2023 Mock Draft 2.0: Commanders take Georgia phenom in Round 1

Round Five

Lance Boykin, Cornerback, Coastal Carolina

The third player to make a return in our mock is cornerback Lance Boykin.  Analysts and fans are continuing to sleep on him, but NFL scouts certainly know what he can do.  Boykin will not be a starter in his first year, but he can provide depth on the outside, at slot, or even as a free safety.

A possible starter by his second season, Boykin has drawn comparisons to Tariq Woolen – a fifth-round selection out of UTSA earlier this year.  Woolen has two interceptions as a rookie for the Seahawks, including a pick-six.  How do you like Boykin now?

Ryan Hayes, Offensive Guard/Tackle, Michigan

Ryan Hayes is currently a left tackle for the Wolverines, but his potential at the next level is on the inside or as a backup swing tackle.  This versatility will serve Hayes well, but he needs to add about ten pounds of muscle to his fame.

Round Six

John Michael Schmitz, Center, Minnesota

At 6-6, 320 pounds, Golden Gophers center John Michael Schmitz is a solid late-round prospect.  He can provide quality depth at the center position and can start if needed, especially if Chase Roullier continues to be affected by the injury bug.  Similar in size to Roullier, Schmitz also has experience at both tackle positions from his high school days.

Round Seven

Sam Hartman, Quarterback, Wake Forest

A few analysts are high on Sam Hartman and have him pegged as an early-round prospect, but he has some limitations.  Most analysts rate him as a latter-round prospect with a small possibility of long-term success.  Hartman is probably a career backup at best with some starter potential, but it will take time to develop his skillsets at the next level.

Commanders 2023 NFL Draft Thoughts

That’s a wrap on our second in-season mock.  Look for some new players in two weeks, but we could feature another one or two “second-timers” once again.

As the college season continues, new prospects could emerge for the Commanders and we will be here to talk about them.  It’s possible that we could take one of these early mocks and compare them to a mock next March or April.  The difference will certainly be amazing.

Mock 3.0 will be here in two weeks.  See you as we go along.