NFL Draft Grades: Instant analysis of every team's 2023 rookie class
With the 2023 draft complete, theScore's NFL editors hand out their initial grades for each team's incoming rookies.
NFC
EAST | NORTH | SOUTH | WEST
AFC
EAST | NORTH | SOUTH | WEST
The Cowboys' first-round pick was a bit of a surprise, with so many prognosticators locking in a tight end at No. 26, but Dallas should be commended for not forcing it. Addressing the interior defensive line with Smith, an ascending player with freaky athletic traits, and then circling back to get his Michigan teammate at a tight end was the better move. Don't sleep on Overshown, either. The safety convert could bring some much-needed coverage to the linebacker group. It's not the most spectacular haul, but this feels like another Cowboys class that we'll look back on fondly.
New York GiantsGrade: B+It's amazing how different a draft can look with better leadership running the show. The first three picks are the latest in a long line of sneaky strong moves to get the Giants going back in the right direction under Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll. Banks is a supremely athletic cover man who fills a major need at corner. Schmitz, who many considered a borderline first-round player, was one of the best value picks in the entire draft. Hyatt adds some big-play ability to a new-look receiving corps, while Gray is an underrated pick. The Oklahoma product is quietly one of the most well-rounded running backs in this class and provides some key depth behind Saquon Barkley.
Philadelphia EaglesGrade: A+Howie Roseman continues to amaze. The Eagles were the clear winners of Day 1 after jumping up one spot to grab Carter, perhaps the best overall prospect in this draft, and then staying patient at the end of the round to come away with Smith, another explosive Georgia pass-rusher. The Bulldog reunion didn't stop there - Philly made a savvy move to trade up on Day 3 and capitalize on Ringo's unexpected slide. They also acquired running back D'Andre Swift from the Lions for next to nothing. Add in Brown, a versatile playmaker on the back end, and the Eagles have four potential defensive starters from the same class. Light work for the best front office in football.
Washington CommandersGrade: CWashington had major needs in the secondary and on the interior offensive line heading into the draft. While the value of the selections made could certainly be critiqued, the focus was clear. Forbes is an instinctive player who, despite some concerns about his size, brings some much-needed playmaking ability to the secondary. Martin should join him as a starter before long, and both Stromberg and Daniels will have an opportunity to see the field early in their rookie seasons. Overall, the Commanders took care of the spots that needed to be addressed. There's a lot to like.
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