NFL DRAFT: The evolution of John McClain’s 2023 NFL Mock Drafts

See how John McClain’s mock drafts changed and evolved as we moved through the 2023 draft process culminating with his final Mock Draft, which was published on April 26.

March 13, Mock Draft 1.0:

1. Panthers: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

Frank Reich had big quarterbacks at Philly and Indy. He traded a lot of picks and his best receiver to move into the top spot to get Stroud.

2. Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

Nick Caserio stays put and gets his franchise quarterback. Young has everything the Texans want other than size.

3. Cardinals: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama

The Rotary Lombardi Award winner is the best pure pass rusher in the draft and has no blemishes on his character.

4. Colts: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

New coach Shane Steichen has a five-year contract and did a tremendous job helping develop Jalen Hurts. He’ll give Richardson time to mature.

5. Seahawks: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

Pete Carroll has shown he’ll take players with character issues. Carter may be the most talented player in the draft, but he’s got baggage.

6. Lions: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

The first of five cornerbacks drafted in the first round, Gonzalez should be an instant starter for Dan Campbell.

7. Raiders: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

After getting rid of Derek Carr, Josh McDaniels selects a prospect with a cannon, but Levis needs a lot of time to develop.

8. Falcons: Tyree Wilson, DE, Texas Tech

Arthur Smith wants to bolster his pass rush, and once Wilson is 100 percent, he’ll step into the lineup and make the Falcons happy.

9. Bears: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

After trading down with the Panthers for multiple picks, they get a tackle close to home who should anchor the position for years.

10. Eagles: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

Miles Sanders will be an unrestricted free agent. Robinson will step right in and become a terrific runner and receiver.

11. Titans: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

Mike Vrabel is desperate to rebuild his offensive line, and he starts with a replacement for left tackle Taylor Lewan.

12. Texans: Lukas Van Ness, DE, Iowa

Nick Caserio considers a wide receiver to pair with Bryce Young, but DeMeco Ryans wants a pass rusher who can pressure the quarterback.

13. Jets: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

Aaron Rodgers is going to need protection, right? Jones is coming off a second consecutive national championship and should be a Day One starter.

14. Patriots: Jaxson Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

If new offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien wants to help Mac Jones rebound from his sophomore jinx, he’s going to need a go-to receiver.

15. Packers: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

This is a position the Packers need to upgrade for new quarterback Jordan Love, who’ll be under a lot of pressure as Aaron Rodgers’ replacement.

16. Commanders: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

Ron Rivera needs a quarterback. He’s got a productive running game and a terrific defense, so he takes a highly rated cornerback.

17. Steelers: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia

His stock rose significantly with his blazing 40 time at the combine. Mike Tomlin will play him outside linebacker opposite T.J. Watt.

18. Lions: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

After filling a need at cornerback with their first pick, the Lions move to bolster their offensive line with this underrated tackle.

19. Buccaneers: Myles Murphy, DE, Clemson

The Bucs would love to get Bijan Robinson, but he’s long gone, so they go for a  pass rusher who’ll be a valuable addition to the defense.

20. Seahawks: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

This isn’t a need position, but Porter is too good to pass up. He’s got great size, good speed, and an impressive defensive pedigree.

21. Chargers: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

Justin Herbert is going to be excited to play with a receiver with the best combination of size and speed. He should contribute right away.

22. Ravens: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

Addison lacks ideal size, but few receivers were more consistent in college. He’ll develop an excellent relationship with Lamar Jackson.

23. Vikings: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State

Teams can never have enough cornerbacks. The Vikings will need for Forbes to be a big-time producer as a rookie.

24. Jaguars: O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida

In his second season, Doug Pederson wants to get more physical up front, and he gets the highest-rated interior lineman in the draft.

25. Giants: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

Not only did Daniel Jones get a new contract, but the Giants got him a new receiver, too. Flowers is undersized but has outstanding speed.

26. Cowboys: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

This is a position of need for Mike McCarthy, who’s going to call plays for the first time since he coached the Packers. Mayer will make his job easier.

27. Bills: Brian Branch, S, Alabama

Sean McDermott has issues on the back end. Branch is the best safety prospect in the draft, and he should be an impressive producer as a rookie.

28. Bengals: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

The Bengals thought they had their line problems solved, but injuries hurt them in the playoffs. Wright can play the right side or on the inside.

29. Saints: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

They’d love to get a player to become a weapon for Derek Carr, but they need to load up in the secondary, and Banks is too good to pass up.

30. Eagles: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson

Free agency could decimate their defensive line. After an injury-plagued season, Bresee impressed at the combine and seems like a safe pick.

31. Chiefs: Keion White, EDGE, Georgia Tech

Andy Reid will be tempted to give Patrick Mahomes another weapon, but they’ll need an edge rusher to replace Frank Clark. White is a natural fit.

March 22, Mock Draft 2.0:

1. Panthers: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

Frank Reich changes his philosophy on big quarterbacks and takes the prospect who has everything but size.

2. Texans: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

DeMeco Ryans’ first draft choice as a head coach brings him the best pure passer in his class.

3. Cardinals: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama

The Rotary Lombardi Award winner is a dynamic pass rusher and the safest defensive prospect available.

4. Colts: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

New coach Shane Steichen wants to build his offense around a quarterback, and he gets a strong-armed prospect with lots of upside.

5. Seahawks: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

Pete Carroll goes for an outside player who can pressure the passer over the talented but troubled Jalen Carter.

6. Lions: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

Dan Campbell has a prolific offense, and he needs to work on his defense. He starts with the secondary.

7. Raiders: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

Even though they signed Jimmy Garpoppolo, Josh McDaniels can’t pass up Richardson’s raw talent and will give him a season to develop.

8. Falcons: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

The Falcons didn’t think the most talented prospect would drop to them at this position because of character issues.

9. Bears: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

The Bears need help in their offensive and defensive lines and elect to go with a pass rusher loaded with talent.

10. Eagles: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

Nick Sirianni’s defensive line took a hit in free agency, and the Eagles love to stockpile talent to pressure the quarterback.

11. Titans: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

The Titans have to rebuild their offensive line. Mike Vrabel gets the top prospect at his position.

12. Texans: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia

After filling one need with a quarterback, Nick Caserio fills another with an athletic speed rusher who ran a 4.39 at the combine.

13. Jets: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

Aaron Rodgers is going to want better protection, and that starts with a big-time prospect from a big-time program.

14. Patriots: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

Bill Belichick can’t pass up an exceptional prospect who can help improve the offense as a runner and as a receiver.

15. Packers: Jaxson Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

With Aaron Rodgers out of the picture, the Packers help new quarterback Jordan Love with the highest-rated wide receiver.

16. Commanders: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

Ron Rivera might be tempted to trade up for a quarterback or reach on Hendon Hooker but settles for a safe pick to benefit the receiving game.

17. Steelers: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

Mike Tomlin wants to help second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett, and he does it by bolstering the pass protection.

18. Lions: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh

Dan Campbell continues to build his defensive line with another prospect who can help improve the inside rush.

19. Buccaneers: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

With Tom Brady retiring, they have a problem at quarterback. They help solve that problem by adding more protection.

20. Seahawks: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

Pete Carroll gets great value when Gonzalez falls into the Seahawks’ lap. Another terrific pick to improve the defense.

21. Chargers: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

The highly productive prospect who excelled at Pitt and USC the last two years should be an ideal fit with quarterback Justin Herbert.

22. Ravens: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

They keep Lamar Jackson and try to make him happy by selecting the best big receiver available. Johnston also gets a lot of yards after the catch.

23. Vikings: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

Porter has a football pedigree and should get immediate playing time on a team trying to repeat as NFC North champion.

24. Jaguars: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

Doug Pederson needs an offensive tackle, but he’s wise enough to know teams can never have too many talented cornerbacks.

25. Giants: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

Brian Daboll continues to put pieces around quarterback Daniel Jones to give him his best opportunity to succeed.

26. Cowboys: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

Jerry Jones allowed Dalton Schultz to leave as a free agent and replaces him with a prospect who might be the best at his position.

27. Bills: Will McDonald IV, EDGE, Iowa State

As a longtime defensive coordinator, coach Sean McDermott knows a defense can never have enough quality pass rushers.

28. Bengals: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

He can be a bookend right tackle opposite Orlando Brown, who signed as a free agent. Left tackle Jonah Williams wants to be traded.

29. Saints: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

Derek Carr will be happy with this 6-7 target who showed off his athleticism and exceptional hands at the combine.

30. Eagles: Brian Branch, S, Alabama

He fills a need position on a defense that’s suffered free agent losses. Branch also can be a slot cornerback.

31. Chiefs: Felix Anudike-Uzomah, EDGE, Kansas State

Andy Reid has to replace Frank Clark. They keep this underpublicized prospect close to home, and he’ll pay immediate dividends.

April 1, Mock Draft 3.0:

1. Panthers: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

Stroud excelled during workouts at the combine and at his pro day. At 6-3, he’s still the shortest regular starter Frank Reich has employed.

2. Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

Young will be a perfect fit for new offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik’s system that showcases QBs who throw on the move.

3. Cardinals: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama

The Rotary Lombardi Award winner fills a desperate need after the Cardinals, who lost their starting defensive ends.

4. Colts: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

GM Chris Ballard is desperate to select a franchise quarterback, and he goes with Levis over Anthony Richardson.

5. Seahawks: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

Carter has off-the-field issues, but he may be the most talented prospect in the draft, and the Seahawks don’t hesitate to take him.

6. Lions: Tyree Wilson, DE, Texas Tech

The Lions would rather have an interior pass rusher to collapse the pocket, but Wilson is too talented to pass up.

7. Raiders: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

Josh McDaniels is tempted to take Anthony Richardson but passes him up and drafts the best prospect at his position.

8. Falcons: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

The Falcons say they’re happy with Desmond Ridder, and they might be, but Arthur Smith is eager to work with a raw prospect like Richardson.

9. Bears: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

After trading down with the Panthers for multiple draft choices, the Bears fortify the offensive line with a terrific prospect.

10. Eagles: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

The Eagles let their leading rusher, Miles Sanders, leave as a free agent and replace him with one of the best players in the draft.

11. Titans: Jaxson Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

It’s safe to predict an offensive lineman or wide receiver because Mike Vrabel needs both, so he goes for the skill position prospect.

12. Texans: Lukas Van Ness, DE, Iowa

Nick Caserio could trade down like he did with his second first-round pick last year. DeMeco Ryans wants to bolster the pass rush.

13. Jets: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

One of the draft’s best tackles should help provide immediate protection for the Jets’ new 39-year-old quarterback.

14. Patriots: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

Bill Belichick targets a cornerback who many believe won’t be available at this spot, and it doesn’t take long to turn in the Patriots’ card.

15. Packers: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

His grandfather started at offensive tackle for Vince Lombardi and played on five championship teams, including two Super Bowl winners.

16. Commanders: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

Ron Rivera has everything but a quarterback. Sam Howell started one game last season. Hooker will get time to recover from knee surgery.

17. Steelers: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

This Mike Tomlin pick keeps Porter in the family. His dad was an outstanding pass rusher for exceptional Bill Cowher defenses.

18. Lions: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

In a strong year for tight ends who can catch, Mayer is the highest rated at his position and gives them even more firepower on Dan Campbell’s offense.

19. Buccaneers: Nolan Smith, DE, Georgia

He’s undersized at 238, but he’s the quickest and fastest edge rusher in the draft, too talented for Todd Bowles to pass up.

20. Seahawks: Myles Murphy, DE, Clemson

After taking Jalen Carter with his first pick, Pete Carroll isn’t looking for another defensive lineman but takes Murphy, anyway.

21. Chargers: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

The idea is to put talented players around Justin Herbert, and Kincaid can make catches all over the field.

22. Ravens: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

If he plays for the Ravens, Lamar Jackson should like this pick, a 6-3 receiver who gets a lot of yards after the catch.

23. Vikings: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

The Vikings can’t decide on which cornerback to take, so they go with Banks, who should contribute from day one.

24. Jaguars: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

Wright fills a need position for Doug Pederson, who’s entering his second season as the defending AFC South champion.

25. Giants: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

Another weapon for Daniel Jones and Brian Daboll will make sure Addison is used the right way in an offense that continues to grow.

26. Cowboys: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama

Ezekiel Elliott is gone. Tony Pollard is recovering from a knee injury. Jerry Jones takes Gibbs, who’s being compared to Alvin Kamara.

27. Bills: Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas

Sanders fills a need position and should help bolster Sean McDermott’s already good defense.

28. Bengals: Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State

Injuries in their offensive line may have kept the Bengals from reaching a second consecutive Super Bowl.

29. Saints: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh

Dennis Allen can use a lot of help on both sides of the ball. Kancey is too good to pass up for the middle of his defensive line.

30. Eagles: Brian Branch, S, Alabama

The Eagles lost both coordinators and players on both sides of the ball. Branch will help the defense and should be an immediate starter.

31. Chiefs: Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee

Just what Patrick Mahomes needs – the fastest receiver in the draft. Andy Reid can’t wait to see them stretch opposing defenses.

April 6, Mock Draft 4.0:

1.  Panthers: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

It’s not a coincidence the Panthers traded up right after Stroud’s outstanding performance at the combine.

2.  Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

DeMeco Ryans gets the quarterback he wants, and Young will be a day-one starter.

3.  Cardinals: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama

If the Cardinals don’t trade this pick to a team that needs a quarterback, Anderson will be a cornerstone of their defense.

4.  Colts: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

New coach Shane Steichen gets a raw prospect he can develop. Athletically, Richardson is more gifted than any player at his position.

5.  Seahawks: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

Pete Carroll passes up Jalen Carter for Wilson, a dependable pass rusher the Seahawks can plug in and let play.

6.  Lions: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

Dan Campbell bolsters a defense with the troubled tackle who might be the best prospect in the draft.

7.  Raiders: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

After signing Jimmy Garoppolo and Brian Hoyer, both former Patriots, Josh McDaniels goes for defense over a quarterback.

8.  Falcons: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

The Falcons say Desmond Ridder is their starter, but Levis is too talented for Arthur Smith to pass up.

9.  Bears: Paris Johnson, OT, Ohio State

Matt Eberflus needs help in his offensive and defensive lines and makes a decision to start with an offensive tackle.

10. Eagles: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

The Longhorn is one of the best and safest prospects available. He’ll replace leading rusher Miles Sanders.

11. Titans: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

Mike Vrabel needs a wide receiver desperately, but he goes for a left tackle to replace Taylor Lewan.

12. Texans: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

Nick Caserio gives DeMeco Ryans a big-play wide receiver to help Bryce Young’s transition into the NFL.

13. Jets: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

Aaron Rodgers is on his way to New Jersey, and the Jets provide him with an offensive lineman who’ll help protect him.

14. Patriots: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

Bill Belichick has a lot of needs on both sides of the ball, but he thought Gonzalez would have been long gone before this pick.

15. Packers: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

A tight end who can make catches all over the field can be a quarterback’s best friend. Jordan Love needs lots of friends.

16. Commanders: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

Ron Rivera considers drafting quarterback Hendon Hooker but decides on a dependable offensive tackle to bolster his line.

17. Steelers: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

Porter is such a natural pick for the Steelers that Mike Tomlin can’t pass him up. He’ll be an immediate contributor.

18. Lions: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn gets another prospect on his side of the ball to improve the area where the team needs it the most.

19. Buccaneers: Dewand Jones, OT, Ohio State

Tom Brady’s retirement and salary cap losses have hurt the Bucs, and the Jones pick fills a glaring need.

20. Seahawks: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

Geno Smith is coming off his best season, but he’s 32 in October, and Pete Carroll can give Hooker time to watch and learn.

21. Chargers: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

Justin Herbert should get a new contract, and the Chargers make him happy with a talented tight end prospect.

22. Ravens: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

Just in case Lamar Jackson returns to the Ravens, John Harbaugh rewards him with a big, fast receiver who can catch all over the field.

23. Vikings: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Pittsburgh

The Vikings believe they need to improve their defense if they’re going to successfully defend their NFC North title.

24. Jaguars: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

In his second season, Doug Pederson needs an offensive tackle who can pay immediate dividends protecting Trevor Lawrence.

25. Giants: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

After making the playoffs and signing Daniel Jones to a new contract, Brian Daboll gives him a reliable threat at wide receiver.

26. Cowboys: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

Mike McCarthy has needs at other positions, but he knows a defense can’t have too many pass rushers who can pressure the quarterback.

27. Bills: Jack Campbell, LB, Iowa

Campbell is an active linebacker who was a tackling machine in college and should fill the same role for the Bills.

28. Bengals: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

The Bengals need an offensive tackle and a tight end, but they’re surprised Murphy is still on the board.

29. Saints: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia

With his defensive background, Dennis Allen knows a team never has enough edge rushers to apply pressure on the quarterback.

30. Eagles: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh

Age and free agent losses make this a smart pick. Kancey is drawing unfair comparisons to Aaron Donald.

31. Chiefs: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

Andy Reid gives Patrick Mahomes another talented deep threat who can be a nightmare for defensive backs.

April 13, Mock Draft 5.0:

1.  Panthers: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

All the reports about the Panthers switching to Young turn out to be true.

2.  Texans: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama

Nick Caserio pulls a stunner by giving DeMeco Ryans the best edge rusher in the draft.

3.  Colts (trade with Cardinals): C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

Chris Ballard trades up with the Cardinals to select their franchise quarterback.

4.  Cardinals (trade with Colts): Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

The Cardinals trade down a spot and pick a pass rusher some believe is the best in the draft.

5.  Seahawks: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

Geno Smith signed a three-year contract, so Richardson will be given lots of time to develop.

6.  Lions: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

One year after drafting edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, Dan Campbell gets a great prospect with talent and character issues.

7.  Raiders: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

Josh McDaniels is tempted to go for quarterback Will Levis but pivots to the best cornerback prospect.

8.  Falcons: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

Arthur Smith is an offensive coach who takes the quarterback with the best arm in the draft.

9.  Bears: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

The Bears need help up front on both sides of the ball and have their pick of the offensive linemen.

10. Eagles: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

It won’t be surprising if this exceptional prospect goes before the Eagles have a chance to get him.

11. Titans: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

It’s a wide receiver or help for a rebuilt offensive line, and Mike Vrabel elects to take a left tackle.

12. Texans: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

After bypassing C.J. Stroud at two, Nick Caserio pulls another stunner with an on-the-rise prospect who’s 25 and coming off major knee surgery.

13. Jets: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

Robert Saleh gets protection for his new quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, on an offense that could be loaded.

14. Patriots: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

A lot of coaches believe Witherspoon is the best player in the draft at his position.

15. Packers: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

The Packers have their pick of tight ends and wide receivers and take one of the best in the draft.

16. Commanders: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

Ron Rivera elects not to trade up for a quarterback and chooses an offensive tackle who can start on either side.

17. Steelers: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

Mike Tomlin knows second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett needs talent around him and goes for a large receiver.

18. Lions: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

Dan Campbell improves his defense even more with another splendid pick on that side of the ball.

19. Buccaneers: Dewand Jones, OT, Ohio State

The Buccaneers make it five offensive tackles drafted within an 11-pick radius.

20. Seahawks: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

After taking a quarterback with his first pick, Pete Carroll goes for a talented pass rusher.

21. Chargers: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

The Chargers need a tight end and wide receiver and could go either way, but they get the best prospect at his position.

22. Ravens: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State

After signing Odell Beckham Jr., John Harbaugh gets an impressive prospect for his defense.

23. Vikings: Nolan Smith, DE, Georgia

Smith is undersized, but he’s got tremendous speed and quickness coming off the edge for the defending NFC North champion.

24. Jaguars: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

After losing Jawaan Taylor to the Chiefs, Doug Pederson has to fill that void with another tackle prospect.

25. Giants: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

Flowers lacks size, but he has eye-opening speed and will give Daniel Jones another gifted player at a skill position.

26. Cowboys: O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida

Mike McCarthy gets the most physical offensive lineman in the draft. He’ll help a running game that needs a lot of help.

27. Bills: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

Sean McDermott needs a linebacker more than another pass rusher, but the Bills didn’t think Murphy would still be on their board.

28. Bengals: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

The Bengals fill a need for Joe Burrow and make an explosive offense even more explosive.

29. Saints: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh

It’s not fair to compare him to Aaron Donald just because they played at Pitt, but he’s an improving inside presence.

30. Eagles: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson

Because of age and free agent departures, this position must be addressed in the draft.

31. Chiefs: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

Andy Reid never thought Addison would be available, and it’ll take him 2 seconds to select the outstanding receiver prospect.

April 20, Mock Draft 6.0:

1. Panthers: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

Young is rock solid as the first overall pick with only size limitations.

2. Texans: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama

New coach DeMeco Ryans gets the best pure outside pass rusher.

3. Colts (trade with Cardinals): C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

New coach Shane Steichen gets a franchise quarterback.

4. Cardinals (trade with Colts): Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

New coach Jonathan Gannon gets an outstanding pass rusher.

5. Seahawks: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

Pete Carroll can afford to give him time to develop behind Geno Smith.

6. Lions: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

He’s the early favorite to be voted NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.

7. Raiders: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

A splendid size-speed combination to lock down receivers.

8. Falcons: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

The Falcons believe he’s just too talented to pass up.

9. Bears: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

If he gets his head on straight, he can dominate for years.

10. Eagles: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

He should be a force on the outside to fortify the defensive line.

11. Titans: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

Mike Vrabel elects to go with a tackle over a wide receiver.

12. Texans: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

DeMeco Ryans gets a gifted receiver who makes catches all over the field.

13. Jets: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

He’s raw but talented and should become a big-time pass protector.

14. Patriots: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

He lacks size, but he’s got everything else Bill Belichick wants.

15. Packers: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

The grandson of a great Packers’ tackle can play outside or inside.

16. Commanders: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

One start isn’t enough to have total faith in Sam Howell.

17. Steelers: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

He’s got size and speed and is the perfect fit in this system.

18. Lions: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh

An inside presence who’s talented but needs some refinement.

19. Buccaneers: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

They can’t pass up a tackle who can solve a glaring weakness.

20. Seahawks: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia

He’s got quickness and speed unmatched in this draft.

21. Chargers: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

He’s the best pure pass catcher at his position.

22. Ravens: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

John Harbaugh isn’t through stocking the shelves for Lamar Jackson.

23. Vikings: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

He hasn’t gotten a lot of pre-draft attention, but he’s the real deal.

24. Jaguars: Dewand Jones, OT, Ohio State

They have a glaring need for a tackle, and Jones is the answer.

25. Giants: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

He’s a big, fast, explosive target for Daniel Jones.

26. Cowboys: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

He’s the best all-around prospect at his position.

27. Bills: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

Murphy has speed coming off the edge and should fit in their defense.

28. Bengals: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

They need to enhance their talent level up front for Joe Burrow.

29. Saints: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson

He’s been inconsistent, but he can dominate on the inside.

30. Eagles: Brian Branch, S, Alabama

He’s a natural fit at safety, and he can line up in the slot.

31. Chiefs: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

Andy Reid never thought Addison would be available at this spot.

April 26, Mock Draft 7.0:

1. Panthers: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

Despite Las Vegas oddsmakers saying Will Levis is closing in on becoming the top pick, it’s Young by a landslide.

2. Texans: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

Nick Caserio has his choice of four quarterbacks, but DeMeco Ryans talks him into one of the two-best edge rushers.

3. Cardinals: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama

They should trade the pick and stockpile draft choices, but if they stay in this spot, they get the highest-rated edge rushers.

4. Colts: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

It’s Levis or C.J. Stroud. Word is they like Levis better, which means they’ll probably draft Stroud.

5. Seahawks: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

Geno Smith signed a three-year contract. They can afford to give Richardson plenty of time to watch and learn.

6. Lions: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

Carter may be the most talented player in the draft, but his off-the-field issues concern a lot of teams.

7. Raiders: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

Jimmy Garoppolo is injury prone. Brian Hoyer is a stop-gap. They never thought Stroud would fall this far.

8. Falcons: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

Maybe the best and safest prospect in the draft. He’ll improve the running and passing game and share playing time with Tyler Allgeier.

9. Bears: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

The Bears need help in the trenches, and he’s supposed to be the best prospect among the offensive linemen.

10. Eagles: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

With free agent departures and old age, the Eagles need an infusion of youth and talent in their defensive line.

11. Titans: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

A tough decision between Skoronski and Broderick Jones. Skoronski can play tackle or guard, and the Titans need help both places.

12. Texans: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

The fifth quarterback to come off the board is 25 and won’t be ready until November, but he’ll be given time to develop.

13. Packers: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

A choice between Smith-Njigba or tight end Dalton Kincaid. They give Jordan Love the highest-rated receiver.

14. Patriots: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

Bill Belichick was interested in Bijan Robinson, but when he’s not available, he switches to Witherspoon, the top-rated player at his position.

15. Jets: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

Some scouts have him as the No. 1 tackle prospect. He should become an immediate starter and help protect Aaron Rodgers.

16. Commanders: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

Gonzalez is an elite corner prospect with good size and speed. He could be the first cornerback drafted.

17. Steelers: Noah Smith, OLB, Georgia

Smith put on a show at the combine and showed his tremendous speed and athleticism. He’s an ideal fit for Mike Tomlin’s 3-4.

18. Lions: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

After taking Jalen Carter sixth overall, the Lions pivot to the secondary and add the cornerback with the best size.

19. Buccaneers: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

Wright solves a huge problem. He can play either tackle spot. He should become an immediate starter.

20. Seahawks: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi

Pete Carroll continues to improve his secondary considerably with this multitalented cornerback.

21. Chargers: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

To keep up with the Chiefs, the Chargers select another talented weapon for Justin Herbert.

22. Ravens: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

Flowers is undersized, but he’s got speed and quickness and can make acrobatic catches at every level of the field.

23. Vikings: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

A gifted cover corner isn’t a position of need, but the Vikings know a defense can never have too many good ones.

24. Jaguars: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

They need to draft an offensive tackle to replace Jawann Taylor. He’ll be given every opportunity to start right away.

25. Giants: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

To help Daniel Jones, the Giants give him a large, fast target who gets a lot of yards after the catch.

26. Cowboys: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

Rather than take tight end Michael Mayer, the Cowboys bolster Dan Quinn’s defense with one of the best edge rushers.

27. Bills: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama

Scouts call him an Alvin Kamara clone. He’ll help the running game as well as be a reliable receiver for Josh Allen.

28. Bengals: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

Mayer is ranked first or second among tight ends, and he’ll become one of Joe Burrow’s go-to targets.

29. Saints: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

Derek Carr gets a big-play receiver who excelled at Pitt and USC in different offenses.

30. Eagles: Brian Branch, S, Alabama

Branch can play either safety spot or move down and cover slot receivers. Eventually, he’ll be a defensive captain.

31. Chiefs: Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee

Patrick Mahomes gets another target, and Hyatt can stretch the defense like no other receiver in the draft.

(John McClain writes four columns a week for GallerySports.com. He can be heard Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday on Sports Radio 610 and Thursday on Texans Radio. He does three weekly Houtopia podcasts for 610. He also can be read three times a week on SportsRadio610.com