Steelers Legend Wants to Return to Coaching … In Pittsburgh originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Pittsburgh Steelers legend Joey Porter Sr. has been thrilled to watch his son, Joey Porter Jr., for the past two seasons, suiting up for his beloved team.

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Porter Jr. was the Steelers’ second-round pick in 2023 out of Penn State.

Porter Sr. was drafted in the third round by Pittsburgh in 1999. He was with the Steelers for eight seasons, then moved to Miami for three seasons and finally to Arizona for two seasons. He concluded his pro playing career in 2011.

Porter Sr. was a four-time Pro Bowler, a Super Bowl champion, a First-Team All-Pro and a three-time Second-Team All-Pro.

In 2014, Porter Sr. returned to Pittsburgh as a defensive assistant, then from 2015-18, served as the team’s outside linebackers coach.

Now, as the former Colorado State standout explains, he’d like to return to Pittsburgh to help coach his son.

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“The funny thing about it was, I’m in the stands, because I told [Mike Tomlin], Mike is good, ‘Man, you want to come?’ I’m like, Nah, man, until they give me a suite, I’ve got to sit in the stands,” Porter said. “I ain’t trying to use my Steeler power of being on the sideline, because it’s giving mixed emotions. I know how much I really do want to coach. I’m not trying to sit down here to look like I’m trying to ask for my job back, knowing I would take it back. But you don’t want to come off like that, and I want him to be a man and do his thing.”

Steelers fans would surely like to see a family reunion in Pittsburgh.

Related: Steelers Seventh-Rounder Shows Great Potential

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 23, 2025, where it first appeared.

Steelers Seventh-Rounder Shows Great Potential originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Pittsburgh Steelers were on a roll this year in the NFL draft, selecting Big Ten players with their first six picks.

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General manager Omar Khan ended the streak with their seventh-round pick, Central Michigan cornerback Donte Kent.

Kent was noted as being versatile, with the ability to defend the slot or on the outside, and he spent time as a punt returner. He could also be a strong special-teams player.

Khan was impressed with the potential Kent showed and spoke about him on “The Standard.”

“Donte spent significant time studying his film,” Khan said. “Looking at his production, both not only on the defensive side but on special teams, the more we watched, the more excited we got about him. Solid character. Another guy that’s got a really good opportunity, and we expect him to contribute sooner than later.”

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Kent could have huge potential, especially for a seventh-rounder, based on his draft profile from Lance Zierlein at NFL.com.

“Speedy four-year starter and team captain with the athletic ability to garner Day 3 interest in the draft. Kent’s measurables are better suited for the slot, but he can play outside if needed,” Zierlein wrote. “His speed and burst lead to pass breakups, but he lacks the route anticipation and instincts to turn more of those into interceptions. He’s not scheme-dependent but is better in man coverage than he is in zone.

“He’s tough enough in run support and has potential as a gunner or punt returner, which should increase his draft value.”

Related: Steelers Announce New Terrible Towel for 2025

Related: Ex Steelers QB’s Starting Job In Jeopardy per Insider

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 23, 2025, where it first appeared.

Open Extended Reactions

The dust has settled on the 2025 NFL draft, as we’ve had a few weeks to digest and assess all 257 picks.

The headliners of any draft class will always be the first-round picks; they obviously arrive to the NFL with great expectations. But there are several Day 2 and Day 3 players who will make instant, notable contributions. Look back to 2024, when fourth-round running back Bucky Irving had 1,122 rushing yards and third-round safety Calen Bullock had five interceptions. Both numbers led all rookies last season.

With that in mind, I’m going to rank 10 players on each side of the ball selected in Rounds 2-7 who I expect will make the greatest immediate impact as rookies. I’m factoring in potential role, upside and talent. Let’s start with a quarterback who could see a bunch of starts.

Jump to:

Offense | Defense

Offensive players

Derek Carr retiring from football means the Saints will go into training camp with a quarterback competition. And I believe Shough will beat out Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener for the starting job.

Now, the Saints’ roster might not be set up for the immediate success of a rookie quarterback, but they will likely give Shough every chance to show he can become their long-term fixture under center. Shough’s arm talent, ability to read the defense and mobility are the foundation of an impressive skill set. He threw 23 touchdown passes last season and has 32 career starts under his belt.

The Broncos entered the draft needing a running back, and many — myself included — thought they might take one with their first-round pick at No. 20. Instead, the Broncos got their guy 40 picks later. Harvey can be the “joker” in Sean Payton’s offense, impacting the game as both a runner and receiver. He actually reminds me of Bucky Irving, who was on this list last year and went on to a great rookie season. Harvey is a compact back who plays with a big-back mentality, running through defenders without sacrificing quickness. He’s an adept pass catcher, too.

It was clear that Miami valued Savaiinaea during the draft, making an aggressive push up the board to get him. He gives the Dolphins a legitimate starting guard candidate right out of the gate; they had a desperate need to upgrade the position. Savaiinaea showed excellent positional versatility in college, but he should slide inside as a starting guard in Miami’s zone-heavy scheme. He allowed only two sacks over three seasons at Arizona.

The Browns snagged a pair of running backs in the first four rounds of the draft, as Judkins and Dylan Sampson (No. 126) give this offense a power and speed duo. Judkins was excellent at both stops in his college career. He showed that he can dominate between the tackles at Ohio State, but he also proved he can be a do-it-all back who even impacts the passing game at Ole Miss. Judkins is a decisive, physical runner who should fit perfectly in the AFC North. Nick Chubb returning seems unlikely, which means Judkins will only have to battle Jerome Ford and Sampson for work.

Henderson is one of the most explosive players in the rookie class, and he will be a big-time factor on third down in New England because of his pass-catching and pass-protecting traits. He provided the lightning to Judkins’ thunder for Ohio State last season, and I see a similar profile with the Patriots. Henderson could complement Rhamondre Stevenson well in New England. He provides instant offense as a runner and receiver.

The Steelers saw Najee Harris depart in free agency this offseason, making running back a strong priority for them at some point early in the draft. Johnson had an outstanding 2024 season at Iowa, using his size, physicality and pass-game acumen to become one of FBS’s best RBs. He ran for 1,537 yards and scored 23 touchdowns from scrimmage. Jaylen Warren will of course play a useful role for Pittsburgh, but offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has a well-established affinity for bigger, bruising backs like Johnson. It won’t surprise me at all if he leads Pittsburgh in carries this season.

play 0:59 Kaleb Johnson’s NFL draft profile Check out stats from Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson ahead of the 2025 NFL draft.

The Jets’ hole at tight end was one of the most glaring position needs in the league entering the draft. Their top returning player, Jeremy Ruckert, has zero touchdowns in three seasons. But Taylor is a pro-ready fix. He can hold his own as a blocker and has the ultrareliable hands necessary to work the middle of the field and provide a safety net for quarterback Justin Fields.

Lions GM Brad Holmes has made it a point to target reliable and extremely tough players in the draft. That describes Ratledge well. He allowed only one sack in each of the past two seasons at Georgia and exudes toughness on tape. Kevin Zeitler’s departure to Tennessee opens a starting guard job in Detroit, and I like Ratledge’s chances to fill that role.

The Texans had to remake their wide receiver room this offseason, with Tank Dell’s timeline to return from his knee injury still uncertain and Stefon Diggs departing for the Patriots. Higgins will join Christian Kirk and fellow draft pick Jaylin Noel in trying to fill that void. Higgins brings an excellent combination of size and speed to the position, similar to teammate Nico Collins. He showed very good discipline and body control on passes thrown his way on the sideline in college, and that should help him build chemistry with C.J. Stroud in a hurry.

The Bengals came into the draft with an obvious need at guard, using a pair of picks on Fairchild and Jalen Rivers in the fifth round. I view Fairchild as the superior prospect, and he should have the inside track to start right away for Cincinnati. He brings reliable pass protection — he allowed pressure on 0.4% of his pass-block reps during the 2024 season — and toughness. Fairchild rarely found himself out of position in college and has an excellent temperament. He plays every snap with a level of consistency that offensive line coaches love.

Four more to watch

Gunnar Helm, TE, Tennessee Titans (No. 120): Helm will have the opportunity to be Cam Ward’s best friend as a safety valve at tight end. Helm isn’t going to provide explosive plays, but he showed great hands and middle-of-the-field instincts at Texas. He finds soft spots in zone coverage and is effective staying alive in unscripted situations. He’ll pair well with Ward in this offense.

Jaylin Lane, WR/PR, Washington Commanders (No. 128): While Lane will have a chance to earn receiver snaps for Washington, what most excites me about his early impact is in the kicking game. Lane is arguably the best punt returner in the draft class. Back in 2021, he averaged 15.5 yards per return, second best in FBS. He’s shifty and instinctive, and he can flat-out fly. Olamide Zaccheaus handled the highest number of punt returns for the Commanders in 2024 but signed with the Bears this offseason. Lane should help pile up hidden yards.

Robbie Ouzts, FB, Seattle Seahawks (No. 175): Ouzts did not see the football much at Alabama (16 career catches), but he is a rugged and versatile blocker. The Seahawks hired Klint Kubiak this offseason and will rely much more on two-RB sets. Ouzts will make the move to fullback and compete for that starting role. His combination of power at the point of attack and understanding of angles as a run blocker should allow him to make the position switch relatively seamlessly.

Brashard Smith, RB, Kansas City Chiefs (No. 228): There were several late-round running backs I could have chosen here, as the exceptional depth of the class pushed many of them down the board. Smith switched from wide receiver at Miami to running back at SMU, which speaks to his unique versatility that should lead to schemed touches for him in Kansas City. Smith is great after the catch and shows fantastic lateral agility and straight-line speed.

Defensive players

There is uncertainty surrounding Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s health after his neck injury last season, and that likely played a role in the Browns opening the second round with Schwesinger, whose movement skills have some shades of JOK. Schwesinger broke out in 2024, piling up 115 tackles and playing excellent coverage. His ability to carry pass catchers up the middle of the field and find space in zone drops make him an every-down player for Cleveland.

Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald maximizes the talent of safeties, and few safeties have entered the NFL with Emmanwori’s physical traits. The 6-foot-3, 220-pounder has 4.38 speed and explosiveness. The Seahawks moving up the board for him signals they believe Emmanwori can fit in somewhere from the jump. He certainly has the speed and range to play center field, but I also see the size and physicality to play in the box as a “big nickel” safety/linebacker hybrid.

Man, what value at No. 47, even with the knee injury concerns. I actually liked Johnson as a fit at No. 16 for Arizona, given his skill set and the team’s need at corner. Getting him in Round 2 is even better. Johnson has excellent ball skills and size, along with the instincts to thrive in Arizona’s zone-heavy scheme. The Cardinals played 61.0% of their coverage snaps in zone in 2024.

play 1:44 See why Michigan’s Will Johnson is a top NFL draft prospect Check out highlights from Michigan CB Will Johnson after he’s selected by the Cardinals in the 2025 NFL draft.

Cincinnati has worked to overhaul its defense this offseason and found a plug-and-play starter in Knight, whose hard-hitting, physical nature should bring an attitude adjustment to the Bengals’ D. Knight finished his college career at South Carolina and was around the ball often. He had three forced fumbles, a pair of sacks and an interception last season. Remember, Germaine Pratt requested a trade, too, so there could be plenty of snaps on the table for Knight.

The 49ers entered the draft with a need at one starting linebacker spot after Dre Greenlaw left in free agency, and Martin can fill it. He lacks ideal size at 6-foot and 221 pounds, but he makes up for it with electric speed and a fearless nature on every snap. Martin showed legitimate pass-rush instincts in 2023, too, with six sacks. And while he was injured for most of 2024, his 140 tackles in 2023 were the most by any Oklahoma State player since 1984.

Regardless of where Tuimoloau ended up, I was always going to feel really good about his prospects of playing early. JTT was a three-year starter and four-year contributor at Ohio State, and he displays terrific instincts, power, hand usage and explosion off the edge. In Indy, I think he can make a real impact as a pass rusher and run defender. Tuimoloau had 12.5 sacks in 2024, often looking his best during the biggest moments.

Adding another defensive tackle was a priority for the Chiefs early in this draft, considering they lost Tershawn Wharton in free agency. Having another big body on the defensive line can make life easier for Chris Jones. Norman-Lott is a standout pass rusher from inside, showing disruptive up-field rush skills that helped him to 9.5 sacks over the past two seasons. Playing next to Jones should create plenty of one-on-one rush reps for him.

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I don’t think any other edge rusher in this year’s class takes his run stuffing/edge setting responsibilities as pridefully as Scourton. He’s a heavy-handed, powerful and intense player on every single down. Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero will trust Scourton in any situation given that dependability as a run defender and his pass-rush prowess. While his sack production dipped in 2024 (five), he led the Big Ten in sacks at Purdue in 2023 (10). Scourton arrives in Carolina with an advanced arsenal of rush tactics and can contribute right away — especially since the team cut Jadeveon Clowney.

The Eagles’ remodel of their secondary continued into the draft, as they used the final pick of the second round on the instinctive, pro-ready Mukuba. I love his football IQ, and while Mukuba has a smaller frame for a safety (he was only 186 pounds at the combine), he packs a lot of power as a physical tackler. His versatility to play in the slot a little bit should only increase early playing time.

Tampa Bay doubled-dipped at cornerback on Day 2, selecting Parrish in Round 3 after taking Benjamin Morrison in Round 2. Parrish finished 64th on my final board, and I believe he can translate his versatile game to the pro level. He played 395 snaps as an outside corner and 201 snaps as a slot corner in 2024. Parrish has premier speed and capable ball skills, and he is a very skilled blitzer. That should shine on a Todd Bowles-coached team.

Three more to watch

Barryn Sorrell, Edge, Green Bay Packers (No. 124): The Packers were tied for the highest percentage of snaps in zone coverage last season at 70.2%, but I think defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley wants more man coverage. He just didn’t have the right personnel. The best way to help corners in man coverage is having an impactful pass rush. Sorrel brings value because of his versatility, as Texas did a very good job of letting him rush from multiple alignments, including as an interior rusher. That’s a blueprint Green Bay can follow.

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, DL, Minnesota Vikings (No. 139): Minnesota overhauled its defensive line this offseason with a pair of big-ticket veteran additions in Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, so Ingram-Dawkins does not have a clear path to a large role. But his versatility is key. Georgia played him in multiple spots along the defensive front, and while his sack production was not robust, he was a havoc wreaker with his length, burst and strength. Coordinator Brian Flores is among the most innovative defensive minds in the league and will throw out some wonky fronts that can confuse quarterbacks. Ingram-Dawkins has the traits to be a movable chess piece along the D-line as depth in Minnesota.

Jordan Phillips, DT, Miami Dolphins (No. 143): Phillips was a wrestler and weightlifter in high school, and that shows up on his tape. He is one of the most physical run defenders in the rookie class and plays with excellent leverage. Miami landed Kenneth Grant with its first-round pick, but Phillips will also help the Dolphins become much more physical and tougher on the defensive front.

Open Extended Reactions

The 2025 NFL draft is in the rearview mirror, and the league’s 32 teams have begun to get a closer look at their draft choices and other selected free agents via rookie minicamps. We’ve spent the past week-plus since the conclusion of the draft talking to executives, scouts and coaches throughout the NFL, gaining clarity on the fits for some of the key members of the 257-man draft class of 2025:

We also explore all the near-trades, team draft strategy, intel on key players and implications beyond this year.

Jump to:

ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN

CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND

JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN

NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF

SEA | TB | TEN | WSH

NFC EAST

Some around the league believe receiver Tetairoa McMillan would have been Dallas’ pick if available. He “would have been an option,” per a source. But, quietly, a few rival teams thought Tyler Booker fit the Cowboys’ profile as a no-nonsense offensive lineman with pedigree. Dallas tried to trade down from No. 12 but was not able to pull off a deal.

Early-third-round corner Shavon Revel Jr., meanwhile, was considered one of the best value picks in the entire draft. “I thought there was a big drop-off at corner after him, that’s why I thought he had a chance to go late 1 or early 2,” an executive with an AFC team said.

A team source said of second-round pass rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku: “Leadership and explosion. Sometimes you just see it right away.” This was a don’t-overthink-it pick.

The Giants said they settled on Jaxson Dart after the Monday meetings of draft week. “At that point he had checked all the boxes,” a team source said of the Ole Miss prospect. They also decided they wouldn’t trade above Pittsburgh, banking on the Steelers opting for defense at No. 21.

And in talking to teams in the 20s about a trade up, the Giants made clear they would not part with the No. 65 pick. Houston was comfortable with that.

While the Giants worked out Shedeur Sanders the week before the draft, Sanders sensed much earlier that New York probably wasn’t in the cards for him. Sanders openly acknowledged during the predraft process that he didn’t hit it off with Giants coaches, per a source.

The Giants used No. 65 on Toledo DE Darius Alexander, whom many scouts had identified as an ascending, early Day 2 prospect. The Giants are excited to place him alongside Dexter Lawrence. The team decided to lean into its defensive line strength with Abdul Carter and Alexander in part because, as one team source put it, “When you think of the New York Giants, you think of how they are built up front.”

Giants tight ends coach Tim Kelly privately worked out Thomas Fidone II before the draft and really liked what he saw. Fidone is a former five-star recruit out of high school, which intrigued New York. Injuries slowed him in college. Perhaps there’s untapped potential.

Expect the Giants to use fourth-round RB Cam Skattebo as a pass catcher as well as a runner. They like his ability to track the ball.

General manager Howie Roseman broke from precedent by drafting a true off-ball linebacker in the first round. Philadelphia hadn’t done so since Jerry Robinson in 1979, but Jihaad Campbell was too good to pass up. Several teams saw him as a top-10 talent but had concerns about his durability after multiple injuries in college. The selection of Campbell shows the Eagles are trusting defensive coordinator Vic Fangio and his staff to develop young players at all positions.

Last season’s experience with Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean should help the Eagles transition rookie defensive backs Andrew Mukuba and Mac McWilliams. Philadelphia will put them in positions to compete and let the results play out over time, not forcing them into specific roles too early. The Eagles love Mukuba’s instincts, field vision and ball awareness, along with McWilliams’ man coverage skills and physical playing style.

With quarterback Kyle McCord in the sixth round, the Eagles had enough interest that Roseman called Syracuse offensive coordinator Jeff Nixon personally to get the predraft lowdown on the prospect.

Washington got a plus starter with second-round defensive back Trey Amos, who has size, speed and instincts. Selecting him at No. 61 was considered great value. One aspect that might have hurt his value slightly: Multiple teams discovered a back injury in the predraft process. This wasn’t a major red flag for some teams, but it was at least a mild concern that “probably caused him to slide a bit,” as one AFC exec said. However, people around Amos and the Commanders did not seem overly concerned by it.

First-round offensive lineman Josh Conerly Jr. gives Washington flexibility on its right side. He can compete with second-year man Brandon Coleman at right tackle, and Coleman could kick in to guard eventually. Veteran Andrew Wylie is still in the mix, too.

NFC NORTH

Chicago quieted trade calls with the Colston Loveland pick at No. 10. I’ve heard from multiple teams who said the lack of a trade from Nos. 3 to 25 was due in part to Loveland going off the board. Had he made it into the teens, someone would have made a move. While Penn State’s Tyler Warren was the bigger name, Loveland’s traits and upside drove week-of-draft buzz that he was the top tight end in this class.

Some inside the league believe the Bears tried to make an early Day 2 move, possibly to move up four spots to Tennessee’s selection at No. 35. Knowing Chicago’s legwork on running backs, Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson would have made a lot of sense in that regard. While Chicago has been linked to free agent running backs, typically teams like to first see what their rookies can do in May and June, with live on-field reps — a great chance for seventh-round back Kyle Monangai, who has an intriguing skill set.

One of the most compelling stories of Day 2 was Detroit trading up 32 spots to the early third round to take a receiver with 28 catches last season at Arkansas.

But Isaac TeSlaa is a prime example of why the predraft process matters. TeSlaa was off the draft radar and had to scramble to get an invite to the Hula Bowl, which led to an invite to the Senior Bowl. He performed well at both, then caught scouts’ attention at the combine by running a 4.43-second 40 at 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds.

Had TeSlaa not gotten that Hula Bowl invite, his draft positioning would have looked far different. But once teams started to see him up close, they scheduled interviews with him and did their research on why he didn’t get the ball at Arkansas. It wasn’t because of attitude or work ethic issues — his personality shined in the process, becoming Detroit GM Brad Holmes’ favorite player in the draft. Some attributed his low production in college to lack of communication and inexperience at quarterback.

TeSlaa also had great predraft processes with the New Orleans Saints (No. 71) and the Buffalo Bills (No. 72), so it wasn’t lost on TeSlaa that Detroit traded directly in front of those two, plus Denver at No. 74, which went to receiver Pat Bryant.

The Packers passing on cornerback for the first six rounds seems to signify that Jaire Alexander is staying with the team, barring a unique trade offer or a contractual stalemate.

The Packers and Alexander are working on a resolution that should materialize soon. A revised contract for Alexander, due $17.5 million in cash this year, to balance his injury history with his longtime status as an elite corner might be the most sensible play.

The Matthew Golden pick at No. 23 — a first-round receiver for Green Bay for the first time since 2002 (Javon Walker) — was simply too good a value to pass up. Golden entered the draft believing Nos. 10-20 would be his range.

Fourth-round pass rusher Barryn Sorrell was one of two players in the FBS to produce at least 40 pressures and at least 10 run stops.

Entering the draft with four picks put Minnesota’s strategy into focus. The Vikings had built a pretty strong depth chart, knowing they had few picks, thus alleviating the stress of having to fill holes. The No. 24 pick filled the only major hole, left guard, with Ohio State’s Donovan Jackson.

That left the Vikings in a position to take a few upside plays. Third-round receiver Tai Felton fits that mold. The Vikings had intimate knowledge of Felton coming out of Maryland’s pro day, which Minnesota wide receivers coach Keenan McCardell helped run. McCardell was able to get an up-close view of Felton. Felton’s 4.37-second 40 and near-40-inch vertical make him an intriguing target for Minnesota QB J.J. McCarthy, and for a receiver room that faces a few questions: Jordan Addison was arrested and charged with DUI last summer, which could result in an eventual suspension, and Jalen Nailor is a 2026 free agent.

The Vikings got to work on a Sam Howell trade a week before the draft. The legwork was done by the time Day 3 came around. Howell, with the Seahawks last year and a starter as a rookie with the Commanders in 2023, is the next student of the Kevin O’Connell QB rehabilitation school.

NFC SOUTH

Atlanta’s move back into the first round to secure pass rusher James Pearce Jr. was perhaps the boldest move of the week.

Giving up the franchise’s 2026 first-rounder comes with risk, which the Falcons were willing to accept for a chance to fix their uneven pass rush once and for all.

Walker was considered one of the safest picks in the draft, and Pearce, should he maximize his immense skill, has star potential.

“What concerns me is they gave up a first-rounder for a player with character concerns,” an NFC executive said.

Pearce was considered a divisive figure in the draft process. Sources told ESPN that Pearce was off multiple teams’ draft boards because of maturity concerns.

But Atlanta spent significant time with the player in the predraft process, vetted any concerns and feels good about his ability to assimilate to the NFL.

“He’s a fun player to watch,” a veteran AFC scout said. “Very explosive. I think [coach] Raheem [Morris] will do a good job relating to him and keeping him on track. He will need to have a plan for him.”

Carolina’s No. 8 selection felt like a moving target. The Panthers were linked to Georgia’s Jalon Walker for a while, and I do believe the love for him was real. In the end, though, taking a smaller front-seven player (6-foot-1, 243 pounds) was an issue. Some in the building were intrigued with Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen. And I believe that if Mizzou right tackle Armand Membou was there, the Panthers would have thought long and hard about it.

Carolina had trade talks with multiple teams, including San Francisco (No. 11), about a potential trade back, but the team decided it didn’t want to lose Tetairoa McMillan.

The Panthers got their much-needed defensive help with pass rushers Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen. These are two different kinds of picks for Carolina. Scourton has the mindset to be a steady, productive pro immediately. Umanmielen is an upside play as the Panthers believe he can be a double-digit-sack guy but needs to get stronger and more dedicated to a complete game, not just when rushing the passer.

New Orleans went offensive line in the first round for the second consecutive year, but this particular move made sense around the league because Kelvin Banks Jr., in the eyes of scouts, was a clear-cut top-10 pick, despite many mock drafts having him in the teens throughout the process. “He’s awesome. He’s [five-time Pro Bowl tackle] Laremy Tunsil,” an NFC executive said.

An AFC exec said of second-round quarterback Tyler Shough: “He was a hot name Day 2. Sounds like he would have gone pretty quickly if not for New Orleans. He’s got some of what [new head coach] Kellen Moore [likes], intelligence at the position, good makeup. Will need to improve his accuracy at the next level.”

Seventh-round pass rusher Fadil Diggs is an interesting name to watch — he has the Elijah Robinson stamp of approval. Robinson, a former Texas A&M defensive line coach and now Syracuse defensive coordinator, has developed a serious pipeline of NFL talent. While at A&M, he recruited Walter Nolen, Shemar Stewart and Shemar Turner, all of whom were selected in the first two rounds of the draft. He coached Baltimore Ravens star Nnamdi Madubuike. Diggs, meanwhile, was a three-time captain for Robinson’s teams — twice at A&M and once for Syracuse after a 2024 transfer. So, while seventh-rounders are not slam dunks to make a roster, Diggs brings a strong background and leadership.

play 1:05 Chargers GM to McAfee: Omarion Hampton was a player we couldn’t pass on Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz talks with Pat McAfee about the decision to draft Omarion Hampton in the first round.

Third-round corner Jacob Parrish can be considered a winning pick for Tampa. I talked to a few teams predraft that listed him as a sleeper for the end of the first or early second, though some obviously thought that was too rich.

“His size [5-foot-9] is an issue, but nickels are more prevalent, and his ceiling is high due to speed and traits,” an NFC executive said.

The Bucs were linked to slot corners such as Mike Sainristil (Commanders) and Dru Phillips (Giants) in last year’s draft, so getting Parrish is a culmination of that legwork.

The Bucs are very high on veteran corner Zyon McCollum entering Year 4, but they were intentional in adding two corners on Day 2 (including Notre Dame’s Benjamin Morrison in the second). Head coach Todd Bowles wanted better depth coming out of last year.

The Bucs indeed did love Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell, but like other teams, the overall medical profile was a bit of a concern. Corner Maxwell Hairston, who went 30th to Buffalo, also had some love at One Buccaneer Place. But the team’s eventual pick at No. 19, receiver Emeka Egbuka, satisfies two areas: He was considered an A-plus prospect, and he helps curb concerns whenever Mike Evans decides to retire.

NFC WEST

Second-round corner Will Johnson was a polarizing figure leading up to the draft. He flashed first-round talent at Michigan but didn’t run a 40 predraft and dealt with injuries in college, including a knee issue that emerged in the predraft process.

Part of the issue: The knee was flagged at combine testing, the results of which teams typically get in mid-to-late April. That gave some teams pause and resulted in a slide out of the first round. Still, executives forecast Johnson would go in the back half of the first round. That didn’t happen.

In the hours before Day 2, some teams considering Johnson still had questions. Arizona was fine with the issues, and as a result, Johnson had the team circled as a strong possibility entering the start of the second round. Johnson played through the knee issue at Michigan, where he became a national champion and the Wolverines’ defensive MVP. If that level of play continues, Arizona just got first-round value in the second round.

In the first round, the Cardinals had eyes on eventual pick Walter Nolen and pass rusher Mykel Williams, who went five spots before them. It feels as if they were going defensive line regardless.

The Rams traded out of the first round with two tight ends in mind — Oregon’s Terrance Ferguson and LSU’s Mason Taylor. They would have been happy with either player, but one team source insists Ferguson was top in that order, so he would have been the pick if Taylor had been there. (Taylor went four spots earlier to the Jets.)

Los Angeles had trade talks with teams in the top 10, but in the end the price of that jump would have been too steep.

The Rams have never drafted a first-round quarterback in the Sean McVay era. Some inside the league believe that could change in 2026, with Los Angeles armed with two first-rounders (including Atlanta’s pick) in what’s considered a deep quarterback class. Matthew Stafford seems to be on a year-to-year schedule. The Rams liked a handful of quarterbacks, including Tyler Shough and Kyle McCord, but were never a major threat to take one this year.

No cornerbacks? Well, the Rams are still involved in a potential trade for Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey, whom Miami is trying to move, though his $24 million in guarantees are cost prohibitive. Word out of the draft is that Miami was not too keen on covering some or any of that money, though perhaps that changes as the offseason continues.

San Francisco rebuilt its defensive line this offseason, moving on from multiple players during free agency and replacing them with three of their first five draft picks.

Whispers of trading up persisted closer to and around the draft. The 49ers discussed trade options with Carolina at No. 8 that ultimately didn’t materialize. I talked to a few teams picking high who wondered whether San Francisco would move up for a playmaker such as Tetairoa McMillan or Colston Loveland. And the Saints (No. 9) had been linked to Mykel Williams, San Francisco’s pick at No. 11, so a trade with Carolina would have allowed the Niners to get ahead of New Orleans, to be safe. But staying put worked out. And No. 5 pick Mason Graham considered the 49ers a potential landing spot if for some reason he slid into the back half of the top 10.

Williams had top-10 buzz early in the draft process. Then, some teams tried to knock his modest production (14 sacks in 40 college games) and 4.76 40 time. But things always regress to the mean closer to the draft, when athletic traits win out, so Williams went in somewhere close to his proper range. And his length and bend is among the best in the draft, perfect for the 49ers’ defense.

During the predraft period, second-rounder Alfred Collins struck a connection with defensive line coach Kris Kocurek. Collins played high school ball in Bastrop, Texas, less than an hour away from Kocurek’s hometown of Rockdale.

The second-round selections of safety Nick Emmanwori and tight end Elijah Arroyo have a chance to pay off early. Seattle traded up to the No. 35 spot for Emmanwori, who generated some first-round buzz and whose physicality/versatility embodies a Mike Macdonald defense. The Seahawks typically know what they are doing in the second round, with Bobby Wagner, DK Metcalf and current pass rushers Derick Hall and Boye Mafe among their success stories.

Multiple scouts considered Arroyo a top 20-25 overall talent in the draft who fell because of injury history. Seattle now has a good tight end nucleus with Arroyo and AJ Barner. Noah Fant is one year from free agency and could have trade value if Seattle explores it.

As for third-round quarterback Jalen Milroe, expect Seattle to have a dual-threat package for him. Those can be hard to implement in-game, but Milroe’s ability to affect the game, particularly as a runner, will be hard to ignore as he develops as a quarterback.

AFC EAST

With the first five picks on defense, the Bills clearly wanted to improve up front and become more athletic on the back end.

Last year’s defense feasted on other team’s mistakes, leading the league with 24 turnovers, but that’s probably not sustainable every season. Going heavy on that side of the ball — opting for defensive line on three of the first four picks — should help Buffalo get a few more stops per week, which will pay off in January.

And the board also told Buffalo where to go. Some people I talked to in the process projected pass rusher Landon Jackson as a second-round pick. Jackson himself loosely expected to go in the second round but braced for the third as a worst-case scenario. Buffalo — which spent significant time with him at Arkansas’ pro day, from the workout to a lunch — got him at No. 72. Corner Maxwell Hairston (No. 30) was clearly a first-round talent. And, really, Buffalo had invested heavily on offense in recent years. The Bills took skill players (receiver, tight end, running back) with seven of their 23 non-quarterback selections in the top three rounds from 2017 to 2024.

So, while it’s easy to wonder where the new receivers are, this draft “scratched an itch,” one team source said.

Open Extended Reactions

Yes, I’m already looking ahead to the 2026 NFL draft.

I know we’re still digesting all the best team fits and rookie outlooks coming off the 2025 NFL draft. There are also still 12 full months of studying tape, watching games and traveling to predraft events before we get to next year’s first round. But this 2026 class looks really exciting. I see a handful of quarterbacks who could potentially go in Round 1, and there are some really good players on both sides of the ball who could make a big leap this season.

To get an early gauge on the class, I’m finding first-round landing spots for top prospects in my way-too-early mock draft. A few notes before we get rolling:

I did not make the draft order. The order of these teams doesn’t reflect who I think will make the playoffs or who is going to the Super Bowl. We simply took the inverse of Super Bowl odds from ESPN BET, breaking some ties based on the 2024 standings and tweaking the back end to ensure the appropriate number of teams from each conference are in the playoff slots (Nos. 19-32).

This is super early. I just got home from the 2025 draft and haven’t spent a ton of time watching tape on these 2026 prospects yet. This is based solely on where things stand right now, what I’ve seen from the class so far and what I’m hearing around the league.

I also expect plenty to change between now and next April (or really even this fall). Fourteen players I had in last year’s way-too-early mock ended up going in Round 1 — I actually had Will Campbell to the Patriots in the top five! — but 13 were taken later in the draft and five went back to school.

Here are my early first-round projections for April 2026. Four quarterbacks get picked in Round 1, and I even included two early trades that make sense. Let’s begin with one of them. (Underclassmen are noted with an asterisk.)

See more on the 2026 draft class:

Miller, Rittenberg and Yates on top prospects

Projected trade: Browns leap to No. 1

Per our ESPN BET-based draft order, Tennessee has the top pick again. We don’t know who will actually have the No. 1 pick next year, but the Browns have two first-round selections after their draft-night trade with the Jaguars. So I’m having Cleveland send the higher of its two picks (No. 3) and its 2027 first-rounder to the Titans to move up to the top spot.

If this happened, it would be the third time in four years the No. 1 pick will have changed hands.

1. Cleveland Browns (via projected trade with TEN)

Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson

The Browns drafted two quarterbacks last week: Dillon Gabriel in Round 3 and Shedeur Sanders in Round 5. But Cleveland didn’t address the position with any of its four picks in the top 70, and it might take a bigger swing next April. Klubnik made huge strides in his second season as a starter, finishing 2024 with 3,639 passing yards, 36 touchdown passes and only 6 interceptions. He could be the long-term answer.

Klubnik maintains a strong platform while going through his reads and is consistent no matter the defensive structure. He also has the mobility to escape pressure, but he has B-level arm strength, so it will be important for him to show that he can throw into tight windows this season. His game reminds me a lot of Bo Nix.

Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama*

Proctor is a massive prospect at 6-foot-7 and 360 pounds. He’s a mauler in the run game, and if he gets hands on rushers cleanly, he can quickly neutralize them. The pop in his hands and overall strength are his best traits, but he must become more consistent in pass protection. The 19-year-old has the potential to be a top-five pick. The Giants do have Andrew Thomas at left tackle, but their offensive line remains a work in progress.

3. Tennessee Titans (via projected trade with CLE/JAX)

Peter Woods, DT, Clemson*

If I were making a way-too-early rankings board, Woods would have an argument to be at the top. At 6-3 and 315 pounds, he has a nonstop motor and wreaks havoc. He has excellent hand power to stack, shed and disrupt plays. Woods had three sacks last season on the interior, and his pass-rush upside would be welcomed in Tennessee.

LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina*

If the Jets are picking this high, they probably didn’t have a great 2025 season. And that means they would be in the market for a quarterback, despite another year on Justin Fields’ contract.

Sellers’ superb traits make him a contender for a meteoric rise up the board. He’s a true dual threat, having passed for 2,534 yards and 18 touchdowns with 7 interceptions in 2024 while rushing for another 674 yards and seven scores. Sellers will have to improve his pocket vision and ball security (six lost fumbles in seven games), but he has the physical tools that NFL teams covet. He reminds me a lot of Donovan McNabb coming out of Syracuse.

Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State*

After getting their quarterback at No. 1, the Browns could use their second first-round pick to keep Downs in-state. He’s the complete package at safety — active, instinctive and capable of shutting down the middle of the field. He had two interceptions and seven pass breakups last season, but Downs can also make plays in the backfield via the blitz; his 7.5 tackles for loss was 14th among all defensive backs.

Clemson QB Cade Klubnik, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs and Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. are among the top players in the 2026 draft class. ESPN Illustration

Isaiah World, OT, Oregon

The Raiders could use more protection for quarterback Geno Smith, especially with Kolton Miller’s long-term future with the franchise in question. He’s a free agent after the season. World is a 6-8, 312-pound Nevada transfer who has improved each season. He broke out in 2024, giving up only five pressures and zero sacks. World is an agile pass protector who needs to add strength. But if he thrives in the Big Ten in 2025, don’t be surprised if he is the first tackle off the board.

Projected trade: Rams move up the board

Just like the Browns, the Rams acquired an extra pick for this draft thanks to a trade they made last week. In this scenario, Los Angeles takes the pick it received from Atlanta and uses it to move up four spots. To get it done, the Rams would send the No. 11 pick, their second-round pick and then a 2027 third-round pick to the Panthers for the No. 7 pick and a fourth-rounder.

7. Los Angeles Rams (via projected trade with CAR)

Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU

Here’s Matthew Stafford’s heir apparent. Stafford will turn 38 before the 2026 season, so this is a great spot for the Rams to pick Nussmeier, whose 79.1 QBR ranked 11th in the FBS in 2024. Nussmeier’s arm is more flexible than powerful, and his anticipation skills result in some of the most exciting throws I’ve seen on tape. Interceptions are an issue — he threw multiple picks in four games last season — but he could be a first-round pick if he cleans those up.

Drew Allar, QB, Penn State

Yes, the Saints drafted Tyler Shough in the second round this year, but that won’t stop them from drafting another QB if they’re in the top 10. Remember, Derek Carr isn’t a lock to remain with New Orleans beyond 2025.

Allar took a big step as a junior in 2024, throwing for 3,327 passing yards and 24 touchdowns with 8 interceptions. He has prototypical size (6-5, 238 pounds) and every raw tool a coach could want. He’s known for his strong arm but still needs to work on his ball placement and progressions; his completion rate increase from 60% in 2023 to 66.5% in 2024 bodes well. Allar should be in the first-round conversation if he continues his upward trajectory.

T.J. Parker, Edge, Clemson*

The Colts have recently used their first-round picks on edge rushers Kwity Paye (2021) and Laiatu Latu (2024), so we know they’re not afraid to invest draft capital at the position. Paye doesn’t have a long-term contract and is currently set to play 2025 on the fifth-year option. Parker had a breakout season in 2024, with 11 sacks, 16.5 tackles for loss and 4 forced fumbles. He is a versatile player capable of playing from multiple pre-snap alignments and stances, using his length as a run defender and closing speed in the pass rush.

Keldric Faulk, Edge, Auburn*

The Patriots went offense-heavy in the 2025 draft after using free agency to bolster their defense. We’ll add more to that defense with Faulk, a towering 6-6 edge rusher with a stout base. He can play multiple alignments, and he finished the 2024 season with seven sacks. He’s already one of the best run defenders in the country but needs to become more consistent rushing the passer to be picked in this part of the draft.

11. Carolina Panthers (via projected trade with LAR/ATL)

Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas*

After the projected trade down, the Panthers would acquire extra draft capital and still have the chance to select Hill, the type of rangy middle linebacker that Carolina currently lacks. He’s explosive with great range. His play speed and ability to sift through traffic make Hill a true sideline-to-sideline off-ball linebacker. But he can also get into the backfield, as his 15.5 tackles for loss was the 17th most among all FBS defenders in 2024. Carolina could use Hill as a blitzer.

Spencer Fano, OT, Utah*

The Seahawks drafted Grey Zabel in Round 1 this year, but they could easily go back to the offensive line next April. Right tackle Abraham Lucas has struggled to stay on the field in Seattle. Perhaps the Seahawks will look for more help there. Fano is a physical, heavy-handed blocker who takes pride in putting rushers on the ground. He has light feet in pass protection and gave up only one sack last season. He has played both left and right tackle in college and could even slide inside to guard in the NFL. Fano would be a great fit in a zone-blocking scheme because of his ability to make effective blocks in space.

Ja’Kobi Lane, WR, USC*

The Cowboys passed on taking a wide receiver early this year, so they still need a high-level complement to CeeDee Lamb. Enter Lane, who had 12 touchdown catches on 43 receptions last season. Lane has a high-end catch radius and sudden movement traits at 6-4, 195 pounds. I just want to see more consistency. I was in attendance for his three-touchdown performance in the Las Vegas Bowl, but Lane had fewer than 50 yards in seven of the 12 games he played last season. If he expands his route tree and has a few more big games this fall, he could entrench himself as the WR1 of the class.

Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee*

With Jalen Ramsey on the trade block, the Dolphins need young defensive backs. McCoy makes plenty of sense here as an active, physical corner. He exhibits great awareness and has a quick read on routes run in his coverage. He had four interceptions and eight pass breakups last season, so the ball skills are there, too. McCoy could be CB1 next year if his game continues to ascend.

Dani Dennis-Sutton, Edge, Penn State

I actually had Dennis-Sutton in this exercise a year ago, but he decided to return for his senior season instead of entering the 2025 draft. The Cardinals have boosted their defensive front this offseason, and Dennis-Sutton would be a continuation of that. He flashed in 2024, with 15 tackles for loss (13th among FBS defensive linemen) and 8.5 sacks. Dennis-Sutton will look to build on a dynamite College Football Playoff semifinal performance against Notre Dame (six tackles, two sacks, a pick-six and a forced fumble).

LT Overton, DT, Alabama

Sure, the Steelers drafted Derrick Harmon this year, but you can never have too many defensive tackles. Cameron Heyward will be 37 entering the 2026 season; the defensive line could see some turnover. Overton fits what the Steelers have looked for in the past, as the 6-5 283-pounder can play off the edge or reduce inside. His 13.4% pressure rate at defensive tackle last season was second best in the FBS. He probably would have been a top-60 pick had he declared for the 2025 draft, but Overton has the opportunity to boost his stock even more — especially if he can improve his sack total (two last season).

Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame*

The Bears didn’t address running back until the seventh round last week (Kyle Monangai), so they could be seeking D’Andre Swift’s successor in 2026. Their 4.0 yards per rush tied for third worst in the NFL last season. Love was electric for the Irish in 2024, averaging 6.9 yards per carry (10th best in the FBS) en route to 1,125 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns. He also had 237 receiving yards. He’s an explosive strider, and his body control allows him to fit his 6-foot, 206-pound frame through coin-slot-sized running lanes.

A.J. Harris, CB, Penn State*

The Vikings have plenty of questions at corner, save for recently extended Byron Murphy Jr. They didn’t select one this year, so it could be the position they target immediately in 2026. Harris thrived in his first season at Penn State after transferring from Georgia, showing easy vertical speed and change-of-direction ability. He attaches in man coverage but also shows comfort in zone. Scouts just want to see more ball production, as he had only one interception in 2024.

Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State*

Tate is next in line out of Ohio State’s wide receiver factory and would be a good addition for Denver to help quarterback Bo Nix. He is a smooth, efficient-moving receiver who had 52 receptions for 733 yards and 4 touchdowns last season as the Buckeyes’ WR3. With Emeka Egbuka off to the NFL, Tate has a chance to step up his production and further show his dependability as a pass catcher and route runner.

play 0:24 Diego Pavia finds Eli Stowers for Vanderbilt TD Diego Pavia throws a nice pass to Eli Stowers to extend Vanderbilt’s lead vs. Georgia Tech.

CJ Allen, LB, Georgia*

Many thought the Bucs would find Lavonte David’s successor early in the 2025 draft, but that position is still open. Allen is a patient second-level defender who quarterbacked one of the country’s best defenses last season. He’s an aggressive hitter who can fill gaps in a hurry coming downhill against the run. But I’d like to see better awareness in pass coverage.

Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami*

The Texans have massively overturned their line after a disappointing 2024, and there’s a good chance that overhaul will continue into 2026. I liked the Aireontae Ersery pick last week, but Houston has a lot of work to do in improving C.J. Stroud’s protection. Mauigoa significantly improved at right tackle last season, not giving up a sack. The 6-6 315-pounder can control blockers at the point of attack. And while there is considerable debate among scouts about whether Mauigoa is a tackle or guard in the NFL, Houston needs a boost at both spots.

Nic Anderson, WR, LSU*

There aren’t many clear top options in this receiver class right now, but I’m projecting a big season from Anderson. That would put him in the first-round mix. After setting the Oklahoma freshman touchdown receptions record in 2023 (10), he played in only one game in 2024 because of a quad injury and then transferred to LSU. Playing with Nussmeier at quarterback will help his profile. The Chargers could put together a solid group of young receivers in Anderson, Ladd McConkey, Tre Harris and Quentin Johnston.

Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah*

After trading up for their future QB earlier in this mock draft, the Rams can use this pick on the successor for right tackle Rob Havenstein, who will be 33 and a free agent in 2026. Lomu’s game centers on his power profile and wide body, which he uses to generate movement at the point of attack. He could still add weight to his frame (6-6, 304 pounds) and is expected to make a major leap in his second college season. His playing style, build and progression are reminiscent of Colts left tackle Bernhard Raimann.

DJ McKinney, CB, Colorado*

Green Bay went all-in on offense through the first two days of the 2025 draft, so outside cornerback is still on its list of needs. We don’t know whether Jaire Alexander will stick with the Packers yet, too. But McKinney would boost the unit. He has a long and slender build at 6-2, 190 pounds, which allows him to excel in press coverage. Playing opposite Travis Hunter last season, he wasn’t afraid to play the ball in the air, finishing with 10 pass breakups and three interceptions.

Caleb Banks, DT, Florida

The Bengals surprisingly did not address defensive tackle in this year’s draft, so it looms as a huge need entering 2026. They need someone with Banks’ great 6-6, 325-pound size in the middle of the line. He showed flashes last season, and if he can continue to progress in 2025 and increase his sack total (4.5), he has the traits to be a top-20 pick.

Matayo Uiagalelei, Edge, Oregon*

Edge rusher is a clear weak spot on the Commanders’ roster. Uiagalelei took a major step forward as a sophomore in 2024, with 10.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss. At 6-5 and 270 pounds, he is a versatile edge rusher who already has an established repertoire of pass-rush moves. Coach Dan Quinn would love having him rushing the passer in D.C.

Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson*

At 5-11 and 180 pounds, Terrell is smaller than older brother A.J., who plays corner for the Falcons. But Avieon Terrell is a pest for opposing receivers, as his 11 pass breakups tied for the 15th most in the FBS last season. The loaded Clemson defensive front should bring a lot of pressure this season, which could lead to more interceptions for Terrell (two). The 49ers still need their Charvarius Ward replacement.

David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech

Three of the Bills’ first four draft picks this year were dedicated to the defensive front, but that shouldn’t stop them from adding more. Bailey was a late transfer to Texas Tech from Stanford, where he finished with seven sacks and three forced fumbles in 2024. He is most comfortable from a stand-up position, and defensive coordinator Bobby Babich could scheme him off the edge in Buffalo.

Cashius Howell, Edge, Texas A&M

The Lions surprisingly did not draft an edge rusher until the sixth round this year (Ahmed Hassanein). Aidan Hutchinson played only five games last season (broken leg), but he was still the only Lions player with more than four sacks. Howell — who could be a big riser in this class — can help. He spent much of 2024 behind Shemar Stewart and Nic Scourton but starred in the Las Vegas Bowl, finishing with a sack and an interception.

Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas*

Muhammad’s attitude and upside would be a perfect fit for Zach Orr’s defense. His 11 pass breakups tied for the 15th most in the FBS last season, and he didn’t give up a touchdown as a zone-heavy corner. Scouts want to see him generate more turnovers (only one interception in two seasons), but he’ll get opportunities to show that progress with Jahdae Barron and Andrew Mukuba now in the NFL.

Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt

The Eagles have broken some of their draft trends recently. In 2024, they drafted a corner in Round 1 (Quinyon Mitchell) for the first time since 2002. This year, they drafted an off-ball linebacker in Round 1 (Jihaad Campbell) for the first time since 1979. Let’s keep that going with Stowers, who would be their first Round 1 tight end since 1988. Stowers broke out last season, catching 49 passes for 638 yards and 5 touchdowns. His ability to create after the catch is special, as his 8.1-yard post-catch average was eighth best among FBS tight ends. He could eventually replace Dallas Goedert.