2023 NFL Mock Draft: C.J. Stroud back at No. 1
By Randy Gurzi
EDGE. Clemson. Scouting Report. Myles Murphy. 8. player. 54. Pick Analysis
8. Philadelphia Eagles (via New Orleans Saints): Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson
Brandon Graham has never been a superstar but he’s been a solid player for the Philadelphia Eagles ever since they drafted him in the first round back in 2010. In 165 career games, Graham has 62 career sacks but will be turning 35 in the offseason.
That means the Eagles could stand to get another big-bodied defensive end, which is exactly what Myles Murphy offers. The Clemson product is 6-foot-5 and 275-pounds and has 15 sacks so far in his career. He’s one of the top pass rushers in this class and adding him to a line that already has Jordan Davis would be a huge win.
player. 57. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Jaxon Smith-Njigba. 9. WR. Ohio State
9. Chicago Bears: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
It’s hard to say Justin Fields has been terrible for the Chicago Bears since the roster around him is so bad. Having said that, he also hasn’t been very good. Still, the best way to help him improve — and to also get an accurate picture of what he can do —‚ is to land some playmakers. Chicago has avoided this as they not only hired a defensive coach but also used their top draft picks on that side of the ball as well.
This has to change which is why the selection here at No. 9 is Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who is also a product of Ohio State. Smith-Njigba is off to a slow start in 2022 but he went off the year prior with 95 receptions for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns.
He took off after FIelds entered the NFL but they do have some familiarity from 2020 which could only help.