2023 NFL Draft: SICscore Staff Goes 4-2 on Draft Bets

JS

Jacob Sisneros

2 min read • April 28, 2023

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NFL
2023 NFL Draft: SICscore Staff Goes 4-2 on Draft Bets

(Both Hit) Will Anderson - First Defensive Player Drafted, U3.5 Draft Position

As detailed the week prior to the draft, Tyree Wilson’s recovery timeline from his foot fracture has not been ideal. Concerns over Wilson’s foot likely slid him out of the Top 5 picks, leading Anderson to be the first defensive player drafted and be taken within the Top 3.

Wilson was drafted by the Raiders at pick No. 7, but admitted he is still dealing with the lingering effects of his foot injury.

(Missed) Hendon Hooker U31.5 Draft Position 

Optimism on the former Tennessee passer was our only miss of the draft. It’s clear that Hooker will not be ready to contribute in Year 1, but our staff believed his talent would allow him to be chosen within the first round.

Hooker is still recovering from his Nov. 19 ACL tear, making him a project pick when he does get selected. Typically, the second year off the ACL is when a player begins to look like 100% of their pre-injury selves.

(Hit) Nolan Smith O10.5 Draft Position 

The two-time National Champion is coming off a torn right pectoral muscle he suffered in October. He elected to have surgery on the issue, which actually should have increased his draft stock. He will make a full recovery and our panel of doctors gave him no medical downgrade.

Given his clean bill of health, it was a bit of a surprise to see him slide as much as he did. Smith joined Jalen Carter on the Eagles when they took him with the 31st overall selection.

(Missed) Bryan Bresee O29.5 Draft Position

Our panel of doctors expected Bresee to fall given his lengthy injury history. Not only did it disrupt his college career, but it also lends itself to questions about his longevity.

His talent kept him in the first round, as he was taken with the 29th selection by the New Orleans Saints.

(Hit) Honorable Mention: Devon Witherspoon U6.5 Draft Position

Witherspoon’s hamstring injury was minor and he was still able to display his physical gifts for suitors. Our panel of doctors never expected a medical downgrade and Witherspoon went to the Seahawks with the No. 5 pick.