Mock Draft: Texans and Seahawks Trade Down, Titans Draft Anthony Richardson
By Hunter Haas
9. Houston Texans (via CAR) – Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh
The Texans surprisingly traded back in this mock draft, acquiring droves of draft capital and still staying inside the top ten. What Calijah Kancey lacks in ideal measurables, he more than makes up for in strength, polish, and overall athleticism. The Pitt star becomes the centerpiece of DeMeco Ryans’ defense.
10. Philadelphia Eagles (via NO) – Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
I know, Eagles fans, I know. The offense was one of the top units in the league in 2023, and it doesn’t *need* a first-round running back added. However, calling Bijan Robinson a running back does his game a disservice.
Robinson is one of the best pass catchers in the 2023 NFL Draft and is the most elusive runner in the class. He exhibits elite vision, impeccable patience, and the ability to handle a full workload as a rookie. Philly adds another game-changing weapon to the fold.
11. Seattle Seahawks (via TEN) – Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
Last year, the Seahawks added Tariq Woolen and Coby Bryant on day three of the draft. In this mock draft, after trading down, Seattle uses a premium pick to round out the cornerback room. Joey Porter Jr. boasts the length, physicality, and scheme versatility that Pete Carroll demands from his corners.
12. Houston Texans (via CLE) – Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College
The first wide receiver off the board can replace Brandin Cooks in Houston. With Cooks expected to be moved this offseason, Zay Flowers can assume the top spot on the depth chart and give whoever lines up behind center a steady target capable of taking any touch to the house.
13. New York Jets – Peter Skoronski, OL, Northwestern
Peter Skoronski is a top-ten player on my big board, making this value too good to pass up for New York. The Jets have struggled to stay healthy on the offensive line, and Skoronski gives the unit a guy that can play at any of the five positions when called upon.
14. New England Patriots – Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
The Patriots need a starting offensive tackle opposite Trent Brown. Paris Johnson Jr. is graded as a left tackle by most — myself included — but he has played on the right side of the line before at guard. Plug Johnson into right tackle and allow him to move back to the blind side if Brown moves on next offseason.
15. Green Bay Packers – Lukas Van Ness, DL, Iowa
Lukas Van Ness tested like an alien at the Combine, and in this mock draft, he winds up in Wisconsin with the Packers. Van Ness grew up playing hockey and is familiar with the cold of the midwest; he will line up in multiple spots on the defensive line.