This year’s NFL draft class offers high-end talent, but some positions offer more talent than others, including a tight-end group that could become one of the best we’ve seen in a long time.
That’s not an early-round need for Philadelphia; while edge rusher and cornerback offer the most depth, it’s not an overall deep draft, and GM Howie Roseman will likely look for elite talent in the first 100 picks.
With the selection process just one week away from today, here’s one under-the-radar prospect to watch from the draft’s six weakest position groups.
Linebacker--Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State
Henley is a former wide receiver with the athleticism to be a three-down linebacker.
Henley had significant production in 2022, recording 106 total tackles, 12 tackles for a loss, four sacks, one interception, one pass defended, and three forced fumbles.
Safety --Jason Taylor II , S, Oklahoma State
Taylor spent most of his time at Oklahoma State lined up either in the box or as a traditional free safety, precisely where the Eagles need help.
A willing tackler with excellent ball skills, Taylor had six interceptions and four pass breakups in 2022, with a completion rate of only 54%.
Taylor offers upside and brings intangibles after logging over 500 career special teams snaps in the Big 12.
Running back --Dewayne McBride, UAB
McBride was the most dominant running back in college football over the past three seasons, rushing for 3,507 yards on 484 carries (7.2 yards per carry) and breaking 175 tackles on 484 attempts.
Offensive tackle--John Ojukwu, OT, Boise State
An athletic offensive tackle with six years of playing experience, Ojukwu has been an All-Mountian West performer and earned some All-American honors this season.
Interior offensive line --Brandon Kipper OG Oregon State
In 2022, Parker Played in and started all 13 games, ending his Oregon State career with 45 career starts, which is tied for sixth all-time at OSU. All 45 starts were made consecutively, which is the fourth-longest streak in program history, and he earned All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention.
Interior defensive line --DJ Dale, DT, Alabama
Dale started 12 of 13 games in 2021 (18 tackles, four for loss with two sacks).
In 2022, Dale was a reserve, logging 17 tackles, 3.5 for loss with 2.5 sacks, and a career-high 14 pressures, per PFF.
