Just as over 250 NFL rookies were selected during the 2023 NFL Draft, teams are now looking to develop their new stars into consistent producers. The Miami Dolphins took a risk with thrilling upside at running back when they selected Ollie Gordon II. This hugely underrated running back is 6-foot-1, 226 pounds. Dallas Cowboys Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama. The Dallas Cowboys are always in search of their next steadfast offensive lineman, and Booker certainly fits the profile. The New Orleans Saints were among the best in the NFL at their predraft process with Isaac TeSlaa. The Philadelphia Eagles stole the show by selecting a true off-ball linebacker in the first round.
In a surprising twist, the New York Giants declined to trade their No. 37 and No. 143 picks to Miami in exchange for Nos. 48, 98, and 135. Last season’s experience with Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean is expected to aid the Eagles in transitioning rookie defensive backs Andrew Mukuba and Mac McWilliams into their lineup. Derrick Harmon allowed to be selected between 16-30 picks as an indication of his quality in this draft class.
Teams’ Top Selections and Strategic Moves
The Miami Dolphins pulled off the biggest steal of the draft by taking Ollie Gordon II. With his combination of size and skill, Gordon has always been an athletic freak who can be dangerous alongside the other gamebreaking talent on offense.
“He’s going to contribute immediately to our backfield,” – Dolphins general manager.
The Dallas Cowboys went another direction, selecting Tyler Booker, the intimidating offensive lineman from Alabama with a nasty disposition and a winning pedigree. His pick is a perfect fit for the Cowboys overall strategy of selecting hard-nosed, dependable players.
“He sort of walked on water at Penn State. Like, beyond the great play, you could just tell he made that thing go and Penn State is going to miss his presence greatly,” – NFC executive on Tyler Warren, reflecting on the caliber of players like Booker.
Further, the Eagles’ choice to draft Jihaad Campbell signals an existential inflection point for the franchise. They haven’t drafted a non-pass-rushing off-ball linebacker in the first round since 1979. This pick is a radical departure from their defensive philosophy.
Analyzing Team Needs and Prospects
As teams worked their way down the list, most of them found a need they needed to fill. The Giants made it pretty clear they weren’t willing to give up essential picks in an optimistic deal with Miami. This decision underscores their dedication to keeping important legacy assets for better future plans.
At the same time, the Buffalo Bills found Donovan Ezeiruaku worth trading up for with their second round selection at No. 35 overall. His leadership qualities and explosiveness were emphasized by team contacts who pointed to his expected premium on impact.
“Leadership and explosion. Sometimes you just see it right away,” – Team source on Donovan Ezeiruaku.
Cincinnati made history with Stewart as well, who is 6-foot-5 and 267 pounds. His explosiveness and positional flexibility should make him a nice addition to their already dangerous lineup.
Quarterback Decisions and Future Projections
Quarterback selections garnered attention as well. The Los Angeles Rams showed late interest in Tyler Shough and Kyle McCord. They were never regarded as true players for moving up to draft a quarterback this year.
“He was a hot name Day 2. Sounds like he would have gone pretty quickly if not for New Orleans,” – AFC exec on Tyler Shough.
5) The Kansas City Chiefs taking a flier on Jalen Royals He’s got the pedigree for it, having generated more than one touchdown per game during his final two seasons at Utah State.
The Eagles are banking on last season’s experience with Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean to help integrate rookie defensive backs Andrew Mukuba and Mac McWilliams efficiently into their defense.
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