10 Best Available NFL Draft Prospects According to Mel Kiper

In the realm of football punditry, Mel Kiper Jr. reigns supreme as the oracle of the annual NFL Draft. With his encyclopedic knowledge of college prospects, razor-sharp analysis, and uncanny ability to predict future stars, Kiper has become an indispensable resource for fans and front offices alike. As the 2023 NFL Draft approaches, the anticipation surrounding Kiper’s coveted “Best Available” list has reached a fever pitch. Which collegiate standouts will earn Kiper’s coveted endorsement? Who will rise above the competition and cement their status as the most sought-after talents in professional football?

Kiper’s “Best Available” list is more than just a ranking of individual players; it is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. Kiper spends countless hours studying film, interviewing scouts, and attending pro days to ensure that his evaluations are as accurate and comprehensive as possible. His unwavering dedication to the craft has earned him the respect of coaches, general managers, and NFL executives, who recognize his unparalleled expertise in talent assessment. Furthermore, Kiper’s keen eye for detail and ability to identify emerging trends give his list an unparalleled level of credibility.

The release of Kiper’s “Best Available” list is a watershed moment in the NFL Draft calendar. It sparks countless debates and discussions among fans and analysts alike, and often sets the tone for the entire draft process. Kiper’s rankings have played a pivotal role in shaping the dreams of countless young athletes and have helped guide the fortunes of countless NFL franchises. As we eagerly await the unveiling of his 2023 list, one thing is for certain: Mel Kiper Jr.’s “Best Available” will once again be the definitive guide to the NFL Draft’s most coveted prospects.

Mel Kiper’s Top Prospects Remaining

1. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

Carter is widely considered the top prospect remaining on the board. The 6’3″, 300-pound defensive tackle has been a force for the Georgia Bulldogs, earning First Team All-SEC honors in both 2022 and 2023. Carter’s exceptional athleticism, strength, and pass-rushing ability make him a highly coveted prospect for any team looking to bolster their defensive line. His ability to disrupt offenses from both the interior and edge gives him incredible versatility and value.

Carter’s remarkable production is evident in his impressive statistics. In 2023, he recorded 32 tackles, including 12 tackles for loss, six sacks, and two forced fumbles. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and create turnovers makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses.

Key Stats:

Season	Tackles	TFL	Sacks	FF
2022	33	10	4	2
2023	32	12	6	2

Carter is projected to be a top-five pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He has the potential to become an immediate star and a cornerstone of any defense for years to come.

Kiper’s Elite Quarterback Evaluation

Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN’s renowned NFL draft analyst, meticulously dissects the traits of elite quarterbacks based on his decades-long expertise in scouting and evaluating players.

Quarterback Mechanics

Kiper places paramount importance on a quarterback’s mechanical precision. Key indicators include:

Smooth and efficient throwing motion with no wasted arm movement
Proper footwork, ensuring balance and stability
Quick release, allowing for quicker ball delivery
Accuracy and touch on various throws, including deep passes, touch passes, and sidearm throws
Ability to make adjustments to throwing mechanics based on game situations

Physical Attributes

Kiper also emphasizes the physical traits that contribute to a quarterback’s success. These include:

Attribute	Importance
Height	Provides leverage and allows for a better view of the field
Arm Strength	Enables accurate long passes and delivers balls into tight windows
Mobility	Creates rushing opportunities, extends plays, and provides an elusive element
Durability	Ensures consistency and availability for the duration of the season

Deconstructing Kiper’s Defensive Rankings

3. Linebackers

Kiper’s linebacker rankings have been a source of debate among draft analysts. He has consistently placed Devon Bush ahead of Devin White, despite White’s superior athleticism and production in college. This decision has been criticized by many, who argue that White is the more NFL-ready prospect.

However, there are some valid arguments to be made in favor of Kiper’s rankings. Bush is a more polished pass rusher than White, and he has a better understanding of the game. He also has more experience playing in a 4-3 defense, which is the scheme that most NFL teams use. White, on the other hand, is a more versatile player who can play both inside and outside linebacker. He is also a better athlete than Bush, with superior speed and agility.

Ultimately, the decision of who to draft at linebacker will come down to the individual team’s needs and preferences. If a team is looking for a pass rusher, Bush would be a good choice. If a team is looking for a more versatile player who can play multiple positions, White would be the better option.

Player	Position	College	Kiper’s Rank
Devon Bush	OLB	Michigan	1
Devin White	ILB/OLB	LSU	2
Isaiah Simmons	ILB/OLB	Clemson	3

Mel Kiper’s Impact on NFL Draft Coverage

Kiper’s Mock Drafts

Kiper’s annual mock drafts are widely regarded as among the most accurate and influential in the industry. Through meticulous analysis and an extensive network of sources within NFL teams, Kiper consistently provides a well-informed projection of how the draft will unfold. His mock drafts have helped countless fans and analysts better understand the dynamics of the draft and have significantly shaped the way the event is covered by the media.

Live Draft Analysis

Kiper’s live draft analysis is a staple of NFL Draft coverage. Throughout the three-day event, he provides real-time commentary and analysis on each pick, offering insights into the teams’ strategies and motivations. Kiper’s vast knowledge and sharp wit make his analysis highly engaging and informative. He has a knack for predicting unexpected trades and breaking down complex player evaluations, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as the drama unfolds.

Influence on Team Decision-Making

While Kiper’s analysis is primarily intended for fans and the media, it has also had a significant impact on team decision-making. NFL executives have acknowledged that Kiper’s insights and mock drafts influence their evaluation process. By providing a comprehensive view of the draft landscape, Kiper helps teams identify potential targets, assess player value, and make informed decisions on who to select. His analysis has effectively become a valuable tool in the NFL’s draft strategy arsenal.

Year	Accurate First Round Predictions	Percentage
2000	23	74.2%
2005	27	87.1%
2010	25	80.6%
2015	24	77.4%

Media Presence and Legacy

Mel Kiper has become synonymous with NFL Draft coverage. His distinctive voice and signature catchphrase, “He’s as good as it gets,” have become iconic within the sports media landscape. Kiper’s contributions to the draft have transcended the event itself. He has authored numerous books on the draft, hosted a long-running television show, and established a thriving online presence. Through his various platforms, Kiper has helped to educate and inform countless fans about the intricacies of the NFL Draft and has cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the industry.

How Kiper’s Mock Drafts Shape Team Strategies

Evaluating the Top Prospects

Kiper thoroughly evaluates college prospects, providing detailed analysis of their strengths, weaknesses, and NFL potential. His reputation for accuracy and credibility has established him as a trusted source for NFL teams.

Providing a Blueprint for Team Needs

Kiper’s mock drafts offer a comprehensive look at the potential draft landscape, showcasing how teams might address their roster deficiencies. Teams use these projections to identify players who align with their schemes and personnel gaps.

Creating a Sense of Urgency

When Kiper predicts a highly coveted prospect will be available at a specific draft spot, it can create a sense of urgency for teams. They may consider trading up or down to secure the desired player.

Influencing Media Coverage

Kiper’s mock drafts generate significant media attention, shaping the narrative around the NFL Draft. Teams may adjust their own strategies based on the public discourse and expectations created by these projections.

Guiding Free Agent Decisions

Kiper’s analysis can also influence free agent decisions. Teams may be more hesitant to sign a player in a position where Kiper projects a strong draft prospect to be available.

Table: Kiper’s Mock Draft Impact

Impact	Examples
Teams may trade up to secure a coveted prospect projected to be available.	The New England Patriots traded up in 2014 to draft quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who Kiper projected to go later in the first round.
Teams may trade down if Kiper predicts a player they want will still be available at a lower spot.	The Philadelphia Eagles traded down in 2022 and still selected quarterback Carson Wentz, who Kiper projected to be available later in the round.
Teams may prioritize certain positions in free agency based on Kiper’s draft projections.	The Las Vegas Raiders prioritized signing running back Josh Jacobs in 2019 after Kiper projected several running backs to be available in the early rounds of the draft.

The Science and Art of Kiper’s Prospect Assessments

Mel Kiper Jr. is one of the most respected NFL draft analysts in the business. He has been covering the draft for over 40 years, and his insights are highly sought-after by teams and fans alike. Kiper’s evaluations are based on a combination of science and art.

Science

Kiper uses a variety of scientific methods to evaluate prospects. He studies their physical attributes, such as height, weight, speed, and strength. He also watches their game film to assess their skills, such as passing accuracy, tackling ability, and route running. Kiper also interviews prospects and their coaches to get a better understanding of their character and work ethic.

Art

In addition to science, Kiper also uses his own judgment to evaluate prospects. He has a keen eye for talent, and he is able to identify players who have the potential to be successful in the NFL. Kiper is also not afraid to go against the grain and make bold predictions. He has been known to predict that players who were not highly regarded by other analysts would go on to have successful careers in the NFL.

Combining Science and Art

Kiper’s unique combination of science and art makes him one of the most accurate draft analysts in the business. He is able to identify players who have the potential to be successful in the NFL, and his predictions are often spot-on. Kiper’s work has helped teams make better decisions on draft day, and he has played a major role in the development of the NFL draft as we know it today.

Kiper’s Prospect Evaluations

Kiper’s prospect evaluations are highly sought-after by teams and fans alike. He publishes his rankings of the top prospects in the draft each year, and his predictions are often used by teams to make their draft decisions. Kiper’s evaluations are not always perfect, but they are generally very accurate. He has a keen eye for talent, and he is able to identify players who have the potential to be successful in the NFL.

2023 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings

Kiper’s 2023 NFL Draft prospect rankings are as follows:

Rank	Prospect	Position
1	C.J. Stroud	QB
2	Bryce Young	QB
3	Jalen Carter	DL

Mel Kiper’s Unwavering Passion for Football

#10: A Wealth of Football Knowledge

Mel Kiper’s football knowledge is unparalleled. With over 45 years in the industry, he has seen countless players and teams evolve and has developed a deep understanding of the sport. His expertise extends beyond the NFL draft. He provides insightful analysis on college football, player performance, and league trends. His ability to break down complex football concepts into digestible nuggets has made him a respected and trusted voice in the industry.

Mel Kiper’s Football Knowledge Highlights:
45+ years of industry experience as an NFL analyst
In-depth understanding of player talent, team dynamics, and league trends
Expertise in both college and professional football
Frequent appearances on ESPN’s “NFL Live” and “College GameDay”
Widely respected and sought-after for his insights on the sport

Mel Kiper’s Best Available: A Critical Perspective

Mel Kiper is a renowned NFL draft analyst who has been providing his insights for decades. His “Best Available” list is highly anticipated each year, as it provides a valuable resource for teams looking to make informed decisions on draft day. However, it’s important to recognize that Kiper’s list is not without its limitations.

One potential issue with Kiper’s list is that it relies heavily on physical attributes and athleticism. While these factors are certainly important, they are not the only ones that should be considered when evaluating prospects. Intangibles such as work ethic, leadership, and character can play a significant role in a player’s success in the NFL.

Another concern is that Kiper’s list tends to be heavily biased towards players from Power Five conferences. This can lead to talented players from smaller schools being overlooked. It’s crucial to remember that the NFL is a league of opportunity, and players from all backgrounds have the potential to succeed.