Week 11 of the 2022 college football season is here.
The annual Draft Prospects series returns for the sixth year in a row. We’ve identified over 200 of his college contenders to watch ahead of his 2023 NFL Draft. All of them could fit in with the Kansas City Chiefs. Last season’s prospect list included several of his picks for the Chiefs’ 2022 NFL Draft, including George Carraftis, Skymoore, and Brian Cook. who’s next?
Our 11th group of prospects includes one of FCS’s top prospects, an explosive running back, versatile safety and one of the top nose tackles in its class.
TE Tucker Kraft, South Dakota
Erin Beaumet / Argus Rieder
Kraft could be FCS’ top contender across the 2023 NFL Draft classes. In 2021, Kraft had 65 receptions for 780 yards and 6 touchdowns. Kraft has only appeared in four games this year due to his ankle injury, but he has 13 receptions for 188 yards and two touchdowns on the season. Listed at 6-5 pounds and his 255 pounds, he has impressive agility and wiggles for his size.
The tight end will probably be a luxury choice for Kansas City, as Travis Kelce is unlikely to have plans to retire anytime soon. They also have a lot of depth with Jodie Fortson and Noah Gray expected to return next season. If you get the chance, it would be hard to miss.
Next game: Illinois vs. South Dakota – Saturday, November 12, 2:00 PM (CT) – Live stream on fuboTV (7 days free trial).
Tulane RB-Tyjae Spears
Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
An explosive running back with lightning speed, Spears has sleeper talent in the 2023 NFL Draft. Listed at 5 feet 11 inches and 195 pounds, Spears has 136 carries for 750 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns during the season. He also has 17 catches for 209 receiving yards and one touchdown. In his 54 passes blocking his snaps this season, he has only allowed four total pressures, and for each PFF he has also included one sack.
Possessing great vision, acceleration, and elusive abilities, Spears has the potential to move up the draft board in the pre-draft process. I don’t think Kansas City will spend premium draft money on a running back, but this is certainly a player who could help them in a position that’s been in question lately.
Next game: UCF vs. Tulane – Saturday, November 12, 2:30 PM CT – Live stream on fuboTV (7 days free trial).
Alabama S Bryan Branch
Gary Cosby Jr. – USA TODAY Sports
Branch is one of the best defenders in the secondary for the Alabama Crimson Tide this season. Listed at 6 feet and 193 pounds, he has the versatility to play 2-high, play in the box, or line up as a nickel his corner. He’s a fearless and sure tackler, boasting his third-most tackles on an Alabama defense so far this season, and he’s only missed one this year.
With Juan Thornhill and Deon Bush set to enter free agency, the Chiefs will likely look to the draft to fill at least one vacancy in that position. , making him an interesting choice given that he can also play on Nickel teams and special teams.
Next game: Illinois vs. South Dakota – Saturday, November 12, 2:30 PM CT – Live stream on fuboTV (7 days free trial).
Texas DT Keondre Coburn
Aaron E. Martinez / American Politician
Cobain intended to declare early in last season’s draft, but the Texas coaching staff convinced him to stay. I feel like I made the right choice. He has already recorded his three sacks in the season and smashed a career high with 25 pressures. According to the PFF, he ranks fifth among draft-eligible internal defensive linemen.
The Chiefs’ internal defensive line could change significantly in 2023. Derrick Nadi, Karen Sanders and Taylor Stallworth are set to become free agents. Chris Jones’ salary cap has been significantly reduced and will need to be extended if he remains with the team. There’s also the issue of Tarshaun Wharton tearing his ACL earlier this season.A player like Cobain will almost certainly be on Kansas City’s radar.
Next game: Texas vs. TCU – Saturday, November 12, 6:30 PM CT – Live stream on fuboTV (7 days free trial).
The story was originally published on Chiefswire