NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Run on offensive tackles has Steelers going defense
By Tommy Jaggi
15. Green Bay Packers: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
It's been ages since the Green Bay Packers have had a premier tight end on their offense, and this team may try to give Aaron Rodgers every bit of help they can for one last shot at a title. Michael Mayer isn't the most athletic tight end in this class, but he is the most well-rounded. Mayer would be an asset both as a run-blocker and over the middle of the field.
16. Washington Commanders: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
The Commanders have started building a decent foundation. Now they snag perhaps the best cornerback in the NFL Draft in Oregon's Christian Gonzalez. Gonzalez is remarkably fluid for a big CB, and his potential is through the roof. He has true CB1 upside.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
Among such a talented cornerback class, it's impossible to predict which one will ultimately have the best NFL career. However, the Pittsburgh Steelers would probably be thrilled to nab a player like Joey Porter Jr. Though they don't often address the CB position early, they have a glaring need at the position, and Porter checks nearly every box they look for. It helps that he has remarkable family bloodlines and that he played his college career in their neck of the woods.
18. Detroit Lions: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
The run on talented cornerbacks continues as the Lions take Cam Smith with the 18th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Smith is a well-rounded CB who played excellent against SEC competition. After taking Myles Murphy with the 6th pick, Detroit continues to beef up one of the NFL's most vulnerable defenses from the 2022 season.