The 2023 NFL Draft and 88th annual draft concluded this past Saturday, and although the draft provided plenty of starpower and household names, players from smaller schools proved that you don't have to be a Power Five standout to make it to the pro level. So which mid-major players are most poised for success in the NFL? Can anyone be the 2022-2023 version of Packers breakout wide receiver Christian Watson? What about the next Tariq Woolen, a pro bowler, and NFL interceptions co-leader, who was drafted 153rd overall? Here's everything you need to know about the stars most likely to break out.
1. Nathaniel Dell, WR, Houston, (69th overall pick), Houston Texans
Nathaniel Dell has quite the story–the 5'8” receiver played for Alabama A&M in the 2018 season, before transferring to Independence Community College in 2019, which was featured on the Netflix series Last Chance U.
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Dell then switched up once more, heading to the University of Houston. This time he put his talents on display, letting the nation know just how dominant he was–in his last two seasons at Houston, Dell led the nation with over 2,700 yards and 29 touchdowns, on top of a staggering 199 receptions.
With speed and strong route running abilities, Dell will look to make an immediate impact at slot receiver. While his size might limit him somewhat and a spread offense like Houston's might be hard to find in the NFL, Dell is nonetheless an organic playmaker who can create space in open-field with his speed and agility.
Ironic enough, Dell will get to stay in Houston, as he was drafted by the Texans. With their current wide receiver depth chart, it is quite possible we see him as the team's second receiver, behind Robert Woods. Dell is a no-doubter here at the top of the list.
2. DeWayne McBride, RB, UAB (222nd overall pick), Minnesota Vikings
Don't let the pick number fool you–DeWayne McBride is a force to be reckoned with on the field. The former Conference USA Player of the Year was arguably one of college football's most dominant running backs in the last three years. McBride rushed for 1,713 yards in 2022 (second best in all of college football), with just one game under 100 rushing yards. At 5'11” and 215 lbs, McBride is the perfect build for a running back–one who can break tackles better than his counterparts, and who averaged over seven yards a carry throughout his college career. McBride will immediately contribute to his team, as he can contribute in any type of offense, and easily break through holes.
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The one area to improve would be his receiving–McBride is a two-down running back, with just five receptions throughout his entire college career. As the NFL has evolved, so has the running back's role in the backfield as more multifaceted. If McBride can become at minimal a checkdown receiver, when options downfield are limited, he will become an all-around versatile back. Either way Minnesota is getting a strong supplemental player in McBride, who can see an increased share, depending on Dalvin Cook's workload as the season begins.
3. Cody Mauch, OT, NDSU (48th overall pick), Tampa Bay Buccaneers
As the first player outside of the Power 5 to be selected, Cody Mauch is one of the best offensive tackles in the draft. He has the ability to thwart defenders and is pretty quick, considering his position. Mauch should no doubt be an immediate contributor to the Buccaneers' front line.
The Buccaneers, who are in need of a right guard, are in good hands with Mauch as he fills that gap, offering an immediate boost to the Bucs' offensive line.
4. Rashee Rice, WR, SMU (55th overall pick), Kansas City Chiefs
Rashee Rice was one of the best wide receivers in all of college football last season, with 1,355 yards, good for third in the nation. Rice is quite the talented route runner, and excels with speed once the ball is in his hands.
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With the departure of receiver Juju Smith-Schuster, Rice can have an immediate impact in the Kansas City Chiefs offense, thriving in the slot position. He will most likely fill the role as third starting receiver–though it'll be a battle with receiver Skyy Moore.
But wait! There's even more going in Rice's favor. With a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes who works magic on the field, Rice is in good hands to have a strong rookie year and be a potential breakout receiver.
5. Dorian Williams, ILB, Tulane, (91st overall pick), Buffalo Bills
Dorian Williams was one of the fastest linebackers in the 40-yard dash at 4.49 seconds (4th best) in the NFL Combine. Not only does Williams have speed, but also a 6-foot-8 wingspan, which is essential for coverage. Williams also led Tulane last season in tackles, and was tied for second in interceptions.With the departure of middle linebacker Tremaine Edmunds in the Bills' offseason, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Williams fighting for the starting spot when training camp begins.
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Image Credit: UAB Athletics/The Huddle
* Originally published on May 1, 2023, by Nicholas Nathanson
