Dallas Cowboys top 3 options in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 22: Head coach Mike McCarthy of the Dallas Cowboys looks on against the San Francisco 49ers during the first half in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Levi's Stadium on January 22, 2023 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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2023 NFL mock draft, Jaxon Smith-Njigba. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

Scouting Report. Jaxon Smith-Njigba. 3. player. Pick Analysis. WR. . 812

3. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

Jaxon Smith-Njigba could be an interesting prospect coming out of Ohio State. He set the Big Ten record two seasons ago in 2021 with 1,606 receiving yards; however, he battled injuries all season long in 2022 and was never able to get on the field for any substantial amount of time. He played in only three games and caught four passes all season.

As a result of missing out largely on last season, he only has one year of college production, which will concern some teams. He’s also a smaller receiver at 6 feet, 198 pounds. He’s not your explosive, top-end speed guy either, which is another knock against him.

Where he lacks in speed, he makes up with technique and route running. He’s able to get separation with these skills and still make plays. He’s also played primarily in the slot but that’s not to say he can’t play on the outside, just might need some time to develop in that role.

PFF has him ranked 20th on their draft big board. This is another one the Cowboys might have to move up a little in the draft, has some mock drafts have him going in the early 20s but still a chance he could fall to them at 26.

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