2023 Pre-Draft Rookie Rankings

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By Nick Andrews

Updated: May 1st 2023

In collaboration with Jake Kohlhagen’s IDP rankings, RSO contributor Nick Andrews’ provides their offensive rankings heading into the 2023 NFL rookie draft. They also provide insight as to who they believe are some of their under and overrated players in each of the first three (3) rounds. The full set of rankings can be found at the end of this article.

1st Round

Undervalued

Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

It is hard to find any player that is undervalued in the first round (pre-draft) but if there is one player that has the widest range of outcomes it would be Anthony Richardson. The freak quarterback who has drawn comparisons to Cam Newton for his physical capabilities, the community seems to be completely split on what his functionality at the NFL level will be. Those that believe his passing accuracy will hinder his ability to be productive as a passer have dropped him to be a late first, early second round selection. Those that see the rushing upside as the difference maker have him as a mid-first round selection and in superflex a potential 1.01 option. Every draft room will have different feelings towards Richardson which makes his value very fluid right now. He could end up being a steal in some leagues.

Overvalued

Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee

John Ross, Henry Ruggs, and Tavon Austin. Three (3) receivers who were drafted based on how fast they can run in a straight line. While there have been some successful players that only had one club in the bag but knew how to use it well, weekly “boom-bust” production does not usually create much fantasy value both in trading and in scoring. I cannot see Hyatt being anything more than a third receiver whose primary objective is just to distract the deep coverages to open up the underneath passing game. For a late first or even early second round selection there are other players I would rather look for.

2nd Round

Undervalued

Zach Evans, RB, Mississippi

When the 2023 class was getting early buzz as the class to go out and acquire picks for, Zach Evans was ranked near the top of those prospects. His value has dropped significantly over the last twelve months and now he is being ranked in the late second round. He still has the tools to be an every-down back and could be seen as one those players that we all ask how he fell to the second round in two years in the right system.

Overvalued

Tyjae Spears, RB, Tulane

Opposite to Zach Evans’ fall, Tyjae Spears has slowly ascended to fringe first round pick in some rankings since January. Spears is a great prospect and while I do not think he will be the “A” in an offense he would be a great compliment in any backfield. Depending on which team drafts him, his value will either come back down to the late second which feels more accurate or he will be drafted to a perceived “open backfield” and the community will push him into the first round like James Cook last year. At the later value I will not have many shares of Spears.

3rd Round

Undervalued

Xavier Hutchinson, WR, Iowa State

Each year I find receivers that are going 25th or higher that I believe should be drafted at the top of the third round. My pre-draft pick for this year’s draft is Xavier Hutchinson who has flown relatively under the radar during the off-season and has not been receiving a lot of pre-draft buzz from the community. Being projected as an early Day 3 selection there is a good chance that Hutchinson finds himself on a tough depth chart to make early contributions to. His skill set however leads me to believe he could become a great complimentary receiver in any offense and with patience could become a consistent contributor in deeper fantasy leagues.

Overvalued

Kendre Miller, RB, TCU

Too many times on film I watched Kendre Miller not have the decision making skills to hit the hole or make a conviction about what he was going to do behind the line of scrimmage. There is something to be said about being a patient runner but in the NFL everything happens faster and if you cannot process the running lanes unless they are wide open there will not be any way he sees playing time over other running backs. There are plenty of other players in the same value range of Miller that I will be taking before he ever makes it far enough to be drafted on my board.

2023 Combined Pre-Draft Rookie Rankings (Offense Only)

Overall Ranking	First Name	Last Name	Position	School	Positional Ranking
Round 1
1	Bijan	Robinson	RB	Texas	RB1
2	Jahmyr	Gibbs	RB	Alabama	RB2
3	Jaxon	Smith-Njigba	WR	Ohio State	WR1
4	Jordan	Addison	WR	USC	WR2
5	Quentin	Johnston	WR	TCU	WR3
6	Zay	Flowers	WR	Boston College	WR4
7	C.J.	Stroud	QB	Ohio State	QB1
8	Zach	Charbonnet	RB	UCLA	RB3
9	Bryce	Young	QB	Alabama	QB2
10	Anthony	Richardson	QB	Florida	QB3
11	Jalin	Hyatt	WR	Tennessee	WR5
12	Josh	Downs	WR	North Carolina	WR6
Round 2
13	Tyjae	Spears	RB	Tulane	RB4
14	Zach	Evans	RB	Mississippi	RB5
15	Sean	Tucker	RB	Syracuse	RB6
16	Devon	Achane	RB	Texas A&M	RB7
17	Michael	Mayer	TE	Notre Dame	TE1
18	Marvin	Mims	WR	Oklahoma	WR7
19	Dalton	Kincaid	TE	Utah	TE2
20	Kayshon	Boutte	WR	LSU	WR8
21	Israel	Abanikanda	RB	Pittsburgh	RB8
22	Roschon	Johnson	RB	Texas	RB9
23	Will	Levis	QB	Kentucky	QB4
24	Chase	Brown	RB	Illinois	RB10
Round 3
25	Rashee	Rice	WR	SMU	WR9
26	Xavier	Hutchinson	WR	Iowa State	WR10
27	DeWayne	McBride	RB	UAB	RB11
28	Tank	Bigsby	RB	Auburn	RB12
29	Eric	Gray	RB	Oklahoma	RB13
30	Kendre	Miller	RB	TCU	RB14
31	Parker	Washington	WR	Penn State	WR11
32	Tyler	Scott	WR	Cincinnati	WR12
33	Luke	Musgrave	TE	Oregon State	TE3
34	Nathaniel	Dell	WR	Houston	WR13
35	Darnell	Washington	TE	Georgia	TE4
36	Hendon	Hooker	QB	Tennessee	QB5
Round 4
37	Jonathan	Mingo	WR	Mississippi	WR14
38	Jayden	Reed	WR	Michigan State	WR15
39	Kenny	McIntosh	RB	Georgia	RB15
40	A.T.	Perry	WR	Wake Forest	WR16
41	Trey	Palmer	WR	Nebraska	WR17
42	Rakim	Jarrett	WR	Maryland	WR18
43	Dontayvion	Wicks	WR	Virginia	WR19
44	Michael	Wilson	WR	Stanford	WR20
45	Mohamed	Ibrahim	RB	Minnesota	RB16
46	Deuce	Vaughn	RB	Kansas State	RB17
47	Luke	Schoonmaker	TE	Michigan	TE5
48	Evan	Hull	RB	Northwestern	RB18
Round 5
49	Andrei	Iosivas	WR	Princeton	WR21
50	Zach	Kuntz	TE	Old Dominion	TE6
51	Puka	Nacua	WR	BYU	WR22
52	Cedric	Tillman	WR	Tennessee	WR23
53	Sam	Laporta	TE	Iowa	TE7
54	Ronnie	Bell	WR	Michigan	WR24
55	Tucker	Kraft	TE	SDSU	TE8
56	Jalen	Moreno-Cropper	WR	Fresno State	WR25
57	Dontay	Demus Jr.	WR	Maryland	WR26
58	Bryce	Ford-Wheaton	WR	West Virginia	WR27
59	Elijah	Higgins	WR	Stanford	WR28
60	Dorian	Thompson-Robinson	QB	UCLA	QB6
Round 6
61	Tiyon	Evans	RB	Louisville	RB19
62	Brenton	Strange	TE	Penn State	TE9
63	Jaren	Hall	QB	BYU	QB7
64	Camerun	Peoples	RB	Appalachian State	RB20
65	Stetson	Bennett	QB	Georgia	QB8
66	Tanner	McKee	QB	Stanford	QB9
67	Travis	Dye	RB	USC	RB21
68	Jordan	Mims	RB	Frenso State	RB22
69	Jacob	Copelan	WR	Maryland	WR29
70	Davis	Allen	TE	Clemson	TE10
71	Lew	Nichols III	RB	Central Michigan	RB23
72	Charlie	Jones	WR	Purdue	WR30
Round 7
73	Jadon	Haselwood	WR	Arkansas	WR31
74	Justin	Shorter	WR	Florida	WR32
75	Chris	Rodriguez	RB	Kentucky	RB24
76	Keaton	Mitchell	RB	East Carolina	RB25
77	Clayton	Tune	QB	Houston	QB10
78	Max	Duggan	QB	TCU	QB11
79	Deneric	Prince	RB	Tulsa	RB26
80	Jalen	Wayne	WR	Fresno State	WR33
81	Tavion	Thomas	RB	Utah	RB27
82	Derius	Davis	WR	TCU	WR34
83	Joseph	Ngata	WR	Clemson	WR35
84	Will	Mallory	TE	Miami	TE11
Round 8
85	Michael	Jefferson	WR	Louisiana-Lafayette	WR36
86	Xazavian	Valladay	RB	Arizona State	RB28
87	Tre	Tucker	WR	Cincinnati	WR37
88	Josh	Whyle	TE	Cincinnati	TE12
89	Jake	Bobo	WR	UCLA	WR38
90	Jake	Haener	QB	Fresno State	QB12
91	Cameron	Latu	TE	Alabama	TE13
92	Trelon	Smith	RB	UTSA	RB29
93	Keytaon	Thompson	WR	Virginia	WR39
94	Payne	Durham	TE	Purdue	TE14
95	SaRodrick	Thompson	RB	Texas Tech	RB30
96	Frank	Ladson Jr.	WR	Miami	WR40
Round 9
97	Leonard	Taylor	TE	Cincinnati	TE15
98	Hunter	Luepke	RB	NDSU	RB31

Jake’s 2023 Full IDP Pre-Draft Rookie Rankings

Overall Ranking	First Name	Last Name	Position	School	Positional Ranking
Round 1
1	Bijan	Robinson	RB	Texas	RB1
2	Jaxon	Smith-Njigba	WR	Ohio State	WR1
3	Jahmyr	Gibbs	RB	Alabama	RB2
4	Quentin	Johnson	WR	TCU	WR2
5	Jordan	Addison	WR	USC	WR3
6	Zach	Charbonnet	RB	UCLA	RB3
7	CJ	Stroud	QB	Ohio State	QB1
8	Zay	Flowers	WR	Boston College	WR4
9	Josh	Downs	WR	UNC	WR5
10	Tyjae	Spears	RB	Tulane	RB4
11	Anthony	Richardson	QB	Florida	QB2
12	Bryce	Young	QB	Alabama	QB3
Round 2
13	Will	Anderson Jr	DE	Alabama	DE1
14	Jalin	Hyatt	WR	Tennessee	WR6
15	Tyree	Wilson	DE	Texas Tech	DE2
16	Jack	Campbell	LB	Iowa	LB1
17	Michael	Mayer	TE	Notre Dame	TE1
18	Dalton	Kincaid	TE	Utah	TE2
19	Devon	Achane	RB	Texas A&M	RB5
20	Kendre	Miller	RB	TCU	RB6
21	Jalen	Carter	DT	Georgia	DT1
22	Tank	Bigsby	RB	Auburn	RB7
23	Marvin	Mims	WR	Oklahoma	WR7
24	Sean	Tucker	RB	Syracuse	RB8
Round 3
25	Nolan	Smith	DE	Georgia	DE3
26	Calijah	Kancey	DT	Pittsburgh	DT2
27	Zach	Evans	RB	Mississippi	RB9
28	Drew	Sanders	LB	Arkansas	LB2
29	Bryan	Bresee	DT	Clemson	DT3
30	Rashee	Rice	WR	SMU	WR8
31	Brian	Branch	S	Alabama	S1
32	Trenton	Simpson	LB	Clemson	LB3
33	Ivan	Pace Jr	LB	Cincinnati	LB4
34	Will	Levis	QB	Kentucky	QB4
35	Roschon	Johnson	RB	Texas	RB10
36	Dorian	Williams	LB	Tulane	LB5
Round 4
37	Lukas	Van Ness	DE	Iowa	DE4
38	BJ	Ojulari	DE	LSU	DE5
39	Noah	Sewell	LB	Oregon	LB6
40	AT	Perry	WR	Wake Forest	WR9
41	Chase	Brown	RB	Illinois	RB11
42	Kayshon	Boutte	WR	LSU	WR10
43	Antonio	Johnson	S	Texas A&M	S2
44	Daiyan	Henley	LB	Washington State	LB7
45	Myles	Murphy	DE	Clemson	DE6
46	Darnell	Washington	TE	Georgia	TE3
47	Nathaniel	Dell	WR	Houston	WR11
48	Israel	Abanikanda	RB	Pittsburgh	RB12
Round 5
49	DeWayne	McBride	RB	UAB	RB13
50	JL	Skinner	S	Boise State	S3
51	Joey	Porter	CB	Penn State	CB1
52	Jonathan	Mingo	WR	Ole Miss	WR12
53	Sydney	Brown	S	Illinois	S4
54	Xavier	Hutchinson	WR	Iowa State	WR13
55	Felix	Anudike-Uzomah	DE	Kansas State	DE7
56	DeMaryion	Overshown	LB	Texas	LB8
57	Parker	Washington	WR	Penn State	WR14
58	Jordan	Battle	S	Alabama	S5
59	Luke	Musgrave	TE	Oregon State	TE4
60	Christopher	Smith	S	Georgia	S6
Round 6
61	Tyler	Scott	WR	Cincinnati	WR15
62	Henry	To’oTo’o	LB	Alabama	LB9
63	Brandon	Joseph	S	Notre Dame	S7
64	Jammie	Robinson	S	Florida State	S8
65	Hendon	Hooker	QB	Tennessee	QB5
66	Andre	Carter II	DE	Army	DE8
67	Isaiah	Foskey	DE	Notre Dame	DE9
68	Evan	Hull	RB	Northwestern	RB14
69	Sirvocea	Dennis	LB	Pittsburgh	LB10
70	Owen	Pappoe	LB	Auburn	LB11
71	Sam	Laporta	TE	Iowa	TE5
72	Jayden	Reed	WR	Michigan State	WR16
Round 7
73	Devon	Witherspoon	CB	Illinois	CB2
74	Christian	Gonzalez	CB	Oregon	CB3
75	Kenny	McIntosh	RB	Georgia	RB15
76	Jeremy	Banks	LB	Tennessee	LB12
77	Zach	Harrison	DE	Ohio State	DE10
78	Rakim	Jarrett	WR	Maryland	WR17
79	Mohamoud	Diabate	LB	Utah	LB13
80	Siaki	Ika	DT	Baylor	DT4
81	Deuce	Vaughn	RB	Kansas State	RB16
82	Trey	Palmer	WR	Nebraska	WR18
83	Puka	Nacua	WR	BYU	WR19
84	Andrei	Iosivas	WR	Princeton	WR20
Round 8
85	Deonte	Banks	CB	Maryland	CB4
86	Ventrell	Miller	LB	Florida	LB14
87	Tucker	Kraft	TE	NDSU	TE6
88	Mohamed	Ibrahim	RB	Minnesota	RB17
89	Michael	Wilson	WR	Stanford	WR21
90	Eric	Gray	RB	Oklahoma	RB18
91	Kelee	Ringo	CB	Georgia	CB5
92	Kaevon	Merriwether	S	Iowa	S9
93	Trey	Dean III	S	Florida	S10
94	Cam	Jones	LB	Indiana	LB15
95	Dontayvion	Wicks	WR	Virginia	WR22
96	Stetson	Bennett	QB	Georgia	QB6
Round 9
97	Tuli	Tuipolato	DT	USC	DT5
98	Adetomiwa	Adebawore	DE	Northwestern	DE11
99	Will	McDonald IV	DE	Iowa State	DE12
100	Ronnie	Bell	WR	Michigan	WR23
101	Camerun	Peoples	RB	Appalachian State	RB19
102	Tiyon	Evans	RB	Louisville	RB20
103	Mazi	Smith	DE	Michigan	DE13
104	Mike	Morris	DE	Michigan	DE14
105	Jaren	Hall	QB	BYU	QB7
106	Ben	VanSumeren	LB	Michigan State	LB16
107	Keion	White	DE	Georgia Tech	DE15
108	Jalen	Moreno-Cropper	WR	Fresno State	WR24
Round 10
109	Tanner	McKee	QB	Stanford	QB8
110	Derick	Hall	DE	Auburn	DE16
111	Dee	Winters	LB	TCU	LB17
112	Bryce	Ford-Wheaton	WR	West Virginia	WR25
113	Keanu	Benton	DT	Wisconsin	DT6
114	Gervon	Dexter	DT	Florida	DT7
115	Luke	Schoonmaker	TE	Michigan	TE7
116	Max	Duggan	QB	TCU	QB9
117	Lew	Nichols III	RB	Central Michigan	RB21
118	Shaka	Heyward	LB	Duke	LB18
119	Nick	Herbig	DE	Wisconsin	DE17
120	Travis	Dye	RB	USC	RB22
Round 11
121	Will	Mallory	TE	Miami	TE8
122	Dontay	Demus Jr	WR	Maryland	WR26
123	Deneric	Prince	RB	Tulsa	RB23
124	Dorian	Thompson-Robinson	QB	UCLA	QB10
125	Ryan	Greenhagen	LB	Fordham	LB19
126	Emmanuel	Forbes	CB	Mississippi State	CB6
127	Cam	Smith	LB	South Carolina	LB20
128	Jacob	Copelan	WR	Maryland	WR27
129	Elijah	Higgins	WR	Stanford	WR28
130	Carlton	Martial	LB	Troy	LB21
131	Jalen	Wayne	WR	South Alabama	WR29
132	Joseph	Ngata	WR	Clemson	WR30
Round 12
133	Jadon	Haselwood	WR	Arkansas	WR31
134	Jordan	Mims	RB	Fresno State	RB24
135	Colby	Wooden	DE	Auburn	DE18
136	Yasir	Abdullah	DE	Louisville	DE19
137	Charlie	Jones	WR	Purdue	WR32
138	Justin	Shorter	WR	Florida	WR33
139	Keaton	Mitchell	RB	East Carolina	RB25
140	Cedric	Tillman	WR	Tennessee	WR34
141	Derius	Davis	WR	TCU	WR35
142	Clayton	Tune	QB	Houston	QB11
143	Davis	Allen	TE	Clemson	TE9
144	Byron	Young	DE	Alabama	DE20
Round 13
145	Anfernee	Orji	LB	Vanderbilt	LB22
146	Mike	Jones Jr	LB	LSU	LB23
147	Michael	Jefferson	WR	Louisiana-Lafayette	WR36
148	Tavion	Thomas	RB	Utah	RB26
149	Xazavian	Valladay	RB	Arizona State	RB27
150	Trelon	Smith	RB	UTSA	RB28
151	SaRodorick	Thompson	RB	Texas Tech	RB29
152	Jay	Ward	S	LSU	S11
153	Daniel	Scott	S	California	S12
154	Cameron	Latu	TE	UCLA	TE10
155	Clark	Phillips III	CB	Utah	CB7
156	Jake	Bobo	WR	UCLA	WR37
Round 14
157	Mikel	Jones	LB	Syracuse	LB24
158	Tyrique	Stevenson	CB	Miami	CB8
159	KJ	Henry	DE	Clemson	DE21
160	Josh	Whyle	TE	Cincinnati	TE11
161	Jake	Haener	QB	Fresno State	QB12
162	Keytaon	Thompson	WR	Virginia	WR38
163	DJ	Turner	CB	Michigan	CB9
164	Kyu Blu	Kelly	CB	Stanford	CB10
165	Chris	Rodriguez	RB	Kentucky	RB30
166	Aubrey	Miller Jr	LB	Jackson State	LB25
167	Garrett	Williams	CB	Syracuse	CB11
168	Leonard	Taylor	TE	Cincinnati	TE12

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Slicing ’17 Rookie Class into 12 Tiers

By Dave Sanders

Updated: July 23rd 2017

According to a recent poll on our RSO Twitter feed, about 50% of RSO leagues have not yet conducted their rookie drafts. As you’re continuing your preparation, I’m here to provide my tiered rankings of the top 50 rookies. Navigating three to four rounds of a rookie draft isn’t easy. My tiers are designed to help you know when to buy or sell so you can accumulate the best possible rookie class, at great value!

So let’s begin…

Tier 1

1. Corey Davis WR TEN

While Corey Davis may not be quite the same level of prospect as recent 1.01/1.02 picks Ezekiel Elliott, Amari Cooper, and Todd Gurley, he’s undoubtedly the best prospect in this class and the only receiver I’m willing to bet will be a true NFL #1. Putting my money where my mouth is, I already have 3 shares and am aiming for more.

Tier 2

2. Joe Mixon RB CIN
3. Christian McCaffrey RB CAR
4. Leonard Fournette RB JAX

To say you can’t go wrong with picks 2, 3, and 4 would be inaccurate. In a few years, all three will have differing values. But at this point, the margins between each are razor-thin.

Consistent with my general strategy, I’m going to often choose the most talented player regardless of their potential non-talent-related downfalls such as injury history, off-the-field issues, etc. I’ll take Joe Mixon at 2. He’s the only RB in this class that I believe truly has an elite RB1 ceiling. My rankings 3rd and 4th ranked players differ depending on your scoring system. PPR -> Christian McCaffrey. Standard -> Leonard Fournette.

Tier 3

5. Dalvin Cook RB MIN

While a sub-10th percentile SPARQ score terrifies me, Dalvin Cook‘s college tape tells a different story. I firmly believe that he’s the most talented back on the Minnesota Vikings and it isn’t remotely close. How soon he will earn playing time may be another story. He will need to improve drastically in pass-protection and ball security to earn playing time.

After the 1.05 pick, this draft class falls off a cliff. If you’re slated to pick 6th or later in the first round of a rookie draft this year, I’d advise shopping that pick for help now or 2018/2019 picks.

Tier 4

6. Mike Williams WR LAC

Back injuries are scary. Back injuries are especially scary when learning a NFL playbook for this first time, getting acclimated to a NFL playbook, and completing for playing time among a crowded group of talented receivers. Even if he fully recovers from this injury in time for the season, he’s unlikely to contribute in a meaningful way this season. Still my 1.06, I’d only make that pick if I’ve exhausted every trade possible without coming to an agreement. If Mike Williams struggles for playing time, but appears healthy when on the field, he might be a buy-low target at the trade deadline or during the 2018 off-season

For more info on his injury and the potential need for surgery if the non-surgical route doesn’t work, I’d recommend listening to the AUDIBLE LIVE! Podcast from June 8th as Jene Bramel (@JeneBramel on Twitter) provides great insight.

Tier 5

7. Alvin Kamara RB NO
8. John Ross WR CIN
9. David Njoku TE CLE
10. Evan Engram TE NYG
11. Samaje Perine RB WAS
12. O.J. Howard TE TB
13. Kareem Hunt RB KC

Even if he doesn’t develop as an inside runner, Alvin Kamara will still be a very productive pass-catching back in the NFL. The Saints offense is very RB friendly and neither Adrian Peterson or Mark Ingram are locks for the Saints’ 2018 roster.

Love John Ross‘ talent, but hate the landing spot. Andy Dalton isn’t the ideal QB for him, especially behind a poor offensive line that may force them to focus on getting the ball out of his hands quickly.

My tight end rankings are based on my belief in their long-term upside. Love David Njoku‘s talent and his situation isn’t as bad as many believe, especially with the release of Gary Barnidge. Evan Engram should settle in as a big slot receiver, though classified as a TE, for the Giants once they release he can’t handle the typical blocking duties of an in-line TE.

O.J. Howard likely will end up as the best NFL TE, but I’m worried that his talent as a blocker may limit his fantasy potential.

Samaje Perine doesn’t feel like a 1st rounder to me. I would do everything possible to trade the 1.11 pick for a random 2018 1st. He was graded by many as a late 2nd or early 3rd round pick dynasty rookie pick, but has catapulted into the 1st round due to his promising landing spot in Washington. Betting on him to the next Jordan Howard is dangerous. Barring that type of breakout, I expect Washington to be in play for signing a free agent or drafting a top RB prospect in 2018.

Rounding out this tier is Kareem Hunt – a running back who dazzled on tape, but disappointed at the NFL combine. Joining a Spencer Ware in the Kansas City backfield, many believe Hunt will overtake Ware for the majority of carries by mid-season. I believe this is far from a lock and would expect Ware to lead KC in carries this year, by a 2:1 ratio.

Tier 6

14. JuJu Smith-Schuster WR PIT
15. Chris Godwin WR TB
16. Carlos Henderson WR DEN
17. James Conner RB PIT
18. Zay Jones WR BUF
19. Curtis Samuel WR CAR

Higher on Carlos Henderson than most, I love his ability after the catch. It’s also worth mentioning that aging receivers Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders aren’t long-term barriers to playing time in Denver.

Tier 7

20. Taywan Taylor WR TEN
21. D’Onte Foreman RB HOU
22. Jeremy McNichols RB TB

Loved Taywan Taylor pre-draft and couldn’t have hoped for a much better landing spot. Great target in the late 2nd or early 3rd round of your draft.

Tier 8

23. Melvin Mack RB IND
24. Kenny Galladay WR DET
25. ArDarius Stewart WR NYJ
26. Gerald Everett TE LAR
27. Joe Williams RB SF
28. Josh Reynolds WR LAR
29. Chad Williams WR ARI

This group includes several recent ADP risers: Kenny Galladay, ArDarius Stewart, Joe Williams, and Chad Williams. In each of my drafts, I want to land several players from this tier.

Tier 10

30. Jamaal Williams RB GB
31. Aaron Jones RB GB
32. Patrick Mahomes QB KC

In both redraft and dynasty, Ty Montgomery is the back I want in Green Bay though it’s hard to ignore the fact that the Packers drafted 3 running backs. If everything breaks right for either rookie back, Williams and Jones could be featured in one of the NFL’s best offenses. That alone makes them solid values in the 3rd round.

If early rookie drafts are any indication, I’m going to be heavily invested in Patrick Mahomes. While he’ll need to be more consistent to succeed at the next level, I can’t help but drool at his raw ability. His landing spot, under Andy Reid’s tutelage, could not be better. Let’s not forget that Andy Reid used to be criticized during his Eagles days for passing too much. Mahomes will be put into position to not only succeed, but also develop into a QB1 in fantasy.

Tier 11

33. Cooper Kupp WR LAR
34. Wayne Gallman RB NYG
35. Amara Dorboh WR SEA
36. Deshaun Watson QB HOU
37. Adam Shaheen TE CHI
38. DeShone Kizer QB CLE
39. Mitchell Trubisky QB CHI

Tier 12

40. Ishmael Zamora WR OAK
41. Jonnu Smith TE TEN
42. Josh Malone WR CIN
43. Jehu Chessen WR KC
44. Chad Kelly QB DEN
45. Dede Westbrook WR JAX

Tier 13

46. Shelton Gibson WR PHI
47. Jake Butt TE DEN

48. Elijah McGuire RB NYJ
49. Brian Hill RB ATL
50. Donnel Pumphrey RB PHI

Bio: An avid fan of all things NFL, Dave has been playing fantasy football since 1999. Though Dave participates in all types of fantasy football including redraft and daily, he prefers dynasty and keeper leagues as talent evaluation and scouting are integral components of each. Follow him on Twitter @DaveSanders_RSO

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Top 100: RSO Rookie Rankings

By Bob Cowper

Updated: July 23rd 2017

To answer the question right at the top… Yes, I still have Leonard Fournette as my 1.01. I’m sure we’ll spill much digital ink over the coming months debating the pick but I think he will be dominant and with so much draft capital invested, the Jaguars will have to stay dedicated.

The lifeblood of every dynasty team are it’s incoming rookies, like Fournette. The only problem is that few rookies are as well-known as Fournette and so many owners don’t have the time to devote to doing research on who the rookies are and how their landing spot impacts their RSO outlook. Throughout the last three months, I have done the research for you and have come up with what you will see below: RSO’s top 100 rookies.

This was a fascinating exercise for me because after I started, I realized there were still a number of players even I needed to do more research on. For example, at one point I realized I was getting the two RB Elijahs mixed up (Hood: UNC and McGuire: LA-Lafayette) despite having opposite skill sets because I had them listed consecutively on my RB ranking (for the record: even though I prefer Hood for his bigger frame and the way he always fights forward, I pushed McGuire above him because of his fit with the Jets and path to touches). I first started making rankings for each position so I could easily compare players and develop tiers within each position. Next, I decided how I would value positions based on my league assumptions (see below). Then, I massaged the positional rankings together using my tiers and positional values to help determine the overall rankings. Finally, I fine tuned throughout the draft to adjust positional and overall rankings based on team fit. It was a time consuming exercise for sure, but one I would recommend for RSO owners, just on a smaller scale (I would suggest however many rookie picks your league has + 5).

Before we get to the rankings, a few notes:

I created these rankings assuming the following starting lineup in a 10-12 team league: QB, RB, RB, WR, WR, OFLEX, DL, LB, DB, DFLEX.
I assumed 0.5PPR but otherwise standard scoring (i.e. a slight bump to WR and pass catching RBs). IDP scoring can vary quite significantly in my experience but I assumed the typical key stats of tackles, sacks and INTs.
If you are in a Superflex or 2QB league, I would recommend moving the QBs up about 10-15 spots.
If your IDP league uses more starters (meaning more will be drafted) you should move IDP players up about 5 spots as the value of the best IDP players will increase.
I ranked at least 10 QB, TE, DL, LB and DB and at least 20 RB and WR. I figured all but the deepest of leagues would need to go deeper than that at each position. Determining how some DE/OLB will be listed is tough at this point but when in doubt I used NFL.com’s listed position.
As you go down the list, the amount of research done on a given player admittedly decreases, so to do the strong opinions. I feel much more strongly about Mixon over Cook than I do about Clement over Pumphrey.
Keep in mind that these rankings are being finalized on Saturday, April 29. Much can, and will, change before you draft.

Rank	First Name	Last Name	Position	Pos Rank
1	Leonard	Fournette	RB	RB1
2	Corey	Davis	WR	WR1
3	Christian	McCaffrey	RB	RB2
4	Joe	Mixon	RB	RB3
5	Mike	Williams	WR	WR2
6	John	Ross	WR	WR3
7	OJ	Howard	TE	TE1
8	Chris	Godwin	WR	WR4
9	Dalvin	Cook	RB	RB4
10	Zay	Jones	WR	WR5
11	Kareem	Hunt	RB	RB5
12	David	Njoku	TE	TE2
13	Marlon	Mack	RB	RB6
14	Curtis	Samuel	RB	RB7
15	D’onta	Foreman	RB	RB8
16	Taywan	Taylor	WR	WR6
17	JuJu	Smith-Schuster	WR	WR7
18	Evan	Engram	TE	TE3
19	Carlos	Henderson	WR	WR8
20	Cooper	Kupp	WR	WR9
21	Jeremy	McNichols	RB	RB9
22	Samaje	Perine	RB	RB10
23	Mitch	Trubisky	QB	QB1
24	Myles	Garrett	DL	DL1
25	Wayne	Gallman	RB	RB11
26	Pat	Mahomes	QB	QB2
27	Jake	Butt	TE	TE4
28	Alvin	Kamara	RB	RB12
29	Solomon	Thomas	DL	DL2
30	KD	Cannon	WR	WR10
31	Malik	Hooker	DB	DB1
32	Deshaun	Watson	QB	QB3
33	Zach	Cunningham	LB	LB1
34	Josh	Malone	WR	WR11
35	Taco	Charlton	DL	DL3
36	Jonathan	Allen	DL	DL4
37	Jonnu	Smith	TE	TE5
38	Haason	Reddick	LB	LB2
39	Jamal	Adams	DB	DB2
40	Jabrill	Peppers	DB	DB3
41	Josh	Reynolds	WR	WR12
42	Amara	Darboh	WR	WR13
43	Jamaal	Williams	RB	RB13
44	James	Conner	RB	RB14
45	Josh	Dobbs	QB	QB4
46	Tim	Williams	LB	LB3
47	Takkarist	McKinley	DL	DL5
48	Malachi	Dupre	WR	WR14
49	Reuben	Foster	LB	LB4
50	Ardarius	Stewart	WR	WR15
51	Charles	Harris	DL	DL6
52	Deshone	Kizer	QB	QB5
53	Nate	Peterman	QB	QB6
54	Joe	Williams	RB	RB15
55	Elijah	McGuire	RB	RB16
56	TJ	Watt	LB	LB5
57	Marshon	Lattimore	DB	DB4
58	Raekwon	McMillan	LB	LB6
59	Gerald	Everett	TE	TE6
60	Derek	Rivers	DL	DL7
61	Isaiah	Ford	WR	WR16
62	Bucky	Hodges	TE	TE7
63	Chad	Hansen	WR	WR17
64	Obi	Melifonwu	DB	DB5
65	Elijah	Hood	RB	RB17
66	Derek	Barnett	DL	DL8
67	Jarrad	Davis	LB	LB7
68	Brad	Kaaya	QB	QB7
69	Brian	Hill	RB	RB18
70	Davis	Webb	QB	QB8
71	Ryan	Anderson	LB	LB8
72	Tyus	Bowser	LB	LB9
73	Marlon	Humphrey	DB	DB6
74	Adam	Shaheen	TE	TE8
75	Jalen	Robinette	WR	WR18
76	Donnel	Pumphrey	RB	RB19
77	Jordan	Leggett	TE	TE9
78	Corey	Clement	RB	RB20
79	Duke	Riley	LB	LB10
80	Dede	Westbrook	WR	WR19
81	Seth	Russell	QB	QB9
82	Aaron	Jones	RB	RB21
83	C.J.	Beathard	QB	QB10
84	Malik	McDowell	DL	DL9
85	Budda	Baker	DB	DB7
86	Carl	Lawson	DL	DL10
87	Marcus	Maye	DB	DB8
88	Jeremy	Sprinkle	TE	TE10
89	Adoree’	Jackson	DB	DB9
90	Kevin	King	DB	DB10
91	Gareon	Conley	DB	DB11
92	Mack	Hollins	WR	WR20
93	Tarik	Cohen	RB	RB22
94	Chad	Williams	WR	WR21
95	Jordan	Willis	DL	DL11
96	Chad	Kelly	QB	QB11
97	Amba	Etta-Tawo	WR	WR22
98	Chidobee	Awuzie	DB	DB12
99	Kenny	Galloday	WR	WR23
100	George	Kittle	TE	TE11

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Post-Draft Rookie Mock Draft

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By Dave Sanders

Updated: May 18th 2016

As you’ve likely already heard by now, the 2016 draft class is not strong. After watching the NFL Draft unfold, I’m less optimistic than I was about this class even a week ago. Last year there was a debate between Amari Cooper and Todd Gurley for the 1.01 pick, but we expected both to be excellent players in the NFL. This year no such debate exists as Ezekiel Elliott cemented himself as the 1.01 pick by landing with the Dallas Cowboys. After Elliott, there are six players that would be worthy of a 1st round rookie pick in most years. Calling the end of the 1st round ugly would be an understatement. The caliber of player drops off a cliff, making late 1st round picks not much more valuable than 2nd rounders.

If we compared this draft to the 2015 class at the time they entered the NFL, only Elliott would be among the top 5 prospects. In my opinion, Amari Cooper, Todd Gurley, Kevin White, and DeVante Parker were all better prospects last year than Treadwell, Coleman, Doctson, Shepard, Henry, etc.

Without further ado, let’s kick off this 12 team, standard scoring IDP mock draft:

Round 1

1.01 – Ezekiel Elliott RB DAL

Undoubtedly the number #1 pick in all rookie drafts, he immediately slots in as my #3 RB for dynasty and is even a 1st round pick in redraft leagues.

1.02 – Laquon Treadwell WR MIN

While his stock has fallen over the past few months, Treadwell still is a very good prospect that should have plenty of opportunity in Minnesota.

1.03 – Corey Coleman WR CLE

Immediately the #1 WR on the team, Coleman should get fed the ball plenty. If everything clicks, Coleman has dynasty WR1 potential.

1.04 – Josh Doctson WR WAS

Love Doctson’s ability to go up and get the ball. He should be an immediate red-zone threat that plays frequently opposite DeSean Jackson. However, it’s important to note that Doctson is several years older than both Treadwell and Coleman.

1.05 – Sterling Shepard WR NYG

Thought of mainly as a slot receiver, Shepard has the ability to win on the outside and should make plenty of plays opposite OBJ in the Giants’ West Coast offense.

1.06 – Michael Thomas WR NO

He’s a work-in progress, but has great physical tools. Should challenge Willie Snead for the #2 WR position in New Orleans.

1.07 – Tyler Boyd WR CIN

Maybe the most polarizing player of this dynasty rookie class, Boyd lands in a nice spot and will help replace departed free agents Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu.

1.08 – Derrick Henry RB TEN

I did not expect Tennessee to draft a RB early after trading for DeMarco Murray. While he may not play a ton in his rookie year, Henry has a chance to be “the guy” moving forward in a run-first offense.

1.09 – Kenneth Dixon RB BAL

My favorite running back prospect besides Elliott, Dixon is more talented than Buck Allen and could immediately threaten Justin Forsett for carries.

1.10 – Will Fuller WR HOU

I typically shy away from the big play, low volume receivers that fit the DeSean Jackson mold. That said, there’s no denying Fuller’s talent makes him a borderline 1st rounder in a weak rookie class.

1.11 – Paul Perkins RB NYG

Perkins has a chance to share carries early in the season and potentially be the Giants’ lead back by seasons end.

1.12 – Jordan Howard RB CHI

If you haven’t read it yet, I’d encourage you to check out Mike Clay’s piece on Jeremy Langford’s rookie season. Upon further review, Langford really struggled in year 1. Of course there is room for improvement, but it would not be crazy to see Howard become the lead back in Chicago.

Round 2

2.01 – Leonte Carroo WR MIA

Carroo easily could have found himself as a mid-1st rounder had he landed in a better situation. In Miami, he’ll have to compete with young WRs Jarvis Landry and DeVante Parker for targets. Tannehill also is not the ideal quarterback to maximize Carroo’s skill set.

2.02 – CJ Prosise RB SEA

Prosise should be an excellent 3rd down compliment to Thomas Rawls and is clearly an improvement for Seattle on the 2015 version of Fred Jackson.

2.03 – Myles Jack LB JAX

Without the injury concerns, Jack would have firmly cemented himself as a late 1st rounder.

2.04 – Devontae Booker RB DEN

Booker should quickly become the #2 RB in Denver ahead of Ronnie Hillman in Denver’s run-first offense led by Mark Sanchez/Paxton Lynch.

2.05 – Keith Marshall RB WAS

It’s not often a 7th round pick becomes a fantasy commodity, but this is the case for Marshall as the incumbent Matt Jones has done little to secure the job.

2.06 – Tajae Sharpe WR TEN

Many will question whether the sure-handed receiver from UMass can be a productive fantasy WR. In a weak class, I’m willing to take a chance on him in the 2nd round.

2.07 – DeAndre Washington RB OAK

Rumors have swirled this off-season about the Raiders’ lack of confidence in Latavius Murray. DeAndre Washington, the undersized productive running back out of Texas Tech, could immediately push for playing time.

2.08 – Jared Goff QB LA

The face of the LA Rams, Goff has potential to be a franchise QB and potentially a QB1 in fantasy someday.

2.09 – Carson Wentz QB PHI

Wentz should be given the keys to open the 2017 season. I wouldn’t even be shocked if Wentz starts the final few games of 2016 to give him some experience in meaningless games for the Eagles. With experience in a pro-style offense, the Eagles hope he can quickly adapt to the NFL game.

2.10 – Wendell Smallwood RB PHI

I’ll admit that I’m higher on Smallwood than most. I strongly believe he’ll see work behind Ryan Mathews from Week 1. Smallwood’s abilities as a pass blocker and receiver should get him plenty of 2nd and 3rd down work to start the season. Even while playing through an ankle injury, Smallwood carried the ball 238 times for WVU’s run heavy offense. He also showed big play ability as over 30 percent of his carries went for 15+ yards.

2.11 – Darron Lee LB NYJ

Lee is a great fit in Todd Bowles’ scheme. The speedy pass rusher has tons of upside.

2.12 – Kenyan Drake RB MIA

I expected Miami to add a more versatile back to challenge Jay Ajayi for the starting job. Drake projects to be passing down back in Miami, but I wouldn’t expect him to carry the full load if Ajayi gets injured.

Round 3

3.01 – Jonathan Williams RB BUF

Williams could have been a late 1st/early 2nd rookie pick if he landed in a better situation….say Miami for instance. Even in Buffalo, I’ll bet on his talent and take a chance on him.

3.02 – Paxton Lynch QB DEN

Lynch may not be ready to start in 2016, but has a unique combination of size and athleticism. If he puts it all together, he has a chance to be the best fantasy QB of this class.

3.03 – Pharoh Cooper WR LA

Cooper has an opportunity to earn playing time among the Rams’ thin wide receiver core.

3.04 – Braxton Miller WR HOU

At the very least, Miller should be a gadget player who creates mismatches for Bill O’Brien’s offense.

3.05 – Joey Bosa DE SD

Bosa is the best pure pass rusher in this draft and should immediately make an impact in fantasy.

3.06 – Hunter Henry TE SD

The most talented TE in this draft, Henry is a great long-term prospect but don’t expect much in year 1.

3.07 – Malcolm Mitchell WR NE

The Patriots haven’t had much success when drafting receivers lately, but his 2015 season forces me to take notice, especially considering the offense he’s joining.

3.08 – Rashard Higgins WR CLE

One of the best route runners in this draft, Higgins has a great opportunity for early playing time.

3.09 – Jaylon Smith LB DAL

Like Jack, Smith’s value is greatly deflated due to massive injury concerns. I’m slightly more optimistic than I was heading into the draft after Dallas took him early in the 2nd round. It’s also important to note that the Cowboys’ team doctor performed Smith’s surgery. Dallas must feel he’s worth the risk so I’ll take the gamble as well. If you’re a bit more bullish than me, you may need to target him in the 2nd round of rookie drafts to be sure to get him.

3.10 – DeForest Buckner DL SF

San Francisco’s roster severely lacks talent. Destined for a high draft pick again in 2017, DeForest Buckner is a nice building block for the 49ers.

3.11 – Leonard Floyd LB CHI

Floyd needs to be coached up, but the raw talent is intriguing.

3.12 – Mike Thomas WR LA

With an excellent ability to reel in the ball in contested situations, Thomas has a chance to earn playing time with LA in year 1.

Round 4

4.01 – Tyler Ervin RB HOU

4.02 – Reggie Ragland LB BUF

4.03 – Austin Hooper TE ATL

4.04 – Cardale Jones QB BUF

4.05 – Noah Spence DL TB

4.06 – Karl Joseph DB OAK

4.07 – Keanu Neal DB ATL

4.08 – Danny Lasco RB NO

4.09 – Keyarris Garrett WR CAR

4.10 – Shaq Lawson DL BUF

4.11 – Kevin Dodd LB TEN

4.12 – Alex Collins RB SEA

Most Intriguing Pick of Round 4: Cardale Jones – Rumors are swirling that the Bills are lacking confidence in Tyrod Taylor as the long-term solution at QB. Jones has all the physical tools, but is strictly a developmental prospect that needs a great deal of coaching.

Round 5

5.01 – Robert Nkemdiche DL ARI

5.02 – Deion Jones LB ATL

5.03 – Charone Peake WR NYJ

5.04 – Tyler Higbee TE ATL

5.05 – Jalen Ramsey DB JAX

5.06 – Christian Hackenberg QB NYJ

5.07 – Su’a Cravens DB WAS

5.08 – Chris Moore WR BAL

5.09 – Josh Perry LB SD

5.10 – Kenny Lawler WR SEA

5.11 – Darian Thompson DB NYG

5.12 – Sheldon Rankins DL NO

Most Intriguing Pick of Round 5: Christian Hackenberg – His inclusion in the top 60 is strictly due to the confidence the Jets have placed in him. When it comes to Christian Hackenberg, I don’t see it. After a promising freshman year, where he fed now NFL superstar Allen Robinson, he regressed greatly…showing poor accuracy and bad footwork. The arm talent is there, but he needs to be completely rebuilt by this coaching staff.

Thanks for reading! I’d love to hear your thoughts – reply in the comments section or tweet me @DaveSanders_RSO!

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Pre-Draft Rookie Mock: Picks 13-24

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By Nick Andrews

Updated: April 28th 2016

In my previous article I put together a list of the top 12 rookie that could come off your board starting next week. If you didn’t read the first part I am looking at Chad Reuter’s 7 round mock that he put together and from this I am making my own rookie mock draft of the first two rounds for a 12 team league. The first 12 selection are here for you to read. Let’s move on to the second round now.

Paul Perkins, RB

Mock: R2 Pick 13 Proj: R4 Pick 114, Oakland Raiders

Paul Perkins, RB, UCLA

Perkins has all the traits you want to see out of a RB. He’s quick and agile, has good vision, isn’t afraid of contact and runs to the whistle. Watch his first half against Stanford last year to see each of these traits. In Oakland he would fit perfectly with a young budding offense and would be able to compete with Latty Murray for the starting role. At worst he’s a solid change of pace RB who excels in the passing game.

Pharoh Cooper, WR

Mock: R2 Pick 14 Proj: R5 Pick 140, Tennessee Titans

Pharoh Cooper, WR, South Carolina

Cooper is a great Swiss Army knife player. He can run and catch the ball as well as return punts. He will likely need to start training camp as a WR4/Special Teams returner but we’ve seen that pay off for rookies before (hello Tyler Lockett). With Tennessee already having Kendall Wright, DGB and signing Rishard Matthews in free agency it would not be an ideal situation for him to ascent to the top of the depth chart but I am a believer that talent usually trumps situation. His time would come.

Tajae Sharpe, WR

Mock: R2 Pick 15 Proj: Undrafted

Tajae Sharpe, WR, UMASS

It’s hard to get excited about picking a guy that is likely a late day three or undrafted prospect. However, once you get past this fact you can see the kind of athlete that Sharpe is. His hand size (8 ⅜ inch) has left many to think that he will have a hard time holding onto the ball at the next level. If you watch his tape though you will see he must be sweating “Stick-Um” because he just doesn’t drop the ball, EVER! For those who follow RotoViz you will also know that he is one of their lovable sleepers in terms of his metric’s scores.

Jonathan Williams, RB

Mock: R2 Pick 16 Proj: R4 Pick 134, Baltimore Ravens

Jonathan Williams, RB, Arkansas

Another powerful runner, I like Williams here more than fellow RB Devontae Parker by the slimmest of margins. With the expectation that Justin Forsett is in his last year with the team and Javorius “Buck” Allen is a good but not great RB I believe there would be a clearer path to the starting role. While OC Marc Tresman may favor backs that can catch passes Williams would fit the tough, grind it out running style of the AFC North.

Devontae Booker, RB

Mock: R2 Pick 17 Proj: R2 Pick 63, Denver Broncos

Devontae Booker, RB, Utah

Age has been a big knock on Booker (23) at a position that seems to expire faster than fruit on the counter. But with age comes wisdom and Booker has shown he has the vision and patience to be a successful back in the NFL. To land in Denver would be a question mark with the resigning of both Anderson and Hillman but stranger things have happened. If he landed with a team that had a more direct route to being the starting RB, I could see Booker moving closer to the top of the second or even back of first rounds.

Mike Thomas, WR

Mock: R2 Pick 18 Proj: R7 Pick 233, Philadelphia Eagles

Mike Thomas, WR, SMU

With another Mike Thomas in the draft, there is sure to be some confusion come draft time as to which is being selected. I really like this Mike Thomas as an under the radar player that could compete for a WR2 or WR3 spot despite being a day three selection. Going to the Eagles would dump a cold bucket of water on his upside as the Eagles already have a large collection of WRs and new head coach Doug Pederson comes from KC where other than Maclin, usable fantasy WRs were scarce.

Braxton Miller, WR

Mock: R2 Pick 19 Proj: R3 Pick 70, Baltimore Ravens

Braxton Miller, WR, OSU

The converted QB showed flashes with his one year at WR in 2015. It will be interesting to see which team can mold his raw athletic skills at WR. Because of this he might be limited in his role his rookie season. With Baltimore having Steve Smith coming back for one more year and Perriman healthy and ready to go this season this could be a perfect situation for Miller to learn the position before stepping into a starting role in 2017.

Jordan Howard, RB

Mock: R2 Pick 20 Proj: R4 Pick 120, Washington Redskins

Jordan Howard, RB, Indiana

Call me a skeptic but I’m not sold on Matt Jones as a starting RB in the NFL. His fumble issues should open the door for another back to come in and share the load in 2016. Enter Howard, who follows the theme of this round by being another big (6’0” 230lbs) runner that can push through the middle. Ironically this is the same style of runner that they let walk this offseason, Alfred Morris.

Rashad Higgins, WR

Mock: R2 Pick 21 Proj: R5 Pick149, New York Giants

Rashad Higgins, WR, Colorado St.

An easy way to hide your flaws is to be part of a great system. Getting to play next to one of the elite young WRs in Odell Beckham Jr. would definitely take some of that pressure off. While he under performed at the combine, there’s no doubt watching Higgins that he can be a great complimentary WR in a pass first offense. With strong hands, he knows how to trap the ball in his 9 ¾ inch mitts.

Tyler Ervin, RB

Mock: R2 Pick 22 Proj: R3 Pick 90, Seattle Seahawks

Tyler Ervin, RB, San Jose St.

My same logic applies here that it did with Matt Jones and Washington. While I believe Thomas Rawls is a better and more rounded back than Jones, his short resume and the ankle injury that ended his year will always leave a concern with fantasy owners. Whichever team Ervin ends up with he showed that he can explode out of the backfield with a 4.32 40 time and 130” broad jump, which tested in the 89^th and 96^th percentile respectively.

Jared Goff or Carson Wentz

Mock: R2 Pick 23

Proj: R1 Picks 1&2, Los Angeles Rams/Philadelphia Eagles

Carson Wentz, QB,NDSU

Jared Goff, QB, Cal

I know this seems like a cop out picking both but at the end of the second round seems like the place for owners to select the first QB in rookie drafts. Depending on who goes to the Rams first will likely dictate the value of these two players also. Neither is likely to be QB1s in their first season, and whichever goes to Philly may sit part or all of their rookie season out. Wentz will offer more running upside but temper your expectations as you should expect more Winston/Luck in terms of rushing attempts than a Newton or Wilson.

Daniel Lasco, RB

Mock: R2 Pick 24 Proj: R3 Pick79, Philadelphia Eagles

Daniel Lasco, RB, Cal

The last pick of the second round might be a reach for some but for the reasons I wouldn’t like a WR to Philly I would LOVE a RB to fall there. Ryan Matthews is on the training table more than the field and Darren Sproles is well into his 30’s and more of a specialty player at this point. Pederson used the run game heavily in KC and made fantasy relevancy of both Charcandrick West and Spencer Ware last year. Lasco has the same explosiveness that Ervin possesses and would thrive in a similar role as Jamaal Charles was for Pederson’s system.

That’s it for the first two rounds of my pre-draft mock. Other players that missed the cut are Alex Collins to Detroit, Hunter Henry to Chicago and Kenyan Drake to Dallas. It will be exciting to see where the chips actually fall over the weekend. Watch for Dave Sanders and his official rankings once the draft is completed. Look for me @naandrews19 to suggest who you think has the best value in rookie drafts. Happy Drafting!

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Pre-Draft Rookie Mock: Picks 1-12

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By Nick Andrews

Updated: April 28th 2016

The NFL draft is nearing and everyone is getting anxious about which players will end up with which teams. There are always a couple of players that rise, or fall down, fantasy draft boards based on their landing spot over the weekend. As a “what if” scenario I have taken the latest 7 round mock from NFL writer Chad Reuter and created a two round rookie mock draft based on the landing spots laid out in his article. This hypothetical draft will consist of the standard PPR, 1QB league. Let us begin!

Ezekiel Elliot, RB

Mock: R1 Pick 1 Proj: R1 Pick 13, Miami Dolphins

Ezekiel Elliot, RB, OSU

Elliot will likely be the first player off every board this offseason regardless of team need. With the ability to be a three down back that already has arguably the best pass blocking skills in this year’s class it won’t be hard for him to find the field as a rookie. Adding him to Adam Gase’s Dolphin offense would only strengthen his case for going #1.

Laquon Treadwell, WR

Mock: R1 Pick 2 Proj: R1 Pick 23, Minnesota Vikings

Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi

After Elliot there is a clear tier gap that features 3-4 WRs. The order of their selections in the real draft may also affect their selections in fantasy drafts. While many may be quick to judge the slow 40 time Treadwell posted during his pro day, I am sticking with the player that this time last year was considered the locked in first pick.

Josh Doctson, WR

Mock: R1 Pick 3 Proj: R1 Pick 22, Houston Texans

Josh Doctson, WR, TCU

Doctson did nothing to hurt his chances of being the first selected WR off the board this year by showing off at the combine in February. At worst Brock Osweiler offers the same level of quarterback play as Teddy Bridgewater would to Treadwell in Minnesota. If he landed with Houston however, Doctson’s target numbers would be capped being opposite Hopkins as the WR2, whereas Treadwell would likely step in as Minnesota’s week 1 starter.

Leonte Carroo, WR

Mock: R1 Pick 4 Proj: R2 Pick 61, New England

Leonte Carroo, WR, Rutgers

Here’s where things get spicy. Many have Carroo projected as mid to late first round selection in rookie mocks. With off field issues being as taboo as they are right now it’s likely that some will drop him down even further. But should he land in New England with a coach who’s known for polishing up troubled players, Carroo could offer the Patriots an outside, sure handed WR that the likes of LaFell, Lloyd, and Dobson never could live up to.

Corey Coleman, WR

Mock: R1 Pick 5 Proj. R2 Pick 34, Dallas Cowboys

Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor

The Coleman hype train has been gaining steam since the end of the college season when the Baylor product put up a mind boggling 20TDs! When your comparisons are to that of Antonio Brown and Odell Beckham Jr., you immediately draw the eyes of readers as well. In Dallas he would likely be the WR2 behind Dez Bryant and play a majority of his snaps out of the slot. In a scheme that values a strong running game and already has a slot receiver in Cole Beasley it would be interesting to see how Coleman would fit in big D’s playbook.

Derrik Henry, RB

Mock: R1 Pick 6 Proj: R1 Pick 30, Carolina Panthers

Derrik Henry, RB, Alabama

Skeptics have pointed to two holes that suggest Henry is one of the most overvalued players in this year’s rookie draft: his size and the school he attended. While some may be able to argue that Alabama has dangled some rotten carrots over the NFL’s head in recent years (*cough* Richardson *cough*), Henry showed at the combine that despite being a freakish 6’3” 247lbs he could still run a respectable 4.54 40 time. Rumors have suggested that he could go anywhere from Seattle at 26 to Dallas at 34 in the second round. Henry would bring a familiar smash mouth running style that has been a staple to these franchises in recent years.

Kenneth Dixon, RB

Mock: R1 Pick 7 Proj: R3 Pick 96, New England Patriots

Kenneth Dixon, RB, LA Tech

While Belitricks has left a bad taste with fantasy owners in the last half decade, Dixon would present a nice ying to Dion Lewis’ yang. His ability to both hit the hole and go, while also catching passes out of the backfield make him a late day two, early day three option for any team that needs an RB. After abandoning the running game altogether during the playoffs last year, it seems apparent that the Patriots will address the running game in this year’s draft to better balance their offense in 2016.

Tyler Boyd, WR

Mock: R1 Pick 8 Proj: R3 Pick 65, Cleveland Browns

Tyler Boyd, WR, Pittsburgh

I like to think of Corey Coleman as the MonStars from Space Jam with Tyler Boyd playing the role of Charles Barkley and friends. When the offseason started Boyd was being talked about with Treadwell in the WR1 conversation. Since his poor showing at the combine however, his upside has been zapped out of him by the likes of combine stars Coleman and Doctson. This has resulted in him falling out of the first round in several rookie mocks recently. While being mocked to the Browns wouldn’t add any incentive to reaching for Boyd in drafts, it wouldn’t be the first time that a star player who under performed at the combine turned out to be a draft day steal.

C.J. Prosise, RB

Mock: R1 Pick 9 Proj: R3 Pick 72, Chicago Bears

C.J. Prosise, RB, Notre Dame

For converting from a WR to RB, Prosise had a pretty spectacular year. While it will be interesting to see how his skill set translates to the NFL level his value will ultimately come down to which team he falls to. If he can play the Danny Woodhead role on a pass oriented offense he could easily see 50 to 60 catches out of the backfield.

Michael Thomas OSU, WR

Mock: R1 Pick 10 Proj: R1 Pick 28, Kansas City Chiefs

Michael Thomas, WR, OSU

It would fit perfectly that Michael Thomas, who is criticized for being simply a piece of a great Ohio State team would be lining up opposite to Jeremy Maclin who was one of 2015’s most underappreciated WRs. While Thomas didn’t have the typical offensive market share that many fantasy analysts look for in a top-tier pick, it would have been hard to fault him when your team’s first, second and third options are hand the ball off to Ezekiel Elliot. You just can’t know exactly what his ceiling will be and therefore he offers those at the end of the first round a serious risk-reward option.

Sterling Shepard, WR

Mock: R1 Pick 11 Proj: R2 Pick 49, Buffalo Bills

Sterling Shepard, WR, Oklahoma

Fantasy enthusiasts have a serious love-hate relationship with Shepard. His 5’10” 197lbs frame makes him an ideal candidate for becoming a slot receiver in the NFL. The problem is that there haven’t been many elite slot WR seasons since Wes Welker in 2013. That was on the most productive passing offense in NFL history and he still finished third on his team! Shepard may become another PPR targets hog, but we will need to see how he can separate with agility and strong route running before he can be compared to a Cobb, Landry or Edelman in terms of superstars in the slot.

Will Fuller, WR

Mock: R1 Pick 12 Proj: R1 Pick 24, Cincinnati Bengals

Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame

Unlike Shepard, Fuller can and will take the top off a defense with his blazing 4.32 in the 40 time. Still, his small frame (6’0” 186lbs) will make it hard for him to break the stigma of being just another speed dependent DeSean Jackson receiver type. Going to a team like Cincinnati would definitely keep opposition safeties and corners honest by having to additionally cover the likes of Green and Eifert on any given play. Much of Fuller’s value will be determined by the receiving core around him.

That’s the first 12 picks for my pre-draft RSO rookie mock. Look for part two that will include picks 13 through 24 before Thursday’s NFL Draft.

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