The NFL has reached the talent acquisition portion of its schedule. The league’s general managers have tough decisions to make in the roster-building process. Who is expendable or in some cases overpriced in free agency and how does a team go about replacing that player?
Here are five examples of how some teams could do just that through the 2023 NFL Draft, as we break down the draft prospects who could replace the biggest names lost in free agency:
Replacement Raiders: Anthony Richardson, Florida
Carr was kicked out by the Raiders franchise who selected him in the second round nine years ago. After meeting several teams, the free agent chose to sign in New Orleans.
If Las Vegas stays at No. 7 overall, he could end up with the leftovers at quarterback. Signing free agent Jimmy Garoppolo gives the franchise some flexibility so they can afford to be more picky. It wouldn’t surprise me if one of the top four perceived quarterbacks was ranked No. 1 overall by Carolina. Based on the ratings alone, it’s highly likely that Kentucky’s Will Levis or Florida’s Anthony Richardson will be the last quarterback standing.
Replacement of invoices: Jack Campbell, Iowa
Athletically, Edmunds is unique at linebacker. He tested off the charts at the 2018 NFL Combine for speed and quickness. After playing five seasons with the Bills, those athletic qualities led to Edmunds receiving a lucrative contract elsewhere.
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Buffalo now needs a more physical style of play next to Matt Milano. Jack Campbell of Iowa is someone who could deliver. Edmunds and Campbell are almost the same size. It’s surprising how little has been said about Campbell’s outstanding performance in the NFL Combine. His performance on the pitch didn’t necessarily match the sports tests, but if it did, he wouldn’t be available on Day 2.
Replacement of the Eagles: Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia
It was a bit of a surprise to see Philadelphia allow Hargrave to leave. You would have thought that the franchise would prioritize the defensive line over maintaining the two starting cornerbacks. The Eagles were equipped to absorb the loss of Hargrave with Jordan Davis, Fletcher Cox and Milton Williams on the roster. However, it wouldn’t be surprising if the team invested early compensation in the position.
As time went on, the idea of Georgian defensive tackle Jalen Carter being available at No. 10 overall, or at least within range for the team to make a move, became more likely. Carter’s on-court ability would be an ideal replacement for the highest paid defenseman in the free agency market.
Replacement of the Patriots: Jordan Addison, USC
New England has JuJu Smith-Schuster and Devante Parker, but it’s not a wide reception room creating chances. The Patriots have been actively looking for improvements in this position and that should tell fans all they need to know about their confidence going into the season with this group. While Meyers spent nearly 70% of his snaps in the slot last season, Smith-Schuster only spent 42.6% of his snaps in the slot; the lowest score of his career. Bill Belichick is probably looking for a player who can line up wide or in the slot.
If the Patriots don’t fill that need through trade or free agency, the idea of using a first-round pick on the job shouldn’t be ruled out. Addison has this potential to play upside down. If the franchise has eyes elsewhere at No. 14 overall, then Oklahoma’s Marvin Mims and Tennessee’s Cedric Tillman could be Day 2 or possibly Day 3 options.
Replacement of the Eagles: Bijan Robinson, TX
Sanders signed with Carolina in free agency because Philadelphia’s priorities were elsewhere. Although the Eagles signed Rashaad Penny in free agency, they can’t necessarily expect Penny to be available for every game. During his time in Seattle, he missed almost as many games as he was available.
Drafting a running back in the first round isn’t usually Howie Roseman’s modus operandi, but the cake has been baked and now they just need some flashy decoration on top. Robinson is a three-way back who could help the NFC East franchise put away games. Despite needing a wide receiver, few expected Philadelphia to trade for a thin-framed DeVonta Smith either. The Eagles could trade some of No. 10 overall and take Robinson, but it would cost them a top defender like Carter. For both to happen, the team would likely have to drop from No. 30 overall.
The 2023 NFL Draft will take place April 27-29 in Kansas City, Missouri.
