The seven rounds of the NFL Draft took place throughout the weekend. With three quarterbacks selected within the first four slots, and the surprise trade of the Texans, the draft was a luxury. But two teams emerged as the clear winners. Here are the details:
Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles emerged as one of the winning teams after cashing in well on their two first-round picks. One of the picks was the result of Philadelphia's trade with the New Orleans Saints last season. The Eagles took advantage of their first round pick to take defensive tackle Jalen Carter in the ninth slot.
Carter fell in the rankings due to an automobile incident, which involved the death of a person. This situation alienated several teams, leaving the way clear for Philadelphia to take one of the most talented defensive backs in the draft. With the selection of Carter, one of the Eagles' weaknesses becomes a potential strength.
On the other hand, the Eagles took Nolan Smith with the 30th pick, who impressed with his athletic ability and knowledge of the game. While Smith lacks the height and size for the Eagles' defense, the opportunity to take one of the top linebackers is very hard to pass on.
Now, the Eagles have two players capable of transforming their defense with these two defensive backs from the University of Georgia. On the other hand, the other selections allow the Eagles to continue to develop a team capable of remaining competitive this season. Of note, the selection of Stanford quarterback Tanner McKee at No. 188 provides insurance for Jalen Hurts, who could use a competent reliever.
🏈: University of Illinois corner Devon Witherspoon is the fifth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft after being selected by the Seattle Seahawks. He had three interceptions and 14 passes defended in the 2022 season. pic.twitter.com/xp3Ziod9uj
- José Juan Vázquez (@josejuangelmx) April 28, 2023
Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks entered the draft with a long list of pending picks. Apparently, they got their way. The Seahawks took Devon Witherspoon from Illinois with the fifth pick. This cornerback has the potential to turn Seattle's secondary into a fortress after the surprising campaign they had in 2022.
The other first round pick for Seattle was used on receiver Jaxon Smith-Njiba from Ohio State. This selection proved to be quite interesting as both Geno Smith and Drew Lock need all the potential offensive targets they can get.
On the other hand, the selections of running backs Zach Charbonnet of UCLA and Kenny McIntosh of Georgia provide depth on offense. The rest of the draft focused on defense with linebacker Derrick Hall from Auburn and tackle Cameron Young from Mississippi State. Also, safety Jarrick Reed II of New Mexico and defensive lineman Mike Morris of Michigan bring a strong injection of talent and youth.
With 10 total picks, Seattle has the tools in position to continue building a talented team that can compete in the playoffs.
