NFL Mock Draft: Entire 1st round after a crazy free agency
By Andrew Falce
NFL Mock draft picks 23 and 24
23. Arizona Cardinals: Kenyon Green, OL, Texas A&M
Kenyon Green. 23. player. Texas AM. 873. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. IOL
The Cardinals were one of the most disappointing teams down the stretch last season. After a hot start, they faded and were quickly outed from the playoffs. While the offense was dynamic, an upgrade along the interior of the line would go a long way in helping keep this offense moving. Kenyon Green would be an upgrade at either of the guard spots.
Green was once seen as a top-15 pick in this class and the top interior linemen in the draft. He tested below-average though as an athlete which has called into question his long-term potential. That testing could be the difference between an elite guard and an above-average one. That said, in the back half of the first round, the Cardinals would still be getting a good value in Green.
24. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa
Iowa. 24. player. 878. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. IOL. Tyler Linderbaum
Tyler Linderbaum has had one of the worst pre-draft processes in recent memory, and none of it was due to his athletic testing. He measured in extremely small, light, and with below-average reach while at the combine. While his tape at center looks impressive, his measurements will likely prevent him from ever being an elite player in the league.
That said, this late in the first round is well worth the risk for Linderbaum. If he can learn to overcome his lack of length at the pro level, there is little reason to think that he won’t be a good center. His technical skills and aggression are great. He has to make some adjustments at the pro level, but Linderbaum could be a good fit along this line.