2023 NFL Draft Grades: Rating every first-round pick by value
By Kinnu Singh
2023 NFL Draft Grades: Rating every first-round pick by value
26. With the 26th overall pick, the Dallas Cowboys select…
Michigan. Mazi Smith. 123. DT. Positional Ranking: 4. B. player. No. 38 in Top 50
Already, Mazi Smith is gracing the Cowboys depth chart as the starting left defensive tackle, which is a bit surprising considering that he was expected to be a Round 2 draft prospect. What’s also surprising is that the Cowboys could have drafted Bryan Bresee instead.
That aside, it’s good that the Cowboys addressed this position and picked someone to bolster their defensive line. Smith is still struggling with some of his development, but he wields the size, athleticism and footwork that make him a leading prospect at the position.
The Cowboys drafted Smith for a reason, and he slots into a defense that’s already fairly star-studded. It’s a solid decision by the Cowboys, and over time, Smith is expected to develop into a force on the defensive line.
27. With the 27th overall pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars select…
No. 50 in Top 50. Anton Harrison. player. B. 52. Positional Ranking: 4. OT. Oklahoma
The great thing about this pick is that the Jaguars traded back twice and still landed Anton Harrison, an offensive tackle who can protect Trevor Lawrence in the years to come. The Jaguars loaded up on a fourth-round pick, a fifth-round pick and a seventh-round pick in two separate trades, which adds value to the Harrison pick.
While the team could have addressed their defensive needs with players like Myles Murphy, BJ Ojulari or Joey Porter Jr., Harrison was the highest-graded offensive tackle available.
Harrison may not possess athleticism in the way that other top players do, but he has the size, length and skills to overcome any physical limitations. For a team that could use an offensive tackle, Harrison is a worthwhile long-term investment.