The goal for these comparisons is to match the play style and abilities of 2023 NFL draft prospects to an NFL player known for those play styles and abilities, the goal is NOT to predict a career or definitively compare between players . I’ve formed the comparisons after watching regular season games, reviewing scouting reports and dialing up a YouTube highlight video or two.
QB
- Bryce Young — Joe Burrow
- 6’0 height
- Escapeability in the pocket, but not a runner
- Pinpoint accuracy
- Dominated in the SEC, Heisman winners
- Will Levis — Matthew Stafford
- Ideal arm talent
- Big body, harder to tackle
- Good experience running plays under center, play action
- C.J. Stroud — Geno Smith
- Makes quick decisions in the pocket
- Doesn’t rely on mobility
- Ball placement gives receivers a chance
- Anthony Richardson — Justin Fields
- Off the charts athleticism
- Strong natural arm
- Playmaker
- Hendon Hooker — Derek Carr
- Able to identify open WR’s
- Comfortable in the pocket
- Average NFL arm strength
- Tanner McKee — Jared Goff
- Excels in timing/rhythm plays
- Longer release in throwing motion
- Tall, durable physique
WR
- Quentin Johnston — Kyle Pitts
- Athletic build that translates on field
- Strong after the catch
- Rashee Rice — A.J. Brown
- Strong frame to win contested battles
- Elusive and determined after the catch
- Jordan Addison — Chris Olave
- Excellent route runners
- Elusive and electric with the ball
- Similar physique (height/catch radius)
- Jaxson Smith-Njigba — Jarvis Landry
- Playmaker from the slot
- Natural feel for open zones of the field
- Josh Downs — Tyler Lockett
- Versatile athlete
- Same physique (height)
- Great in contested catch situations
- Jalin Hyatt — Jaylen Waddle
- Fast, long strides that leads to separation
RB
- Bijan Robinson — Austin Ekeler/Miles Sanders
- Powerful lower half with contact balance
- Receiving threat
- Understands running lanes
- Jahmyr Gibbs — Chrisitan McCaffrey
- Electric kick / punt returner
- Quick feet and acceleration to make defenders miss
- Excellent receiving & route running
- Devon Achane — Alvin Kamara
- Off the charts balance / flexibility
- Same forward leaning running style