Best Players Remaining After Round One Of The NFL Draft


After an exciting first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, there are still many talented players waiting to hear their names called. Here are some of the standout prospects still available heading into Day 2:

Quarterbacks:

Will Levis, Kentucky: Levis is a well-rounded quarterback prospect from Kentucky, known for his arm strength, accuracy, and athleticism. While he has experience in pro-style offenses, there are concerns about his decision-making ability, which keep him outside the elite prospect tier. Despite being projected as a top pick, he went undrafted in the first round and is primed to be one of the first players off the board on Day 2.

Hendon Hooker, Tennessee: Hooker is a dual-threat quarterback from Tennessee with ideal size and a strong arm. Despite suffering an ACL tear during his college career, he has shown progress in his recovery during medical evaluations at the combine. Hooker has the potential to become a solid NFL starter.

Cornerbacks:

Joey Porter Jr., Penn State: Porter Jr. is a physical and versatile cornerback from Penn State, standing at 6-2 with excellent size and athleticism. He has the ability to play press coverage or zone, and his pedigree as the son of former NFL star pass rusher Joey Porter adds to his appeal as a prospect. While he was not selected in the first round of the draft, he is expected to be a valuable addition to any team on Day 2.

Kelee Ringo, Georgia: Ringo is a highly athletic and physical cornerback from the University of Georgia who possesses excellent ball skills and a knack for making big plays in important moments. While there are some concerns about his consistency, he has the size and frame to dominate in coverage and could potentially transition to safety at the next level. Overall, Ringo is a promising prospect with the potential to make an impact in the NFL.

Safeties:

Brian Branch, Alabama: Branch is a versatile defensive back from the University of Alabama who is highly regarded for his coverage skills, physicality, and open-field tackling ability. He is considered one of the top safety prospects in the 2022 NFL draft class and is expected to be one of the first off the board in the early rounds.

Linebackers:

Drew Sanders, Arkansas: Sanders is a versatile linebacker from the University of Arkansas with hybrid potential. At 6'4" and 235 pounds, he has great size and athleticism, making him effective in tackling, coverage, and pass-rushing. Sanders recorded 9.5 sacks in his final season with the Razorbacks.

Trenton Simpson, Clemson: Simpson is a versatile linebacker for Clemson University known for his speed, toughness, and instinctiveness on the field. He reads plays well and has good on-ball instincts, equally adept at stopping the run and defending against the pass. Simpson is an extremely fast athlete, with a 4.4-second 40-yard dash time, and hits runners like a missile. His impressive production over three seasons includes 23 tackles for loss and 13 sacks.

Defensive Linemen:

Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern: Adebawore is a versatile defensive lineman from Northwestern who possesses quickness, athleticism, and power. He excels at disrupting the backfield and getting to the quarterback. Overall, Adebawore is an inside pass rusher with a high motor and potential to impact the game from different positions on the defensive line.

Offensive Linemen:

O'Cyrus Torrence, Florida: Torrence is a talented and physically imposing guard who played for the University of Florida. He is known for his strength and aggressive playing style, which allowed him to dominate on the field. He was a highly-rated prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft, with ESPN ranking him as the second-best guard. Despite not being selected in the first round, he is considered one of the best Day 2 prospects and could potentially be a day one starter in the NFL.

Dawand Jones, Ohio State: At 6-8, 374 pounds, Jones is an enormous player with strong pass-blocking ability. He'd be a strong addition to a team.

Wide Receivers:

Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee: Hyatt is a speedy wide receiver from the University of Tennessee who excelled in a wide spread offense. He is known for his ability to stretch the field and create big plays, but will need to work on his route-running and consistency in the NFL. Despite rumors that he could be a first-round pick, Hyatt is projected to be a Day 2 pick and has the potential to be an impact player in the league.

Josh Downs, North Carolina: Downs is a dynamic wide receiver for the North Carolina Tar Heels. He possesses exceptional quickness, ball skills, and reliability, making him a dangerous weapon in the slot and on punt returns. Downs' athleticism and agility allow him to create separation and make big plays after the catch, making him a potential Day 2 pick in the NFL Draft.

Tight Ends:

Michael Mayer, Notre Dame: Mayer is a highly skilled tight end from Notre Dame, considered a top-10 prospect in his position. He possesses exceptional athleticism, strong hands, and route-running skills, making him a versatile player on the field. Although he may not have been selected in the first round of the NFL draft, he is expected to be a standout starter in the league, making him a fine selection for teams on Day 2.

Darnell Washington, Georgia: Washington is a highly regarded tight end from the University of Georgia. Standing at an imposing 6'7" and weighing 264-270 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of size and athleticism that could make him a matchup nightmare in the NFL. He has shown potential as both a pass-catcher and blocker, and if he can develop his raw talent, he could quickly become a special player. Photo Credit: Barbara J. Perenic/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK