Our friends over at NBS Sports have provided us with another gem of an NFL mock draft, this time courtesy of Phil Perry. He slots three former Ohio State Buckeyes in the opening round, which at this point in the offseason is standard. Where he has these Buckeyes landing is the interesting part.
Mock drafts are always fun to monitor because they are never 100% accurate, but they provide a glimpse into where the media ranks certain prospects and what they are hearing. It is no secret C.J. Stroud is a lock for the first round, but will he be the first quarterback off the board?
The same question could be asked about Paris Johnson Jr. as this offensive tackle class is fairly deep and the competition for the first blindside protector off the board will no doubt be stiff. Jaxon Smith-Njigba and how his injury will affect his draft stock is another situation to pay close attention to. But enough speculating, let’s dive into the most recent mock.
No. 2 overall - Houston Texans: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
What Perry Says
“It’ll be fascinating to see how Nick Caserio handles this pick. He needs a quarterback. And Stroud is one of the most accurate in this year’s class. He’s a legit pocket passer, which is what Caserio grew up valuing in New England. But the physical tools Anthony Richardson and Will Levis bring to the table are also enticing … They won’t last long after Houston’s pick.”
Back to back throws with hugely impressive ball placement from C.J. Stroud.
Michigan game was apparently one where he struggled. I'm not seeing it. pic.twitter.com/IqFlGLjuOP
— Nicholas McGee (@nicholasmcgee24) February 26, 2023
No. 16 overall - Washington Commanders: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
What Perry Says
“Just a mountain of a man who some believe will end up measuring at 6-foot-7, Johnson fills a major need for Ron Rivera’s club here. Johnson just needs to have a better understanding of how to play the position, but he has the ability to play multiple spots along the offensive line in Washington.”
The more you watch of Ohio State OT Paris Johnson, the more you'll fall in love. Great initial contact on the DE and then he climbs to the 2nd level and manhandles the LB. Johnson was an easy first round grade. pic.twitter.com/7MEBSwphki
— Russell Brown (@RussNFLDraft) February 25, 2023
No. 22 overall - New England Patriots: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
What Perry Says
“This former five-star high school recruit lit up the Big 10 as a sophomore alongside future first-rounders Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson. He had 1,606 yards and nine scores compared to 1,058 and 12 for Wilson and 936 and 13 for Olave.
Smith-Njigba (6-feet, 200 pounds) feasted with Wilson and Olave off the field at times that season, but he was also called the best athlete of the three by Wilson while they were teammates.
Smith-Njigba’s test numbers will be fascinating coming off an injury-riddled 2022. He doesn’t look like the same kind of speedster that Wilson or Olave is. But he is an excellent route-runner who is a bear to bring down after the catch.
Even if he is limited to being a slot receiver at the next level — as he was in 2021 when he posted those gaudy numbers — that carries huge value in the Bill O’Brien offense that will return to New England this year. Mac Jones could use a high-volume target who provides “layup” throws on a consistent basis. Especially if Jakobi Meyers ends up departing via free agency.”
Jaxon Smith-Njigba – WR – OSU
Get's knocked for his long speed (which you kinda see here)
but
– Dog in the MOF
– MFer to get on the ground
– impossible to re-route, always hits his landmarks.
– Explosive at the top of his routes.Inside/Outside IDC – walking bucket. pic.twitter.com/yjjptL132y
— Jacob Morley (@JacobMorley) February 18, 2023
