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Fantasy Football Week 11: Must-Add Waiver Wire & Stash Targets – Audric Estimé, Jaylen Warren, and More For NFL week 11, the waiver wire presents numerous chances to bolster your roster with promising options at RB and WR. Here are the standout players to consider adding. Week 11 of the NFL season is here, and the fantasy football playoffs are just around the corner. Perhaps some of you experienced tough losses against Ja'Marr Chase and Joe Burrow, or maybe a combination of Lamar Jackson and Ja'Marr Chase in week ten. It's now important to put those outcomes behind and focus on the task of securing a spot in the fantasy playoffs. Week 11 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Targets Quarterbacks Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers (Rostered: 56%) Herbert isn’t dazzling fantasy managers with explosive numbers this season, but under head coach Jim Harbaugh's system, “Beast Herbert” is delivering solid QB1 production each week. With a steady average of 21.1 fantasy points over the last three games and two touchdowns per game in that span, Herbert is proving to be a reliable option, especially heading into a matchup with a Bengals defense allowing the fifth-most fantasy points per game (FPPG) to quarterbacks in 2024. Expect a well-rounded performance, making him an excellent start as the Chargers look to exploit Cincinnati’s vulnerable secondary. Bo Nix, Denver Broncos (Rostered: 28%) Rookie Bo Nix has emerged as a steady fantasy contributor, scoring 16.1 fantasy points on the road against the Chiefs in Week 10. He faces a favorable matchup in Week 11 against the Falcons, who have allowed 20.1 FPPG to quarterbacks over their last four games. Since October, Nix has hit a minimum of 14 points in every game, with three 20+ point outings—each at home. Given his floor and recent consistency, Nix offers strong streaming value this week, especially for managers looking to fill a quarterback void or take advantage of a favorable matchup. Drake Maye, New England Patriots (Rostered: 3%) Drake Maye hit a bump in Week 10, scoring just 11.7 fantasy points against a stout Bears defense, his lowest output since becoming New England’s starter. However, Week 11 brings a better matchup against the Rams, who will be coming off a short week. Maye’s season average hovers around 17 FPPG across his starts, and he brings dual-threat capabilities that could provide a nice fantasy boost against the Rams’ inconsistent defense. While he’s a riskier play than Herbert or Nix, Maye remains a viable streaming option with upside for managers in deeper leagues. Running Backs Jaylen Warren, Pittsburgh Steelers (54% Rostered) Warren has been climbing up waiver priority lists for weeks and remains a top add for Week 11. Returning strong after Pittsburgh’s bye, Warren carried the ball 14 times for 66 yards and added two catches for 29 yards. His production outpaced Najee Harris, with Warren averaging 4.7 yards per carry compared to Harris' 2.5. With Harris briefly sidelined with an ankle injury in Week 10, Warren’s role could expand even more. If Harris is limited or unavailable, Warren’s dual-threat capability makes him a valuable addition against the Baltimore Ravens this week. Audric Estimé, Denver Broncos (7% Rostered) Estimé’s role has been a subject of speculation all season, but Head Coach Sean Payton finally gave him the nod as the Broncos’ primary back in Week 10. Against the Chiefs, Estimé rushed 14 times for 53 yards while leading the backfield in snaps. Averaging 5.68 yards per carry over his first ten games, Estimé’s efficient running has given him an edge in a backfield crowded with Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin. With a favorable matchup against the Falcons, Estimé has significant potential as the Broncos continue to lean on their rookies. Gus Edwards, Los Angeles Chargers (19% Rostered) After returning from injury, Edwards proved he’s ready to get back in the mix, carrying the ball ten times for 55 yards in the Chargers’ win over Tennessee. Although JK Dobbins remains the lead back, the Chargers’ coaching staff has shifted between run-heavy and pass-heavy game plans, depending on game flow. Edwards’ value increases if he can secure red-zone and goal-line work. His favorable schedule down the stretch, especially with upcoming games against teams struggling to defend the run, could make him a valuable stash. Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons (50% Rostered) Allgeier has consistently appeared in waiver wire discussions due to his workload behind Bijan Robinson. In Week 10, Allgeier turned 11 carries into 59 yards and saw multiple goal-line opportunities, hinting at his usage potential. Although largely touchdown-dependent, his solid workload makes him a viable bye-week fill-in or injury replacement. Heading into a Week 11 game against Denver, he’s worth a roster spot for his steady touches. Trey Benson, Arizona Cardinals (25% Rostered) Despite a limited role, Benson has managed consecutive double-digit fantasy weeks. Against the Jets, he carried ten times for 62 yards and added two catches for 25 yards. While James Conner continues to lead the Cardinals’ backfield, Benson’s role is expanding enough to offer flex potential in favorable matchups. After the Cardinals’ Week 11 bye, Benson could become a sneaky add for managers looking for a high-upside bench option. Wide Receivers Jauan Jennings, San Francisco 49ers (51% Rostered) With Brandon Aiyuk out for the season, Jennings has stepped up as Brock Purdy’s go-to target. In his Week 10 return, Jennings caught seven of 11 targets for 93 yards. Jennings has been productive when called upon, posting a stellar performance earlier this season with an 11-catch, 175-yard, three-touchdown game. Positioned in the X receiver role, he projects as a consistent WR2 moving forward. His matchup against the Seahawks makes him a top priority for Week 11. Quentin Johnston, Los Angeles Chargers (12% Rostered) Johnston has had a rollercoaster season but recently showed signs of a breakout, recording a career-high 118 yards and a touchdown in Week 9. Though Week 10 was quieter, his knack for finding the end zone (five touchdowns this season) makes him a valuable option, especially with favorable matchups against the Bengals and Ravens ahead. Johnston’s potential as a big-play threat makes him a worthwhile gamble for fantasy managers needing receiver depth. Ricky Pearsall, San Francisco 49ers (16% Rostered) Despite a challenging start to his NFL career, Pearsall is establishing himself as a solid playmaker in the 49ers’ offense. His Week 10 breakout included a 46-yard touchdown catch, showcasing his big-play potential. Although competing for targets with Jennings, Deebo Samuel, and George Kittle, Pearsall’s athleticism and ability to stretch the field make him a viable deep-league flex option with a promising matchup against the Seahawks. Cedric Tillman, Cleveland Browns (37% Rostered) With Jameis Winston at the helm, Tillman has benefited from an aggressive passing approach. Averaging 22.2 FPPG in his last three games, he’s a promising flex option heading into a Week 11 matchup against the Saints. Tillman has become one of Winston’s favorite targets, especially in the red zone, giving him high upside for managers looking to solidify their lineups for the playoff push. Tight Ends Mike Gesicki, Cincinnati Bengals (32% Rostered) With Tee Higgins still sidelined, Gesicki has emerged as a consistent option for the Bengals’ passing attack. Although his Week 10 performance was modest (four catches for 30 yards), he saw over six targets for the third consecutive game, underscoring his increased involvement. Gesicki remains a reliable streaming option, especially in leagues where tight end production is hard to find. Jonnu Smith, Miami Dolphins (36% Rostered) Smith has quietly become a dependable part of Miami’s passing game, seeing six or more targets in four of his last five games. Although his Week 10 target count dipped slightly, he made his receptions count, coming close to scoring on a broken tackle. His snap count has steadily increased, making him a promising streaming option for Week 11 against the Raiders.

A versatile defender who can excel in a cover three or press-man defense. He plays with a long frame at 6-1 and has the speed to stay in the receivers' hip pocket. He uses his body well to defend, not allowing receivers to box him out, and shows a knack for tracking the football down the field. He is an NFL-style outside corner. His primary issue is that he gets grabby at times in man to man. He won't be able to get away with that at the NFL level. < Back Greg Newsome Northwestern HT: 6010 WT: 190 YR: JR POS: CB OVR RK 32 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL 4 High-End Starter Potential PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT A versatile defender who can excel in a cover three or press-man defense. He plays with a long frame at 6-1 and has the speed to stay in the receivers' hip pocket. He uses his body well to defend, not allowing receivers to box him out, and shows a knack for tracking the football down the field. He is an NFL-style outside corner. His primary issue is that he gets grabby at times in man to man. He won't be able to get away with that at the NFL level. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS High-End Starter Potential (65-69) A player expected to become a top-tier starter within their first few years. They possess strong physical tools and good technical skills but may have some limitations in their game. With development, they can reach near-elite levels and provide consistent impact at their position. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS KEY WEAKNESSES PLAYER COMPARISONS

< Back Chase Bisontis Texas A&M HT: 6050 WT: 315 YR: JR POS: IOL OVR RK 66 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL High-End Starter Potential PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Bisontis is a light-footed, technically sound interior blocker with starter-level movement skills and balance. At 6’5”, 315 pounds, he wins with leverage creation, tight hand placement, and core strength rather than elite length or overwhelming mass. He is comfortable in zone and gap concepts, showing the quickness to climb, intersect linebackers, and redirect in space. In pass protection, he is balanced and generally composed, though occasional oversets, early hip opening, and short-arm recovery windows create vulnerability against long, twitchy interior rushers. Bisontis projects best in a multiple or zone-based run scheme where his mobility, technique, and strain can be maximized. He has early starting ability with long-term upside to become a high-end interior starter. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS High-End Starter Potential (65-69) A player expected to become a top-tier starter within their first few years. They possess strong physical tools and good technical skills but may have some limitations in their game. With development, they can reach near-elite levels and provide consistent impact at their position. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Efficient hand placement Strong core balance Effective zone mover KEY WEAKNESSES Limited arm length Can overset/open early inconsistent pad level PLAYER COMPARISONS

< Back Kayden McDonald Ohio State HT: 6030 WT: 326 YR: JR POS: IDL OVR RK 29 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL High-End Starter Potential PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Kayden McDonald is a dense, explosive interior defender whose pure play strength and anchor ability make him one of the premier run stoppers in the 2026 class. At 6’3”, 326 pounds, he wins with leverage power and leg drive, routinely collapsing centers and resetting the line of scrimmage. While his pad-level and pass-rush consistency remain developmental areas, his natural strength, heavy hands, and motor profile project as a ready-made early-down nose tackle in the NFL. McDonald’s best fit comes in odd-front or hybrid 3–4 systems where he can play shaded over the center, occupy double teams, and free linebackers to flow downhill. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS High-End Starter Potential (65-69) A player expected to become a top-tier starter within their first few years. They possess strong physical tools and good technical skills but may have some limitations in their game. With development, they can reach near-elite levels and provide consistent impact at their position. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Elite power generator Dominant run defender Heavy hands KEY WEAKNESSES Pad-level consistency Pass-rush development Processing vs. combo blocks PLAYER COMPARISONS Kenny Clark Mazi Smith

Daniels's dynamic play style and pocket presence, combined with his remarkable athleticism, present a unique dual-threat capability. His Heisman-winning season at LSU underlines his evolution and potential as a top-tier NFL quarterback. Concerns remain regarding his physicality and decision-making as a runner, but his arm strength and accuracy position him as a highly desirable prospect. He has been compared to Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, both of whom are excellent passers from within the pocket, with Lamar Jackson providing the dual-threat comparison that you hope Daniels can ascend to. < Back Jayden Daniels LSU HT: 6030 WT: 200 YR: SR POS: QB OVR RK 23 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL 4 High-End Starter Potential PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Daniels is a dual-threat quarterback, combining top-tier mobility and improvisational skills with solid passing ability. His play style is suited for modern RPO (Run-Pass Option) offenses and systems that value mobility and off-script playmaking. He has shown an ability to extend plays with his legs while maintaining downfield vision for big plays. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS High-End Starter Potential (65-69) A player expected to become a top-tier starter within their first few years. They possess strong physical tools and good technical skills but may have some limitations in their game. With development, they can reach near-elite levels and provide consistent impact at their position. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Athleticism Accuracy Strong Arm KEY WEAKNESSES Reckless Runner Trust Your Structure Lean Frame PLAYER COMPARISONS Lamar Jackson Kyler Murray Justin Fields

2023 NFL Draft Grades For All 32 Teams The 2023 NFL Draft has concluded. 249 total players were selected, a record 14 QB's were drafted (3 in round 1), and 12 QB's were drafted in the first five rounds, which is also an NFL record. List of QB's Drafted In The 2023 NFL Draft 1: Panthers, Bryce Young, Alabama 2: Texans, C.J. Stroud, Ohio State 4: Colts, Anthony Richardson, Florida 33: Titans, Will Levis, Kentucky 68: Lions, Hendon Hooker, Tennessee 127: Saints, Jake Haener, Fresno State 128: Rams, Stetson Bennett, Georgia 135:Raiders, Aidan O'Connell, Purdue 139: Cardinals, Clayton Tune, Houston 140: Browns, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, UCLA 149: Packers, Sean Clifford, Penn State 164: Vikings, Jaren Hall, BYU 188: Eagles, Tanner McKee, Stanford 239: Chargers, Max Duggan, TCU 2023 NFL Draft grades by team Arizona Cardinals: A Round 1: No. 6 overall — Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State Round 2: No. 41 — BJ Ojulari, Edge, LSU Round 3: No. 72 — Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse Round 3: No. 94 — Michael Wilson, WR, Stanford Round 4: No. 122 — Joe Gaines II, OG, UCLA Round 5: No. 139 — Clayton Tune, QB, Houston Round 5: No. 168 — Owen Pappoe, LB, Auburn Round 6: No. 180 — Kei’Trel Clark, CB, Louisville Round 6: No. 213 — Dante Stills, DT, West Virginia Analysis: The Cardinals are trying to rebuild their team around Kyler Murray. They added one of if not the best tackles in the draft, which is exactly what they needed. They followed up on days two and three by adding Senior Bowl Stand out WR Michael Wilson, a much-needed edge rusher in B.J. Ojulari, and they picked up a potential elite LB in Owen Pappoe. The Cardinals are in the conversation for the best overall draft. Atlanta Falcons: C+ Round 1: No. 8 overall — Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas Round 2: No. 38 (from Colts via Raiders): Matthew Bergeron, OT, Syracuse Round 3: No. 75 — Zach Harrison, DE, Ohio State Round 4: No. 113 — Clark Phillips II, CB, Utah Round 7: No. 224 (from Raiders) — DeMarcco Hellams, S, Alabama Round 7: No. 225 — Jovaughn Gwyn, OG, South Carolina Analysis: They chose Bijan Robinson over Jalen Carter and desperately needed a defensive game-changer. Zach Harrison might be that guy eventually, but Jalen Carter is that guy right now. They get a plus for the Bijan pick overall. Baltimore Ravens: A Round 1: No. 22 overall — Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College Round 3: No. 86 — Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson Round 4: No. 124 — Tavius Robinson, OLB, Ole Miss Round 5: No. 157 — Kyu Blu Kelly, CB, Stanford Round 6: No. 199 — Malaesala Aumave-Laulu, OT, Oregon Round 7: No. 229 — Andrew Vorhees, OG, USC Analysis: The Ravens always succeed in the draft in recent years. They added an elite route running receiver with inside-outside versatility. They followed that up by drafting arguably the most versatile off-ball LB, Trenton Simpson. The Kyu Blu Kelly pickup could be a tremendous value. Kelly is a long-limbed CB perfect for the Raven's scheme. They added a top IOL, Andrew Vorhees, who fell in the draft due to an ACL injury that occurred at the NFL Combine. Buffalo Bills: B+ Round 1: No. 25 overall (from Jaguars via Giants) — Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah Round 2: No. 59 — O’Cyrus Torrance, OL, Florida Round 3: No. 91 — Dorian Williams, LB, Tulane Round 5: No. 150 (from Commanders) — Justin Shorter, WR, Florida Round 7: No. 230 — Nick Broeker, OG, Ole Miss Round 7: No. 252 — Alex Austin, CB, Oregon State Analysis: I like the pickup of Dalton Kincaid, an elite physical athletic receiver at TE who can line up all over the place. They added help for the IOL by drafting Ocyrus Torrence. They also snagged an athletic LB, Dorian Williams, which many people had as a sleeper to watch out for. Carolina Panthers: A- Round 1: No. 1 overall (from Bears) — Bryce Young, QB, Alabama Round 2: No. 39 — Jonathan Mingo, WR, Ole Miss Round 3: No. 80 — D.J. Johnson, LB, Oregon Round 4: No. 114 — Chandler Zavala, OG, NC State Round 5: No. 145 — Jammie Robinson, S, Florida State Analysis: The Panthers drafted Bryce Young as expected #1 Overall. They added a WR with a high potential upside, who has been compared to A.J. Brown in terms of physicality after the catch. Jammie Robinson is a likely steal. The Panthers are on the right track. Chicago Bears: B+ Round 1: No. 10 overall (from Eagles via Saints) — Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee Round 2: No. 53 (from Ravens) — Gervon Dexter, DT, Florida Round 2: No. 56 (from Jaguars) — Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami Round 3: No. 64 — Zacch Pickens, DT, South Carolina Round 4: No. 115 (from Saints) — Roschon Johnson, RB, Texas Round 4: No. 133 (from Eagles) — Tyler Scott, WR, Cincinnati Round 5: No. 148 (from Patriots through Ravens) — Noah Sewell, ILB, Oregon Round 5: No. 165 (from Eagles through Saints) — Terell Smith, CB, Minnesota Round 7: No. 218 — Travis Bell, DL, Kennesaw State Round 7: No. 258 — Kendall Williamson, S, Stanford Analysis: The Bears had a nice three-day run. They added a high-ceiling OT in Darnell Wright, and for selfish reasons, I wanted to see Justin Fields with Bijan Robinson, so the Bears obliged by adding his back, Roschon Johnson. The Noah Sewell pick is excellent value for them. They needed IDL help, and they acquired two; Gervon Dexter, at one point, garnered a first-round grade. Cincinnati Bengals: A- Round 1: No. 28 — Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson Round 2: No. 60 — DJ Turner, CB, Michigan Round 3: No. 95 — Jordan Battle, S, Alabama Round 4: No. 131 — Charlie Jones, WR, Purdue Round 5: No. 163 — Chase Brown, RB, Illinois Round 6: No. 206 — Andrei Iosivas, WR, Princeton Round 7: No. 217 — Brad Robbins, P, Michigan Round 7: No. 246 — DJ Ivey, DB, Miami Analysis: The Bengals added the high-ceiling edge rusher from Clemson, Myles Murphy, but my favorite draft picks are Chase Brown and Charlie Jones. Chase Brown gives you a bit of the Blake Corum effect, while Charlie Jones is a Cooper Kuppesque route runner. Grabbing CB D.J. Turner in round two is also a solid pick. Jordan Battle was once considered the top safety by many, so his value is tremendous. And they got one hell of a punter out of Westerville, Ohio, and the University of Michigan, Brad Robbins. The Bengals drafted two players that know what it takes to win games in Ohio. Cleveland Browns: B Round 3: No. 74 — Cedric Tillman, WR, Tennessee Round 4: No. 98 — Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor Round 4: No. 111 — Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State Round 4: No. 126 (from Vikings) — Isaiah McGuire, EDGE, Missouri Round 5: No. 140 (from Rams) — Dorian Thompson-Robinson, QB, UCLA Round 5: No. 142 — Cameron Mitchell, CB, Northwestern Round 6: No. 190 — Luke Wypler, C, Ohio State Analysis: The Browns traded all their high-end picks for Deshaun Watson and Elijah Moore, and after spending the GDP of a small country in guarantees to Watson, the Browns need to use the draft to build. They did well drafting Cedric Tillman, a big physical outside receiver. They drafted IDL Siaki Ika, who had 1st round considerations at one point. I love the additions of Dawand Jones and Luke Wypler. Jones has legit 1st round potential and is an absolute giant with the wingspan of a pterodactyl. Dallas Cowboys: C+ Round 1: No. 26: Mazi Smith, DT, Michigan Round 2: No. 58: Luke Schoonmaker, TE, Michigan Round 3: No. 90 — DeMarvion Overshown, LB, Texas Round 4: No. 129 — Viliami Fehoko, DE, San Jose State Round 5: No. 169 — Asim Richards, OT, North Carolina Round 6: No. 178 (from Bears through Dolphins and Chiefs) — Eric Scott Jr., CB, Southern Miss Round 6: No. 212 — Deuce Vaughn, RB, Kansas State Round 7: No. 244 — Jalen Brooks, WR, South Carolina Analysis: My podcast partner C.J. might disagree, but the Cowboys filled their needs with solid players at the top, but they left a lot to be desired in the later rounds. I love the Mazi Smith Pick. Smith still needs to work on his technique, and Dan Quinn is the guy who can get him there. They filled their need at TE, but Luke Schoonmaker was a developmental TE at Michigan who did pop, but he is not considered an elite prospect. DeMarvion Overshown is a good pick as well. Again, we must trust Dan Quinn. Duece Vaughan earns them a + on the other side of the C grade. He's tiny, but he's compact and versatile. Denver Broncos: B- Round 2: No. 63 — Marvin Mims, WR, Oklahoma Round 3: No. 67 — Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas Round 3: No. 83 — Riley Moss, CB, Iowa Round 6: No. 183 — JL Skinner, S, Boise State Round 7: No. 257 — Alex Forsyth, C, Oregon Analysis: Thanks to the Russell Wilson trade, Denver didn’t check into the draft until the end of the second round. I won't knock them too much for that in this draft because they maximized every pick. You will hear a lot about the Mims pick, but the Drew Sanders pick is my favorite, followed by Riley Moss. Both players have year-one starter potential. Detroit Lions: A Round 1: No. 12 (from Cardinals via Texans) — Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama Round 1: No. 18 — Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa Round 2: No. 34 (from Cardinals) — Sam Laporta, TE, Iowa Round 2: No. 45 (from Packers) — Brian Branch, S, Alabama Round 3: No. 68 — Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee Round 3: No. 96 (from Cardinals) — Brodric Martin, DT, Western Kentucky Round 5: No. 152 — Colby Sorsdal, OT, William and Mary Round 7: No. 219 (from Eagles) — Antoine Green, WR, North Carolina Analysis: I will not take the blasphemy about drafting a RB at pick 12. When you can get Alvin Kamara or CMC, you don't pass because of a stigma surrounding a position people believe is unimportant. Only a handful of elite backs can do what Gibbs can do as both a runner and a receiver. The Jack Campbell pick is exactly what you should expect from a Dan Campbell-led team. Campbell provides elite athleticism to the middle of your defense. He will be a year-one starter. TE Sam Laporta is Geroge Kittle prototype. He can block, run routes, and plays physically. Green Bay Packers: C+ Round 1: No. 13 (from Jets): Lukas Van Ness, DE, Iowa Round 2: No. 42 (from Browns through Jets): Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State Round 2: No. 50 (from Buccaneers): Jayden Reed, WR, Michigan State Round 3: No. 78 — Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State Round 4: No. 116 — Colby Wooden, DT, Auburn Round 5: No. 149 — Sean Clifford, QB, Penn State Round 5: No. 159 (from Jaguars through Falcons, Lions) — Dontayvion Wicks, WR, Virginia Round 6: No. 179 (from Texans through Buccaneers) — Karl Brooks, DE, Bowling Green Round 6: No. 207 (from 49ers through Texans, Jets) — Anders Carlson, PK, Auburn Round 7: No. 232 — Carrington Valentine, CB, Kentucky Round 7: No. 235 (from Lions through Rams) — Lew Nichols III, RB, Central Michigan Round 7: No. 242 (from Jaguars) — Anthony Johnson Jr., DB, Iowa State Round 7: No. 256 — Grant DuBose, WR, Charlotte Analysis: The Packers had way too many picks. Lukas Van Ness is a bit of a head-scratcher. Van Ness needs more development but could be elite. Luke Musgrave is another coin flip with a massive ceiling if he can stay healthy. Tucker Kraft is a solid pick where they drafted him, but they took a TE two picks before. The Sean Clifford pick could be more questionable; the front office probably has friends of the family working in it. The only answer to me is nepotism with the Clifford pick. If the 49ers drafted Brock Purdy with the last pick in the 2022 draft, how is Seasn Clifford worthy of a pick in the 5th round? Lew Nichols is a steal. I bet he wishes he would have been undrafted instead of a 7th rounder. Jayden Reed could be the top pick from this draft for the Packers. He is a good route runner who can track the ball well. I greatly liked Reed and Charlie Jones as day two or three guys. Houston Texans: A+ Round 1: No. 2: CJ Stroud, QB, Ohio State Round 1: No. 3 (from Cardinals): Will Anderson Jr, LB, Alabama Round 2: No. 62 (from Eagles): Juice Scruggs, C, Penn State Round 3: No. 69 — Tank Dell, WR, Houston Round 4: No. 109 (from Raiders) — Dylan Horton, DE, TCU Round 5: No. 167 (from Rams) — Henry To’oTo’o, ILB, Alabama Round 6: No. 201 (from Vikings) — Jarrett Patterson, C, Notre Dame Round 6: No. 205 (from Bills) — Xavier Hutchinson, WR, Iowa State Analysis: The Texans get an automatic A for drafting a QB at pick two, but they had to trade away a lot to get Will Anderson. Ask me in three years if it was worth it. Today, I say yes, it was worth it. They added a center, another edge rusher (Dylan Horton), who had a day against Michigan in the College Football Playoff. Tank Dell possesses elite route running ability. He gets separation, which any rookie QB will need in the NFL. The addition of off-ball LB Henry To’oTo’o in the 5th round is another great pick, and they added another center, who many believed at one point to be the top center, Jarrett Patterson. They finished the draft with a WR, Xavier Hutchinson, a steal this late. Hutch is a big-bodied receiver who provides C.J. Stroud a go-up-and-get-it type, also something you need as a rookie QB. Indianapolis Colts: A Round 1: No. 4 overall: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida Round 2: No. 44 (from Falcons): Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State Round 3: No. 79 (from Commanders) — Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina Round 4: No. 106 — Blake Freeland, OT, BYU Round 4: No. 110 (from Falcons via Titans) — Adetomiwa Adebawore, DE, Northwestern Round 5: No. 138 — Darius Rush, CB, South Carolina Round 5: No. 158 (from Vikings) — Daniel Scott, S, California Round 5: No. 162 (from Bills) — Will Mallory, TE, Miami Round 5: No. 176 (from Cowboys) — Evan Hull, RB, Northwestern Round 7: No. 211 (through Vikings) — Titus Leo, ILB, Wagner Round 7: No. 221 — Jaylon Jones, CB, Texas A&M Round 7: 236 (from Bucs): Jake Witt, OT, Northern Michigan University Analysis: Anthony Richardson could become a better version of Cam Newton or flail into a bust that I need to figure out who to compare him to. His Ceiling is high, and with Shane Steichen installing the same style of offense that the Eagles used with Jalen Hurts, he could ascend quickly. They added a CB, Julius Brents, who could be the Tariq Woolen of this draft. I like the Josh Downs addition. Downs is a RB at receiver who can give you some excellent after-the-catch ability. They added a great OT prospect in Jake Freeland and followed that up by drafting the high-ceiling edge rusher from Northwestern. They go two steals at CB. They get a solid A. Jacksonville Jaguars: B Round 1: No. 27 overall (from Bills): Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma Round 2: No. 61 (from 49ers through Bears): Brenton Strange, TE, Penn State Round 3: No. 88 — Tank Bigsby, RB, Auburn Round 4: No. 121 (from Bucs) — Ventrell Miller, ILB, Florida— Round 4: No. 130 (from Bills) — Tyler Lacy, DE, Oklahoma State Round 5: No. 136 (from Bears) — Yasir Abdullah, OLB, Louisville Round 5: No. 160 (from Giants) — Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M Round 6: No. 185 (from Jets) — Parker Washington, WR, Penn State Round 6: No. 202 — Christian Braswell, CB, Rutgers Round 6: No. 208 (from Eagles) — Erick Hallett II, S, Pittsburgh Round 7: No. 226 (from Panthers) — Cooper Hodges, G, Appalachian State Round 7: No. 227 (from Saints) — Raymond Vohasek, DT, North Carolina Round 7: No. 240 (from Giants via Ravens) — Derek Parish, FB, Houston Analysis: The Jaguars had a lot of picks. They continued to build around Trevor Lawrence, added help on the OL, and drafted a slot receiver, Parker Washington, another solid after-the-catch machine. Tank Bigsby is a great addition as a one, two punch combo with Etienne. Kansas City Chiefs: C+ Round 1: No. 31 overall: Felix Anudike-Uzomah, DE, Kansas State Round 2: No. 55 (from Lions via Vikings): Rashee Rice, WR, SMU Round 3: No. 92 (from Bengals) — Wanya Morris, OT, Oklahoma Round 4: No. 119 (from Lions via Vikings) — Chamarri Conner, S, Virginia Tech Round 5: No. 166 — BJ Thompson, OLB, Stephen F Austin Round 6: No. 194 (from Lions) — Keondre Coburn, DT, Texas Round 7: No. 250 — Nic Jones, CB, Ball State Analysis: The Chiefs positioned themselves to take the best available throughout. They started with Edge Felix Anudike-Uzomah, and in round two, they got a nice steal in WR Rashee Rice. Rice could be special, and he jumped out of the gym at the combine. He is the straightforward Juju replacement. Las Vegas Raiders: B+ Round 1: No. 7 overall: Tyree Wilson, DE, Texas Tech Round 2: No. 35 (from Colts): Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame Round 3: No. 70 — Byron Young, DL, Alabama Round 3: No. 100 (from Chiefs through Giants) — Tre Tucker, WR, Cincinnati Round 4: No. 104 (from Texans) — Jakorian Bennett, CB, Maryland Round 4: No. 135 (from Patriots) — Aidan O’Connell, QB, Purdue Round 5: No. 170 (from Packers through Jets) — Christopher Smith, S, Georgia Round 6: No. 203 (from Giants through Texans) — Amari Burney, OLB, Florida Round 6: No. 231 — Nesta Jade Silvera, DT, Arizona State Analysis: I thought the Raiders would be more aggressive trying to trade up for a QB in the first round. They did get the elite ceiling potential of Tyree Wilson. Wilson is an elite run-stopper who can hold the edge and get after the QB. He is a big lengthy defender who needs to improve his bend. They drafted Aidan O’Connell in the 4th. O’Connell is a solid QB. His floor is career backup, and he could develop into a low-level NFL starter. The Jakorian Bennett and Christopher Smith picks kept their draft grade above a B. Los Angeles Chargers: B- Round 1: No. 21 overall: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU Round 2: No. 54: Tuli Tuipulotu, DE, USC Round 3: No. 85 — Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State Round 4: No. 125 — Derius Davis, WR, TCU Round 5: No. 156 — Jordan McFadden, OG, Clemson Round 6: No. 200 — Scott Matlock, DT, Boise State Round 7: No. 239 — Max Duggan, QB, TCU Analysis: I did not hate the Chargers draft, but it was less than stellar once you get beyond Daiyan Henley. I do like the Derius Davis pick, not in the 4th, and Max Duggan will be a great backup, but I thought he probably would be undrafted. I need to re-evaluate the Jordan McFadden and Scott Matlock picks. Los Angeles Rams: A Round 2: No. 36: Steve Avila, G, TCU Round 3: No. 77 (from Patriots through Dolphins) — Byron Young, DE, Tennessee Round 3: No. 89 — Kobie Turner, DT, Wake Forest Round 4: No. 128 (from Giants) — Stetson Bennett, QB, Georgia Round 5: No. 161 — Nick Hampton, OLB, Appalachian State Round 5: No. 174 (from Raiders through Texans) — Warren McClendon, OT, Georgia Round 5: No. 175 (from Buccaneers) — Davis Allen, TE, Georgia Round 5: No. 177 — Puka Nacua, WR, BYU Round 6: No. 182 — Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB, TCU Round 6: No. 189 (from Titans) — Ochaun Mathis, DE, Nebraska Round 6: No. 215 (from Bills) — Zach Evans, RB, Ole Miss Round 7: No. 223 — Ethan Evans, P, Wingate Round 7: No. 259 (from Saints) — Desjuan Johnson, EDGE, Toledo Analysis: The Rams were out here scrapping the bottom of the jar for diamonds and hit some serious dingers. They acquired Steve Avila, our top IOL in the class. As weird as it may sound, the Stetson Bennett pick is solid to back up Matt Stafford. I always believed Bennett would go somewhere in rounds 4 or 5. They got a dawg in Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson; Zach Evans will be an absolute fantasy football darling in a McVay offense. Miami Dolphins: C+ Round 2: No. 51: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina Round 3: No. 84 — Devon Achane, RB, Texas A&M Round 6: No. 197 — Elijah Higgins, TE, Stanford Round 7: No. 238 — Ryan Hayes, OT, Michigan Analysis: I like the Devon Achane pick. He can immediately be a special teams contributor. Cam Smith has 1st round potential, and Ryan Hayes played in Michigan's back-to-back Joe Moore award-winning OL. Minnesota Vikings: C+ Round 1: No. 23: Jordan Addison, WR, USC Round 3: No. 102 — Mekhi Blackmon, CB, USC Round 4: No. 134 (from Lions) — Jay Ward, S, LSU Round 5: No. 141 (from Raiders through Vikings) — Jaquelin Roy, DT, LSU Round 5: No. 164 — Jaren Hall, QB, BYU Round 6: No. 211 — DeWayne McBride, RB, UAB Analysis: Jordan Addison fell our draft board throughout the process. It was not due to his ability but more due to the ascension of so many offensive linemen, defensive backs, and defensive linemen. Addison did not post amazing combine numbers, but his tape proves he is an elite route runner who can get separation, and he will be the presumptive #2 to Justin Jefferson as a rookie. New England Patriots: B+ Round 1: No. 17 (from Steelers): Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon Round 2: No. 46: Keion White, DE, Georgia Tech Round 3: No. 76 (from Panthers) — Marte Mapu, LB/S, Sacramento State Round 4: No. 107 (from Rams) — Jake Andrews, C, Troy Round 4: No. 112 (from Jets) Chad Ryland, PK, Maryland — Round 4: No. 117 — Sidy Sow, OG, Eastern Michigan Round 5: No. 144 (from Falcons through Raiders) — Atonio Mafi, OG, UCLA Round 6: No. 187 (from Panthers) — Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU Round 6: No. 192: Bryce Baringer, P, Michigan State Round 6: No. 210 — Demario Douglas, WR, Liberty Round 6: No. 214 (from Raiders) — Ameer Speed, CB, Michigan State Round 7: No. 245 — Isaiah Bolden, DB, Jackson State University Analysis: They get an A for landing the top CB in the draft on our board and a lot of other boards in the draft world. Keion White has 1st round ability, and Marte Mapu was a Senior Bowl darling. I give them a B+. New Orleans Saints: B Round 1: No. 29 (from 49ers through Dolphins) — Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson Round 2: No. 40: Isaiah Foskey, DE, Notre Dame Round 3: No. 71 — Kendre Miller, RB, TCU Round 4: No. 103 (from Bears) — Nick Saldiveri, OT, Old Dominion Round 4: No. 127 (from Jaguars) — Jake Haener, QB, Fresno State Round 5: No. 146 — Jordan Howen, S, Minnesota Round 6: No. 195 (from Eagles) — AT Perry, WR, Wake Forest Analysis: The Saints added an IDL lineman with a 1st round ceiling, and Isaiah Foskey had a round-one grade on many boards throughout 2022. Kendre Miller is a player who many think could be an NFL starter. He is a perfect one-two-punch player. Jake Haener is a sneaky get. He can learn from Derek Carr and take the reins one day. A.T. Perry is the big value. He is a big physical outside receiver who could be an absolute dude in the NFL. New York Giants: A- Round 1: No. 24 (from Jaguars): Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland Round 2: No. 57 — John Michael-Schmitz, C, Minnesota Round 3: No. 73 — Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee Round 5: No. 172 — Eric Gray, RB, Oklahoma Round 6: No. 209 (from Chiefs) — Tre Hawkins III, CB, Old Dominion Round 7: No. 243 — Jordan Riley, DT, Oregon Round 7: No. 254 — Gervarrius Owens, S, Houston Analysis: The Giants maximized their first four picks. They added an elite man-to-man CB, an elite center who should be a year-one starter, and the Speedy Jalin Hyatt from Tennessee. Eric Gray should be the backup to Barkley and is great insurance. New York Jets: B- Round 1: No. 15 (from Packers): Will McDonald, EDGE, Iowa State Round 2: No. 43: Joe Tippman, C, Wisconsin Round 4: No. 120 (from Steelers through Patriots): Carter Warren, OT, Pittsburgh Round 5: No. 143 — Israel Abanikanda, RB, Pittsburgh Round 6: No. 184 (from Raiders through Patriots) — Zaire Barnes, OLB, Western Michigan Round 6: No. 204 (from Cowboys through Raiders) — Jarrick Bernard-Converse, CB, LSU Round 7: No. 220 (from Raiders) — Zach Kuntz, TE, Old Dominion Analysis: The Jets hammered team needs. Will McDonald is a great pick, but they reached for him at pick 15. Tippman has ten-year starter written all over him. They drafted Israel Abanikanda, who will be a great complimentary piece. The round 7 pick of TE Zach Kuntz is a great value. Philadelphia Eagles: A+ Round 1: No. 9 (from Bears via Panthers) — Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia Round 1: No. 30 — Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia Round 3: No. 65 — Tyler Steen, OT, Alabama Round 3: No. 66 (from Cardinals) — Sydney Brown, S, Illinois Round 4: No. 105 (from Cardinals through Houston) — Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia Round 6: No. 188 (from Saints through Texans) — Tanner McKee, QB, Stanford Round 7: No. 249 — Moro Ojomo, DE, Texas Analysis: They won the draft—end of discussion. Jalen Carter is exactly who they wanted outside of maybe Paris Johnson Jr. They got a late steal in round one with Nolan Smith. Safety Sydney Brown in the 3rd is a great value, and getting a potential 1st-round talent at CB in Kelee Ringo in the 4th round is absolute thievery. They traded the Lions to Acquire former Georgia RB D'andre Swift. They are the Philly Bulldogs. Pittsburgh Steelers: A Round 1: No. 14 (from Patriots): Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia Round 2: No. 32 (from Bears): Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State Round 2: No. 49: Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin Round 3: No. 93 — Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia Round 4: No. 132 (from 49ers through Panthers) — Nick Herbig, OLB, Wisconsin Round 7: No. 241 (from Vikings through Broncos)— Cory Trice, CB, Purdue Round 7: No. 251 (From Rams) — Spencer Anderson, OG, Maryland Analysis: Philly is a bully on the block in Pennsylvania, but you, too, can have a great draft. I mocked Broderick Jones as a perfect fit in Pittsburgh, and it happened so good job. You landed the son of a former Steeler, Joey Porter Jr., who we graded as a first-rounder. Ironically, if Christian Gonzalez were to be drafted in the top ten or anywhere ahead of the Patriot's pick, Joey Porter Jr. is probably a Patriot. Darnell Washington is a steal, and so is Nick Herbig and Keeanu Benton. San Francisco 49ers: C+ Round 3: No. 87 (from Vikings) — Ji’Ayir Brown, S, Penn State Round 3: No. 99 — Jake Moody, K, Michigan Round 3: No. 101 — Cameron Latu, TE, Alabama Round 5: No. 155 (from Dolphins) — Darrell Luter, Jr., CB, South Alabama Round 5: No. 173 — Robert Beal, Jr., DE, Georgia Round 6: No. 216 — Dee Winters, ILB, TCU Round 7: No. 247 — Brayden Willis, TE, Oklahoma Round 7: No. 253 — Ronnie Bell, WR, Michigan Round 7: No. 255 — Jalen Graham, OLB, Purdue Analysis: Without a full allotment of picks, the 49ers maximized value with pick 87 in round 3, hammered a need at kicker because special teams are essential, Dee Winters is a great value, and Ronnie Bell is a dart throw and is a perfect fit in Shanahan's offense. As far as Latu, he was considered a top TE prospect whose stock had fallen below the tier in which the 49ers drafted him, so it will be interesting to see how he pans out. Seattle Seahawks: A+ Round 1: No. 5 (from Broncos): Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois Round 1: No. 20: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State Round 2: No. 37 (from Broncos): Derick Hall, DE, Auburn Round 2: No. 52: Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA Round 4: No. 108 (from Broncos) — Anthony Bradford, OG, LSU Round 4: No. 123 — Cameron Young, DT, Mississippi State Round 5: No. 151 (from Steelers) — Mike Morris, DE, Michigan Round 5: No. 154 — Olusegun Oluwatimi, C, Michigan Round 6: No. 198 — Jerrick Reed II, S, New Mexico Round 7: No. 237 — Kenny McIntosh, RB, Georgia Analysis: I love what the Seahawks did to maximize their picks. They maximized the Russell Wilson picks, 2022 fifth-round pick (traded to later draft OLB Tyreke Smith and WR Dareke Young), 2023 first-round pick (CB Devon Witherspoon), 2023 second-round pick (OLB Derick Hall) QB Drew Lock. Zach Charbonnett and Kenny Mcintosh with Kenneth Walker III are just insane. I love the Olu Oluwatimi pick; he has ten-year NFL starter potential and was a part of Michigan's back-to-back Joe Moore winning offensive line units as a transfer from Virginia, where he was already an All-ACC center. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: B+ Round 1: No. 19 overall — Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh Round 2: No. 48 — Cody Mauch, OL, North Dakota State Round 3: No. 82 — YaYa Diaby, DE, Louisville Round 5: No. 153 — SirVocea Dennis, ILB, Pittsburgh Round 5: No. 171 (from Packers through Jets) — Payne Durham, TE, Purdue Round 6: No. 181 (from Colts) — Josh Hayes, CB, Kansas State Round 6: No. 191 (from Packers via Rams, Texans, Eagles) — Trey Palmer, WR, Nebraska Round 6: No. 196 — Jose Ramirez, OLB, Eastern Michigan Analysis: The Bucs drafted well; they hit great value, grabbing Cody Mauch in the middle of round two, the Claijah Kancey pick in round one felt early, but they filled a need. Trey Palmer in round 6 was a great value. Palmer is an elusive player that stood out at this year's Senior Bowl. Where they missed is at QB. They could have passed on Kancey and drafted Will Levis with their first pick. It would be best to take as many shots at QB as possible to get it right. The value of getting Levis in this area would have been tremendous, and he could sit behind Baker Mayfield for a season. You only get so many shots at drafting a QB with elite tools, and even if Levis is a project, you still have to kick the tires. Tennessee Titans: A- Round 1: No. 11: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern Round 2: No. 33 (from Cardinals): Will Levis, QB, Kentucky Round 3: No. 81 (from Cardinals) — Tyjae Spears, RB, Tulane Round 5: No. 147 — Josh Whyle, TE, Cincinnati Round 6: No. 186 (from Falcons) — Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland Round 7: No. 228 — Colton Dowell, WR, UT Martin Analysis: The Titans began their downturn last season, and aside from their aging roster and the potential downturn of Derrick Henry, they needed to start the process of rebuilding. They are off to a good start. They grabbed one of the best tackles in the draft and passed on a QB, which is risky, but it worked out because WIll Levis fell into the 2nd round, where the Titans traded up to get him at pick 33. I love the Tyjae Spears pick, but there is a medical that came up regarding the loss of cartilage in a knee he tore his ACL in the past. So that is something to consider. I still love Spears and his versatility. They are not dead in the water yet. Washington Commanders: C+ Round 1: No. 16: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State Round 2: No. 47: Jartavius Martin, CB, Illinois Round 3: No. 97 — Ricky Stromberg, C, Arkansas Round 4: No. 118 — Braeden Daniels, OG, Utah Round 5: No. 137 (from Cardinals through Bills) — KJ Henry, DE, Clemson Round 6: No. 193 — Chris Rodriguez, RB, Kentucky Round 7: No. 233: Andre Jones Jr., EDGE, Louisiana Analysis: The Commanders passed on drafting Christian Gonzalez and chose the leaner 166lbs, Emmanuel Forbes. I love Forbes. He is an absolute ball hawk that punches above his weight, but this was an early reach on paper. Still, Forbes led the NCAA in career pick 6's with six and had 14 INT'S in college. Jartavius Martin was a good pick, he is not a guy in our top 100, but he can be a dude for them early. KJ Henry in round five is a ceiling value pick. Overall, they had an average draft. Like a few teams ahead of them, they passed on QB when Will Levis was still available.

Matt Corral has the athleticism NFL scouts and GM's want in today's QB, and he can extend plays outside of the pocket and is accurate while on the move. In addition, he can extend drives in key third-down situations with his legs. Corral benefits from the use of an RPO-heavy scheme. He is also very with zone read. His ability to put pressure on a defense with his legs is a paramount aspect of his game but can be an issue in the NFL, where athletes are faster at every position. He will have to learn to get down quickly and not take unnecessary contact. As a passer, Corral is a player who will need to be in an offense that uses a lot of quick throws and RPO's to get the ball out fast early in his career so that he can improve his ability to go through progressions and to take the check down if available. He doesn't possess an elite arm, but he does possess good mechanics and a quick release. His decision-making has improved since 2020, he does not take as many risks, but it is something to keep an eye on. He did worse with throws under pressure than when kept clean in 2021. < Back Matt Corral Ole Miss HT: 6010 WT: 205 YR: JR POS: QB OVR RK 61 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL 5 Low-Level Starter Potential PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Matt Corral has the athleticism NFL scouts and GM's want in today's QB, and he can extend plays outside of the pocket and is accurate while on the move. In addition, he can extend drives in key third-down situations with his legs. Corral benefits from the use of an RPO-heavy scheme. He is also very with zone read. His ability to put pressure on a defense with his legs is a paramount aspect of his game but can be an issue in the NFL, where athletes are faster at every position. He will have to learn to get down quickly and not take unnecessary contact. As a passer, Corral is a player who will need to be in an offense that uses a lot of quick throws and RPO's to get the ball out fast early in his career so that he can improve his ability to go through progressions and to take the check down if available. He doesn't possess an elite arm, but he does possess good mechanics and a quick release. His decision-making has improved since 2020, he does not take as many risks, but it is something to keep an eye on. He did worse with throws under pressure than when kept clean in 2021. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS Low-Level Starter Potential (55-59) A player with the upside to be a low-end starter or high-level backup within a couple of seasons. While they have solid physical tools, inconsistencies in technique, processing, or durability limit their ceiling. They are developmental prospects who may carve out a role as specialists or system fits. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS KEY WEAKNESSES PLAYER COMPARISONS

College Football Playoff: Controversy, Matchups, and the Tough Road Ahead for The Top Seed The inaugural 12-team CFP sparks debate as Alabama is left out, Oregon faces a tough path, and Penn State gets the easiest route on paper. The inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) is here, but not without controversy. Alabama's exclusion in favor of SMU has ignited debates about scheduling strategies, while Oregon’s No. 1 seed faces a surprisingly tough path. Meanwhile, Penn State appears to have drawn the easiest route, raising questions about seeding fairness. As the CFP era begins, discussions around conference titles, automatic bids, and future expansions are heating up. Top Seed Oregon Draws The Most Difficult Path Another hot topic is Oregon’s placement as the No. 1 seed. Despite their top ranking, Oregon appears to have drawn the most challenging path, potentially facing the winner of the Ohio State-Tennessee matchup. Logically, many projections had the top seed playing the winner of the 5-12 matchup in the first round, but instead, they will face the 8-9 seeds, which, on paper and based on the eye test, are far better teams than they have seeded in the 5-12 slots. Penn State Draws The Easiest Path On Paper Additionally, Penn State’s path as the No. 6 seed has raised eyebrows. On paper, they seem to have the easiest route, starting with an 11-seed SMU matchup and potentially facing Boise State next. This has fueled further debate about seeding fairness in this new playoff format. Future Playoff Expansion Lastly, discussions about playoff expansion are heating up, with some speculating it could happen as early as 2026. Critics are questioning the relevance of conference titles, suggesting they might be removed entirely or that automatic bids and first-round byes for conference champions should be reconsidered. Teams with First-Round Byes No. 1 Seed – Oregon (Big Ten Champion) In their inaugural Big Ten season, the Oregon Ducks achieved a flawless 13-0 record, solidifying their position as the nation's top team. Their season featured significant victories over Ohio State and Illinois, culminating in a 45-37 triumph against Penn State in the Big Ten Championship Game. This victory was propelled by quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who threw for 283 yards and four touchdowns, and a strong ground attack led by Jordan James and Noah Whittington. Under head coach Dan Lanning, Oregon's offense has been dynamic, while the defense has consistently disrupted opponents, exemplified by forcing two critical interceptions against Penn State. As the only undefeated team in the FBS, the Ducks have earned the No. 1 seed and will face the winner of the Ohio State vs. Tennessee matchup in the Rose Bowl. This game will test Oregon's balanced and explosive play against formidable competition. No. 2 Seed – Georgia (SEC Champion) Despite losing quarterback Carson Beck to injury just before halftime, Georgia claimed the SEC title with a dramatic 31-24 overtime victory against Texas. Backup quarterback Gunner Stockton stepped in and managed the game effectively while running back Trevor Etienne sealed the victory with a game-winning touchdown in overtime. The Bulldogs’ defense also played a critical role, holding Texas to just three points in the second half of regulation to force overtime. Under head coach Kirby Smart, Georgia showcased the resilience and team depth that has made them a perennial championship contender. The Bulldogs now look to continue their journey to a national championship as the No. 2 seed. They will face the winner of the Notre Dame vs. Indiana first-round matchup in the Sugar Bowl, where Georgia’s stout defense and versatile offense will look to advance further in the CFP. No. 3 Seed – Boise State (Mountain West Champion) Boise State's ascent to the No. 3 seed in the College Football Playoff marks a significant milestone in the program's history. The Broncos clinched the Mountain West Championship with a commanding 21-7 victory over UNLV. Running back Ashton Jeanty was instrumental, rushing for 209 yards and a touchdown, further solidifying his status as a Heisman Trophy contender. The Broncos concluded the season with a 12-1 record, their sole defeat being a narrow loss to Oregon, underscoring their competitiveness against top-tier teams. Defensively, Boise State has been solid, allowing an average of 22.6 points per game. This balanced performance on both offense and defense has been pivotal in securing their first-round bye. Looking ahead, Boise State is set to compete in the Fiesta Bowl against the winner of the Penn State vs. SMU matchup. Their potent running game, spearheaded by Jeanty, combined with a resilient defense, positions them as a formidable contender in their inaugural College Football Playoff appearance. No. 4 Seed – Arizona State (Big 12 Champion) Arizona State's remarkable season under head coach Kenny Dillingham culminated in a decisive 45-19 victory over Iowa State in the Big 12 Championship. Quarterback Sam Leavitt, a redshirt freshman, orchestrated the offense with precision, amassing 219 passing yards and three touchdowns. Leavitt's outstanding performance throughout the season earned him the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year award. Complementing Leavitt's aerial assault, running back Cam Skattebo powered the ground game, contributing significantly to the Sun Devils' offensive balance. Skattebo's versatility was on full display, as he accounted for three touchdowns—two rushing and one receiving—in the championship game. Defensively, Arizona State has been formidable, allowing an average of 21.3 points per game, showcasing their ability to stifle opponents and create scoring opportunities for their offense. The Sun Devils' impressive 11-2 record and Big 12 title have secured them a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff. They are set to face the winner of the Texas vs. Clemson matchup in the Peach Bowl. With a potent offense led by Leavitt and a resilient defense, Arizona State is poised to make a significant impact in its inaugural CFP appearance. First-Round Matchups No. 12 Clemson (ACC Champion) at No. 5 Texas Texas, the SEC runner-up, will host ACC champion Clemson in a highly anticipated first-round matchup. Despite their 31-24 overtime loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship, the Longhorns' dynamic offense, led by Quinn Ewers, remains a formidable threat. Clemson, under Dabo Swinney, enters the game with momentum following a last-second field goal victory in the ACC title game. No. 9 Tennessee at No. 8 Ohio State Tennessee’s balanced offense travels to Columbus to face an Ohio State squad eager to bounce back from their regular-season finale loss to Michigan. Both teams hold 10-2 records, and this matchup could hinge on the performance of Ohio State’s defense against Tennessee’s high-powered attack. No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Penn State SMU’s inclusion in the playoff as the No. 11 seed has been one of the most debated decisions, but their offensive prowess has earned them a shot at the Nittany Lions. Penn State, fresh off a narrow 45-37 loss to Oregon in the Big Ten Championship, boasts a stout defense and a balanced offense that will test SMU’s capabilities. Happy Valley is set to host a fierce battle for the right to advance to the quarterfinals. No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Notre Dame Indiana’s Cinderella season continues with a trip to South Bend to face Notre Dame. Under first-year head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers turned a 3-9 record in 2023 into an impressive 11-1 campaign. Meanwhile, Notre Dame, riding a 10-game win streak, enters with confidence as they seek their first national title since 1988.

College Football Playoff Preview: Texas vs. Clemson – Can the Tigers Slow Down the Longhorns’ Explosive Rushing Attack? No. 12 Clemson Tigers at No. 5 Texas Longhorns (Saturday, 4 PM EST on TNT/Max) Texas’ elite rushing attack and defensive front should overwhelm Clemson, whose edge defense and interior offensive line are a weakness. Can Clemson Contain Texas’ Explosive Outside Zone Rushing Attack? The No. 5 Texas Longhorns (11-2) narrowly missed a first-round bye after an overtime loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship, while No. 12 Clemson (10-3) earned the final playoff seed with a dramatic win over SMU in the ACC Championship. Texas brings a potent rushing attack and elite defense into the matchup, while Clemson relies heavily on the playmaking ability of QB Cade Klubnik. With the winner advancing to face No. 4 Arizona State in the quarterfinals, the stakes couldn’t be higher for these two storied programs. Three Keys for Texas to Win 1. Exploit Clemson’s Weakness on Outside Runs Texas has a dominant offensive line anchored by Kelvin Banks Jr. and Cameron Williams, who thrive in outside zone concepts. Clemson has struggled to contain outside runs, allowing 6.0 yards per carry on those plays, the sixth-worst in the Power Four. Texas needs to lean on this advantage and create explosive plays on the ground with Quintrevion Wisner and Jaydon Blue. 2. Dominate on Defense Texas boasts the best defense in college football, ranking first in coverage grade (92.9) and third in pass-rushing grade (90.2). The Longhorns must pressure Cade Klubnik and force him into mistakes while shutting down Clemson’s interior rushing attack. 3. Avoid Turnovers Quinn Ewers and the Texas offense have been susceptible to turnovers in key games. Keeping the ball secure and avoiding momentum-shifting plays will be critical against a Clemson defense that thrives on creating takeaways. Key NFL Draft Prospect to Watch for Texas: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT A potential top-10 pick, Banks excels in both pass protection and run blocking. His ability to neutralize Clemson’s edge rushers and pave the way for outside runs will be crucial for Texas’ success. Three Keys for Clemson to Win 1. Cade Klubnik Must Be Elite Klubnik has proven he can make big plays, ranking eighth among FBS quarterbacks with an 87.5 passing grade. Against Texas’ top-ranked defense, he must rise to the occasion and deliver a near-perfect performance. 2. Shore Up the Edge Defense Clemson’s edge rushers have struggled to contain outside zone runs, but this must change against Texas. Players like T.J. Parker and Jaheim Lawson need to step up to prevent Texas from dominating on the perimeter. 3. Win the Turnover Battle Clemson has a knack for creating turnovers in high-stakes games, and that could be the equalizer against a more talented Texas team. Short fields and game-changing plays are essential for the Tigers to pull off the upset. Key NFL Draft Prospect to Watch for Clemson: Cade Klubnik, QB The engine of Clemson’s offense, Klubnik’s dual-threat ability, and decision-making under pressure will be pivotal. If he can exploit Texas’ defense and avoid mistakes, Clemson has a chance to keep the game competitive. Current Odds and Prediction Texas: -11.5 Implied Game Total: 51.5 Points Predicted Score: Texas 31, Clemson 20 Texas’ elite rushing attack and defensive front should overwhelm Clemson, whose edge defense and interior offensive line are glaring weaknesses. While Cade Klubnik has the talent to keep Clemson competitive, the Tigers will struggle to score consistently against Texas’ top-tier defense. The Longhorns take care of business at home and advance to the Peach Bowl to face Arizona State.

LaNorris Sellers 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: South Carolina QB Drawing First-Round Interest LaNorris Sellers enters the 2025 college football season as one of the most physically gifted quarterback prospects in the country. At 6’3”, 240 pounds, the redshirt sophomore from Florence, South Carolina, possesses the type of size, athleticism, and arm strength that turns heads in NFL front offices. He’s a true dual-threat quarterback with dynamic playmaking ability both in and out of structure. Coming off a breakout redshirt freshman campaign in 2024—where he earned FWAA National Freshman Offensive Player of the Year and SEC Freshman of the Year honors—Sellers is already on the radar as a potential early declare for the 2026 NFL Draft. But to solidify himself as a first-rounder, there’s one critical area he must improve. The Measurables Height: 6’3” | Weight: 240 lbs Class: Redshirt Sophomore | Hometown: Florence, SC Strengths Elite Physical Tools - NFL-ready frame with explosive mobility. Sellers runs with power, accelerates with ease, and absorbs contact like a fullback. His physicality is rare—even among dual-threat prospects. Arm Strength & Platform Flexibility - Can generate top-end velocity from various arm angles. Easily drives deep outs and vertical shots without needing a perfect base—placing him among the top arm talents in college football. Playmaker Mentality - Posted two 100-yard rushing games in 2024 and regularly created outside of structure. His run threat forces defensive coordinators to account for him every snap. Leadership Traits - Named a team captain as a redshirt freshman—rare for the position. Sellers is respected in the locker room and shows maturity beyond his years. Areas for Improvement Turnover Risk Under Pressure - Despite only 7 INTs, Sellers logged 19 turnover-worthy plays in 2024. His 8.5% TWP rate when pressured ranks among the bottom 20 nationally—indicative of poor decisions under duress. Processing & Time to Throw - Averaged 2.66 seconds to throw from a clean pocket, among the 10 slowest in the FBS. Under pressure, that ballooned to 4.16 seconds, suggesting hesitation and slow reads—not just play extension. Mechanical Consistency - Footwork often breaks down beyond the first read. He’ll drift off-platform unnecessarily, leading to erratic ball placement—especially in rhythm-based concepts. Ideal NFL Scheme Fit Sellers projects best in an offense that blends vertical concepts, play-action, and designed QB run elements—a structure that allows him to stress defenses with both his arm and legs. Think Greg Roman-style designs, or systems where dual-threat traits are maximized without sacrificing deep/intermediate timing concepts. NFL Comparison Ceiling : Anthony Richardson – Elite athletic ceiling with rare traits, but still learning to play the position with discipline. Floor : Josh Dobbs – Valuable backup with mobility and a live arm, but decision-making volatility limits long-term starting upside. Stylistic Comp : Jalen Milroe – SEC dual-threat dynamo with similar burst, deep-ball velocity, and processing questions. 2026 NFL Draft Outlook LaNorris Sellers currently grades as a Low-Level Starter Potential on the Football Scout 365 scale. That places him in the developmental Day 2/Day 3 range with upside to ascend into Round 1 if he sharpens his post-snap processing and reduces turnover-worthy decisions in 2025. His tools and leadership traits are undeniable—and with another year under his belt, Sellers could become one of the most polarizing and intriguing quarterback prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class.

2025 NFL Draft: Linebacker Rankings – Jalon Walker, Jihaad Campbell & Carson Schwesinger Lead a Versatile Class The 2025 NFL Draft linebacker class has the potential to exceed expectations, featuring a combination of positional versatility, coverage ability, and traditional run-stopping skills. In today’s NFL, linebackers must be able to move across the second level pre-snap and contribute in coverage, and this class offers plenty of prospects who fit that mold. Leading the way is Georgia’s Jalon Walker, a hybrid defender who can align as an off-ball linebacker in a 4-3 one play and then rush the quarterback as a 3-4 outside linebacker the next. Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell follows closely behind, bringing similar versatility. He excels in coverage, has the ability to rush the passer, and plays with a relentless motor and high football IQ. The class also features high-upside players like Carson Schwesinger and Jeffrey Bassa, who fit the modern linebacker prototype with their range and athleticism. Meanwhile, Demetrius Knight Jr. provides a more traditional MIKE linebacker skill set with his ability to take on blocks and control the run game. With a strong blend of athletic coverage linebackers and physical run defenders, the 2025 linebacker class offers immediate impact players and long-term development prospects for NFL teams looking to build their defense around versatile second-level defenders. 2025 NFL Draft: Linebacker Rankings Near Elite Tier - 1st Round Projection 1) Jalon Walker | Georgia | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 245 lbs Player Comparison: Jamie Collins Analysis: Walker is an explosive, versatile linebacker who can play both off-ball and on the edge. His range, pass-rushing ability, and coverage instincts make him a disruptive playmaker. Though still developing as a full-time linebacker, his athleticism and football IQ give him Pro Bowl upside. High-End Starter Potential - 2nd/3rd Round Projection 2) Jihaad Campbell | Alabama | Ht: 6'3" | Wt: 230 lbs Player Comparison: Tremaine Edmunds Analysis: Campbell is a rangy linebacker with elite speed, coverage ability, and pass-rush versatility. His quick processing and athleticism make him an ideal modern linebacker. Needs to improve block-shedding and run-fit discipline to reach his ceiling. 3) Carson Schwesinger | UCLA | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 225 lbs Player Comparison: Deion Jones Analysis: Schwesinger is an instinctive, high-motor linebacker with great lateral agility and open-field tackling ability. His coverage skills and range make him a strong fit as a modern WILL linebacker. Needs to improve strength and block disengagement. 4) Chris Paul Jr. | Ole Miss | Ht: 6'1" | Wt: 235 lbs Player Comparison: Patrick Queen Analysis: Paul is an athletic, sideline-to-sideline linebacker with coverage ability and blitzing upside. His burst and tackling make him a disruptive presence, though he must improve at disengaging from blockers. Best suited as a 4-3 WILL or 3-4 ILB. 5) Jeffrey Bassa | Oregon | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 235 lbs Player Comparison: Bobby Okereke Analysis: A former safety, Bassa offers elite coverage ability, range, and blitzing potential. His athleticism makes him a valuable sub-package linebacker early in his career. Needs to refine play recognition and run defense to become a full-time starter. 6) Demetrius Knight Jr. | South Carolina | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 245 lbs Player Comparison: Reggie Ragland Analysis: Knight is a physical, downhill linebacker with strong blitzing ability and run-stopping instincts. His size and strength allow him to take on blocks, but his lateral agility limits his coverage upside. Best suited as a MIKE in an attacking defense.

2023 NFL Draft Big Board: Football Scout 365 Post Combine Top 100 Update 1). Will Anderson Jr. | Alabama | ED | 6036 253lbs Standing at 6-4 235 lbs, Anderson possesses an impressive combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He is a dominant pass rusher, utilizing his speed, quickness, and impressive technique to disrupt plays in the backfield. Anderson is also an excellent run defender, showing the ability to quickly diagnose plays and make tackles behind the line of scrimmage. He has excellent instincts and football IQ, always seeming to be in the right place at the right time to make plays. 2). Jalen Carter Georgia | IDL | 6031 314lbs Jalen Carter is a disruptive defensive lineman with an impressive blend of size, strength, and athleticism. He possesses a quick first step and excellent burst off the snap, allowing him to penetrate gaps and disrupt the backfield. Carter has a rare combination of power and agility, which makes him difficult to handle for blockers. He is versatile enough to play multiple positions along the defensive line and can be a force against both the run and the pass. Carter has active hands and good instincts, allowing him to quickly shed blocks and make tackles. However, he needs to work on pad level and technique to maximize his potential. Overall, Carter is an exciting prospect with a high ceiling and the potential to become a dominant player at the next level. 3). Bryce Young Alabama | QB | 5101 204lbs Bryce Young is a talented quarterback with excellent accuracy, athleticism, and arm talent. He has shown good poise and decision-making skills as a starter at Alabama. While his size may be a concern, his mobility and arm talent make him an intriguing prospect. If he can continue to develop his game, he can develop into a high-end starter at the NFL level. He is a projected top 5 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. 4). C.J. Stroud Ohio State | QB | 6030 214lbs Stroud throws with great anticipation and puts his receivers in a position to be lucky after the catch. He is not the athlete Justin Fields presented while at Ohio State, but Stroud proved he could be every bit as good as a passer, and when needed, he can pick up a first down with his legs. Continued improvement with his footwork and timing will further elevate his top-ten NFL draft status. 5). Christian Gonzalez | Oregon |CB | 6013 197lbs Christian Gonzalez has what it takes to be the top corner in his draft class. He provides the scheme versatility you want from a DB, with the length needed to defend against the NFL's bigger-bodied receivers on the outside. His athleticism is high-end. Anytime you can get a DB with excellent closing speed, a trait required to play at a high level in a zone-based scheme combined with the quick hips and the fluidity needed to stay in phase with receivers in man-to-man defense, you do not pass on them. 6). Devon Witherspoon | Illinois | CB | 5114 181lbs Witherspoon has ideal size and length for a cornerback, making him effective in press coverage and contested catch situations. He has good ball skills and can make plays on the ball in coverage. He is a physical cornerback who can disrupt routes. He has good strength and can be effective in run support. Witherspoon might need to dial back his aggressiveness at the next level. He can be handsy in coverage, and his aggressiveness to make a highlight reel hit in the run game could lead to explosive plays vs. better backs and receivers in the NFL if he is not careful. 7). Nolan Smith | Georgia | ED | 6021 238lbs At 6-3 235lbs, Smith possesses an impressive combination of size, speed, and athleticism. He is an explosive pass rusher, utilizing his speed and quickness off the edge to consistently pressure the quarterback. Smith is also a strong run defender who understands how to use leverage to set the edge. He has excellent instincts and football IQ. While he may need to continue to refine his technique and develop more pass-rush moves, Smith has the potential to be a highly productive defensive player at the NFL level. 8). Anthony Richardson | Florida | QB | 6036 244lbs At 6-4 236lbs, Richardson embodies the word "prototype." Richardson has a big arm and excellent athleticism. His game translates best in a pro-spread offense that blends a mix of play action, RPO's and zone reads. He is an escape artist who is at his best when on the move, creating out of structure. Richardson is considered a developmental talent with notable accuracy issues that must be addressed. His best fit in the NFL will be on a team with a creative head coach or OC. If he can land somewhere where he can sit out for a season, allowing him to learn from a veteran QB, it could enable him to get better acclimated with the speed of the NFL game. 9). Bryan Bresee | Clemson | IDL | 6055 298lbs Bresee possesses elite instant impact upside, and he is a player who has top-ten NFL Draft potential even after missing 2/3 of the 2021 college football season. At 6-5, 300lbs, Bresee possesses elite length. On tape, he has an explosive first step combined with the elite positional strength needed to be a success at the NFL level. He also possesses elite lateral quickness and twitchiness for an interior defender. He can shoot through a gap in a hurry on one play to force a bad throw, and on the next play, he can shoot through a hole to close off a run lane. Bresee can play different techniques along the line, but he projects as a 3-tech in the NFL. 10). Bijan Robinson | Texas | RB | 6000 220lbs Bijan Robinson is a versatile running back with great vision, elusiveness, and pass-catching ability. He has the potential to be a three-down back in the NFL and could be a valuable weapon in the passing game. He will need to continue to work on his pass pro to maximize his potential. Still, his work ethic and dedication to improving his game suggest that he will continue to develop at the next level. He is likely a mid-to-late first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and has the potential to be a star at the next level. Click here to view the updated top 100 NFL Draft board. Filter by position, player grade, and more. Coming Soon! Dynasty Fantasy Football Player Rankings! Get ready for your fantasy draft like a real NFL GM. The Football Scout 365 NFL Draft Big Board will add a dynasty ranking filter.