The Green Bay Packers are looking to bolster their defensive secondary in the upcoming NFL draft, with a focus on adding playmakers. Potential picks include Cooper DeJean, a versatile athlete with skills in both defense and punt returns, Payton Wilson, a high-energy linebacker with strong tackling abilities, Andru Phillips, a smooth and combative cornerback with outside-inside versatility, Mark McCormick, a mauling run blocker with experience at left guard and center, and Bucky Irving, a sudden and explosive running back with strong receiving skills. Tykee Smith, an experienced nickel cornerback with strong instincts and versatility, is also a potential target for the Packers.
Despite a "mediocre" performance at Georgia's G-Day scrimmage, quarterback Carson Beck's final touchdown pass highlighted his promising spring, showcasing the Bulldogs' offensive playmakers. Kirby Smart emphasized the team's potential, and while there was no clear winner, the scrimmage revealed the depth of talent on the roster.
Quarterback Brock Purdy has been instrumental in the success of the San Francisco 49ers' offense, leading the NFL in passer rating, completion percentage, and average yards per attempt. Purdy's ability to make accurate throws at various depths has allowed the team's playmakers, including Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and George Kittle, to thrive. Despite his impressive deep passes, it was a routine check down to Samuel that stood out to coach Kyle Shanahan, highlighting Purdy's discipline and ability to find the open receiver.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell has ranked the San Francisco 49ers' group of playmakers as the best in the NFL. The team has talent at all three skill positions, with wide receivers being weighed more heavily than the others. Barnwell cited the 49ers' ability to make plays after the catch as the reason for their top ranking. The addition of RB Christian McCaffrey last season elevated the group, and WR Deebo Samuel is considered the best yards-after-catch receiver in the league. TE George Kittle had a phenomenal second half of the season, finishing with a career-high 11 touchdown catches.
To build a championship team in the NFL, coaches and executives must surround a franchise quarterback with blue-chip players at the other marquee positions. The emphasis on pass rushers, playmakers (wideouts and tight ends) and unicorns (hybrid second-level defenders with unique skills) appears to be the new way of the NFL world in 2023. Here are the top 10 non-quarterback franchise players to build around: Micah Parsons, Nick Bosa, Justin Jefferson, Bryce Hall, Ja'Marr Chase, Derwin James, Quinnen Williams, Tristan Wirfs, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Penei Sewell.
