14. New England Patriots: Brian Branch, DB, Alabama
The New England Patriots have an affinity for Alabama and Georgia players thanks to the great deal of respect Bill Belichick has for Nick Saban and Kirby Smart. And if you draft mostly Alabama and Georgia players, you’re probably going to have a pretty decent roster in the NFL, let’s be honest.
Belichick here lands one of the top defensive backs in the 2023 NFL Draft class and someone he will be able to move all over the formation.
Alabama safety Brian Branch is impressive. Primarily playing nickel, he’s a great fit in today’s NFL. Savvy in zone, reliable in man, and physical as a tackler/blitzer/run defender. pic.twitter.com/EqIoqOGqgs
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) December 27, 2022
This is a perfect Patriots type of player.
15. Green Bay Packers: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
After trading Aaron Rodgers and adding Quentin Johnston to the receiver group, the Packers once again add another top talent to the offensive weaponry with Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer.
Really, there are a number of tight ends that could end up going here. Nobody’s got a set ranking of tight ends in this class yet, but Mayer is often included in the top two or three, and he’s number one on a lot of lists. The point here is that the Packers get a reliable threat at the position to add to the passing game who can also be a factor for the running game.
If the team is to lean more on Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon, a player like Mayer who can be an asset as both a receiver and blocker will help tremendously.