Ranking the 5 strongest position groups in the 2023 NFL Draft
3. Edge Rushers
The 2023 NFL Draft is loaded with talent at the edge rusher position, and it’s safe to say that Will Anderson stands in a class of his own. Anderson’s explosiveness, technique, and power are unmatched, and he is likely to be a top-5 pick in the draft. However, there are other prospects that teams could look to draft in the first round to bolster their pass rush.
One of those prospects is Tyree Wilson from Texas Tech, who is an ideal fit for a 3-4 defensive end in an odd front scheme. Wilson has the size and physical dominance to be a force in the NFL, but he has some issues that could limit his potential. His questionable speed to threaten the edge as a pass rusher and occasional high pad level could be a concern for teams. However, his positional versatility could make him an attractive option for teams that need depth along their defensive line.
Another prospect that teams could target in the first round is Myles Murphy. He is a scheme-diverse edge defender who has a rare blend of athletic tools and traits, and he consistently produces on the field. While he can play in any front and win accordingly, Murphy needs to finish better as disruption has been more prevalent than finishing splash plays. Additionally, his transitions in rush counters could be expedited to win quicker, and he illustrates some steep lateral tightness on the edge.
For teams that are looking to find depth later on, Keion White from Georgia Tech is an immensely talented player who is raw and needs development. Another player to keep an eye on is Isaiah Foskey from Notre Dame, who has prototypical size and potential.
On Day 3, teams could target Ali Gaye from LSU, who is a fluid and smooth athlete with flashes of high-level production in college. Late Day 3 prospects like Tyrus Wheat from Mississippi State could also be valuable options for teams. Wheat has made a name for himself as a versatile tweener/hybrid defender who can set the edge, rush the passer, drop in coverage, and spy quarterbacks. While he has a stout/dense frame with good arm length to set hard edges in the run game, he needs to improve his pass-rush plan and attack different angles to become a more well-rounded player.
Overall, while Will Anderson is in a class of his own, there are other prospects in this year’s draft that could be valuable additions for teams looking to bolster their pass rush. Teams could look to draft players like Tyree Wilson or Myles Murphy in the first round or find depth with scheme-specific players like Keion White or Isaiah Foskey later on. Even Day 3 prospects like Ali Gaye or Tyrus Wheat could be valuable rotational pieces early in their careers.