The anticipation is palpable as the 2023 College Football Playoff kicks off, showcasing not only the top teams in the nation but also a plethora of NFL-caliber talent. As fans eagerly await the on-field battles, scouts and analysts are busy evaluating the next wave of potential pro stars. ESPN’s Matt Miller has taken a deep dive into the draft prospects of all 12 playoff teams, stacking them up across seven rounds. Let’s take a closer look at which players are generating the most buzz and could hear their names called early in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Oregon’s Dominance in the Trenches
The undefeated Oregon Ducks have been a force to be reckoned with this season, thanks in large part to their stellar play in the trenches. Defensive tackle Derrick Harmon and offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. are both projected as first-round talents by Miller. Harmon, a transfer from Michigan State, has blossomed in Eugene, using his explosive first step to rack up five sacks. Conerly, meanwhile, has been a brick wall at left tackle, allowing just one sack all season. Both players have top-20 upside and could be immediate difference-makers at the next level.
Oregon’s talent doesn’t stop there. Wide receiver Evan Stewart, a transfer from Texas A&M, has lived up to his five-star billing, hauling in 48 passes for 613 yards and five touchdowns. His speed and toughness make him a potential Day 2 selection. The Ducks also feature a trio of Round 3 prospects in edge rusher Jordan Burch, tight end Terrance Ferguson, and slot receiver Tez Johnson.
Georgia’s Defensive Dominance Continues
To the surprise of no one, the defending champion Georgia Bulldogs once again boast a defense loaded with NFL talent. Safety Malaki Starks and linebackers Jalon Walker and Mykel Williams all earn first-round grades from Miller. Starks is a versatile playmaker who can line up all over the secondary, while Walker has emerged as a game-wrecking pass rusher (6.5 sacks). Williams, a 6’5″, 265-pound edge terror, saved his best for the biggest stage, tallying four sacks in two games against Georgia’s toughest opponent, Texas.
Quarterback Carson Beck entered the season in the No. 1 pick conversation but has struggled with turnovers and inconsistency. However, he still flashes tantalizing potential and could solidify himself as a first-rounder with a strong playoff run. Offensive linemen Jared Wilson and Dylan Fairchild are both projected Day 2 picks, even while battling injuries. Tight end Oscar Delp is another name to watch, as scouts believe he could skyrocket up draft boards once he declares.
Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty: The Next Alvin Kamara?
While Boise State may not have the depth of NFL talent of some other playoff teams, they do have a bona fide star in running back Ashton Jeanty. The redshirt sophomore has been a one-man wrecking crew, leading the FBS in rushing yards (2,497) and touchdowns (29). Perhaps even more impressively, Jeanty has amassed 1,652 of those yards after contact—a testament to his incredible contact balance and burst. Miller sees shades of Alvin Kamara in Jeanty’s game and has him firmly in the top-10 mix.
Texas Boasts Bevy of First-Round Talent
The Texas Longhorns are back in the playoff for the first time since its expansion, and they bring with them a roster chock-full of potential early-round picks. Offensive tackles Kelvin Banks Jr. (Outland Trophy winner) and Cameron Williams could both hear their names called in the top-20. Banks allowed just one sack all season at left tackle, while the massive Williams (6’6″, 335 lbs) draws comparisons to 2024 first-rounder Amarius Mims.
Cornerback Jahdae Barron, the Jim Thorpe Award winner, has played his way into the first-round conversation with his ability to lock down receivers on the outside. Wideout Isaiah Bond battled injuries but still managed 532 yards and five touchdowns. His game-breaking speed gives him Round 1 upside. Defensive tackle Alfred Collins, quarterback Quinn Ewers, and edge rusher Trey Moore are all potential Day 2 selections who could boost their stock with strong playoff performances.
Ohio State’s Wealth of Talent on Both Sides of the Ball
The perennial powerhouse Ohio State Buckeyes once again boast a bevy of NFL-caliber talent, particularly in the trenches. Defensive end Jack Sawyer and defensive tackle Tyleik Williams both possess the speed and power to be first-round selections. On offense, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka looks to be the next in a long line of Buckeye wideouts to go in Round 1. Offensive tackle Josh Simmons could join him in the first round if he shows he’s fully recovered from the PCL tear that sidelined him for the playoff.
Edge rusher JT Tuimoloau, cornerback Davison Igbinosun, running back Quinshon Judkins, and guard Donovan Jackson all project as Day 2 picks. Tuimoloau leads the team with six sacks, while Igbinosun has the size (6’2″, 193 lbs) and ball skills to excel at the next level. In the backfield, Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson form a dynamic one-two punch that will surely intrigue NFL teams.
“The talent level across all 12 playoff teams is truly remarkable this year,” an NFL scout told ESPN. “There are potential impact players at nearly every position. It’s going to make for a fascinating draft process.”
Other playoff teams with notable NFL prospects include:
- Penn State: DE Abdul Carter*, TE Tyler Warren (Round 1); S Kevin Winston Jr.* (Round 2)
- Tennessee: DE James Pearce Jr.* (Round 1); RB Dylan Sampson*, DT Omarr Norman-Lott (Round 3)
- Clemson: LB Barrett Carter (Round 2); OT Blake Miller* (Round 3)
- Notre Dame: CB Benjamin Morrison* (Round 1); S Xavier Watts (Round 3)
As always, the College Football Playoff will serve as a proving ground for the nation’s top NFL prospects. With so much talent on display, the 2023 draft is shaping up to be a memorable one. From Oregon’s dominant linemen to Texas’ wealth of skill position talent, there will be no shortage of storylines to follow. The only question now is: Who will rise to the occasion and boost their draft stock on the biggest stage?
