan Pilat

 Mock draft during Pro Day schedule and after early weeks of NFL Free Agency.

1st Round

  #         Team                   W/L      Player           Pos      Ht/Wt          School

1         Carolina (Chicago)         7-10      Bryce Young                    QB       5-10, 195          Alabama
2         Houston                        3-13-1   CJ Stroud                           QB       6-3, 215            Ohio State
3         Arizona                         4-13      Will Anderson                   Edge    6-3, 250            Alabama
4         Indianapolis                  4-12-1   Will Levis                         QB       6-4, 230            Kentucky
5         Seattle (Denver)            5-12      Jalen Carter                     DT        6-3, 315            Georgia
6         Detroit (LA Rams)        5-12      Devon Witherspoon      CB        6-1, 180            Illinois
7         Las Vegas                        6-11      Anthony Richardson       QB       6-4, 245            Florida
8         Atlanta                            7-10      Myles Murphy                  DE       6-5, 270            Clemson
9         Chicago (Carolina0       3-14      Paris Johnson                  OT        6-6, 315            Ohio State
10         Phil (New Orleans)     7-10      Tyree Wilson                    DE       6-6, 270            Texas Tech
11         Tennessee                       7-10      Broderick Jones             OT        6-5, 310            Georgia
12         Houston (Cleveland)     7-10      Quentin Johnston        WR       6-3, 210            TCU
13       NY Jets                           7-10      Peter Skoronski          OT        6-4, 315         Northwestern
14         New England                8-9        Michael Mayer                TE        6-4, 250            Notre Dame
15         Green Bay                      8-9        Jaxon Smith-Njigba      WR       6-0, 195            Ohio State
16         Washington                   8-8-1     Bijan Robinson              RB        5-11, 225          Texas
17         Pittsburgh                      9-8        Christian Gonzalez         CB        6-1. 200            Oregon
18         Detroit                           9-8        Jordan Addison              WR       5-11, 175      Southern Cal
19         Tampa Bay                    8-9       Joey Porter                       CB        6-2, 195            Penn State
20         Seattle                          9-8        Lukas Van Ness           Edge    6-5, 270          Iowa
Miami (pick forfeited)                9-8
21         LA Chargers                  10-7      Dalton Kincaid                 TE       6-4, 245           Utah
22         Baltimore                       10-7      Nolan Smith                     Edge    6-2, 240            Georgia
23         Minnesota                      12-4      Kelee Ringo                      CB        6-2, 205            Georgia
24         Jacksonville                   9-8        Trent Simpson                LB        6-2, 235            Clemson
25         NY Giants                      9-7-1     Brian Branch                    S          5-11, 195          Alabama
26         Dallas                          12-5      Cam Smith                       CB        6-1, 190        South Carolina
27         Buffalo                            13-3      Will McDonald                  Edge    6-4, 240           Iowa State
28         Cincinnati                      12-4     John Michael Schmitz     C        6-3, 315           Minnesota
29         New Orleans (Den-S.F.-Mia) 13-4   Luke Musgrave      TE       6-6, 255           Oregon State
30         Philadelphia                  14-3      O’Cyrus Torrence           OG       6-5, 330            Florida
31         Kansas City                      14-3      Isaiah Foskey                Edge    6-5, 260            Notre Dame




NFL Free Agency – 2nd Tier Features Odell, Floyd, Wagner & Risner

Free Agency – 2nd Tier Features Odell, Floyd, Wagner & Risner

 Top Remaining Free Agents – Unrestricted & ‘Street’ Players

    March 21, 2023
     Frank Coyle/ Head scout

  Rank / Player / Position / Team / Age  

  1. Leonard Floyd, Edge, Rams: Age 29

Cap casualty in LA and still effective after 9 sacks in 2022. Expect a contender stepping to the plate and landing him.

  1. Dalton Risner, G, Broncos. Age: 28.

Tough durable veteran with rare versatility and consistently high grades. Excellent pass protector.

    13. Odell Beckham, WR, Rams – Age: 30
Playmaker looks to return from his 2nd ACL surgery. GMen and Boys at the head of the line.

  1. Bobby Wagner, LB, Rams – Age: 33

Another Rams cap casualty and part of the endless SB hangover. Still an impact defender, though only
a short deal works here.

  1. Yannick Ngakoue, DE, Colts – Age: 28

This playmaker changes teams annually and will again entertain all offers. Becoming a situational edge
piece, though still very effective on passing downs.

  1. D.J. Chark, WR, Lions – Age: 26

Fast young veteran comes off an injury riddled stay in Detroit. High quality #2 in right scheme.

  1. Marcus Peters, CB, Ravens – Age: 30

Tough veteran corner is still playing at a high level and will perk interest from playoff clubs, though
probably on a shorter deal.

  1. Donovan Smith, OT, Bucs – Age: 28

Young vet left tackle was a late addition as a cap casualty. Look for a contender on a short deal.

  1. Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Raiders – Age: 27

Savvy young cover man has performed well when healthy. Talented cornerback could be great value
on deal.

  1. Taylor Rapp, S, Rams – Age: 25

Tough young run stuffer with improved coverage skills.

  1. Mecole Hardman, WR, Chiefs – Age: 25

Fast young vet is coming off hamstring surgery. One of the best returners in the league and a
playmaker from the slot or outside especially on reverses and screens.

  1. A’Shawn Robinson, DL, Rams – Age: 28
  2. Bryce Callahan, CB, Chargers – Age: 31
  3. Leonard Fournette, RB, Bucs – Age: 28
  4.  Terrell Edmunds, S, Steelers – Age: 26
  5.  Frank Clark, DE, Chiefs – Age: 31
  6.  Robert Quinn, DE, Eagles – Age: 33
  7.  Shelby Harris, DT, Broncos – Age: 30
  8.  Calais Campbell, DL, Ravens – Age: 37
  9.  Rodney Hudson, C, Cardinals – Age: 35
  10.  Foster Moreau, TE, Raiders – Age: 27
  11.  Nasir Adderley, S, Chargers – Age: 27 (Retired)
  12.  John Johnson, S, Browns – Age: 27
  13.  Zeke Elliott, RB – Cowboys – Age: 29
  14.  Adrian Amos, S, Packers – Age: 30
  15.  Connor McGovern, C/G, Jets – Age: 30
  16.  Poona Ford, NT, Seahawks – Age: 27
  17.  Taylor Lewan, OT, Titans – Age: 30
  18.  Andrew Van Ginkel, LB, Dolphins – Age: 27
  19.  Austin Hooper, TE, Titans – Age: 30
  20.  Johnathan Abram, S, Raiders – Age: 27
  21.  Isaiah Wynn, OT, Patriots – Age: 28
  22. Kareem Hunt, RB, Browns – Age: 28
  23. Ryan Neal, S, Seahawks – Age: 27
  24. Byron Cowart, DL, Seahawks – Age: 28
  25. Kwon Alexander, LB, Jets – Age: 33
  26. Anthony Walker, LB, Browns – Age: 28
  27. Deion Jones, LB, Browns – Age: 30
  28. Keisean Nixon, CB/KR, Packers – Age: 26
  29. Rashaan Evans, LB, Falcons – Age: 27
  30. Landon Collins, DB, Giants – Age: 29
  31. Zach Cunningham. LB, Titans – Age: 29
  32. Ronald Darby, CB, Broncos – Age: 31
  33. Shaquill Griffin, CB, Bucs – Age: 26
  34. Melvin Ingram, DE, Dolphins – Age: 34
  35. Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Dolphins – Age: 30
  36. Denzel Perryman, LB, Raiders – Age: 30
  37.  Jermaine Eluemunor, OT, Raiders – Age: 28
  38.  Justin Houston, DE/OLB, Ravens – Age: 34
  39.  Richie James, WR, Giants – Age: 27
  40.  Rodney McLeod, S, Colts – Age: 33
  41.  Jon Feliciano, C/G, Giants – Age: 31
  42.  Jason Verrett, CB, 49ers – Age: 32
  43.  Jaylon Smith, LB, Giants – Age: 29
  44.  Jadeveon Clowney, DE, Browns – Age: 30
  45.  Matt Ioannidis, DT, Panthers – Age: 29
  46.  Jamison Crowder, WR, Bills – Age: 31
  47.  L.J. Collier, DE, Seahawks – Age: 27
  48.  Brandon Shell, OT, Dolphins – Age: 29
  49.  Damien Wilson, LB, Panthers – Age: 30
  50.  Nelson Agholor, WR, Patriots – Age: 31
  51.  Irv Smith Jr., TE, Vikings – Age: 27
  52. George Fant, OT, Jets – Age: 30
  53. Fabian Moreau, CB, Giants – Age: 28
  54. Mason Rudolph, QB, Steelers – Age: 28
  55. Duron Harmon, S, Raiders – Age: 32
  56. Anthony Barr, LB, Vikings – Age: 31

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NFL Free Agency 2023 – Top 111 Players

NFL Free Agency 2023 – Top 111 Players

 Free Agents – Unrestricted & ‘Street’ – 
    All Trades and FA Signings Announced Starting March 15th

Top 111 Free Agents 
     Unrestricted & ‘Street’ Players
     Frank Coyle/ Head scout

                     Rank / Player / Position / Team / Age  

    1. Orlando Brown, OT, Chiefs – Age: 27

Quality left tackles are difficult to find and Brown will get interest in the NFL. Just 27, he performs well
in big game situations and will command attention especially from contenders.

  1. Javon Hargrave, DT, Eagles – Age: 30

Strong interior pass rusher looks for a big payday. He struggles in run defense and is viewed as a
rotational piece by several clubs.

    1. Jessie Bates, S, Bengals – Age: 26

Young defender comes up best in big game situations. Very tough vs the run and improving in
coverage.

    1. Zach Allen, DE/DT, Cardinals – Age: 26

Player on the come after a huge 2022 performance. Versatile edge defender will command a big
contract.

  1. Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S/CB, Eagles – Age: 25

Versatile young defender lines up at several positions and will be in high demand in today’s game.

  1.  Dalton Schultz, TE, Cowboys. Age: 27.

Talented receiving tight end did not get the Franchise tag this season. The deep TE draft class may
effect offers here and he could resign with Big D.

  1.   Dre’mont Jones, DT, Broncos: Age 28

Quick interior lineman with big play ability and one of the hidden gems in this class.

  1. Mike McGlinchey, OT, 49ers . Age: 28

High quality right tackle in his prime are always in demand. 49ers will be limited in any offer especially
after signing DT Hargrave.

  1. Leonard Floyd, Edge, Rams: Age 29

Cap casualty in LA and still effective after 9 sacks in 2022. Expect a contender stepping to the plate

and landing him.

  1. Jamel Dean, CB, Buccaneers. Age: 26.

Tough young corner graded out high weekly and will be coveted by many clubs.

  1. Jakobi Meyers, WR, Patriots. Age: 26.

Quality possession receiver in a weak FA class at the position. Good #2 receiver for offense.

  1. Dalton Risner, G, Broncos. Age: 28.

Tough durable veteran with rare versatility and consistently high grades. Excellent pass protector.

  1. Odell Beckham, WR, Rams – Age: 30

Playmaker looks to return from his 2nd ACL surgery. GMen and Boys at the head of the line.

  1. Tremaine Edmunds, LB, Bills – Age: 25

Coming off a breakout performance and a three down Mike with big play ability.

  1. Bobby Wagner, LB, Rams – Age: 33

Another Rams cap casualty and part of the endless SB hangover. Still an impact defender, though only
a short deal works here.

  1. Cameron Sutton, CB, Steelers – Age: 28

Young corner coming off an excellent year and signed with the Lions.

  1. James Bradberry, CB, Eagles – Age: 30

Wily veteran rebounded with an excellent performance in his 1-year time with the Eagles in 2022.
Eagles also may trade shutdown CB Darius Slay.

  1. Jawaan Taylor, OT, Jaguars – Age: 25

Young RT may get a few strong offers, though is not coming off a quality performance while giving up
five sacks.  Signed with Chiefs on a 4-year deal.

  1. Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, 49ers – Age: 31

Finished in SF despite a solid career despite annual durability issues. Signed with the Raiders.

  1. Yannick Ngakoue, DE, Colts – Age: 28

This playmaker changes teams annually and will again entertain all offers. Becoming a situational edge
piece, though still very effective on passing downs.

  1. Miles Sanders, RB, Eagles – Age: 26

Tough back could resign here, though must become more well rounded to be feature back.

  1. D.J. Chark, WR, Lions – Age: 26

Fast young veteran comes off an injury riddled stay in Detroit. High quality #2 in right scheme.

  1. Mike Gesicki TE, Dolphins – Age: 30

Agile sure handed veteran did not fit in the Dolphins passing game. Capable of being a total steal at
reasonable numbers.

  1. Isaac Seumalo, G, Eagles – Age: 29

Hard-nosed veteran is still in his prime and looks for a big payday here.

  1. Jordan Poyer, S, Bills – Age: 32

Savvy playmaking veteran was excellent in 2022. May have to settle for a shorter deal due to age,
though still a ball hawk.

  1. Marcus Peters, CB, Ravens – Age: 30

Tough veteran corner is still playing at a high level and will perk interest from playoff clubs, though
probably on a shorter deal.

  1. Jason Kelce, C, Eagles – Age: 35

Future HOFer will return on a 1-year deal and anchor the Eagles front line one more time.

  1. Baker Mayfield, QB, Rams – Age: 27

Looking for his 4th team in short career, though barely given a shot at last two stops with Carolina and
Rams. Any new club (Bucs) could find lightning in a bottle if fully healthy and right scheme.

  1. Vonn Bell, S, Bengals – Age: 28

Well-rounded safety will get a strong off from Bengals especially with Bates most likely gone.

  1. Byron Murphy, CB, Cardinals – Age: 25

Young talented corner returns after missing half the 2022 season with a knee injury. Quality cover man
could be a major steal if the price is reasonable.

  1. Dalvin Tomlinson, DT, Vikings – Age: 29

Quick wide body tackle with burst to be disruptive to penetrate and also play the run very well.

  1. Patrick Peterson, CB, Vikings – Age: 33

Aging Pro Bowl corner is coming off a comeback performance in 2022 that brought attention to one of
the premier cover men in the game. Signed with Steelers and good fit for their veteran unit.

  1. Donovan Smith, OT, Bucs – Age: 28

Young vet left tackle was a late addition as a cap casualty. Look for a contender on a short deal.

  1. Lavonte David, LB, Buccaneers – Age: 33

Savvy veteran hopes to land with a playoff contender and make another run at a ring.

  1. Ben Powers, G, Ravens – Age: 26

Young hard-nosed guard has developed nicely especially as a pass protector. ,He signed with the
Broncos early in the process.

  1. David Long, LB, Titans – Age: 26

Savvy undersized backer is just entering his prime. Playoff teams should be on line.

  1.   Jimmie Ward, S, 49ers – Age: 32

Talented playmaker has had durability issues annually which will hurt interest by many clubs.

  1. Garrett Bradbury, C, Vikings – Age: 28

Young pivotman had a good 2022 season after a tough career start. Struggles vs big nose tackles,
but graded out high in 2022 and should get interest on the second wave of free agency.

  1. Kaleb McGary, OT, Falcons – Age: 28

Right tackle has become a solid pass protector, in addition to top run blocker.

  1. Jonathan Jones, CB, Patriots – Age: 29

Veteran cover man has provided top play both on the outside and in the slot. The Pats resigned him to
keep their secondary intact.

  1. Marcus Davenport, DE, Saints – Age: 26

Erratic veteran had a poor 2022 season after a strong performance in 2021. He has not shown
consistent pass rushing production which could force him to a second tier signing.

  1. Donovan Wilson, S, Cowboys – Age: 28

Tough young veteran is coming off a strong 2022 season where he performed well in a number of
roles. He tackles, can blitz and is effective in coverage. Good addition.

  1. Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Raiders – Age: 27

Savvy young cover man has performed well when healthy. Talented cornerback could be great value
on deal.

  1. Nate Davis, G, Titans – Age: 26

One of the best guards in the league and only 26. Solid addition to an interior.

  1. Taylor Rapp, S, Rams – Age: 25

Tough young run stuffer with improved coverage skills.

  1. David Montgomery, RB, Bears – Age: 28

Thumper with well-developed game, though average speed and big play production.

  1. JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, Chiefs – Age: 26

Savvy veteran comes off a good performance for the SB champs. Young and production either from the slot or outside and looking to land with a contender and possibly returning to KC.

  1. Drue Tranquill, LB, Chargers – Age: 28

Young Will backer is a high quality cover man and excellent piece in the sub packages. Struggles in
run support.

  1. Mecole Hardman, WR, Chiefs – Age: 25

Fast young vet is coming off hamstring surgery. One of the best returners in the league and a
playmaker from the slot or outside especially on reverses and screens.

  1. Allen Lazard, WR, Packers – Age: 30

Physical veteran is a quality possession receiver and may follow QB Aaron Rodgers to the Jets if that
signing ever takes place.

  1. Germaine Pratt, LB, Bengals – Age: 27

Hard hitting backer has developed into a quality three down defender. He couples with Logan Wilson to
form an excellent duo. He resigned with the Bengals.

  1. Jamaal Williams, RB, Lions – Age: 29
  2.   Bobby Okereke, LB, Colts – Age: 27
  3. David Onyemata, DT, Saints – Age: 30
  4. Leonard Fournette, RB, Bucs – Age: 28
  5.   Juan Thornhill, S, Chiefs – Age: 27
  6. Arden Key, EDGE, Jaguars – Age: 26
  7.   Terrell Edmunds, S, Steelers – Age: 26
  8.   Frank Clark, DE, Chiefs – Age: 31
  9. Devin Singletary, RB, Bills – Age: 25
  10.   Robert Quinn, DE, Eagles – Age: 33
  11. Graham Glasgow, OL, Broncos – Age: 30
  12.   Bradley Bozeman, OL, Panthers – Age: 27
  13.    Julian Love, S, Giants – Age: 25
  14. Shelby Harris, DT, Broncos – Age: 30
  15.   Eric Kendricks, LB, Vikings – Age: 32
  16.   Rodney Hudson, C, Cardinals – Age: 35
  17.   Greg Gaines, DT, Rams – Age: 27
  18.    Foster Moreau, TE, Raiders – Age: 27
  19.   Nasir Adderley, S, Chargers – Age: 27
  20.   John Johnson, S, Browns – Age: 27
  21.    Leighton Vander Esch, LB, Cowboys – Age: 26
  22.   Ethan Pocic, C, Browns – Age: 28
  23.   Adrian Amos, S, Packers – Age: 30
  24.    Connor McGovern, C/G, Jets – Age: 30
  25.    Cooper Rush, QB, Cowboys – Age: 27
  26. Adam Thielen, WR, Vikings – Age: 31
  27.   Poona Ford, NT, Seahawks – Age: 27
  28.   Taylor Lewan, OT, Titans – Age: 30
  29. Sam Darnold, QB, Panthers – Age: 27
  30.   DeShon Elliott, S, Lions – Age: 26
  31.   Darius Slayton, WR, Giants – Age: 27
  32. Fletcher Cox, DT, Eagles – Age: 32
  33.   Edge Andrew Van Ginkel, LB, Dolphins – Age: 27
  34.   Austin Hooper, TE, Titans – Age: 30
  35.   Johnathan Abram, S, Raiders – Age: 27
  36.   Hayden Hurst, TE, Bengals – Age: 29
  37. Trayvon Mullen, CB, Raiders – Age: 27
  38. Isaiah Wynn, OT, Patriots – Age: 28
  39. Jarrett Stidham, QB, Raiders – Age: 27
  40.   Andrew Wylie, OT, Chiefs – Age: 28
  41. Alex Anzalone, LB, Lions – Age: 29
  42. Robert Tonyan, TE, Packers – Age: 28
  43. Kareem Hunt, RB, Browns – Age: 28
  44. Ryan Neal, S, Seahawks – Age: 27
  45. Josh Oliver, TE, Ravens – Age: 26
  46. Byron Cowart, DL, Seahawks – Age: 28
  47.    Connor McGovern, OG, Cowboys – Age: 27
  48.   Kwon Alexander, LB, Jets – Age: 33
  49. Andre Dillard, OT, Eagles – Age: 27
  50. Jarran Reed, DL, Packers – Age: 30
  51. Anthony Walker, LB, Browns – Age: 28
  52. Jeff Wilson Jr., RB, Dolphins – Age: 27
  53. Parris Campbell, WR. Colts – Age: 26
  54. Alexander Mattison, RB, Vikings – Age: 25
  55. Emmanuel Moseley, CB, 49ers – Age: 27
  56. Gardner Minshew, QB, Eagles – Age: 27
  57. Deion Jones, LB, Browns – Age: 30
  58. Keisean Nixon, CB/KR, Packers – Age: 26
  59. Sean Murphy-Bunting, CB, Buccaneers – Age: 26
  60. Cole Holcomb, LB, Redskins – Age: 27



Bears Deal #1 Overall Pick to the Panthers in Blockbuster Trade

Bears Deal #1 Overall Pick to the Panthers

 Bears Land Two #1 & #2 Picks Plus Wideout D.J. Moore Over Next Three Drafts

Frank Coyle/ Head scout – DraftInsiders.com

The Bears have a major trade in line for their No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft when the league year starts on March 15th. The Panthers paid a huge price for the #1 overall pick in exchange for a compensation package that includes two 1st-round picks, two #2 picks and receiver D.J. Moore.

The full package of assets sent to Chicago can be the bonanza the Bears need to land several blue-chip prospects to their young roster. They received the ninth-overall pick this year, a 2nd-round selection in 2023 (# 61 overall originally from the 49ers), a 1st-round pick in 2024, a 2nd-round pick in 2025 plus the veteran wideout DJ Moore. He completed the first year of a three-year, $61M million contract with the Panthers. The Bears now have four of the top 64 selections.

Panthers are now in the position to land their #1 QB after several seasons of a revolving door at the position. Owner David Tepper has lost patience on the QB carousel in his short time in Carolina and realizes that Super Bowl contenders almost always ride the arm of a top flight passer. The payment of draft capital seems enormous and most likely earmarked for QB Bryce Young or CJ Stroud. The Panthers were competitive last season within a weak division that they feel they can challenge for the division title this season with a better playmaker at the controls. They also watch divisional rival, the Saints signed Derek Carr last week making them the favorite for the NFC South almost immediately.




NFL Awards Compensatory Selections to 16 Teams

NFL Awards 37 Compensatory Selections
49ers and Rams Receive Multiple Picks

NFL announced it has awarded 37 compensatory picks to 16 teams for the NFL Draft 2023, which will be held April 27-29 in Kansas City, Missouri.

Two NFC West teams led the way, with the 49ers receiving a league-high seven selections and the Rams gaining four draft choices. The 37 compensatory picks include five special selections that were awarded at the end of the third round to teams that have had a minority employee hired as a head coach or primary football executive by another club. Three of those picks were awarded to San Francisco. The special compensatory picks were instituted as an amendment to the 2020 Collective Bargaining Agreement to promote equal employment opportunities within NFL teams.

As for the compensatory picks awarded that were not based on coaching or executive hires, a team losing more or better compensatory free agents than it acquires in the previous year is eligible to receive compensatory draft picks. The compensatory picks are positioned from Round 3 to Round 7 based on the value of the compensatory free agents lost. The formula that determines compensatory free agents is based on salary, playing time and postseason honors.

In addition, the league penalized the Houston Texans their original 5th round selection this year for a salary cap violation. They determined the Texans provided QB Deshaun Watson an undisclosed compensation in the form of a membership at an alternative athletic facility in 2020. Texans have two #1 picks the 2nd and 12th overall selections.

List of Compensatory Picks awarded to teams for the NFL Draft
   * special compensatory picks for coaching and team personnel lost

Round 3
96 – Arizona Cardinals
97 – Washington Commanders
* 98 – Cleveland Browns
* 99 – San Francisco 49ers
* 100 – Kansas City Chiefs
* 101 – San Francisco 49ers
* 102 – San Francisco 49ers

Round 4
135 – New England Patriots

Round 5
167 – Los Angeles Rams
168 – Arizona Cardinals
169 – Dallas Cowboys
170 – Green Bay Packers
171 – Los Angeles Rams
172 – New York Giants
173 – San Francisco 49ers
174 – Las Vegas Raiders
175 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
176 – Dallas Cowboys
177 – Los Angeles Rams

Round 6
210 – New England Patriots
211 – Minnesota Vikings
212 – Dallas Cowboys
213 – Arizona Cardinals
214 – Las Vegas Raiders
215 – Washington Commanders
216 – San Francisco 49ers
217 – Kansas City Chiefs

Round 7
250 – Kansas City Chiefs
251 – Los Angeles Rams
252 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
253 – San Francisco 49ers
254 – New York Giants
255 – San Francisco 49ers
256 – Green Bay Packers
257 – New Orleans Saints
258 – Chicago Bears
259 – Houston Texans

Total 2023 Compensatory Picks by Team

Team                                # of Picks
San Francisco 49ers               7
Los Angeles Rams                 4
Arizona Cardinals                   3
Dallas Cowboys                      3
Kansas City Chiefs                 3
Green Bay Packers                2
Las Vegas Raiders                 2
New England Patriots             2
New York Giants                     2
Tampa Bay Buccaneers         2
Washington Commanders      2
Chicago Bears                        1
Cleveland Browns                   1
Houston Texans                     1
Minnesota Vikings                  1
New Orleans Saints                1




NFL Franchise Tag Deadline – Giants Close Deal on Daniel Jones

NFL Franchise Tag Deadline
Giants Close Deal on Daniel Jones, Tag Saquon Barkley

Photo – QB Daniel Jones – Giants
Photo – Ben Solomon – NY Giants

The NFL franchise tag deadline created several huge changes in the makeup of playoff teams and the QB position in particular. The Ravens tagged QB Lamar Jackson after extended contract talks failed to close a deal. Teams have until July to negotiate Other potential free agent QBs, Daniel Jones, Geno Smith and Derek Carr closed huge deals on the final days prior to the deadline. Jones signed a 4-year deal for $160M plus incentives after an excellent 2022 performance which led to the playoffs. Carr ended his NFL caravan with a four-year deal with the Saints. He looks like a perfect fit for the declining Saints who have the team makeup to make a fast turnaround and win the weak NFC South. Smith may be the best story of the year after a checkered NFL career with more failures as a starter. He led the Seahawks to a postseason in 2022 after Seattle traded star QB Russell Wilson last offseason.

Tuesday marked the official deadline for NFL teams to use a tag on players whose contracts are set to expire.

After the signing of Daniel Jones, the Giants GM Joe Schoen was able to tag Saquon Barkley and retain their two star free agents. Giants brass and Barkley will work to close a deal over the next few weeks to create more salary cap room for the upcoming Free Agency market.

Previously, the NFL announced the 2023 salary cap will be a record $224.8 million per club. That’s an increase of 8% from the $208.2 million in 2022. Prior years were $182.5M in 2021 (Covid adjustment), 198.2M in 2020 and $188.2M in 2019.

NFL teams have until 4 pm est on March 15th to get under the salary cap before the free agency period officially opens.

Non-Exclusive Franchise Tag Players (6) – deadline March 7, 2023

Quarterback – $32.42M – tag average for position
Lamar Jackson, QB, Ravens. Age 26

Running back – $10.1M tag average for position
  Saquon Barkley, RB, Giants. Age: 26
Tony Pollard, RB, Cowboys. Age: 26
Josh Jacobs, RB, Raiders. Age: 26

Tight end – $11.36M – tag average
Evan Engram, TE, Jaguars. Age: 28

Defensive tackle – $18.94M tag for tackles
Da’Ron Payne, NT, Redskins. Age: 26.

2023 Franchise/Transition tag figures
Position                       Franchise #
Quarterback:               $32.42M
Running back:             $10.1M
Wide receiver:             $19.74M
Tight end:                    $11.36M
Offensive linemen:      $18.24M
Defensive end:            $19.73M
Defensive tackle:         $18.94M
Linebacker:                 $20.93M
Cornerback:                 $18.14M
Safety:                         $14.46M
Kicker/punter:              $5.39M

Transition #
Quarterback:               $29.5M
Running back:             $8.43M
Wide receiver:             $17.99M
Tight end:                    $9.72M
Offensive linemen:      $16.66M
Defensive end:            $17.45M
Defensive tackle:        $16.1M
Linebacker:                 $17.48M
Cornerback:                $15.79M
Safety:                        $11.87M
Kicker/punter:             $4.87M
 
There are three tender options: 1) Non-exclusive franchise tag; 2) Exclusive franchise tag; 3) Transition tag.
 
Non-exclusive franchise tag – This is a one-year tender of the average of the top five salaries at the player’s position over the last five years, or 120 percent of his previous salary, whichever is greater. The player can negotiate with other teams. The player’s current team has the right to match any offer or receive two first-round draft picks as compensation if he signs with another club.

Exclusive franchise tag: Unlike the non-exclusive version, the tagging team retains the sole right to negotiate with the player. The exclusivity comes with a bump in pay scale (current average salary versus averaging of the previous five years). This one-year tender offer of the average of the top five salaries at the player’s position for the current year, or 120 percent of his previous salary, whichever is greater. The rise in pay scale means only a select few get this tag. Usually, players for whom other teams would gladly give up two first-round picks receive this version of the tag — generally, quarterbacks.

Transition tag: The transition tag is a one-year tender offer for the average of the top 10 salaries at the position — as opposed to the top five for the franchise tag. It guarantees the original club the right of first refusal to match any offer the player might receive from another club. The tagging team is awarded no compensation if it chooses not to match a deal.




HBCU Legacy Bowl Game

HBCU Legacy Bowl Game

Feb. 25, Saturday, 4 pm est – NFL Network
   Yulman Stadium, Tulane University, New Orleans, La

The HBCU Legacy Bowl is a postseason HBCU football All-Star game, highlighting the top draft-eligible prospects from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The HBCU Legacy Bowl began in 2022 and is presented yearly by the Black College Football Hall of Fame. In 2023, the HBCU Legacy Bowl partnered with the NFL to host the HBCU Combine ahead of the game. The Combine occurred earlier this week with many of the players in this game.

The two HBCU Legacy Bowl teams are Team Gaither and Team Robinson, named after legendary HBCU head coaches Jake Gaither (Florida A&M) and Eddie Robinson (Grambling St.). Team Gaither will be led by co-head coaches Richard Hayes Jr. (Fayetteville St.) and Trei Oliver (North Carolina Central). Team Robinson will be led by co-head coaches Chennis Berry (Benedict College) and Eric Dooley (Southern University).

The HBCU Legacy Bowl selected Saints quarterback Jameis Winston and former Saints left tackle Terron Armstead as Honorary Captains for this year’s event.

Winston and Armstead are founding partners with the HBCU Legacy Bowl and other NFL players, such as NFL MVP and Super Bowl LVII champion Patrick Mahomes, who was the event’s inaugural honorary captain.

The second HBCU Legacy Bowl will showcase prospects hoping to earn a roster spot in the NFL, CFL, USFL, XFL, or other professional leagues. The event will be held at Tulane University’s Yulman Stadium at 3:00 pm CT on Feb. 25. The NFL Network will broadcast the contest with Steve Wyche (play-by-play) and Charles Davis (color analyst) in the booth.

2023 HBCU Legacy Bowl Rosters and Breakdown

# Players     Conference

34                      SWAC
20                      CIAA
16                       SIAC
12                      MEAC
5                        Big South
4                        OVC, NAIA
2                        CAA
 
2023 HBCU Legacy Bowl rosters

Team Gaither has 50 players in the 2023 HBCU Legacy Bowl and Team Robinson has 47 players. Here’s a complete list of the 2023 HBCU Legacy Bowl rosters.

Team Gaither

#          Prospect                      Position           School
Offense           

1          Dion “DJ” Gollat Jr.        QB                   Bowie State
2          Alfonzo Graham            RB                    Morgan State
4          Edward Hicks II             WR                   North Carolina Central
5          Jahkari Grant                QB                   Virginia Union
6          Morgan Scroggins         WR                   Bowie State
8          Antoine Murray              WR                   Howard
9          Darius Hagans              RB                    Virginia State
11         Jalen Fowler                 QB                   North Carolina A&T
12         Jerrish Halsey               WR                   Delaware State
13         Jeremiah Holloman       WR                   Tennessee State
19         Zach Leslie                   WR                   North Carolina A&T
20         Taurean Taylor              RB                    Tuskegee
28         Tyler King                     RB                    Edward Waters
40         Elton Andrew Jr.            K                      Fayetteville State
53         Quinton Bobo Jr.           OL                    Bowie State
54         Robert Mitchell              OL                    North Carolina Central
55         Dacquari Wilson Jr.       OL                    North Carolina A&T
58         Tyrese Bobbit               OL                    Shaw
62         Christopher Georgia      OL                    Tennessee State
70         Robert Lacey III             OL                    Tennessee State
72         Christopher Simon        OL                    South Carolina State
74         Colby Byrd                    OL                    Norfolk State
75         Christopher Anthony      OL                    Morgan State
76         Darian Bryant                OL                    Virginia Union
81         Tyler Barnes                  TE                    North Carolina Central
86         Myles Wright                 TE/LS               Morgan State
90         Jacob Young                P                      Fayetteville State

Defense                                    
0          Joshua Pryor                DL                    Bowie State
3          Malik Johnson               CB                    Central State
4          Derrick Tucker               S                      Texas Southern
5          Kai Gray                       S                      Lincoln (PA)
6          Jermaine McDaniel        DL                    North Carolina A&T
7          Demetrius Mann            S                      Virginia Union
8          Isaiah Williams              DL                    Delaware State
9          Jaleel Scroggins           CB                    Shaw
10         Brandon Barnes-Brown  CB                    Fayetteville State
11         Jahsun Bryant               LB                    Tennessee State
15         Keshaun Moore             DL                    Hampton
16         Damontay Rhem            LB                    Virginia Union
17         Julius Ali Shocklay        CB                    Hampton
18         Brandon Gaddy             DL                    Alabama State
21         Raymond Boone           S                      Bowie State
27         Jai Nunn-Liddell             CB                    Kentucky State
33         Woodly Appolon           LB                    Tuskegee
42         Zion Johnson                LB                    Virginia State
48         Brooks Parker III            LB                    Delaware State
50         Devin Harrell                 DL                    North Carolina A&T
54         Juanya’ Majette             LB                    Elizabeth City State
98         Ronald Johnson Jr.       DL                    Virginia Union
99         Ellison Jordan               DL                    Bowie State
 
Team Robinson

#          Prospect                      Position           School
Offense                                    
0          Emanuel Wilson            RB                    Fort Valley State
1          Larry Harrington            QB                   Langston
3          Jacory Rankin               WR                   Mississippi Valley State
5          Que’shaun Byrd             RB                    Bethune-Cookman
6          Isiah Cox                      WR                   Alabama A&M
11         Skyler Perry                  QB                   Arkansas-Pine Bluff
12         Glendon McDaniel         QB                   Southern
13         Cornelius “CJ” Bolar      WR                   Alcorn State
17         DeVon McCoy               TE                    Clark Atlanta
19         Xavier Smith                 WR                   Florida A&M
21         Anthony “AJ” Davis       RB                    Florida A&M
23         Markel Scott                 RB                    Langston
42         Jose Romo-Martinez      K                      Florida A&M
43         Christopher Faddoul      P                      Florida A&M
44         Aarion Hartman             LS                    Jackson State
54         Drake Centers               OL                    Texas Southern
55         Henry Mitchell               OL                    Benedict
57         Tyler Pritchett                OL                    Benedict
63         Brian Williams               OL                    Southern
70         Cortez Herrin                 OL                    Alabama A&M
71         Emanuel Boone             OL                    Fort Valley State
72         Jeremiah Stafford         OL                    Southern
74         Tony Gray                     OL                    Jackson State
77         Maurice Campbell         OL                    Benedict
78         Jordan Johnson             OL                    Prairie View A&M

Defense                                    
1          Jason Dumas                DL                    Southern
3          Corione Harris               S                      Southern
4          De’Jahn “Nugget” Warren  CB                Jackson State
5          Keyron Kinsler Jr.          S                      Alcorn State
6          Reyondous Estes          CB                    Grambling State
9          Nelson Jordan II            DL                    Alabama State
10         Keenan Issac                CB                    Alabama State
12         Jamal Dorsey                DL                    Langston
20         Olajuwone Smith           S                      Benedict
21         Claudin Cherelus           LB                    Alcorn State
22         James Hawkins             CB                    Albany State
26         Devin Dourisseau          LB                    Langston
30         Stephen Pierre              LB                    Albany State
32         Jordan Lewis                 LB                    Southern
33         Tyler Moore                  CB                    Fort Valley State
35         Dre’Shuwn Terry            LB                    Alabama A&M
44         Andrew Farmer II           DL                    Lane
50         Ronnie Thomas             DL                    Mississippi Valley State
51         Tarik Cooper                 LB                    Texas Southern
92         Justin Ragin                  DL                    Jackson State
94         Cameron Peterson        DL                    Southern
99         Kevin Victorian              DL                    Prairie View A&M




NFL and HBCU Combine and Legacy Bowl Game

NFL and HBCU Combine and Legacy Bowl Game

HBCU Legacy Bowl week will officially kick off hosting the 2023 HBCU Combine at the New Orleans Saints’ Ochsner Sports Performance Center in Metairie, LA from 8:00 AM to 2:30 pm CT on Feb. 20.

47 HBCU student-athletes were invited by the National Football League and HBCU Legacy Bowl to participate in the event. The football players will be able to meet and interact with NFL executives, scouts, and decision-makers.

NFL has partnered with HBCU and the Black College Football Hall of Fame to have the HBCU Combine in New Orleans along with the Legacy Bowl,” Doug Williams said to HBCU Legends. “Because a lot of those guys who are going to be at the HBCU Combine will transition into playing in an HBCU Legacy Bowl game. I thought it was a great thing for us to have.”

HBCU Combine Schedule – Feb. 20th

8:00 AM to 11:00 AM – Offense: Combine Drills and Workouts
11:00 AM to 2:20 PM – Defense: Combine Drills and Workouts
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – Meeting with NFL Scouts

HBCU Legacy Bowl – Sat, Feb. 25th

 The 2023 HBCU Legacy Bowl selected Saints quarterback Jameis Winston and former Saints and current Dolphin left tackle Terron Armstead as Honorary Captains on the event scheduled for Feb. 25.

Winston and Armstead are founding partners with the HBCU Legacy Bowl and other NFL players, such as NFL MVP and Super Bowl LVII champion Patrick Mahomes, who was the event’s inaugural honorary captain.

The second HBCU Legacy Bowl will showcase the talent of 100 HBCU student-athletes hoping to earn a roster spot in the NFL, CFL, USFL, XFL, or other professional leagues. The event will be held at Tulane University’s Yulman Stadium at 3:00 PM CT on Feb. 25. The NFL Network will broadcast the contest with Steve Wyche (play-by-play) and Charles Davis (color analyst) in the booth.

2023 HBCU Combine Roster – Monday Feb. 20, 2023

Player                                      Position           College/University

Averett, Kemari                        TE                    Bethune-Cookman
Barnes-Brown, Brandon          DB                   Fayetteville State
Boone, Raymond                     DB                   Bowie State
Bryant, Darian                         G                      Va Union
Centers, Drake                         T/G                   Texas Southern
Cooper, Tarik                           LB                    Texas Southern
Cox, Isaiah                               WR                   Alabama A&M
Davis, A.J.                               RB                   FAMU
Dourisseau, Devin                   LB                    Langston
Dumas, Jason                          DT                    Southern
Estes, Rey                               DB                    Grambling State
Faddoul, Chris                         P                      FAMU
Farmer, Andrew                       LB/DE             Lane
Fowler, Jalen                           QB                   NC A&T
Golatt, Jr., Dion                       QB                   Bowie State
Graham, Alfonso                     RB                   Morgan State
Hagans, Darius                        RB                    Va State
Harrington, Larry                     QB                   Langston
Harris, Corione                        DB                   Southern
Hasley, Jerrish                        WR                   Delaware State
Holloman, J.J.                          WR                   Tennessee State
King, Tyler                               RB                   Edward Waters
Lacey, Robert                          T/G                   Tennessee State
Lee, Ricky                                T                      NC A&T
Leslie, Zach                             WR                   NC A&T
Lewis, Jordan                          LB                    Southern
McCoy, Devin                          TE/WR              Clark Atlanta
McDaniel, Jermaine                 DE                    NC A&T
Mitchell, Robert                       T/G                   NC Central
Moore, KeShaun                      LB                    Hampton
Murray, Antoine                       WR                   Howard
Parker, Brooks                        LB                    Delaware State
Perry, Skyler                            QB                   Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Peterson, Camron                    DT                    Southern
Pryor, Joshua                          LB/DE              Bowie State
Rankin, Jacory                         WR                   Miss Valley State
Romo-Martinez, Jose               K                      FAMU
Scott, Markell                          RB                    Langston
Shockey, Ali                            WR                   Hampton
Smith, Xavier                           WR                   FAMU
Thomas, Ronnie                      LB/DE              Miss. Valley State
Tucker, Derrick                        DB                    Texas Southern
Victorian, Kevin                       DE                    Prairie View
Warren, De’Jahn                      DB                   Jackson State
Williams, Brian                        T                      Southern
Wilson, Dacquari                     C                      NC A&T
Wilson, Emmanuel                   RB                   Fort Valley State
 




Hail to the Chiefs – Win their 2nd Super Bowl Title in Four Years

Hail to the Chiefs – Win their 2nd Super Bowl Title in Four Years
Chiefs Edge Eagles in Dramatic Finish to Super Bowl LVII

 QB Patrick Mahomes Wins MVP Award with classic 2nd half comeback. First NFL player to win both the SB MVP and season MVP since the Rams’ Kirk Warner.  

It was the Chiefs 3rd SB title with HC Andy Reid and QB Mahomes winning the last two championships over the past four years as a HC/QB combo. Mahomes was a brilliant over the 2nd half with the Chiefs ultimately winning on a last second FG breaking a 35-35 tie. It was a 62 yard drive which ended with a 27 FG by Harrison Butker.

The Chiefs trailed at halftime 24-14 and used the 2nd half kickoff  to springboard behind Mahomes to a TD on his way to directing an impressive late performance on an injured ankle. He directed three 2nd half TDs that pressured the Eagles and tied the game late. The Chiefs defense came up strong over the 4th quarter setting up the last second FG.

Chiefs have the core talent to compete for the Super Bowl annually which probably keeps HC Andy Reid in Kansas City for a few more seasons.

Hail to the Chiefs




Super Bowl LVII Showcases NFL 2023 Calendar

Super Bowl LVII Showcases NFL 2023 Calendar
NFL Draft 2023
Highlights Postseason

NFL 2023 Calendar

February

February 12 – Super Bowl LVII (State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona)

 February 28 – March 6 – NFL Scouting Combine (Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, In)

 March

March 7 – 4:00 p.m., New York time, deadline for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players.

March 7 – College Pro Days Begin.  Workouts of a school’s Pro Day-eligible players with players outside of the scheduled Pro Day activities are prohibited. Private dinners, meetings, interviews are permitted.

March 7-April 19 – Draft-Eligible Facility Visits Begin. Clubs permitted 30 non-local players for physical exams/visits; no on- field workouts.

March 7-April 26 – Video or telephone interviews with draft-eligible players begin. Three video or telephone interviews per player; no longer than one hour in length.

March 8-9 – Deadline for clubs (60 day after final regular season game) to conduct physical examinations pursuant to CBA Article 45, Section 7(a) for players claiming the Extended Injury Protection Benefit.

March 13-15 – Negotiation Period. During the period beginning at 12:00 noon, New York time, on March 13 and ending at 3:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 15, clubs are permitted to contact, and enter into contract negotiations with, the certified agents of players who will become Unrestricted Free Agents upon the expiration of their 2022 Player Contracts at 4:00 p.m., New York time, on March 15.

During the above two-day negotiating period, a prospective UFA who is not represented by an NFLPA Certified Contract Advisor is permitted to communicate directly with a new club’s front office officials (excluding the Head Coach and other members of the coaching staff) regarding contract negotiations.

No prospective Unrestricted Free Agent is permitted to execute a contract with a new club until 4:00 p.m.

March 15 – End/Start of League Year. Prior to 4:00 p.m., New York time, clubs must exercise options for 2023 on all players who have option clauses in their 2022 contracts.

Prior to 4:00 p.m., New York time, clubs must submit Qualifying Offers to their Restricted Free Agents with expiring contracts to retain a Right of First Refusal/Compensation.

Clubs must submit a Minimum Salary Tender to retain exclusive negotiating rights to their players with expiring 2022 contracts who have fewer than three Accrued Seasons of free agency credit.

Top 51 Rule is in effect. All clubs must be under the 2023 Salary Cap prior to 4:00 p.m., New York time. All 2022 NFL player contracts will expire at 4:00 p.m., New York time.

The 2023 League Year and Free Agency period begin at 4:00 p.m., New York time.

March 15 – Trading period for 2023. Trading begins after expiration of all 2022 contracts.

March 15 – Commencing at 4:00 p.m, Clubs may designate up to two Player contracts that, if terminated on or prior to June 1, 2023, and if not renegotiated after January 9, 2023, shall be treated as if terminated on June 2, subject to the further requirements of CBA Article 13, Section 6(b)(ii)(1).

March 23 – Deadline for all Clubs to submit their individual lists of Physician-Certified Candidates for the 2023 Extended Injury Protection Benefit.

March 26-29 – Annual League Meeting (The Biltmore, Phoenix, Az)

March 30 – Deadline for clubs to meet 2023 funding requirements for guaranteed or deferred compensation in NFL Player Contracts and contracts for non-player Club employees.

April

April 3 – Clubs that hired a new Head Coach after the end of the 2022 regular season may begin offseason workout programs.

April 17 – Clubs with returning Head Coaches may begin offseason workout programs.

April 19 – Deadline for clubs to time, test, visit, interview, or conduct a physical examination with a draft-eligible player at its club facility.

April 21 – Deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign Offer Sheets.

April 26 – Deadline for Prior Club to exercise Right of First Refusal to Restricted Free Agents.

April 27 – Deadline for clubs to time, test, visit, interview (including video and phone calls), or conduct a physical examination with a draft-eligible player at any location.

April 27-29 – Annual Selection Meeting/NFL Draft (Kansas City, Mo)
*** April 27-29 – NFL Draft 2023 ***