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2024 NFL Fifth-Year Option Tracker

May 1st, 2023 at 9:55pm CST by Sam Robinson

NFL teams have until May 2 to officially pick up fifth-year options on 2020 first-rounders who are entering the final year of their rookie deals. The 2020 CBA revamped the option structure and made them fully guaranteed, rather than guaranteed for injury only. Meanwhile, fifth-year option salaries are now determined by a blend of the player’s position, initial draft placement and performance- and usage-based benchmarks:

  • Two-time Pro Bowlers (excluding alternate Pro Bowlers) will earn the same as their position’s franchise tag.
  • One-time Pro Bowlers will earn the equivalent of the transition tag.
  • Players who achieve any of the following will get the average of the third-20th highest salaries at their position:
    • At least a 75% snap rate in two of their first three seasons
    • A 75% snap average across all three seasons
    • At least 50% in each of first three seasons
  • Players who do not hit any of those benchmarks will receive the average of the third-25th top salaries at their position.

With the deadline looming, we’ll use the space below to track all the option decisions from around the league:

  1. QB Joe Burrow, Bengals ($29.5MM): Exercised
  2. DE Chase Young, Commanders ($17.45MM): Declined
  3. CB Jeff Okudah, Falcons* ($11.51MM): N/A
  4. T Andrew Thomas, Giants ($14.18MM): Exercised
  5. QB Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins ($23.2MM): Exercised
  6. QB Justin Herbert, Chargers ($29.5MM): Exercised
  7. DT Derrick Brown, Panthers ($11.67MM): Exercised 
  8. LB Isaiah Simmons, Cardinals ($12.72MM): Declined
  9. CB C.J. Henderson, Jaguars** ($11.51MM): Declined
  10. T Jedrick Wills, Browns ($14.18MM): Exercised
  11. T Mekhi Becton, Jets ($12.57MM): Declined
  12. WR Henry Ruggs, Raiders: N/A
  13. T Tristan Wirfs, Buccaneers ($18.24MM): Exercised
  14. DT Javon Kinlaw, 49ers ($10.46MM): Declined
  15. WR Jerry Jeudy, Broncos ($14.12MM): Exercised
  16. CB AJ Terrell, Falcons ($12.34MM): Exercised
  17. WR CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys ($17.99MM): Exercised
  18. OL Austin Jackson, Dolphins ($14.18MM): Declined
  19. CB Damon Arnette, Raiders: N/A
  20. DE K’Lavon Chaisson, Jaguars ($12.14MM): Declined
  21. WR Jalen Reagor, Vikings*** ($12.99MM): To decline
  22. WR Justin Jefferson, Vikings ($19.74MM): Exercised
  23. LB Kenneth Murray, Chargers ($11.73MM): Declined
  24. G Cesar Ruiz, Saints ($14.18MM): Declined
  25. WR Brandon Aiyuk, 49ers ($14.12MM): Exercised
  26. QB Jordan Love, Packers ($20.27MM): Extended through 2024
  27. LB Jordyn Brooks, Seahawks ($12.72MM): Declined
  28. LB Patrick Queen, Ravens ($12.72MM): Declined
  29. T Isaiah Wilson, Titans: N/A
  30. CB Noah Igbinoghene, Dolphins ($11.51MM): Declined
  31. CB Jeff Gladney, Vikings: N/A
  32. RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Chiefs ($5.46MM): To decline

* = Lions traded Okudah on April 11, 2023
** = Jaguars traded Henderson on Sept. 27, 2021
*** = Eagles traded Reagor on August 31, 2022

5 Key Stories: 4/23/23 – 4/30/23

April 30th, 2023 at 1:58pm CST by Adam La Rose

Another draft has come and gone, bringing with it a number of interesting developments. Prior to the latest class of rookies joining the league, though, some long-anticipated quarterback deals were made as well. Here’s a quick recap of the week’s top stories:

  • Packers, Jets Finalize Rodgers Trade: More than one month after Aaron Rodgers stated his intention to play for the Jets, the trade sending him to New York came into place. The Jets paid a considerable price (including a conditional 2024 second-round pick, which could become a first-rounder if he plays 65% of the snaps this season), leading many to wonder whether the 39-year-old will play beyond this year. That question remains unanswered, but for at least this season the Jets’ offense will have substantially more upside than it had under Zach Wilson, which could allow them to compete in a stacked AFC. Rodgers, like Brett Favre before him, will look to find success in the Big Apple late in his career following an illustrious Green Bay tenure.
  • Ravens Extend Jackson: Lamar Jackson became the latest quarterback to land a monster extension, inking a five-year, $260MM deal with the Ravens. The agreement put an end to a years-long effort on Baltimore’s part to get the 26-year-old on the books for the foreseeable future, one which included several eyebrow-raising developments. The Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson last month, but no suitors emerged on the offer sheet or trade fronts, leading to the growing belief he would ultimately stay in Baltimore. Jackson’s pact supersedes that given to the Eagles’ Jalen Hurts by a small margin in both AAV ($52MM) and guarantees ($185MM), and marks further evidence of the upward trend in the position’s market – something which will no doubt influence talks for the likes of Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert down the road.
  • Commanders To Decline Young’s Option: Decisions on the fifth-year options for 2020 draftees are coming due, and the Commanders won’t exercise that of defensive end Chase Young. The former No. 2 pick has been dogged by injuries for much of his career, playing just 12 contests since his impressive debut season. The former Defensive Rookie of the Year showed plenty of potential in 2020, but the questions surrounding his health and ability to replicate his production from that year make Washington’s decision to turn down a guarantee of nearly $17.5MM in 2024 an understandable one, especially considering the other investments made in their defensive front. Young’s performance this season could set up a very high-profile free agent situation depending on how the Commanders handle his contract status.
  • Titans End Levis’ Draft Slide: As expected, three quarterbacks were selected with the first four picks of the draft, but Will Levis fell out of the opening round. The Titans ended his wait to hear his name called, trading up to pick No. 33 to draft the Kentucky alum. Tennessee has Ryan Tannehill under contract for one more year, but the veteran’s future with the team has been in serious doubt for some time. Levis’ addition also shows the organization’s desire to add another young passer despite the previous front office having drafted Malik Willis last year. Long considered a first-round lock, Levis should soon have the opportunity to take on a starting role in the NFL, which will no doubt lead to continued comparisons between he and the signal-callers drafted much earlier this weekend.
  • Lions Deal Swift To Eagles: Speculation ramped up after the first round that Detroit would move on from running back D’Andre Swift, and they did just that by trading him to the Eagles. The Lions swapped seventh-round 2023 picks and added a 2025 fourth-rounder by dealing the 24-year-old, who is a native of Philadelphia. The Lions signed David Montgomery in free agency, and used pick No. 12 on fellow back Jahmyr Gibbs, and this trade now sets up that pair at the top of their depth chart. Swift will look to solidify the starting role in a crowded Eagles backfield which lost Miles Sanders, but added Rashaad Penny. The Georgia alum is entering the final year of his rookie contract, so his production in his new home will go a long way in determining his future in 2024 and beyond.

2023 NFL Draft Results By Round

April 29th, 2023 at 11:00pm CST by Sam Robinson

The 2023 NFL Draft is upon us. From the No. 1 overall pick to Mr. Irrelevant (No. 259), we will be keeping tabs here:

Round 1

1. Carolina Panthers (from Bears): Bryce Young, QB (Alabama)
2. Houston Texans: C.J. Stroud, QB (Ohio State)
3. Houston Texans (from Cardinals): Will Anderson Jr., LB (Alabama)
4. Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Richardson, QB (Florida)
5. Seattle Seahawks (from Broncos): Devon Witherspoon, CB (Illinois)
6. Arizona Cardinals (from Rams through Lions): Paris Johnson, OT (Ohio State)
7. Las Vegas Raiders: Tyree Wilson, LB (Texas A&M)
8. Atlanta Falcons: Bijan Robinson, RB (Texas)
9. Philadelphia Eagles (from Panthers through Bears): Jalen Carter, DT (Georgia)
10. Chicago Bears (from Saints through Eagles): Darnell Wright, OT (Tennessee)
11. Tennessee Titans: Peter Skoronski, OL (Northwestern)
12. Detroit Lions (from Browns through Texans and Cardinals): Jahmyr Gibbs, RB (Alabama)
13. Green Bay Packers (from Jets): Lukas Van Ness, DE (Iowa)
14. Pittsburgh Steelers (from Patriots): Broderick Jones, OT (Georgia)
15. New York Jets (from Packers): Will McDonald, DE (Iowa State)
16. Washington Commanders: Emmanuel Forbes, CB (Mississippi State)
17. New England Patriots (from Steelers): Christian Gonzalez, CB (Oregon)
18. Detroit Lions: Jack Campbell, LB (Iowa)
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Calijah Kancey, DT (Pittsburgh)
20. Seattle Seahawks: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR (Ohio State)
21. Los Angeles Chargers: Quentin Johnston, WR (TCU)
22. Baltimore Ravens: Zay Flowers, WR (Boston College)
23. Minnesota Vikings: Jordan Addison, WR (USC)
24. New York Giants (from Jaguars): Deonte Banks, CB (Maryland)
25. Buffalo Bills (from Giants through Jaguars): Dalton Kincaid, TE (Utah)
26. Dallas Cowboys: Mazi Smith, DT (Michigan)
27. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Bills): Anton Harrison, OT (Oklahoma)
28. Cincinnati Bengals: Myles Murphy, DE (Clemson)
29. New Orleans Saints (from 49ers through Dolphins and Broncos): Bryan Bresee, DT (Clemson)
30. Philadelphia Eagles: Nolan Smith, LB (Georgia)
31. Kansas City Chiefs: Felix Anudike-Uzomah, DE (Kansas State)

The Dolphins’ penalty for the Tom Brady–Sean Payton tampering scandal cost them their 2023 first-round choice

Round 2

32. Pittsburgh Steelers (from Bears): Joey Porter Jr. CB (Penn State)
33. Tennessee Titans (from Texans through Cardinals): Will Levis, QB (Kentucky)
34. Detroit Lions (from Cardinals): Sam Laporta, TE (Iowa)
35. Las Vegas Raiders (from Colts): Michael Mayer, TE (Notre Dame)
36. Los Angeles Rams: Steve Avila, G (TCU)
37. Seattle Seahawks (from Broncos): Derick Hall, DE (Auburn)
38. Atlanta Falcons (from Raiders through Colts): Matthew Bergeron, T (Syracuse)
39. Carolina Panthers: Jonathan Mingo, WR (Ole Miss)
40. New Orleans Saints: Isaiah Foskey, DE (Notre Dame)
41. Arizona Cardinals (from Titans): BJ Ojulari, DE (LSU)
42. Green Bay Packers (from Browns through Jets): Luke Musgrave, TE (Oregon State)
43. New York Jets: Joe Tippmann, C (Wisconsin)
44. Indianapolis Colts (from Falcons): Julius Brents, CB (Kansas State)
45. Detroit Lions (from Packers): Brian Branch, DB (Alabama)
46. New England Patriots: Keion White, DE (Georgia Tech)
47. Washington Commanders: Jartavius Martin, CB (Illinois)
48. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Lions through Packers): Cody Mauch, G (North Dakota State)
49. Pittsburgh Steelers: Keeanu Benton, DT (Wisconsin)
50. Green Bay Packers (from Buccaneers): Jayden Reed, WR (Michigan State)
51. Miami Dolphins: Cam Smith, CB (South Carolina)
52. Seattle Seahawks: Zach Charbonnet, RB (UCLA)
53. Chicago Bears (from Ravens): Gervon Dexter, DT (Florida)
54. Los Angeles Chargers: Tuli Tuipulotu, DT (USC)
55. Kansas City Chiefs (from Vikings through Lions): Rashee Rice, WR (SMU)
56. Chicago Bears (from Jaguars): Tyrique Stevenson, CB (Miami)
57. New York Giants: John Michael Schmitz, C (Minnesota)
58. Dallas Cowboys: Luke Schoonmaker, TE (Michigan)
59. Buffalo Bills: O’Cyrus Torrence, G (Florida)
60. Cincinnati Bengals: DJ Turner, CB (Michigan)
61. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Panthers through 49ers and Bears): Brenton Strange, TE (Penn State)
62. Houston Texans (from Eagles): Juice Scruggs, C (Penn State)
63. Denver Broncos (from Chiefs through Lions): Marvin Mims, WR (Oklahoma)

Round 3

64. Chicago Bears: Zacch Pickens, DT (South Carolina)
65. Philadelphia Eagles (from Texans): Tyler Steen, G (Alabama)
66. Philadelphia Eagles (from Cardinals): Sydney Brown, S (Illinois)
67. Denver Broncos (from Colts): Drew Sanders, LB (Arkansas)
68. Detroit Lions (from Broncos): Hendon Hooker, QB (Tennessee)
69. Houston Texans (from Rams): Nathaniel Dell, WR (Houston)
70. Las Vegas Raiders: Byron Young, DT (Alabama)
71. New Orleans Saints: Kendre Miller, RB (TCU)
72. Arizona Cardinals (from Titans): Garrett Williams, CB (Syracuse)
73. New York Giants (from Browns through Texans and Rams): Jalin Hyatt, WR (Tennessee)
74. Cleveland Browns (from Jets): Cedric Tillman, WR (Tennessee)
75. Atlanta Falcons: Zach Harrison, DE (Ohio State)
76. New England Patriots (from Panthers): Marte Mapu, LB (Sacramento State)
77. Los Angeles Rams (from Dolphins through Patriots): Byron Young, OLB (Tennessee)
78. Green Bay Packers: Tucker Kraft, TE (South Dakota State)
79. Indianapolis Colts (from Commanders): Josh Downs, WR (North Carolina)
80. Carolina Panthers (from Steelers): D.J. Johnson, DE (Oregon)
81. Tennessee Titans (from Lions through Cardinals): Tyjae Spears, RB (Tulane)
82. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: YaYa Diaby, DE (Louisville)
83. Denver Broncos (from Seahawks): Riley Moss, CB (Iowa)
84. Miami Dolphins: Devon Achane, RB (Texas A&M)
85. Los Angeles Chargers: Daiyan Henley, LB (Washington State)
86. Baltimore Ravens: Trenton Simpson, LB (Clemson)
87. San Francisco 49ers (from Vikings): Ji’Ayir Brown, S (Penn State)
88. Jacksonville Jaguars: Tank Bigsby, RB (Auburn)
89. Los Angeles Rams (from Giants): Kobie Turner, DT (Wake Forest)
90. Dallas Cowboys: DeMarvion Overshown, LB (Texas)
91. Buffalo Bills: Dorian Williams, LB (Tulane)
92. Kansas City Chiefs (from Bengals): Wanya Morris, T (Oklahoma)
93. Pittsburgh Steelers (from 49ers through Panthers): Darnell Washington, TE (Georgia)
94. Arizona Cardinals (from Eagles): Michael Wilson, WR (Stanford)
95. Cincinnati Bengals (from Chiefs): Jordan Battle, S (Alabama)
96. Detroit Lions (from Cardinals): Brodric Martin, DT (Western Kentucky)
97. Washington Commanders: Ricky Stromberg, OL (Arkansas)
98. Cleveland Browns: Siaki Ika, DT (Baylor)
99. San Francisco 49ers: Jake Moody, K (Michigan)
100. Las Vegas Raiders (from Chiefs through Giants): Tre Tucker, WR (Cincinnati)
101. San Francisco 49ers: Cameron Latu, TE (Alabama)
102. Minnesota Vikings (from 49ers): Mekhi Blackmon, CB (USC)

Round 4

103. New Orleans Saints (from Bears): Nick Saldiveri, OL (Old Dominion)
104. Las Vegas Raiders (from Texans): Jakorian Bennett, CB (Maryland)
105. Philadelphia Eagles (from Texans through Cardinals): Kelee Ringo, CB (Georgia)
106. Indianapolis Colts: Blake Freeland, OT (BYU)
107. New England Patriots (from Rams): Jake Andrews, G (Troy)
108. Seattle Seahawks (from Broncos): Anthony Bradford, G (LSU)
109. Houston Texans (from Raiders): Dylan Horton, DE (TCU)
110. Indianapolis Colts (from Titans through Falcons): Adetomiwa Adebawore, DT (Northwestern)
111. Cleveland Browns: Dawand Jones, OT (Ohio State)
112. New England Patriots (via Jets): Chad Ryland, K (Maryland)
113. Atlanta Falcons: Clark Phillips III, CB (Utah)
114. Carolina Panthers: Chandler Zavala, G (North Carolina State)
115. Chicago Bears (from Saints): Roschon Johnson, RB (Texas)
116. Green Bay Packers: Colby Wooden, DL (Auburn)
117. New England Patriots: Sidy Sow, G (Eastern Michigan)
118. Washington Commanders: Braedon Daniels, G (Utah)
119. Kansas City Chiefs (from Lions through Vikings): Chamarri Conner, CB (Virginia Tech)
120. New York Jets (from Steelers through Patriots): Carter Warren, OT (Pittsburgh)
121. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Buccaneers): Ventrell Miller, LB (Florida)
122. Arizona Cardinals (from Dolphins through Chiefs and Lions): Jon Gaines II, G (UCLA)
123. Seattle Seahawks: Cameron Young, NT (Mississippi State)
124. Baltimore Ravens: Tavius Robinson, OLB (Ole Miss)
125. Los Angeles Chargers: Derius Davis, WR (TCU)
126. Cleveland Browns (from Vikings): Isaiah McGuire, DE (Missouri)
127. New Orleans Saints (from Jaguars): Jake Haener, QB (Fresno State)
128. Los Angeles Rams (from Giants): Stetson Bennett, QB (Georgia)
129. Dallas Cowboys: Villami Fehoko Jr., DE (San Jose State)
130. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Bills): Tyler Lacy, DE (Oklahoma State)
131. Cincinnati Bengals: Charlie Jones, WR (Purdue)
132. Pittsburgh Steelers (from 49ers through Panthers): Nick Herbig, LB (Wisconsin)
133. Chicago Bears (from Eagles): Tyler Scott, WR (Cincinnati)
134. Minnesota Vikings (from Chiefs): Jay Ward, CB (LSU)
135. Las Vegas Raiders (from Patriots): Aidan O’Connell, QB (Purdue)

Round 5

136. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Bears): Yasir Abdullah, LB (Louisville)
137. Washington Commanders (from Cardinals through Bills): K.J. Henry, DE (Clemson)
138. Indianapolis Colts: Darius Rush, CB (South Carolina)
139. Arizona Cardinals (from Broncos through Lions): Clayton Tune, QB (Houston)
140. Cleveland Browns (from Rams): Dorian Thompson-Robinson, QB (UCLA)
141. Minnesota Vikings (from Raiders through Colts): Jaquelin Roy, DT (LSU)
142. Cleveland Browns: Cameron Mitchell, CB (Northwestern)
143. New York Jets: Israel Abanikanda, RB (Pittsburgh)
144. New England Patriots (from Falcons through Raiders): Atonio Mafi, G (UCLA)
145. Carolina Panthers: Jammie Robinson, S (Florida State)
146. New Orleans Saints: Jordan Howden, S (Minnesota)
147. Tennessee Titans: Josh Whyle, TE (Cincinnati)
148. Chicago Bears (from Patriots through Ravens): Noah Sewell, LB (Oregon)
149. Green Bay Packers: Sean Clifford, QB (Penn State)
150. Buffalo Bills (from Commanders): Justin Shorter, WR (Florida)
151. Seattle Seahawks (from Steelers): Mike Morris, DE (Michigan)
152. Detroit Lions: Colby Sorsdal, OT (William & Mary)
153. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sirvocea Dennis, LB (Pittsburgh)
154. Seattle Seahawks: Victor Oluwatimi, C (Michigan)
155. San Francisco 49ers (from Dolphins): Darrell Luter Jr., CB (South Alabama)
156. Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan McFadden, G (Clemson)
157. Baltimore Ravens: Kyu Blu Kelly, CB (Stanford)
158. Indianapolis Colts (from Vikings): Daniel Scott, S (California)
159. Green Bay Packers (from Falcons through Jaguars and Lions): Dontayvion Wicks, WR (Virginia)
160. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Giants): Antonio Johnson, S (Texas A&M)
161. Los Angeles Rams (from Cowboys through Texans): Nick Hampton, OLB (Appalachian State)
162. Indianapolis Colts (from Bills): Will Mallory, TE (Miami)
163. Cincinnati Bengals: Chase Brown, RB (Illinois)
164. Minnesota Vikings (from 49ers): Jaren Hall, QB (BYU)
165. Chicago Bears (from Saints through Eagles): Terell Smith, CB (Minnesota)
166. Kansas City Chiefs: BJ Thompson, DE (Stephen F. Austin)
167. Houston Texans (from Rams): Henry To’o To’o, LB (Alabama)
168. Arizona Cardinals (from Cardinals through Lions): Owen Pappoe, LB (Auburn)
169. Dallas Cowboys: Asim Richards, OT (North Carolina)
170. Las Vegas Raiders (from Packers through Jets): Christopher Smith, S (Georgia)
171. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Rams): Payne Durham, T (Purdue)
172. New York Giants: Eric Gray, RB (Oklahoma)
173. San Francisco 49ers: Robert Beal Jr., DE (Georgia)
174. Los Angeles Rams (from Raiders through Texans): Warren McClendon Jr., OT (Georgia)
175. Los Angeles Rams (from Buccaneers): Davis Allen, TE (Clemson)
176. Indianapolis Colts (from Cowboys): Evan Hull, RB (Northwestern)
177. Los Angeles Rams: Puka Nacua, WR (BYU)

Round 6

178. Dallas Cowboys (from Bears through Dolphins and Chiefs): Eric Scott Jr., CB (Southern Miss)
179. Green Bay Packers (from Buccaneers through Texans): Karl Brooks, DT (Bowling Green)
180. Arizona Cardinals: Kei’Trel Clark, CB (Louisville)
181. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Colts): Josh Hayes, CB (Kansas State)
182. Los Angeles Rams: Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB (TCU)
183. Detroit Lions (from Broncos): JL Skinner, S (Boise State)
184. New York Jets (from Raiders through Patriots): Zaire Barnes, LB (Western Michigan)
185. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Jets): Parker Washington, WR (Penn State)
186. Tennessee Titans (from Falcons): Jaelyn Duncan, OT (Maryland)
187. New England Patriots (from Panthers): Kayshon Boutte, WR (LSU)
188. Philadelphia Eagles (from Saints through Texans): Tanner McKee, QB (Stanford)
189. Los Angeles Rams (from Titans): Ochaun Mathis, OLB (Nebraska)
190. Cleveland Browns: Luke Wypler, C (Ohio State)
191. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Packers through Rams, Texans and Eagles): Trey Palmer, WR (Nebraska)
192. New England Patriots: Bryce Baringer, P (Michigan State)
193. Washington Commanders: Christopher Rodriguez, RB (Kentucky)
194. Kansas City Chiefs (from Lions): Keondre Coburn, DT (Texas)
195. New Orleans Saints (from Steelers through Broncos): A.T. Perry, WR (Wake Forest)
196. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jose Ramirez, OLB (Eastern Michigan)
197. Miami Dolphins: Elijah Higgins, TE (Stanford)
198. Seattle Seahawks: Jerrick Reed II, S (New Mexico)
199. Baltimore Ravens: Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, OT (Oregon)
200. Los Angeles Chargers: Scott Matlock, DT (Boise State)
201. Houston Texans (from Vikings): Jarrett Patterson, C (Notre Dame)
202. Jacksonville Jaguars: Christian Braswell, CB (Rutgers)
203. Las Vegas Raiders (from Texans through Giants): Amari Burney, LB (Florida)
204. New York Jets (from Cowboys through Raiders): Jarrick Bernard-Converse, CB (LSU)
205. Houston Texans (from Bills): Xavier Hutchinson, WR (Iowa State)
206. Cincinnati Bengals: Andrei Iosivas, WR (Princeton)
207. Green Bay Packers (from 49ers through Texans and Jets): Anders Carlson, K (Auburn)
208. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Eagles): Erick Hallett, DB (Pittsburgh)
209. New York Giants (from Chiefs): Tre Hawkins, CB (Old Dominion)
210. New England Patriots: Demario Douglas, WR (Liberty)
211. Indianapolis Colts (from Vikings): Titus Leo, DE (Wagner)
212. Dallas Cowboys: Deuce Vaughn, RB (Kansas State)
213. Arizona Cardinals: Dante Stills, DT (West Virginia)
214. New England Patriots (from Raiders): Ameer Speed, DB (Michigan State)
215. Los Angeles Rams (from Commanders through Bills): Zach Evans, RB
216. San Francisco 49ers: Dee Winters, LB (TCU)
217. Cincinnati Bengals (from Chiefs): Brad Robbins, P (Michigan)

Round 7

218. Chicago Bears: Travis Bell, DT (Kennesaw State)
219. Detroit Lions (from Texans through Vikings and Eagles): Antoine Green, WR (North Carolina)
220. New York Jets (from Cardinals through Raiders): Zack Kuntz, TE (Old Dominion)
221. Indianapolis Colts: Jaylon Jones, CB (Texas A&M)
222. Minnesota Vikings (from Broncos through 49ers): DeWayne McBride, RB (UAB)
223. Los Angeles Rams: Ethan Evans, P (Wingate)
224. Atlanta Falcons (from Raiders): DeMarcco Hellams, S (Alabama)
225. Atlanta Falcons: Jovaughn Gwyn, G (South Carolina)
226. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Panthers): Cooper Hodges, OT (Appalachian State)
227. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Saints): Raymond Vohasek, DT (North Carolina)
228. Tennessee Titans: Colton Dowell, WR (Tennessee-Martin)
229. Baltimore Ravens (from Browns): Andrew Vorhees, G (USC)
230. Buffalo Bills (from Buccaneers through Jets, Texans and Eagles): Nick Broeker, G (Ole Miss)
231. Las Vegas Raiders (from Patriots): Nesta Jade Silvera, DT (Arizona State)
232. Green Bay Packers: Carrington Valentine, CB (Kentucky)
233. Washington Commanders: Andre Jones Jr., DE (Louisiana)
234. Los Angeles Rams (from Steelers): Jason Taylor II, S (Oklahoma State)
235. Green Bay Packers (from Lions through Rams): Lew Nichols III, RB (Central Michigan)
236. Indianapolis Colts (from Buccaneers): Jake Witt, OT (Northern Michigan)
237. Seattle Seahawks: Kenny McIntosh, RB (Georgia)
238. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Hayes, OT (Michigan)
239. Los Angeles Chargers: Max Duggan, QB (TCU)
240. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Giants through Ravens): Derek Parish, DE (Houston)
241. Pittsburgh Steelers (from Vikings through Broncos): Cory Trice, CB (Purdue)
242. Green Bay Packers (from Jaguars): Anthony Johnson, CB (Virginia)
243. New York Giants: Jordon Riley, DT (Oregon)
244. Dallas Cowboys: Jalen Brooks, WR (South Carolina)
245. New England Patriots (from Falcons through Bills): Isaiah Bolden, CB (Jackson State)
246. Cincinnati Bengals: DJ Ivey, CB (Miami)
247. San Francisco 49ers: Brayden Willis, TE (Oklahoma)
248. Houston Texans (from Eagles): Brandon Hill, S (Pittsburgh)
249. Philadelphia Eagles (from Chiefs through Lions): Moro Ojomo, DT (Texas)
250. Kansas City Chiefs: Nic Jones, CB (Ball State)
251. Pittsburgh Steelers (from Rams): Spencer Anderson, G (Maryland)
252. Buffalo Bills (from Buccaneers through Rams): Alex Austin, CB (Oregon State)
253. San Francisco 49ers: Ronnie Bell, WR (Michigan)
254. New York Giants: Gervarrius Owens, S (Houston)
255. San Francisco 49ers: Jalen Graham, LB (Purdue)
256. Green Bay Packers: Grant Dubose, WR (Charlotte)
257. Denver Broncos (from Saints): Alex Forsyth, C (Oregon)
258. Chicago Bears: Kendall Williamson, S (Stanford)
259. Los Angeles Rams (from Texans): Desjuan Johnson, DL (Toledo)

2023 NFL Draft Results: Team By Team

April 29th, 2023 at 10:35pm CST by Sam Robinson

As the 2023 NFL Draft gets underway, we will keep track of each team’s haul here:

Arizona Cardinals

Round 1, No. 6 (from Rams through Lions): Paris Johnson, OT (Ohio State) (signed)
Round 2, No. 41 (from Titans): BJ Ojulari, DE (LSU) (signed)
Round 3, No. 72 (from Titans): Garrett Williams, CB (Syracuse) (signed)
Round 3, No. 94 (from Eagles): Michael Wilson, WR (Stanford) (signed)
Round 4, No. 122 (from Dolphins through Chiefs and Lions): Jon Gaines II, G (UCLA) (signed)
Round 5, No. 139 (from Broncos through Lions): Clayton Tune, QB (Houston) (signed)
Round 5, No. 168 (from Cardinals through Lions): Owen Pappoe, LB (Auburn) (signed)
Round 5, No. 180: Kei’Trel Clark, CB (Louisville) (signed)
Round 6, No. 213: Dante Stills, DT (West Virginia) (signed)

Atlanta Falcons

Round 1, No. 8: Bijan Robinson, RB (Texas) (signed)
Round 2, No. 38 (from Colts): Matthew Bergeron, T (Syracuse) (signed)
Round 3, No. 75: Zach Harrison, DE (Ohio State) (signed)
Round 4, No. 113: Clark Phillips III, CB (Utah) (signed)
Round 7, No. 224 (from Raiders): DeMarcco Hellams, S (Alabama) (signed)
Round 7, No. 225: Jovaughn Gwyn, G (South Carolina) (signed)

Baltimore Ravens

Round 1, No. 22: Zay Flowers, WR (Boston College) (signed)
Round 3, No. 86: Trenton Simpson, LB (Clemson) (signed)
Round 4, No. 124: Tavius Robinson, LB (Ole Miss) (signed)
Round 5, No. 157: Kyu Blu Kelly, CB (Stanford) (signed)
Round 6, No. 199: Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, OT (Oregon) (signed)
Round 7, No. 229 (from Browns): Andrew Vorhees, G (USC) (signed)

Buffalo Bills

Round 1, No. 25 (from Giants through Jaguars): Dalton Kincaid, TE (Utah) (signed)
Round 2, No. 59: O’Cyrus Torrence, G (Florida) (signed)
Round 3, No, 91: Dorian Williams, LB (Tulane) (signed)
Round 5, No. 150 (from Commanders): Justin Shorter, WR (Florida) (signed)
Round 7, No. 230 (from Buccaneers through Jets, Texans, Eagles and Bills): Nick Broeker, G (Ole Miss) (signed)
Round 7, No. 252 (from Buccaneers through Rams): Alex Austin, CB (Oregon State) (signed)

Carolina Panthers

Round 1, No. 1 (from Bears): Bryce Young, QB (Alabama) (signed)
Round 2, No. 39: Jonathan Mingo, WR (Ole Miss) (signed)
Round 3, No. 80 (from Steelers): D.J. Johnson, DE (Oregon) (signed)
Round 4, No. 114: Chandler Zavala, G (North Carolina State) (signed)
Round 5, No. 145: Jammie Robinson, S (Florida State) (signed)

Chicago Bears

Round 1, No. 10 (from Saints through Eagles): Darnell Wright, OT (Tennessee) (signed)
Round 2, No. 53 (from Ravens): Gervon Dexter, DT (Florida) (signed)
Round 2, No. 56 (from Jaguars): Tyrique Stevenson, CB (Miami) (signed)
Round 3, No. 64: Zacch Pickens, DT (South Carolina) (signed)
Round 4, No. 115 (from Saints): Roschon Johnson, RB (Texas) (signed)
Round 4, No. 133 (from Eagles): Tyler Scott, WR (Cincinnati) (signed)
Round 5, No. 148 (from Patriots through Ravens): Noah Sewell, LB (Oregon) (signed)
Round 5, No. 165 (from Saints through Eagles): Terell Smith, CB (Minnesota) (signed)
Round 7, No. 218: Travis Bell, DT (Kennesaw State) (signed)
Round 7, No. 258: Kendall Williamson, S (Stanford) (signed)

Cincinnati Bengals

Round 1, No. 28: Myles Murphy, DE (Clemson) (signed)
Round 2, No. 60: DJ Turner, CB (Michigan) (signed)
Round 3, No. 95 (from Chiefs): Jordan Battle, S (Alabama) (signed)
Round 4, No. 131: Charlie Jones, WR (Purdue) (signed)
Round 5, No. 163: Chase Brown, RB (Illinois) (signed)
Round 6, No. 206: Andrei Iosivas, WR (Princeton) (signed)
Round 6, No. 217 (from Chiefs): Brad Robbins, P (Michigan) (signed)
Round 7, No. 246: DJ Ivey, CB (Miami) (signed)

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Poll: How Will Texans Proceed With No. 2 Overall Pick?

April 26th, 2023 at 11:46am CST by Sam Robinson

Enough smoke has emerged here that it would be a slight surprise if the Texans selected a quarterback with their latest top-three pick, but the team does have that option — and a glaring need — at No. 2 overall. Houston faces perhaps the most intriguing decision in this year’s draft.

The Texans were long believed to have made the right call by trading up for Deshaun Watson six years ago, but that assessment changed rapidly in 2021. Since a tornado of sexual misconduct accusations led Watson out of town, Houston did not make a true effort to replace him. Taking Davis Mills 67th overall represents the most notable investment, and after 26 starts, the Stanford product no longer appears in the organization’s long-term plans. This draft represents a chance to upgrade, but the Texans may not view the non-Bryce Young QB contingent as worth this pick.

It would still invite considerable risk for the Texans to pass on a quarterback at 2, with only Mills and Case Keenum rostered. GM Nick Caserio and HC DeMeco Ryans may be on different timelines, however. Caserio has hired three head coaches in three offseasons, and while he denied rumors he would be leaving after the draft, the third-year GM’s stock has dropped a bit. Texans ownership is believed to be more involved in this year’s draft, despite Caserio extracting historic value for Watson and selecting a host of starters in 2022. Ryans, conversely, signed a six-year contract and will be given a much longer leash compared to one-and-dones David Culley and Lovie Smith. And the former 49ers staffer built his HC resume on a defensive acumen.

C.J. Stroud was believed to be in the mix to go No. 1 overall, but the two-year Ohio State starter has been the player most affected by the Texans’ perceived QB hesitancy. Stroud having hired Watson agent David Mulugheta is viewed as an issue for the Texans, though it is worth wondering how much of a concern it would be if the team was more sold on the ex-Buckeye. Will Levis brings superior arm strength into the equation, and while he did not possess anything close to Stroud’s weaponry, the Kentucky prospect took a step back last season.

The Texans, who were believed to be targeting Young when they entered trade talks with the Bears about the No. 1 pick, have met with both Stroud and Levis. The team could still use its No. 12 overall pick to move up for a passer, though that would require giving up more draft capital compared to simply taking a QB at 2 and keeping its future picks. Hendon Hooker also visited the Texans and could be on the radar here, age (25) and health status aside.

Houston, which has either held a top-three draft choice or secured such draft real estate in each of the past three seasons, also could attempt a long-game strategy of targeting Caleb Williams or Drake Maye. Both are viewed as top-flight 2024 prospects. The Dolphins utilized this strategy in 2019, saving their QB move for Tua Tagovailoa in 2020, while the Jets took Jamal Adams over Watson and Patrick Mahomes in 2017 and maneuvered for Sam Darnold in 2018. While many teams do not expect to be picking high again, the Texans’ prolonged rebuild does point to another chance next year. And the team has a third Browns-obtained first-round pick to use in 2024 as well.

If the Texans are intent on charting this complex course at quarterback, they look to have a choice between edge rushers. While Will Anderson Jr. emerged as the early favorite, Tyree Wilson‘s upside has allowed him to enter the equation. Anderson compiled 27.5 sacks over the past two years at Alabama, but questions about his ceiling have allowed Wilson to catch up.

The Texans passed Wilson on his pre-draft physical, per Albert Breer of SI.com, who adds not every team did. Some teams view Wilson’s foot trouble as an issue that could be a long-term problem, per ESPN’s Dan Graziano. the Texans do not appear one of them. Wilson finished with seven sacks in each of the past two seasons, but a fractured foot ended his junior year after 10 games. Wilson also brings a different body type to the table, weighing 271 pounds at the Combine. Anderson weighed 253.

The Jaguars made a potential-over-production pick last year, taking Travon Walker over Aidan Hutchinson, which sent the Michigan product to the Lions. The Texans let Ogbonnia Okoronkwo and Rasheem Green walk in free agency, leaving their edge landscape fairly open. It is interesting that Houston not only could gamble by passing on a QB at 2 but could pass on the more proven edge defender for the potential of another.

If the Texans find a trade partner for the pick, teams like the Titans, Raiders and Falcons have been linked to potentially moving up. Houston moving out of No. 2 could certainly hurt Arizona’s chances of trading out of No. 3. A move down would allow the Texans to recoup assets and potentially grab a quarterback that aligns with their draft board.

After the Panthers’ expected Young pick, how will the draft’s second selection play out? Vote in PFR’s latest poll and weigh in with your thoughts in the comments section.

2023 Prospect Profile: CB Deonte Banks

April 23rd, 2023 at 10:44pm CST by Ely Allen

Cornerback is one of the most difficult positions for analysts to evaluate from the college to professional levels, especially once you get past the first few names on the board. That’s currently where Maryland cornerback Deonte Banks sits: in that danger zone that normally falls from the middle to the end of the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Banks is a hometown kid, going to Edgewood High School (Maryland), about an hour north of the University of Maryland. He was a three-star athlete that, despite some impressive play-making ability, struggled to attract much attention on the recruiting circuit. He didn’t receive his first offers until just after his junior season when he received interest from a number of Division II and FCS schools, eventually attracting the attention of a couple of Group of 5 schools like Buffalo and Kent State. Just before his senior season, Banks got the dream offer from his home-state school. He committed two weeks later.

Banks became an earlier contributor for the Terrapins as a freshman, making 28 tackles and tallying one interception and two passes defensed while starting eight of 11 games. He returned as a starter in 2020, but due to the COVID-shortened nature of the season, he was only able to make three starts in five games. His junior season was cut short, as well, when he suffered a season-ending shoulder surgery in just his second start of the season.

Coming back from the long-term injury, Banks shined in his return to the field as a redshirt junior. He reached career highs in total tackles (38) and passes defensed (9) while adding on another interception, half of a sack, and half of a tackle for a loss. He had perhaps his strongest game under the brightest lights, limiting Ohio State’s star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to five catches for 68 yards and no touchdowns. In that game, Banks tallied two pass breakups and blocked an extra point that got returned by a teammate for a defensive two-point conversion.

There are a couple parts of his game that could cause him to struggle in the NFL. A lack of production isn’t uncommon in college football, where the easiest way to avoid turnovers is to not target the opposing team’s best corner, but I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that Banks only recorded two interceptions during his four years in College Park. He’s not too far behind the draft’s top corners in that regard, though. Oregon’s Christian Gonzalez only had four interceptions, with all of them coming this season. Devon Witherspoon out of Illinois has five interceptions even though he had zero in two of his four seasons of play. Joey Porter Jr. at Penn State had even less that Banks, recording only one interception in four years.

Besides that, Banks is physical, which defensive coaches love, until they don’t. If he draws too much attention at the NFL level with his aggression on defense, he’ll be the target of quite a few penalties, which are much more costly in the NFL than in college.

On the positive side, though, Banks has an ideal frame, matching size, strength, and speed. He uses his aggression to perfection to slow receivers off the line of scrimmage then uses quick hips and smooth footwork to trail receivers relentlessly. He could do a better job of reading between the quarterback and receiver, usually focusing only on the receiver, but he reads the receiver with impressive consistency and does a good job playing through their hands. He utilizes his aggression just as successfully on run plays and special teams and has the relentless motor needed for both.

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly which team may end up selecting Banks, as pretty much any team could use more depth at cornerback, besides maybe the Dolphins, but it’s hard to imagine Banks slipping out of the first round with how many playoff teams in the back half of the first round desperately need help at cornerback. The Steelers would love a young Day 1 starter opposite Patrick Peterson. The Giants need someone to hold down the other side opposite Adoree’ Jackson. The Vikings are short on big names at the position, as well. I imagine Banks would love nothing more than to continue putting on for his city and playing for the nearby Ravens, who need someone opposite Marlon Humphrey with Marcus Peters still on the free agent market.

So far, there’s been no shortage of interest in Banks. All four of the above-mentioned teams, and an impressive 11 more, have met with the 22-year-old. It seems the biggest indicator for when he will be picked is going to be when the cornerbacks ranked above him get drafted. If Gonzalez and Witherspoon get selected relatively early, the teams in the late 20s likely won’t see Banks on the board. But if the draft is slow to cornerbacks, Banks could find himself in a pivotal role for a playoff contender.

5 Key Stories: 4/16/23 – 4/23/23

April 23rd, 2023 at 2:51pm CST by Adam La Rose

With the draft just days away, a number of key developments continue to take place around the league. In case you missed any of the top stories from the past week, here’s a quick recap:

  • Hurts Signs Record-Setting Eagles Extension: A number of young quarterbacks are up for massive extensions this offseason, and the Eagles became the first team to get their mega-deal done by signing Jalen Hurts to a five-year, $255MM contract. The $51MM AAV of the pact, which kicks in next season, is the highest figure in league history, and Hurts will see just over $179MM in guaranteed money. His pact will represent another benchmark in negotiations for the likes of Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert. Hurts, 24, confirmed his status as the Eagles’ starter in 2022 and put himself in the MVP conversation while helping guide the team to the Super Bowl. He will remain in place as their franchise centerpiece for the foreseeable future as the QB market continues its upward trajectory.
  • Williams, Four Others Suspended For Gambling: The NFL levied suspensions against five players for violations of the league’s gambling policy, a group headlined by Lions receiver Jameson Williams. He, along with teammate Stanley Berryhill, will be sidelined for six games in 2023 for placing bets on non-NFL games at the team’s facility. Receiver Quintez Cephus and safety C.J. Moore (who have been let go by the Lions), along with Commanders pass rusher Shaka Toney, have been banned indefinitely and will miss at least the 2023 season. The latter three bet on NFL games, as the recently reinstated Calvin Ridley did before his year-long suspension in 2022. The Lions also fired a number of team employees for violations of the gambling policy, adding to the growing list of personnel to face discipline recently.
  • Hamlin Cleared To Return: Damar Hamlin’s recovery took another step forward as he was given full clearance to resume football activities. The Bills safety’s playing future was in doubt following his cardiac arrest in January, but he made it clear earlier this offseason that he intended to return to the field when given the green light to do so. Doctors are in agreement that he is safe to take part in the team’s offseason program, putting him on track to suit up for the start of the 2023 campaign. A backup role presumably awaits him this season, but the fact that the 25-year-old is likely to be on the field in any capacity is of course a newsworthy and welcomed development.
  • Steelers Acquire Robinson: The Rams continued to move on from some of their more expensive veterans, sending wideout Allen Robinson to the Steelers for a swap of seventh-round picks. Los Angeles will retain two-thirds of Robinson’s 2023 compensation, giving Pittsburgh a relatively cost-effective addition to their pass-catching corps. The 29-year-old had an underwhelming tenure with the Rams last season, but his latest change of scenery could give him the opportunity to return to full health and boost his value. Robinson is under contract through 2024, but no guaranteed money remains on his deal at that point. This move thus represents a one-year audition for the former Pro Bowler as part of a talented WR room.
  • 49ers Receiving Calls On Lance: San Francisco faces plenty of QB uncertainty heading into 2023, but they have seen interest from a number of teams regarding the availability of Trey Lance. The former third overall pick was set to take over the starting role in 2022, but his season lasted less than two games. Seventh-rounder Brock Purdy eventually took over the No. 1 role, and is the favorite for the top spot when he is healthy (something which very much remains in the air). The Vikings are among the teams who inquired about Lance, 22. San Francisco would be hard-pressed to get anywhere near the value back in a deal that they paid to move up and draft him just two years ago, making it unlikely a move is made at this point. It remains clear, though, that Lance’s start to his NFL career hasn’t gone according to plan.

Poll: Who Will Acquire DeAndre Hopkins?

April 21st, 2023 at 5:01pm CST by Sam Robinson

A second DeAndre Hopkins trade could transpire soon — perhaps by next week’s draft — and while the Cardinals wide receiver is a bit past his peak, he could impact the Super Bowl LVIII chase if sent to a contender. Will a team come through with a trade?

Hopkins, 31 in June, has loomed as a departure candidate for nearly a year; he is believed to want to land with a contender. The Cardinals have not ruled out retaining the accomplished wideout, but that does not appear the likely conclusion. This does not appear to be an acrimonious split.

“I’ve had a lot of interaction with Hop. He’s been great. Good discussions back and forth,” Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort said (h/t GoPHNX.com). “Hop’s proven to be a good player in this league, and he’s obviously a very talented player. Productive conversations with Hop, but going to keep those between us.”

Hopkins’ second Texans contract ran (five years, $81MM) ran through the 2022 season. While the Cardinals scrapped that deal upon acquiring the former All-Pro in 2020, the extension the sides agreed to tacked on two extra years to Hopkins’ contract. The Cards gave Hopkins $42.75MM fully guaranteed, and the two-year, $54.5MM bump ended up impacting the receiver market in 2022. Now, that contract calls for a $19.5MM base salary. Hopkins’ cap number sits at $29.9MM on Arizona’s payroll.

Although Hopkins previously said he would be open to adjusting his contract to facilitate a trade, the Cardinals have not received big offers. Some teams believe they Arizona be forced to release the 11th-year veteran, and a few have been connected as a destination for the Clemson alum.

A potential AFC duel probably should be mentioned first. The Chiefs have been connected to the big-bodied wideout for several weeks now, being tied to both he and Odell Beckham Jr. Now that OBJ is a Raven, the Chiefs — who lost JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman — are running short on options. Kansas City has Marquez Valdes-Scantling in place as its most reliable receiver, though Kadarius Toney provides more upside (and considerably more risk). Andy Reid‘s team bowing out of a Smith-Schuster sweepstakes that ended in an $8.5MM-per-year Patriots deal points to the Chiefs waiting out a Hopkins release. If Hopkins were available in free agency, the Chiefs’ Reid-Patrick Mahomes setup presents receivers a compelling pitch.

The other team Hopkins sounded receptive to playing for, the Bills already roster a high-variance boundary wideout (Gabe Davis) and can use Stefon Diggs across the formation. But they were mentioned as an early suitor. The Bills’ Von Miller move showed the urgency Brandon Beane and Sean McDermott are operating with, and while Diggs’ $24MM-AAV contract would be a complication regarding a Hopkins acquisition, the Bills certainly make sense as a free agency suitor — as acquiring a five-time Pro Bowler would stand to bolster their receiving corps and impede a Chiefs upgrade.

While the Cardinals look to be working with Hopkins’ camp here, his PED suspension voided the no-trade clause in his contract. That would open the door to more options, depending on the compensation offered. The Ravens just outbid the Jets and Giants for Beckham, and a report from ex-GM Michael Lombardi (Twitter link) indicated Lamar Jackson wanted the team to add OBJ and Hopkins. The Ravens have chased receivers for years. Their run-heavy offense has steered some — including Smith-Schuster — away, but they convinced Beckham to sign up to reunite with OC Todd Monken. The team does not have another notable receiver contract on its payroll, though Jackson’s $32.4MM franchise tag poses a problem.

The Giants lurked in the Beckham pursuit, offering an incentive-laden deal, and have either re-signed or added a host of slot receivers this offseason. New York has also done extensive homework on this draft’s receivers, being closely connected to adding one of the first-round-caliber targets. The team did pursue Jerry Jeudy and Brandin Cooks previously. Jets interest probably does not need to be explained much. Expected Jets QB Aaron Rodgers placed Beckham on his wish list, and the team has already added Hardman and Allen Lazard. If the Jets were willing to add Beckham, they are probably open to Hopkins.

Hopkins’ most recent podcast appearance pointed to less interest in being dealt to the Jets or Patriots compared to a Bills or Chiefs landing, and Bill O’Brien — who traded Hopkins when working as the Texans’ GM — coming to New England certainly would create an awkward fit. But if Matt Patricia and Darius Slay can work together again, just about any NFL relationship is salvageable. The Pats discussed Hopkins with the Cards earlier this offseason.

While the Cardinals having shopped Hopkins and discussed him in trades for months, it sounds like the rebuilding team will move on. If the team — which would eat $21.1MM in a pre-June 1 trade, without any contract adjustments — does not receive the offer it wants, is an unexpected reunion completely off the table? Aside from the aforementioned suitors, is there another team who could make a play here?

Vote in PFR’s latest poll and weigh in with your thoughts in the comments section.

NFL Draft Prospect Profile: TCU WR Quentin Johnston

April 16th, 2023 at 10:09pm CST by Ely Allen

We all know the recent history of drafting TCU wide receivers, especially in the first round. Since 2000, only Jeremy Kerley has surpassed 600 yards receiving in a season, while former first round picks Josh Doctson and Jalen Reagor both failed to finish out their rookie contracts with the teams that drafted them. Doctson was released just before his fourth year in the league, while Reagor was traded around the same time last year. The latest Horned Frog to attempt to erase the dreadful history of receivers out of Fort Worth is junior wideout Quentin Johnston.

Johnston was a consensus four-star wide receiver out of Temple High School (Texas) in the Class of 2020. After initially committing to Texas before his senior year, Johnston would eventually flip to TCU after the dismissal of Longhorns wide receivers coach Drew Mehringer. With Reagor leaving for the NFL, a spot at the top of the depth chart was wide open for the taking.

Johnston earned a starting role in Fort Worth immediately as a freshman, leading the team with 487 receiving yards and earning honorable mention All-Big 12 honors. As a sophomore, he would earn first-team All-Big 12 honors after leading the team in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. Then, this past year, Johnston lead the Horned Frogs in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns en route to his second straight year on the All-Big 12 first team. Over his three-year career at TCU, Johnston totaled 115 catches for 2,190 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Among the other top receiver prospects, Johnston reigns as the biggest of the bunch, establishing himself physically as a potential WR1. His size obviously assists him, with length and strength inherent in his frame, but it doesn’t keep him from being as agile as the smaller receivers in the draft. Johnston used his burst and acceleration to rank second in the nation in yards after catch per reception. His combination of size and elusiveness make him one of the tougher receivers to bring down after the catch. Before the catch, he has great awareness to track the ball and use his leaping ability and body control to make grabs.

The biggest problem showing up on Johnston’s film is drops. Whether it’s a lack of confidence in his hands that results in inconsistent body-catching or a lack of focus as he fails to secure the ball before turning his eyes upfield to run, drops plagued Johnston in 2022. Luckily, drops have been a bit of an issue for the rest of the receivers expected to be first-rounders, as well, making his eight drops hurt a little less. Boston College’s Zay Flowers surpassed Johnston with nine drops of his own this year. Ohio State’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba dropped six passes in his only full season of play. USC’s Jordan Addison only had two this year but had 21 during his two years at Pittsburgh. Tennessee’s Jalin Hyatt may be the exception of the group, with only eight drops in his collegiate career, but five of those came in 2022.

Looking past the drops, Johnston has only a few other things to work on. Tight hips and a lack of variety at TCU mean that he has some work to do on route-running. Also, despite his size, Johnston didn’t have the best track record with contested catches.

Plenty of teams have done their homework on Johnston. So far, in the pre-draft process, Johnston has met with or planned to meet with the Giants, Ravens, Chiefs, Cowboys, Cardinals, Falcons, Vikings, Jaguars, and Titans. Basically, any team looking to add some size to their receiving corps has done some research on Johnston.

The 21-year-old makes a lot of sense for that purpose. The disastrous history of TCU wideouts going pro and Johnston’s drops will be overlooked fairly easily. Not only will teams overlook them because of his size but because he uses his athleticism to blend that size congruously with speed and strength. He’s almost certain to hear his name on Day 1 of the 2023 NFL Draft later this month, but at what point in the night he is selected has yet to be determined.

5 Key Stories: 4/9/23 – 4/16/23

April 16th, 2023 at 2:00pm CST by Adam La Rose

Attention continues to shift to the draft, but teams are still making moves on the free agent and trade fronts in advance of adding rookies to their rosters; one major off-the-field development took place recently, as well. Here is a quick recap of the past week’s top headlines:

  • Harris Reaches Agreement To Purchase Commanders: The Dan Snyder era in Washington appears to be on the verge of coming to an end, with the Commanders owner reaching agreement on a sale which would see the group led by Josh Harris take over the Commanders. The $6.05 billion price would make this the second straight year in which the North American sports record was shattered in terms of sale price (with the Broncos going for $4.65 billion last summer). Harris is already a majority owner in the NBA, NHL and English Premier League. Now, he is poised to inherit a franchise which has been marred by poor play, numerous scandals and the need for a new stadium (unless today’s news regarding new bidder Brian Davis changes the situation). Investigations into workplace culture and financial impropriety centered on Snyder’s tenure at the helm, meanwhile, remain ongoing.
  • Lions Deal Okudah To Falcons: The Lions moved on from the third overall pick in 2020, cornerback Jeff Okudah, in a trade with the Falcons. By receiving a fifth-round pick in return, the move marks a highly underwhelming end to Okudah’s tenure in Detroit, which included multiple injury problems. The 24-year-old showed some of the substantial potential he had coming out of college during the 2022 campaign, and should have a significant role in the Falcons’ new-look secondary. A strong season in 2023 could bode well for both team and player, though, with Okudah looking to play his way into a second contract in Atlanta or elsewhere.
  • Ravens, Beckham Agree To Deal: All signs seemed to be pointing to Odell Beckham Jr. signing with the Jets, but the veteran wideout instead agreed to a one-year deal with the Ravens. Baltimore guaranteed $15MM for the three-time Pro Bowler, while incentives could push the maximum value of the pact to $18MM. That far outpaces what many believed Beckham, 30, would be able to sign for considering his missed time (including the entire 2022 season) due to multiple ACL injuries. The Ravens’ gamble comes as part of their retooling effort in the passing game, and it has led to the further expectation that quarterback Lamar Jackson (who helped recruit Beckham) will remain with the team in one form or another in 2023.
  • White, Baker Request Trades: Two high-profile defenders – Buccaneers linebacker Devin White and Cardinals safety Budda Baker – have each asked to be traded amidst unproductive contract talks. White is under contract for one more season on the fifth-year option, but he is reportedly seeking one of the most lucrative deals at the position from Tampa or an acquiring team. Baker, meanwhile, let the Cardinals know in February that he was eyeing a new deal to make him the league’s highest-paid safety; two years remain on his 2020 extension, which doesn’t include any guaranteed money in 2023 or ’24. Both teams will look to navigate these developments as they continue contract talks in an attempt to avoid needing to part ways with either player.
  • Carter Still Likely Top 10 Pick? Plenty of speculation has surrounded Jalen Carter in the build-up to the draft, considering his legal situation and underwhelming showing at Georgia’s pro day. Despite those factors, the defensive tackle is still expected to be a top 10 pick. The Bears and Eagles – who hold picks No. 9 and 10, respectively – have both shown interest in Carter and would be well-suited to add him to their defensive fronts. Other teams like Seattle, Detroit and Las Vegas have done their homework on him, which could create a competition to secure him early on Day 1. Despite a number of teams reportedly taking Carter off their draft boards altogether, he shouldn’t have to wait long to hear his name called next week.
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